Kitchen Remodeling In Berkeley, CA

Trusted, Affordable Solutions Near You

Your kitchen is more than just a place to prepare meals, and it’s where family gathers, conversations happen, homework gets done, and memories are made. When your kitchen no longer meets your needs, feels outdated, lacks storage, or simply doesn’t reflect your style, a professional remodel can completely transform how you experience your home.

At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we provide expert kitchen remodeling services in Berkeley, CA, helping homeowners create beautiful, functional spaces that improve everyday living and add long-term value. With more than 40 years of Bay Area construction and remodeling experience, our team has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and dependable service on projects of every size. Since 1983, we’ve helped homeowners throughout Berkeley and the East Bay modernize kitchens, improve layouts, and create spaces tailored to their lifestyles.

Whether you’re dreaming of a sleek contemporary kitchen, a warm traditional design, or a completely reimagined open-concept living space, our experienced design-build team can bring your vision to life. We handle every aspect of the remodeling process, from planning and design to construction and finishing details, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.

Every kitchen we build is designed around the homeowner’s unique needs, aesthetic preferences, and budget. Our goal is to create a kitchen that looks stunning while improving functionality, efficiency, and comfort for years to come. For homeowners who want a trusted local contractor with decades of experience, a commitment to quality craftsmanship, and a proven design-build process, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is the team to call.

Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality. Schedule A Free Estimate. To learn more about our complete remodeling capabilities, visit our
Kitchen Remodeling Services page.

Need A Kitchen Remodeling Contractor In Berkeley?

If you’ve been searching for a reliable kitchen remodeling contractor in Berkeley, you’re not alone. Many homeowners throughout Berkeley love their homes and neighborhoods but struggle with kitchens designed decades ago for a very different way of living.

Older Berkeley homes often feature compartmentalized floor plans, limited storage, inefficient workspaces, aging cabinetry, outdated electrical systems, and layouts that make cooking and entertaining more difficult than they should be. While these homes offer incredible character and charm, their kitchens frequently need thoughtful updates to meet modern expectations.

When you work with us, you receive much more than construction services. You gain a dedicated remodeling partner who takes the time to understand your goals, evaluate your existing space, and develop customized solutions that improve both form and function. Our comprehensive design-build process simplifies every phase of the project. Instead of coordinating multiple contractors, designers, and tradespeople, you’ll work with one experienced team committed to delivering exceptional results. From permits and planning final construction and finishing touches, we handle the details so you can focus on the excitement of creating your dream kitchen.

Whether you’re planning a complete kitchen renovation or targeted upgrades to improve your home’s functionality, we’re ready to help you make informed decisions and achieve outstanding results.

Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality. Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Today.

You can also explore our full range of Kitchen Remodeling Services to see how we help Berkeley homeowners create beautiful, functional kitchens built to last.

Residential Projects - San Francisco Kitchen
Kitchen Remodel Walnut Creek CA

Why Berkeley Homeowners Trust Our Kitchen Remodeling Experts

Choosing the right contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning a kitchen remodel. A successful renovation requires much more than quality materials and construction skills, but it requires experience, communication, thoughtful design, attention to detail, and a commitment to delivering results that align with your goals.

