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Mark D. Vanderpool
Skokie, IL
10-31-2000
Dear Tony:
I am writing to let you know Kim and I are very pleased with the addition of our home. The workmanship of your firm was outstanding. I especially appreciated your personal involvement when required. We originally chose La Mantia based on your excellent reputation and because the references we checked were very favorable. We clearly made a good decision.
Please convey our appreciation to Don Witt and others involved on the project. Thanks again.
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John and Mary Lee Lockwood
Palos Heights, IL
11-26-2006
This letter is to express our thanks and appreciation to your company for the recent home remodeling job that your company did on our home. When we first contacted LaMantia, we met Ms. Linda Rackas who worked with us on the initial plans for our home and was our contact throughout the job. She did a wonderful job on the initial plans, offering suggestions and ideas that eventually became part of the final plans. When we weren't sure how to visualize the finished roof line and loft, she took the time to show us different views and explained the job to us. We were not familiar with the Hardie Board cement siding that recommended and after research decided that this would work well for our home. Linda has ideas and suggestions throughout the job on our home and we are very satisfied with the completed project that included changing the roof line, roofing, siding and a remodeled entry into a loft area on the second floor. Linda's professionalism and creative ideas were what led us to go with your company and we wanted to recognize her effort to you. We would not hesitate to recommend LaMantia and our neighbors have complemented us on the finished job. Thanks again!
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Marcia and Andy Rice
Lake Forest, IL
08-29-2007
Dear Mr. LaMantia,
Now that the "dust has settled" and the tools and ladders are gone, we would like to express our satisfaction with the design and completion of our remodeling project. Although it took a lot longer than we initially envisioned, we knew that LaMantia considered this a work in progress. As you know, we lived in our home during this large project. Your teams' flexibility and cooperation was a huge help. We had many ideas come to mind as the construction proceeded and the team was always willing to amend the original design. The biggest alteration was our desire to finish a third floor area as opposed to leaving it as an unfinished storage area. That decision was due to Rich Hoffman's creative use of windows that created a spectacular view on three sides. We dreamed of sitting in the space and enjoying a beautiful sunrise or admiring the snow covered treetops in winter. Another considerable alteration in the design was a cathedral ceiling for a new bedroom, which provides an illusion of more space and a beautiful view of our back yard. Finally, we did not like a porch across the front of the house so Rich designed an interesting Georgian arch to frame our front door.
We were very impressed with Rich Hoffman. He is a very intuitive designer. He took our existing home and used certain architectural elements to create new spaces that feel just like they are part of the original home. Because of his attention to every aspect of the architecture, he was not afraid to level with us on some of our ideas that were not consistent with the overall design of the house. He was a pleasure to work with.
Mike Ryzner was a complete professional. The phrase that still comes to mind - "whatever you want...we work for you!" He followed through consistently and managed his team and subcontractors with a firm hand and a sense of humor as well. Our family could set our watches by Greg Bird. Each morning we would see him in his truck waiting for the appropriate time to enter our garage. His carpentry work is sheer perfection. We can honestly say that we miss making those pots of coffee for Greg, and for others as well.
You have an excellent team who did outstanding work for us. We definitely will use your company for any future project and will highly recommend LaMantia to our friends and your potential customers. Job well done!
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Mary Ann Rusk
12-07-2004
Dear Tony,
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and your staff for a superior job on our kitchen remodel! As an Account Manager for a major insurance company, I can appreciate LaMantia's commitment to outstanding service and craftsmanship.
This is our second experience with LaMantia Design & Construction. Five year ago we completed a major addition and second story remodel. Although any renovation can be stressful, the outcome out weighed the stress one hundred fold.
Althought all the contractors were professional, courteous, and masters in their craft, I must really take my hat off to Frank Antonocci. He made the project appear seamless. His attention to detail is amazing. He was always available when I needed him and more so, he is PROACTIVE! I can't tell you how much I appreciate his work ethic. He is someone that I like doing business with.
Thank you again for a job well done!
