From Italianate to Edwardian to Modernist, San Francisco is renowned for its eclectic mix of various architectural styles. With many historic properties in the City by the Bay, renovations and remodels are common. These remodels are regulated by the city’s ordinances aimed to protect homes with historic value.
Kitchens are no exception to these renovations. According to Kevin + Jonathan Real Estate, a kitchen remodel in the Bay Area can range from $15,000 for a modest update to $500,000 for a luxurious upgrade. The kitchen remodeling contractors in this list can accommodate any point in that spectrum. Here, you will find award-winning and press-featured contractors, green builders, and specialized kitchen designers. From narrow galley kitchens to large kitchens that transition seamlessly to the rest of the home, you are sure to find a contractor that can create your dream kitchen by the bay.
Everlast Construction
1270 Springbrook Rd. Suite #101, Walnut Creek, CA 94597
Everlast Construction is a general contractor serving the whole of the Bay Area, from Pleasanton to Palo Alto to San Francisco. Its team is highly experienced in exterior and interior remodeling, kitchen remodeling, bathrooms remodeling, foundation repair, home additions, roofing, and commercial remodeling.
The firm has received hundreds of five-star ratings from Yelp as well as an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Everlast is a member of the National Kitchen and Bath Association and Build It Green. Along with its commitment to energy- and resource-efficient building practices, the firm also participates in charity activities such as the Walk to End Alzheimer’s Walkathon.
One of Everlast’s San Francisco projects is this wide kitchen. The firm addressed the client’s need for space through an open layout and large kitchen island for the family. Dark soapstone countertops and gray tile backsplash stand out against the crisp modern cabinetry. With plenty of natural light in the space, pendant lights were perfect to both balance out the brightness and add charm.
Zeus Remodeling
6 John Papan Ct., Daly City, CA 94015
Known for its modern interpretations of classic San Francisco homes and its dedication to perfection, Zeus Remodeling has been in the remodeling business since 2005. The firm was established by Paul Asadov, an experienced craftsman, designer, and artist. He has transformed hundreds of homes in the Bay Area, from condos and apartment units to historic single-family homes.
Zeus Remodeling often favors contemporary silhouettes. This kitchen remodel features soft neutral tones paired with darker accents. The firm used alluring geometry seen in the bar stools and symmetrical cabinetry surrounding the refrigerator.
Beyond The Horizon Construction
320 Woodside Ave., San Francisco, CA 94127
Beyond The Horizon Construction has become one of the go-to firms of San Franciscans for full-service general construction, remodeling, renovation, and repairs. It aims to make the construction process as easy and stress-free as possible by working with the client through all the stages, from figuring out a general color scheme to selecting materials from floor to ceiling. The firm has received the Talk of The Town Award for Customer Service Excellence for the last 8 consecutive years.
Headed by Joshua Roofener, the firm offers full kitchen and bathroom remodels. Instead of hiring subcontractors, much of the work is done by an in-house team. This includes everything from foundation to finish. Whether it’s a remodel, new construction, or addition, Beyond the Horizon construction has got you covered.
The firm elegantly opened up this industrial style kitchen to the rest of the first floor. The exposed brick, distressed wooden beams in the ceiling, and track lights create an urban look. The large kitchen island with granite countertop serves as a prep area and breakfast nook.
Phase2 Builders
1201 Mariposa St., San Francisco, CA 94107
Since 2004, Phase2 Builders has been building energy-efficient homes and creating contemporary designs for historic and older San Francisco residences. It favors renewable and non-toxic materials to promote sustainable and healthier living. The firm’s eco-conscious projects can be found in San Francisco, San Mateo, Marin, and Alameda counties.
The firm is proudly LGBTQ-owned. In 2018, it ranked among the top 50 LGBTQ businesses in the Bay Area. The firm’s success is driven by founder Michael Miller’s passion for economically and ecologically balanced homes. He and the firm also maintain a close professional relationship with Build It Green and Institute of Classical Architecture & Art.