  • Over 40 Years of Bay Area Remodeling Experience: Experience matters when remodeling a kitchen. Every home presents unique challenges, from aging infrastructure and outdated floor plans to structural considerations and modern code requirements. With more than four decades of hands-on experience, our team has successfully completed remodeling projects in homes of all ages, sizes, and architectural styles throughout Berkeley and the surrounding communities.
  • Customized Kitchen Designs Built Around Your Lifestyle: No two families use their kitchens the same way. That’s why we believe every kitchen remodel should begin with understanding how you live, cook, entertain, and use your space. Rather than relying on one-size-fits-all solutions, we create customized kitchen designs tailored to your goals and preferences. Whether you’re looking for more storage, a larger island, improved workflow, better lighting, enhanced functionality, or a complete transformation, our team works closely with you to develop a design that supports your lifestyle today and for years to come.
  • A Full-Service Design-Build Approach: One of the biggest advantages of working with Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is our comprehensive design-build process. Instead of coordinating multiple contractors, designers, vendors, and subcontractors, you’ll work with a single experienced team that manages every phase of your project. From the initial consultation and planning stages through construction and final completion, we provide clear communication and professional project management every step of the way.
  • Licensed Expertise You Can Depend On: Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is licensed as both a General Contractor and Electrical Contractor, providing a level of expertise that many remodeling companies simply cannot match. Because kitchen renovations frequently involve electrical upgrades, lighting improvements, appliance installations, plumbing coordination, and structural modifications, our broad construction knowledge allows us to handle complex remodeling projects with confidence.
  • Exceptional Craftsmanship in Every Detail: We believe quality craftsmanship is the foundation of every successful remodeling project. From custom cabinetry and countertop installation to flooring, trim work, lighting, and finishing details, our team takes pride in delivering precise workmanship throughout every stage of construction. We approach every project with the same care and attention to detail we would expect in our own homes.
  • Deep Understanding of Berkeley Homes: Berkeley features a wide variety of architectural styles, from Craftsman and Victorian homes to mid-century residences and modern custom properties. Remodeling these homes requires an understanding of their unique characteristics, structural considerations, and design aesthetics.
  • Transparent Communication and Honest Service: At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, honesty and transparency are core values that guide everything we do. We believe homeowners deserve clear communication, realistic expectations, and straightforward guidance throughout the remodeling process. From the initial consultation to the final walkthrough, we keep you informed about timelines, project progress, design decisions, and construction milestones.
  • Long-Term Value for Your Home: A professionally designed kitchen remodel is one of the most valuable investments you can make in your property. Beyond improving daily comfort and functionality, a well-executed renovation can enhance your home’s appeal, efficiency, and long-term market value.
  • Partner With Berkeley’s Trusted Kitchen Remodeling Professionals: When you’re investing in a kitchen remodel, you deserve a contractor with the experience, knowledge, and commitment necessary to bring your vision to life. With more than 40 years of Bay Area remodeling expertise, a reputation built on craftsmanship and integrity, and a passion for creating exceptional living spaces, 

 

Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality. Schedule A Free Estimate. And learn more about our expert Kitchen Remodeling Services.

Comprehensive Kitchen Remodeling Services In Berkeley

No two families use their kitchens in exactly the same way. Some homeowners need more storage and organization. Others want a larger space for entertaining, improved functionality for cooking, or a complete redesign that better reflects their lifestyle. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we provide comprehensive kitchen remodeling services in Berkeley, CA, designed to meet the unique needs of every homeowner while delivering exceptional craftsmanship and lasting value.

Whether you’re updating a historic Berkeley home, modernizing a mid-century property, or completely reimagining the heart of your home, our experienced team can help bring your vision to life. 

