Custom Kitchens By John Wilkins

I had a fantastic experience working with Custom Kitchens on my kitchen remodel and also on my master bath/​closet remodel, approximately 7 years later. I had heard nothing but horror stories from friends who did remodeling projects, so I was very nervous! I worked with Joy and Nader, who planned and managed my projects perfectly. The design for both remodels is beautiful, functional and well thought out. All my concerns were taken into account in the development process.
With Custom Kitchens managing your project, you see progress every day of construction. At no time does someone not show up to work for days/​weeks at a time, like I have heard happens on so many remodeling projects. Every part of the process is tightly controlled. All the workers are top-​notch and the results are excellent. Start to finish, my kitchen remodel took 9 ½ weeks.
In addition, follow-​up is really excellent. I had an issue with the bathtub in the new bathroom, and Nader has been back to help with it, even though it has been more than a year since the project was finished.
I highly recommend Custom Kitchens by John Wilkins.

We loved our experience working with Custom Kitchens. They are a fantastic group. We were working on a very fixed timeline and after interviewing several contractors for a fairly large renovation on our new home (focused on kitchen, bathroom, laundry room), we were very happy to have met them. They did a great job on our 100 year old house.
Highlights as follows:
On time, on budget. Held to their original timeline and worked extremely hard throughout the summer to even finish early. No change to original budget except for additions we elected and discussed with them. Understood we were focused on staying within budget and worked carefully with us to make that happen. We felt we got good value for our money.
Trustworthy family company. They have been in business for around 50 years and take a long term view on their business. We feel a very high level of trust with them and their team. They required very little oversight — very different from our past experiences with other contractors. We took a vacation during our renovation and they did not miss a beat. Every person on CK’s team is professional, friendly, and enthusiastic about the project. The team leads that we corresponded with were all very reachable via phone, cell, and email and always responded quickly. We never felt left hanging.
Top notch team and design-​to-​build platform. We thought we would need to find a designer, architect, and contractor separately. CK has an excellent, thoughtful, in-​house design team that helped work with us to design a kitchen and bathroom that fit our vision. They were very enjoyable to work with, had a high level of excitement about the project, were aware of endless styles, and had creative solutions throughout the process. Having the design team and contractor in one place was very efficient and allows for quick transfer of ideas and easy shifts in plans. We really loved working with CK’s designers.
Quality work. They take a high level of pride in their work and did an excellent job throughout. Made adjustments along the way to make sure everything was done right. Everyone who has seen the house has noted how great and professional it looks. Also worth noting that CK worked with and found solutions to our requests to make the renovation as low-​tox and «green» as possible. Also, they have extensive relationships with sub-​contractors in the area and we were very happy with all of the ones they worked with.
Our experience was really fantastic — they made it easy on us, were fun to work with, and did exceptional work — we plan to use CK again in the future and would recommend them to anyone.

We recently bought a home and the kitchen was awful. It was very small with those «spec house» light oak cabinets, which we dislike. Our intention all along was to have the kitchen remodeled. We had seen an infomercial for another kitchen remodeling company on a Sunday morning, and it looked great; new custom kitchen in two weeks! We started looking at the reviews on Unilocal for these types of companies and the reviews for the one in the infomercial was terrible! There really weren’t any companies that had a large number of good Unilocal reviews, but we ran on to Custom Kitchens By John Wilkins and even though there weren’t that many reviews, they were all a perfect 5. We made an appointment to speak to them and were paired up with Francis Combes. We were so impressed with him and the quality of work that they were doing we were sold from the beginning. We didn’t look any further and are so glad we didn’t! We really didn’t have any ideas on what we wanted except that we didn’t like what we had. We were then assigned a project manager, Eric Jackson, who worked with Francis to bring our dream kitchen to reality. Francis came up with three plans that varied in costs so we could choose what would fit within our budget. We selected the plan with the most cabinets and went with every suggestion Francis and Eric made. The end result is amazing and they were so gracious when we initiated three change orders during the process. We combined a small family room and a breakfast nook into the kitchen to make a large area that is wonderful for entertaining and visiting with friends. The process took about three months and was planned out perfectly. It was masterfully planned and thinking about the entire process, we’re really glad we didn’t follow up with the other company doing the infomercials, because we would not have ended up with the quality product we now have. There would be no way possible to do the job we had done in two weeks. We wholeheartedly recommend Custom Kitchens and are happy to show the work they did to anyone that would like to come see our wonderful kitchen. And by the way, the electrician, Jonathan Aszklar Electric, and painter, Michael Quality Painting, Custom Kitchens contracted with for our job, were also excellent. We have since used them on other projects and the quality of their work is also exceptional!