The firm integrated a nautical Cape Cod kitchen design into this San Francisco Victorian home. Walls of white cabinetry surround a central island with reclaimed douglas fir countertop. Rare Calacatta marble serves as a backsplash and gives a luxurious feel to the space.
Barnum Building and Design
77 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco, CA 94102
Barnum Building and Design is a general contractor that offers both residential and commercial design-build solutions to Bay Area projects. It lives by the words “All things are connected”. This is exemplified by its outstanding client referral system, solid relationships with subcontractors, and efficient in-house team of craftsmen.
In its ten years in business, the firm has created notable projects all over San Francisco. The firm has renovated and remodeled numerous projects ranging from Victorian residences to Midcentury Modern flats. It has also renovated the San Francisco Center For The Book and the Louis Vuitton Lounge and pop-up store in America’s Cup. The firm is also one of the few firms on this list to be Diamond Certified.
The firm’s smart use of space in this small transitional mission kitchen makes it noteworthy. Along with a focus on old-world features, the firm added below-counter storage and glass-front upper cabinets. Floating walnut shelves complement the end grain walnut butcher block. Noir and fire clay tiles add contrast.
Buck O’Neill Builders
1250 Missouri St. Suite #102, San Francisco, CA 94107
Buck O’Neill launched Buck O’Neill Builders in 2004. A builder since 1995, he draws from his extensive experience in construction management. Prior to the firm, he oversaw the construction of sophisticated, high-end residences and boutique commercial projects as a site superintendent and project manager for premier builders in San Francisco.
The firm is selective in hiring for its in-house team, only employing seasoned veterans who know how to address the challenges of historic homes and green building. Its team is made up of Certified Green Building Professionals and accomplished craftsmen. They have renovated notable projects such as a Palo Alto Eichler home designed by renowned architect A. Quincy Jones and a major historic restoration project of a 1930 Tudor Revival home formerly owned by Jim Rolph, former Mayor of San Francisco and former Governor of California.
The firm reinvented this beautiful galley kitchen of a 1909 home in Presidio Heights. The now user-friendly kitchen has restored windows and refinished hardwood flooring. The firm was also successful in completing the work with a tight timeline and an aggressive schedule.
Wallace Remodeling, Inc.
400 Day St., San Francisco, CA 94131
Established in 1973, Wallace Remodeling is a general contractor known for its commitment to accuracy, integrity, and construction excellence. Its portfolio includes residential new construction, whole-house remodels, period home historic restorations, home additions, and kitchen and bathroom remodeling. The firm also does structural and seismic retrofit projects and general home and commercial improvements. Located in the Noe Valley neighborhood of San Francisco, Wallace Remodeling also actively contributes to the surrounding communities through volunteer work and charitable donations.
One unique thing about the firm is its work-description document, which is modeled after the Construction Specifications Institute’s system and rivals that of commercial businesses. The firm’s president, Kevin Wallace, modified it to suit his business and uses it to ensure that the firm, the subcontractors, and the client are all on the same page about a project. Wallace was one of the first remodelers to be recognized as part of the Remodeling Big50 in the 1980s. He is also the founding president of the San Francisco Bay Area (SFBA) Chapter of the NARI.
This baker’s kitchen presents ample space for food and baking preparation. The wood countertops are durable and practical. The blue backsplash perfectly complements the green island. Overall, the design is made to fit in the home through the addition of Victorian details in trim and molding.
GoodFellas Construction
2033 Gateway Pl., San Jose, CA 95110
Goodfellas Constructions is a general contractor that does residential and commercial remodeling throughout California. The firm was founded in Los Angeles in 1998 and expanded its operations to serve the Bay area in 2007. Led by Robert Cervantes, this full-service remodeler specializes in kitchens and bathrooms.
A GoodFellas project can range from a complete gut-out or renovation of a whole house to a straightforward aesthetic remodel of a kitchen. The firm also does roofing, hardscaping, and other light home improvement work. Its custom projects have been featured by local and national press such as the LA Times, Fox News, and Apartment Therapy.