  • Complete Kitchen Renovations: For homeowners seeking a dramatic transformation, a full kitchen renovation provides the opportunity to completely redesign the space from the ground up. We evaluate your current layout, identify opportunities for improvement, and create a kitchen that better supports your family’s daily routine.
  • Kitchen Layout Redesign and Open-Concept Remodeling: Many Berkeley homes were built with compartmentalized floor plans that no longer align with today’s lifestyles. Closed-off kitchens can feel cramped, limit natural light, and make entertaining difficult. Our team specializes in creating open-concept kitchen designs that improve flow between cooking, dining, and living spaces. By strategically reconfiguring layouts and removing barriers where appropriate, we can create a more spacious and inviting environment that feels connected to the rest of your home.
  • Custom Cabinetry and Smart Storage Solutions: Storage is one of the most common concerns we hear from Berkeley homeowners. A beautiful kitchen should also be highly functional, and smart storage solutions play a major role in achieving that balance. Our goal is to create a clutter-free kitchen that works efficiently while maintaining a clean and attractive appearance.
  • Countertops, Islands, and Workspace Enhancements: The right countertops and island design can dramatically improve both aesthetics and functionality. Whether you’re looking for a statement centerpiece or additional preparation space, we help homeowners select materials and layouts that complement their design goals.
  • Flooring Installation and Upgrades: Kitchen flooring must withstand heavy daily use while complementing the overall design of the home. We help homeowners choose durable, attractive flooring options that provide long-term performance and visual appeal.
  • Lighting & Electrical Upgrades: Lighting can completely transform the look and functionality of a kitchen. As licensed General and Electrical Contractors, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights offers unique expertise when designing and implementing kitchen lighting plans.
  • Plumbing Fixtures & Appliance Integration: Modern kitchens require careful coordination between plumbing, appliances, and cabinetry. We ensure all systems work together seamlessly while supporting both functionality and aesthetics.
  • Finishing Touches That Bring Your Kitchen Together: The details often make the biggest difference in the final result. Once the major construction is complete, our team focuses on the finishing elements that give your kitchen its personality and character.
  • Why Berkeley Homeowners Choose Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights: For over 40 years, homeowners throughout Berkeley and the East Bay have trusted Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights because of our commitment to quality craftsmanship, integrity, and customer-focused service. We believe every kitchen remodel should be built to stand the test of time while reflecting the homeowner’s unique style and needs.

 

Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality. Schedule A Free Estimate. Or learn more about our kitchen remodeling expertise by visiting Kitchen Remodeling Services.

Where We Work In Berkeley: Neighborhoods And Areas We Serve

Berkeley is one of the Bay Area’s most diverse and architecturally unique communities, featuring everything from historic Craftsman homes and classic bungalows to hillside estates and modern residences. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we understand that every neighborhood presents its own opportunities and challenges when it comes to kitchen remodeling. Our 40+ years of Bay Area remodeling experience allows us to design kitchens that complement the character of each home while delivering the modern functionality today’s homeowners expect.

  • North Berkeley: North Berkeley is known for its charming Craftsman, Tudor, and traditional homes, many of which were built decades ago. While these properties offer tremendous character, their kitchens often feature outdated layouts, limited storage, and inefficient workspaces.
  • Gourmet Ghetto: Located near some of Berkeley’s most celebrated dining destinations, the Gourmet Ghetto neighborhood is home to many homeowners who value exceptional cooking and entertaining spaces.
  • Elmwood: Elmwood is one of Berkeley’s most sought-after neighborhoods, known for tree-lined streets and beautiful historic homes. Many of these homes contain kitchens that no longer meet the needs of modern families.
  • Claremont: Claremont is known for its elegant homes, hillside views, and distinctive architecture. Homeowners in this area frequently seek premium kitchen remodeling solutions that elevate both aesthetics and functionality.
  • Berkeley Hills: The Berkeley Hills offer stunning views and unique architectural opportunities. Many hillside homes benefit from kitchen remodels designed to maximize natural light, improve sightlines, and create seamless connections between indoor and outdoor living spaces.
  • Thousand Oaks: Families throughout Thousand Oaks often choose kitchen remodeling projects to improve day-to-day living. Common goals include adding storage, increasing counter space, creating gathering areas, and updating aging finishes.
  • Downtown Berkeley: Urban homeowners in Downtown Berkeley often face unique space constraints that require creative design solutions. We specialize in maximizing efficiency through smart layouts, custom cabinetry, built-in storage, and multifunctional design features that help smaller kitchens feel larger and more usable.
  • West Berkeley: West Berkeley features an eclectic mix of historic properties, renovated industrial spaces, and modern residences. Homeowners here often seek kitchen designs that reflect their personal style while improving functionality and efficiency.

No matter where you’re located in Berkeley, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is ready to help you create a kitchen that improves your home’s beauty, functionality, and value.

Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality. Schedule A Free Estimate Today. Or learn more about our full range of professional Kitchen Remodeling Services.