We had a small (very small!) powder room redone by Custom Kitchens. Things turned out lovely; we’re very pleased. We worked with Nader Feidy and his crew and were generally impressed by his knowledge, calmness, and responsiveness – a rarity among contractors. Although the job stretched out just a bit longer than we would have liked, the end result was well worth the wait. Prices seemed competitive, although by no means cheap – what is theses days? – but the quality of the work was excellent. Would absolutely hire Custom Kitchens again.

From the moment Nader Feidy walked into my home until the final inspection, I felt totally comfortable and knew I was getting first class service. The team I worked with at Custom Kitchens, Joy Wilkins, Lisa Narum, and Nader made me feel like my kitchen was their only project. Their organization was impeccable, every detail outlined and a schedule that would have been followed to the minute if they hadnt run into a delay in the flooring being shipped. Both Joy and Lisa escorted me to stone warehouses and tile stores, more than once. The entire project was done while I was out of town with almost daily communication and pictures. All of my emails and phone calls were dealt with in a timely manner. There are no words that can express how highly I would recommend Custom Kitchens. I think of them every moment I am in my fairy tale kitchen, loving every minute I am cooking!

15 years ago Custom Kitchens via Joy and Jerry entered my 1970 avocado green kitchen and turned it into a room I wanted to live in! A crew came in: design, plans, time line and did it all in less than the states 6 weeks., leaving it ready to Yes, it still is my favorite place to be. Thus, I needed a bit more beauty. And, success: a guess bath and a wet bar. Fantastic work! Joy, Eric and Ruskin were part of the crew, then and now. Thank you for your creativity and professionalism used in making my house a beautiful home. Now, what else can they transform for me?!

I could not be happier with the work Custom Kitchens did on turning my old kitchen and separate laundry room into one big beautiful eat-​in kitchen. From the design phase to selection of materials to the actual construction, everything was top-​notch. They stayed on schedule throughout — made friends with my dog — and made sure things were tidied up at the end of every day (might seem like a small thing but it was a nice touch). They respected my opinions — and my budget, which were also important. The project manager and the crew were very professional, looping me in when necessary. Everyone who has seen my new kitchen has been blown away, But most important, I love it love it love it. Thank you Custom Kitchens!

Thirty years ago we had the kitchen remodeled by another company and the experience was a nightmare. I learned a lot. I won’t go into details but in choosing CK I felt I had found a contractor I could trust because they had been in business for so long and had such a good reputation. As it turned out, CK is a great company to work with. The project manager, Andy, and the designer, Karmela, came to my house, took detailed measurements in my kitchen space, and then sat down with me innumerable times while they drew up plans which I could agree to. They explained everything to me as we went along, making appropriate suggestions. And they also listened to my opinions and reasons for wanting some details. The subcontractors they used were friendly, courteous and came to work in a timely fashion. The schedule was particularly well coordinated so that the work was done in a logical fashion without delays. They understood how difficult it is to be without a kitchen.
The on site «project manager» Ruskin couldn’t have been better. He took every effort to get the details right and always asked for my opinion when things requiring a choice had to be decided. He would let me know if he wasn’t going to be here, but who was coming instead. Andy and Karmela came repeatedly to see that the work was proceeding well. Karmela arranged for me to visit the Wolf-​Subzero showroom for a personal demonstration of those appliances and took me to the granite company to make a selection bringing a sample of the wood that was being used in the cabinets. She also helped me choose tile for the splash at the stove and paint for the walls coordinating with the woodwork.
When i moved into the kitchen and began using it, I appreciated more and more Karmela’s design, its practical and efficient nature. There is a place for everything, and easy accessibility to utensils and pots and pans, right where they are needed. The specially designed china cabinet in the dining area is a joy to use and has lovely places for linens and vases and storage.
I really can’t say enough about how pleased I am with the final result. I know CK is a high end company but I can only say you get what you pay for and I am very happy to have had my kitchen done by Custom Kitchens.
Beverly Morgan

On time, on budget. The four words that define Custom Kitchens. When we had to choose a company to completely redesign our kitchen/​family room, the words we heard most often from previous clients were: «on time, on budget». The first phase of our project, the design phase, was led by Joy, Karmela, and Nader. They gave us confidence each step of the way that they were keeping our primary goals in mind: light and space as we went through the many decisions that have to be made in a major remodel. The design team made it easy for us. Once the layout was presented and we approved, they knew exactly where lights should be, the placement of solar tubes to bring in natural light, a pantry, an 8′ island with storage, a pull-​out spice cupboard next to my stove, and enough cupboards to keep that clean look in my desire for a zen feeling kitchen. They also designed and built a laundry center in the kitchen with a counter top for folding clothes.
Once we agreed on design and had chosen appliances, cabinets, etc. we signed a contract and Custom Kitchens took over all the rest of the details – permits, ordering, etc. Work on the project does not begin until cabinets are ordered, appliances etc. so there is never a lull in construction. We were handed a calendar showing the work that would be accomplished each week. They began on the stated date and work was completed on the projected date.
The design team is one factor that makes this company so successful but it wouldn’t work if they didn’t have just the right team to implement the design plan. Our primary carpenter, Ruskin, was our hero on this project. He was here promptly each morning at 7:30 and worked steadily through each day until at least 4:30. Nader, our Project Manager, checked in regularly to oversee each phase of the project. He gave us confidence throughout the project that all was going as we had planned. The electrician, plumber, painter all have worked with Custom Kitchens so they know their work is up to Custom Kitchen standards.
Kitchens are the place where families gather in a home. It is the place where memories are made. Custom Kitchens was absolutely the right choice to hand over this sacred part of our house to redesign. We had resistance by grandkids and our own kids not to change the kitchen of their childhoods. Now they all approve of this new remodel. Now we are on our way to creating years of new memories in this beautiful space.