The firm collaborated with mom and blogger Joy Cho and celebrity home designer Sarah Sherman Samuel on this dreamy pastel kitchen. The white, mint, and gold palette make for a chic and fresh space. Honed marble countertops add a luxurious touch, while the petal tile backsplash maintains the quirky aesthetic. This project was published in the LA Times and on Joy Cho’s blog.
Aaron Gordon Construction
2261 Shafter Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94124
Aaron Gordon found a knack for construction when he made his own treehouse as a child. Before college, he developed his instincts for business while working for his father. His next work involved being a stagehand and set builder. He coupled his passion for building with his skills in business to establish Aaron Gordon Construction.
The 14-year-old company believes in team chemistry. It promotes synergy between its skilled craftsmen, designers, and office managers to effectively deliver projects to clients. It also collaborates with exceptional trade contractors to support its core team. The firm’s exemplary work has been featured in Spaces, Marin Magazine, California Home-Design, and the San Francisco Chronicle.
The firm recently renovated an 1870’s San Francisco Victorian for a couple with eclectic tastes. A farmhouse sink, zinc-topped island, and a matching hood and range evoke the home’s history as well as the client’s farm country childhood. The home was recently featured in Spaces.
Kitchens and More
4178 Redwood Hwy., San Rafael, CA 94903
Kitchens and More boasts precision and creativity in its kitchens, inspired by designs from all over the globe. The award-winning firm has won in the 2015 regional Sub Zero and Wolf Kitchen Design Contest 2015 and in the 2016 Viking Design Contest. Its projects have also been presented in publications like Sunset Magazine, California Home + Design, Better Homes & Gardens, American HomeStyle & Gardening, and the Marin Independent Journal.
Krikor Halajian is the owner and chief designer of the firm. His kitchen and bath remodeling and construction experience span over 25 years. Prior to establishing his company, his work as a civil engineer brought him to Japan and Saudi Arabia along with travels to the Far East, Europe, and Africa. These travels fuel his imaginative designs that are brought to life with his construction expertise. Halajian is an NKBA member and a Green Professional.
The company’s kitchens are rich and innovative, yet practical and well built. The firm works in every style from modern Eichler to charming Craftsman. This all-white kitchen was once a dark space trapped in the 70s. The firm successfully updated it by highlighting the geometry of the space and installing sleek storage and appliances. Floor to ceiling windows open it up to abundant light and views of the Pacific Ocean.
Houseworks
1485 Bayshore Blvd. Suite #220, San Francisco, CA 94124
Houseworks is San Francisco’s single source solution for custom home remodeling. Our proven 3-step “Renovation Engine”design-build process transforms your home into the perfect, customized setting for life’s most memorable moments. The firm was started in 2005 by remodeling industry leader Jeff Kann. Over the years, he has held several positions on the executive board of the NARI San Francisco Chapter. He is also a recipient of the Remodeling Big50 Award. Jeff and his team use professional industry affiliations to stay abreast of product innovation and continuous improvement.
The firm uses its’ design expertise to bring unique, one of a kind projects to their clients homes. This is reflected in the photo above. This home’s antiquated 1980s interior is transformed with bold colors and the use of technology. The result is a modernized space with a focused bar area. It is projects like these and high regard for standards and ethics that lead to their clients enjoyment.
San Francisco Design Build
171 Lily St., San Francisco, CA 94102
San Francisco Design Build specializes in creating modern solutions in residential design and construction. Its portfolio contains everything from kitchen and bath remodels to full home remodels and additions. Since 2008, the firm’s unique projects have captivated homeowners and the media alike. Its projects have graced the pages of Dwell, Spaces, Apartment Therapy, and Remodeling Magazine.