Kitchen Remodel San Ramon CA

Common Kitchen Problems We Fix In Berkeley

Many Berkeley homes offer incredible character, craftsmanship, and architectural charm, but their kitchens often weren’t designed for today’s lifestyles. Whether you own a historic Craftsman in Elmwood, a hillside home in the Berkeley Hills, or a mid-century property in North Berkeley, it’s common to encounter kitchen layouts and features that no longer support the way your family lives, cooks, and entertains.

Here are some of the most common kitchen problems we solve for Berkeley homeowners:

Outdated Kitchen Layouts

Many older Berkeley homes were built with closed-off kitchens separated from dining and living spaces. While these layouts were common decades ago, today's homeowners often prefer open, connected floor plans that improve flow, functionality, and social interaction.

Kitchens That No Longer Match Your Lifestyle

Perhaps the biggest issue we solve is helping homeowners create kitchens that reflect how they live today, not how previous generations lived decades ago.

Outdated Lighting

uninviting. Many older kitchens rely on a single overhead fixture that creates shadows and limits visibility. Because Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is both a licensed General Contractor and Electrical Contractor, we are uniquely qualified to upgrade kitchen lighting systems.

Poor Workflow and Functionality

A beautiful kitchen should also be highly functional. Poor appliance placement, limited prep areas, awkward traffic patterns, and inefficient work zones can make cooking frustrating and time-consuming.

Lack of Seating and Entertaining Space

Today's kitchens serve as gathering places for families and guests. Many older kitchens simply weren't designed with entertaining in mind.

Limited Counter Space:

Counter space is one of the most valuable features in any kitchen. Many older Berkeley kitchens were designed with significantly less workspace than modern homeowners expect.

Aging Cabinets and Worn Finishes

Cabinets often show their age long before the rest of the home. Warped doors, damaged finishes, outdated styles, and inefficient storage can make the entire kitchen feel tired and dated.

Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality. Schedule A Free Estimate Today. Or learn more about our professional kitchen renovation solutions by visiting our Kitchen Remodeling Services Page

Kitchen Remodel Richmond CA

Serving Berkeley For Over 40 Years – Local Kitchen Remodeling Experts You Can Rely On

When investing in a kitchen remodel, experience matters. Your kitchen is one of the most important and frequently used spaces in your home, and choosing a contractor with a proven track record can make the difference between a stressful renovation and a successful transformation. For homeowners in Berkeley, CA, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights brings more than 40 years of hands-on construction, remodeling, and design-build expertise to every project.

As licensed General Contractor and Electrical Contractor, our team offers a level of expertise that few remodeling companies can match. We understand that a successful kitchen remodel requires more than simply replacing cabinets and countertops. It requires careful planning, skilled construction, efficient project management, and attention to every detail that impacts how your kitchen looks, feels, and functions. Our goal is to create a space that not only enhances your daily life but also delivers lasting value for years to come.

Homeowners throughout Berkeley choose us because we offer:

  • Decades of Proven Remodeling Experience: With more than four decades of construction and remodeling experience throughout the Bay Area, we’ve successfully completed thousands of projects while adapting to changing design trends, building technologies, and homeowner needs. Our experience allows us to anticipate challenges, provide practical recommendations, and deliver exceptional results.
  • Design-Build Expertise: Our integrated design-build approach streamlines the remodeling process by keeping planning, design, and construction under one roof. This creates better communication, greater efficiency, and a smoother experience from concept to completion.
  • Quality Craftsmanship That Lasts: We believe quality and service come first. Every kitchen remodel is completed with careful attention to detail, premium materials, and proven building practices designed to stand the test of time.
  • Deep Knowledge of Berkeley Homes: From historic homes in Elmwood and North Berkeley to hillside properties in the Berkeley Hills and family homes throughout West Berkeley, we understand the architectural styles, permitting considerations, and construction requirements unique to the area.
  • Honest Communication and Dependable Service: Our company was built on integrity, transparency, and lasting relationships. We keep homeowners informed throughout every stage of their project, ensuring there are no surprises and that expectations are consistently met.