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12-21-2005
Dan and Lynn O`Hara
Lake Forest, IL
Dear Tony,
While we have not met, we feel that we know a bit about you given the terrific team of associates you have working with you. As the dust has settled and the house renovation has been completed we wanted to drop you a note of appreciated and recognition of those who made it a reality. In particular we'd like to thank Richard Hoffman and Mike Ryzner for all they did in making the project a success.
We embarked on this project about two years ago. In the process we met with and evaluated a number of contractors (nine). From the outset we were more comfortable with and had confidence in Richard Hoffman. We can say without hesitation that we made the right decision. His wonderful design and guidance throughout the project, along with the able support of Katie, have been exemplary. The knowledge and talent of both Richard and Katie, and their attention to detail during the selection process, are greatly appreciated. All of their hard work set the stage for an amazing end product. We also know that there are those in the office work work behind the scenes, all of whom are dedicated to doing their best.
Once construction began, we were in excellent hands with Mike Ryzner and his team. We could have no asked for a better person than Mike to run the project. He combined experience and know-how with courtesy, patience, high standards and a work ethic seldom seen in this day and age. We were never in doubt that he wanted the best possible outcome on the project and he did all that he could to make it happen. With a host of hard-working tradesmen and sub-contractors who were attentive, neat, talented, respectful and professional, under Mike's guidance, the plan became a reality. Altogether a great team!
Like any project, we had a few "hiccups" along the way, all of which have been dealt with in the LaMantia way. As promised, your organization has fulfilled its commitment to customer satisfaction; it is greatly appreciated.
We recently had our first party in the "new" house. You would have been justifiably proud had you ben here to witness all the "oohs" and "ahs" of our family. The most frequent question/comment was and is "Who did the work? They did an amazing job."
It is rare indeed, in our time, that the actual product and level of service lives up to and even exceeds what was expected. We want you to know of our satisfaction with the process and to point out the professionalism, the level of expertise and the dedication of Richard, Mike and the whole team during the entire project.
Best wishes and Marry Christmas to you and your entire LaMantia team!
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11-26-2008
Rick Nosek
Oak Park, IL
Gina,
The 8th will be perfect. Chuck set that for the final inspection, I'll be home all day and Lynn might be as well. I hope you take many pictures. We're both thrilled at how this project turned out.
We thank all of you- It would not have turned out this well without the ideas of yours. Andy's window bump out idea was brilliant! Katie's input was indispensable. You all have great taste!
Chuck and all of the crews made this a pleasure (or as much of a pleasure that this type of undertaking can be.) The way that Yanish and Mike came out during that terrible storm will be remembered always. The craftsmanship is amazing. And I can't say enough about Andy's trim carpentry. That man is an artist. You should be proud of your staff. I know I'm bragging about them to anyone that will listen.
Again, thanks and have a happy Thanksgiving.
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05-01-2000
Tony and Peri Gange
Geneva, IL
Dear Andy,
Just wanted to let you know how happy we are with the work done on our house. As you know, this was a complex project involving numberous subs having to work together to create the finished product. Each and every one of them was great to work with; professional, courteous and friendly.
We were especially impressed with the carpenters, Mike Ryzner and Greg. As there hasn't been a single season that's gone by in the four years we've lived here that there wasn't a remodeling project of some sort or another gong on, we feel we're particularly qualified to say that they were the hardest working and talented crew we've come across.
Finally, as project manager, Doug Capocci, was a joy to work with. He was always on top of things, responsive to any and all questions and stayed in touch with us right to the very end. While, like most remodeling projects, this one wasn't without surprises, most of them were pleasant because of your wonderful staff. If we can ever be of help to you as a referral, please don't hesitate to ask.
When we get them, we'll send some before and after pictures of our house. We think you'll agree, the results are even better than we had hoped for. Thanks again for a job well done!