Rudy Docanto heads the building team with 35 years of construction experience in the Bay area. Jessica Johnson is the lead designer, with 14 years of architecture & design experience. The pair heads the firm’s small but highly-experienced team, which has done more than 60 projects in the area. The firm’s selective process allows it to fully focus on addressing every need of the client and to bring to life their combined vision.
This fresh kitchen remodel in a 1920s home was featured by Dwell and Remodeling Magazine. The firm preserved the feel of the existing architecture by keeping headers and matching trim. The existing hardwood in the kitchen was retained and brought throughout the home for a more unified design.
Gilmans Kitchen and Baths
228 Bayshore Blvd., San Francisco, CA 94124
Gilmans Kitchen and Baths is one of the oldest remodeling companies in San Francisco. It opened as a hardware store in 1954 and went into the kitchen and bathroom design business in the 1990s. The firm was named a San Francisco Legacy Business, one of the first nine named by the Small Business Commission.
The firm is able to work using a wide variety of styles, although its specialties are white kitchens and sustainable bamboo kitchens. As the firm developed its expertise over the years, it has earned awards for its kitchen and bathroom remodels. It received two local COTY awards in 2016, as well as several design awards from the NKBA. The firm is headed by Larry Lowenthal.
This kitchen update in a 1970s Cape Cod style home was designed by Lowenthal himself. It features an open and airy layout that seamlessly transitions to the living room. Soft shades of gray were used in the cabinetry to contrast against the white. This project won second place in the NKBA Northern California Design Awards in 2015.
Custom Kitchens by John Wilkins
6624 Telegraph Ave., Oakland, CA 94609
John Wilkins established Custom Kitchens in 1950 with the goal of providing a one-stop remodeling shop for residents of Oakland, San Francisco, and nearby areas. He saw a change in the trends of kitchens in his era and sought to address this in Northern California homes. He pioneered moving walls to expand kitchen space. His designs also included the first dishwashers, garbage disposals, microwaves, built-in refrigerators, and proper ventilation. The firm is currently captained by John’s son Jerry, who has over 40 years of experience in design, project management, and general contracting in both commercial and residential construction.
The firm’s bespoke kitchens have graced the covers and pages of Better Homes and Gardens, Sunset, Architectural Digest, Qualified Remodeler, Oakland Magazine, San Francisco Magazine, and Alameda Magazine. The firm also won NARI Regional COTY Awards in 2013 and 2014.
This kitchen, featured in Oakland Magazine, is all about storage and organization. Pull-out chopping boards, wine racks, and open shelving were installed, as well as a full wall of cherry cabinets. A fireclay tile backsplash against cobalt blue tiles adds interest.
McCutcheon Construction
1280 Sixth St., Berkeley, CA 94710
McCutcheon Construction’s award-winning reputation makes it a cut above the rest in the San Francisco remodeling industry. Founded in Berkeley in 1980, it has become a leader in green remodeling and residential preservation. Professional Remodeler named it one of the nation’s leaders in Sustainable Design & Construction, while Remodeling Magazine has included it in its Top 550 remodelers of the nation. HGTV Online also frequently features its projects.
The firm’s founder and principal, Michael McCutcheon, is a fourth generation builder. He heads a staff of more than 30 accomplished builders and designers. He is an American Institute of Architects – East Bay associate member, Build It Green founding member, Build It Green founding member, and Remodelers Advantage Roundtable member. He also holds seminars for homeowners and professional organizations about the remodeling and construction techniques, and has written articles for San Jose Mercury News, the Piedmont Post, and the Berkeley Times.
The firm is a consistent winner in the NARI SFBA Contractor of the Year Awards and Remodeling Awards, and won a 2017 NARI National COTY Award Winner for Residential Kitchen Over $150k. The project was a kitchen transformation of a 100-year-old home. Structural improvements involved the removing dividing walls and raising the ceiling back to nine feet. A simple and practical rectangular plan around a central island reoriented the space toward the outdoors. Carrara marble countertops and Shaker-style cabinet doors reinforce the home’s craftsman/classical theme.