 

What To Do If You’re Planning A Kitchen Remodel

Planning a kitchen remodel is an exciting opportunity to transform one of the most important spaces in your home. A well-designed kitchen can improve daily functionality, enhance comfort, increase storage, boost energy efficiency, and add significant value to your property. Successful kitchen remodeling starts long before construction begins.

  • Define Your Goals and Priorities – Before selecting materials or gathering design ideas, take time to identify what you want your new kitchen to accomplish. Understanding your priorities helps create a remodeling plan that focuses on improvements that will have the greatest impact on your daily life.
  • Establish a Realistic Budget – A clear budget provides the foundation for a successful remodeling project. Consider both your immediate goals and your long-term plans for the home. Working with an experienced contractor early in the planning process can help you understand available options and maximize the value of your investment.
  • Gather Inspiration and Design Ideas – One of the most enjoyable parts of planning a kitchen remodel is exploring design possibilities. Collect photos, layouts, finishes, and features that appeal to you. As you gather inspiration, focus on both aesthetics and functionality. A beautiful kitchen should also support the way your family cooks, gathers, and lives every day.
  • Think About Functionality First – While finishes and materials are important, functionality should drive every major design decision. Our team carefully evaluates how you use your kitchen to create a layout that supports your lifestyle while maximizing every square foot of available space.
  • Consider Your Home’s Architectural Style – Your new kitchen should complement the overall character of your home while incorporating modern conveniences and personal style preferences. Thoughtful design integration helps create a seamless transition between the kitchen and surrounding living spaces while preserving the unique charm of your property.
  • Work With an Experienced Kitchen Remodeling Contractor – Perhaps the most important decision you’ll make is choosing the right remodeling contractor. Working with an experienced design-build contractor helps streamline the process and ensures every aspect of the project is coordinated efficiently.
  • Plan for Long-Term Value: A kitchen remodel is one of the most valuable investments you can make in your home. While it’s important to create a space you’ll enjoy today, it’s also wise to consider features that will continue delivering 
  • Schedule a Professional Consultation: The best way to begin your kitchen remodeling journey is with a professional consultation. An experienced remodeling team can evaluate your space, discuss your goals, identify opportunities for improvement, and provide expert recommendations tailored to your home and budget.

 

Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality. Schedule A Free Estimate Today. For additional information about our remodeling expertise, visit our Kitchen Remodeling Services page.

FAQs About Kitchen Remodeling In Berkeley, CA

Kitchen remodeling costs in Berkeley vary depending on size, materials, layout changes, and overall design complexity. Because Berkeley homes often require structural, electrical, or plumbing upgrades, costs can be higher than the national average.

Most kitchen remodeling projects in Berkeley take several weeks to a few months to complete. The timeline depends on the complexity of the design, permitting requirements, material availability, and whether structural changes are involved.

Yes, most kitchen remodels in Berkeley require permits, especially when the project involves electrical work, plumbing changes, or structural modifications such as removing walls or altering layouts.

In many cases, yes. Most homeowners remain in their homes during construction, although there may be periods where the kitchen is not usable. We always aim to make the process as manageable and stress-free as possible.

A complete kitchen remodel may include:

  • Full layout redesign
  • Custom cabinetry and storage solutions
  • Countertop installation (quartz, granite, stone)
  • Kitchen island construction
  • Flooring replacement
  • Lighting and electrical upgrades
  • Plumbing fixture updates
  • Appliance installation
  • Backsplash and finishing details

Every project is tailored to the homeowner’s goals, style, and budget.

Yes. A professionally designed kitchen remodel is one of the most valuable home improvements you can make. In a competitive real estate market like Berkeley, updated kitchens often improve both resale value and buyer interest.

Absolutely. Our team provides full design-build services, meaning we help you plan your kitchen from concept to completion. Every design is customized to your home’s structure and your lifestyle needs.