Simply Fabulous!
Custom Kitchens did an absolutely outstanding job in transforming an outdated bathroom with a coffin-​like shower into a gorgeous bath with an airy, accessible walk-​in shower. There were several aspects that convinced us that we will always return to Custom Kitchens:
1) We appreciated that from the outset everything was discussed with us so there would be no surprises — at least not from Custom Kitchens. The crew, including manager Eric and the various workers were all highly skilled, on-​time, hard-​working and completely accommodating. The sub-​contractors used by Custom Kitchens are top-​notch and technically skilled.
2) We walked in with an idea of what we wanted, however, after spending some time with us, our designer, Francis, came up with some great ideas that were transformative.
3) We appreciated that the worksite was cleaned up every day because we still lived in the house.
4) Custom Kitchens cares. We felt like the entire company really cares about the quality of the job they perform, and they care about listening to their customers.
Their job was done right and done well. What more could one ask.

Custom Kitchens has handled six large projects for us since 1983; I think John Wilkins was actually involved in the first one. They have also done smaller jobs like repairing a stair railing. The standout feature of this company to us is their dedication to ensuring our satisfaction. No large project goes to completion without problems, but their customer-​oriented approach to resolving them has been consistent; and while we solicit multiple bids, their track record usually puts them in the #1 position.

My wife and I hired Custom Kitchens to do a complete home remodel: foundation repair, flooring throughout, kitchen, bathrooms, upgraded plumbing, upgraded electrical, insulation, new heating, tankless water heater, painting and numerous other fixes around the house. Being a design-​build firm, Custom Kitchens helped us with every aspect of this project including choosing tiles and paint colors, drawings, the actual construction, etc. This project was especially challenging because there were existing code violations that required close cooperation with the city, we had very tight budget, and we had a construction loan that required completion within a certain timeframe.
Custom Kitchens was absolutely outstanding in all phases. Not only did the quality of their work exceed expectations, but they completed the project on schedule and on budget and resolved all of the existing code issues. When I bought the house I couldn’t imagine that it could be transformed from dilapidated to beautiful in such a short period time!
The quality of their work is surpassed by none, but to me, the main reason why I would hire Custom Kitchens again is because of the people. Jerry and Joy Wilkins, Andy Cheak, Ruskin, Ian and the rest of the crew are all hard working, friendly, and most importantly, honest. I realized as I was going through this construction project that the most important thing you want in a contractor is someone you can trust and with Custom Kitchens that is what you get.
Custom Kitchens was also incredibly helpful in dealing with non-​construction related issues. When our project was completed, we needed lien releases and a notarized statement from Custom Kitchens in order to refinance our construction loan into a mortgage. Jerry Wilkins, the owner, spent several hours on the phone talking to the title company and bank and took time out of his day to go down to the title company to sign the lien release (and also provided all of his subcontractors’ releases). I am not sure how many contractors would have done this, especially after they had been paid in full, but I thought this was way beyond the call of duty.
Finally, a comment on cost. Before I hired Custom Kitchens, I had heard that they were expensive. I don’t believe this to be the case. Aside from the fact that their work creates tremendous value, Custom Kitchens is different from other contractors in that they spend a lot of time before the project begins to come up with an accurate quote. We obtained lower quotes from other contractors but they did not spend much time reviewing the property before giving us an estimate and I believe that they would have cost just as much if not more than Custom Kitchens. Also, since Custom Kitchens does everything (design, drawings, permit submittals, and the actual construction) in house, I think they operate more efficiently than other contractors.