Many Berkeley homes, especially older properties, share similar kitchen challenges, including:

  • Limited storage space
  • Closed-off or outdated layouts
  • Aging cabinets and countertops
  • Poor lighting design
  • Inefficient appliance placement
  • Outdated electrical systems
  • Lack of counter space
  • Poor kitchen flow for cooking and entertaining

Our remodeling solutions are designed to modernize these spaces while preserving the character of your home.

In many cases, yes. Older Berkeley homes often require updates to electrical wiring, plumbing lines, or both to meet current safety codes and support modern appliances.

With over 40 years of experience serving the San Francisco Bay Area, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights brings proven expertise, craftsmanship, and reliability to every kitchen remodel.

Kitchen Remodel Pleasanton CA

We Proudly Serve Berkeley and Surrounding Areas

Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights proudly provides professional kitchen remodeling services throughout Berkeley and the greater East Bay. With over 40 years of hands-on experience in residential construction and home remodeling, we understand the unique character of Berkeley homes, from historic craftsman houses to hillside properties and modern infill residences. Our team specializes in creating kitchens that respect the architecture of your home while improving functionality, flow, and long-term value.

We proudly serve homeowners across all Berkeley neighborhoods, including:

  • North Berkeley: Known for its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and proximity to the famous North Shattuck “Gourmet Ghetto” district. Many homeowners here invest in kitchen remodels that blend modern efficiency with classic architectural charm.
  • Elmwood and College Avenue District: A highly walkable neighborhood filled with early 20th-century homes, boutique shops, and cafes. Kitchen remodels here often focus on maximizing storage, improving layout flow, and opening up traditional closed-off floor plans.
  • Claremont and Claremont Hills: One of Berkeley’s most prestigious residential areas, featuring larger homes, hillside views, and custom architecture. Kitchen renovations here often include high-end finishes, custom cabinetry, and luxury open-concept designs.
  • Downtown Berkeley: A vibrant urban core near transit, universities, and commercial spaces. Homeowners often look for modern, space-efficient kitchen designs that maximize functionality in smaller footprints.
  • Berkeley Hills: Known for panoramic views and unique hillside properties. Kitchen remodels in this area frequently require thoughtful design planning to enhance natural light, improve layout efficiency, and integrate seamlessly with multi-level floorplans.
  • West Berkeley & Gilman District: A growing residential and arts-focused area with a mix of modern homes and converted industrial spaces. Kitchen renovations here often lean toward contemporary, industrial, and open-concept styles.
  • Thousand Oaks & Northbrae: Quiet residential neighborhoods with strong community character. Kitchen upgrades here typically focus on family-friendly layouts, durable materials, and timeless design.

 

At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we bring the same level of craftsmanship and attention to detail to every kitchen remodeling project, no matter the neighborhood. From compact city kitchens to large custom renovations, our goal is to create spaces that improve daily living and stand the test of time.

Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality. Schedule A Free Estimate. Or Explore our full service offerings at Kitchen Remodeling Services.

Get Reliable Kitchen Remodeling Services In Berkeley Today

When it comes to transforming your kitchen, choosing the right contractor makes all the difference. A successful kitchen remodel is not just about new cabinets or countertops, but it’s about creating a space that improves your daily routine, increases your home’s value, and reflects your personal style. That’s exactly what Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights delivers for homeowners throughout Berkeley and the East Bay.

Whether you’re looking to open up your layout, add custom cabinetry, upgrade countertops, improve lighting, or completely reimagine your kitchen, we bring the craftsmanship and experience needed to get it done right the first time. Every detail is handled with care, from structural adjustments to finishing touches, so your new kitchen feels cohesive, functional, and built around how you actually live.

Berkeley homeowners continue to choose Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights because we combine proven construction expertise with honest service and a long-standing local reputation. We don’t just remodel kitchens, but we create spaces where families cook, gather, and connect for years to come.

Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality. Schedule A Free Estimate. For additional information about our remodeling expertise, visit our Kitchen Remodeling Services page.

Kitchen Remodel Danville CA