Jerry and his entire team from Custom Kitchens are simply the best. They are delightful to work with. I met Jerry a while back at a seminar but actually went and visited them in their showroom a little over a year ago (yes this review has been a long time coming), Anyhow I really enjoy the like the wide selection of options& finishes they had in their showroom and they had a very low key approach, totally didn’t feel like I was being sold to. They were really helpful in discussing concepts and making recommendations on what we should do for our kitchen remodel. We are thrilled with the results and could not recommend them enough. If you are looking for a quality Kitchen or bath design company in the SF Bay Area, they are the one

We used Custom Kitchens to replace some stove exhaust hoods at one of our facilities where I work. Nader was great– he was professional, on-​time, and delivered on all of his promises. The installation went smoothly and the area was left clean when they were finished. The hoods look great and we couldn’t be happier. I would use them again in a heartbeat!

Our «final» home improvement project on our 1898 Victorian was to retrofit our dark, obsolete closets — and we were completely satisfied with the design and construction services of Custom Kitchens! It was truly a joy to work with a professional and talented team of designers and skilled craftsman that understood the integrity of our architecture and took care and pride in our home –as well as finishing on schedule and on budget. Throughout the project Custom Kitchens communicated with us in a timely and responsive manner, and paid great attention to the critical design/​construction details that can make a retrofit challenging. The finished closets are efficiently organized and also beautiful in terms of their materials and «fit» to the house. We are so thrilled! Kudos to Custom Kitchens!

Custom Kitchens has done two major projects for us – kitchen and bath. We really appreciated the one-​stop-​shop they offer from design through finished product. Joy Wilkins has a great eye and is extremely helpful in selecting elements that take the project from nice to spectacular while staying within a budget.
Both times the entire process from beginning to end was well organized and ran smoothly, on schedule, and on budget. Our project manager Andy (bath) and Eric (kitchen) were always available and responsive. And they had great ideas. There wasn’t a day that someone wasn’t working on the project, unlike so many stories you hear of companies that don’t show up for days and weeks halfway into a project or never quite complete it.
Custom uses the most talented craftsmen. Their work is the highest quality. We did our kitchen in 2005 and it still looks like new.
The prep before the project starts and the cleanup after every day made it possible for us to stay in the house during the construction.
Projects like these are major investments for us; we wouldn’t risk it with any other company.

I’ve been working with Custom Kitchens for years now. I have always appreciated their straightforward and professional answers to my questions. When I first moved to the neighborhood and needed a piece of wood for the center of my chopping block, they gave me a great price on some scrap.
A few years ago, they designed and built a medicine cabinet for my bathroom which pleasantly changed the look and feel of my bathroom. Years later, the cabinet remains in excellent condition.
I have also been working with Andy on a kitchen update for about a year. I appreciate his calm, professional and level headed approach to this project. Although it has yet to be completed, I am at ease knowing it will be done professionally. I am excited to see the finished project. Hope you enjoy working with them as much as I have.

Have had non-​emergency appliance installations go poorly, so it was a wonderful surprise to have Custom Kitchens replace my built-​in refrigerator (leaking for the 3^rd time Thanksgiving morning) asap in time for the holidays. Excellent communication by Eric, the project manager, and a superb, fast installation that included adding a water line for the ice-​maker and moving the electrical outlet so it is now accessible for a generator. The guys worked very hard to get the new refirgerator into the old, tighter space, didn’t leave a mark on my wood floors or a speck of trash. Recommend without qualifications. Carol B.

These guys are great!
I used Custom Kitchens to install an ADA compliant dishwasher in my company’s office. They stopped through to asses the installation and gave me a quote within a few days. Andy Cheak was our Project Manager and he was on top of things from the start.
I tried calling a handful of other businesses in the East Bay to get a comparative quote, but I either didn’t get a call back or they said they couldn’t get me an ADA dishwasher (this was a requirement from the building management). One company came out to do a quote (charged us $ 50), just to tell me it couldn’t be done.
Custom Kitchen’s work was professional and seamless. They arrived on a Friday afternoon to measure the cabinet space and finished the work on Saturday so as not to disturb our staff. They even remodeled the existing cabinet to fit around the new dishwasher, and gave us back some much needed space for our kitchenware.
The work wasn’t cheap, but since I didn’t have anything to compare it to I can’t say it was overpriced. And because they handled all details of the project, it made my job a lot easier. Add to that the level of professionalism and customer care, and it was worth every penny.

Custom Kitchens is about a 4.5 star for me but I gave them the 5 star because Jerry was honest (a big deal in this industry), well intentioned, delivered on time and on budget. We had a rush project that required 2.5 months of scrambling to get the new home ready. Jerry, Nader and Andy brought all of the pieces together and finished when they said they would be done. When there were any outstanding issues, Jerry was always available to chat and give a detailed update. The craftsmanship was absolutely outstanding and their crew was efficient and friendly.
My wife loved working with Beth who was able to absorb her tastes and saved a ton of time by picking out all of the right elements (for her closet and our bath).
We had some minor hiccups/​headaches along the way (to be expected under a tight time frame) but Jerry was always fair and did the right thing. I would highly recommend working with Custom Kitchens and we look forward to working with them again as well.