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12-04-2004
Anthony and Arlene Vincenti
Darien, IL
Dear Mr. LaMantia:
We are writing this letter to let you know that we are extremely happy with the services provided by your company. Frank Antonaci has been wonderful. He is very helpful, and he is true to his word. When he says that somebody is going to be here at a certain time, they arrive right at the appointed time. Rich, our designer, had been wonderful as well.
We cannot express just how pleased we are with the work in progress. We couldn't have asked for a smoother experience. Everybody who has contributed to our project demands the highest praise. This letter is only a small token of the thanks we can give your company, but you can be sure that we will suggest LaMantia Construction to others who are seeking similar services. Thanks again.
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02-08-1995
Donald G. Zak
Western Springs, IL
Dear Tony:
Seldom, do I take the time to thank people for their efforts. I am a perfectionist at heart and most efforts do not measure up to my standards. I want to, however, bring to your attention the superb work your staff has done in completing the kitchen and dining room remodeling for our home.
Lawrence Galassi developed, designed and met our needs required in the remodeling. Larry worked countless hours to ensure the success of the project. His knowledge, sales approach, and genuine concern for our needs convinced us your company was the right choice. In my opinion Larry is a professional who represents your organization very well.
Frank Donatelio, managed the project and met all the commitments the remodeling required. He diligently returned every phone call and coordinated the various trades with precision. Frank treated our project as if it was the most important job he was managing. When you have a person such as Frank controlling the remodeling efforts, it reassures you that LaMantia was the right contractors for the job.
Finally, I would also like to thank you for all you have done for us and your tradesmen who were always kind and courteous. Our kitchen, dining room and living room is truly a show place thanks to your company's efforts. The money spent on the project was a small investment in relation to the results. That is a testimonial to our satisfaction. Thank you for everything.
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10-11-2007
Nancy Pajeau
Stickney, IL
Tonly LaMantia,
I would like to complement two of your employees. This is the third project I have had the pleasure of working with Don Witt and the second remodeling have had John Burns as the project manager.
I feel they are very competent employees. They always answered my questions and explained things in a way that I could understand. They returned any phone calls in a timely manner. They came to appointments on time. Their attention to detail was remarkable. Since I worked more with John as the projects progressed, I was very impressed with his dedication to doing the job and doing it correctly.
I wish I had more projects around my house so that I could use your company again. However, I think I have exhausted things to remodel. I will definitely recommend your company and Don and John specifically to friends and family. Keep doing the great job you are already doing.
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09-12-2006
Linda Swanson
Hinsdale, IL
Dear Lana,
I want to thank you for all you have done for me to make my remodeling project such as success. I have been telling everyone that I gave birth faster than I completed my selection process. You have been so incredibly kind and patient throughout this undertaking!
I love your enthusiasm, wisdom, passion and appreciated your brutal honesty when it was needed. You were such a pleasure to work with - I love hearing your gigle during our planning sessions and funny comments exchanged during our daily email (the large insect on the screened-in porch :) and the League of Nations in Lauren's bedrooms.)
Thank you also for the personal service in dropping off materials at my house. You were so accommodating to my schedule!
Your attention to detail and organization skills are amazing. I learned a lot from you and plan to incorporate those traits into my daily activities.
You have such talent, and I truly appreciate everything you have done, and know that I will think of you often as I am appreciating my beautiful home.
The bathrooms are absolutely gorgeous and I am so happy with how they turned out. Each agonizing decision worked out beautifully with your guidance and advice.
Should you ever need a recommendation, I am your number-one fan and would be happy to talk to any homeowner who in considering your services.
Thank you so much Lana. I really enjoyed working with you and may have to think of another project so I can continue our daily communication.
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08-26-2006
Stuart & Marlene Heyes
Burr Ridge, IL
Dear Rick,
It is my pleasure to write and acknowledge our complete satisfaction with the two major projects you carried out concurrently at the above address.
Marlene and I are extremely pleased with the final outcomes and the remodeling has received the highest of praise from all who have seen it.
You deserve much credit for your conceptual designs and completely changing the look of our house. Thanks for your assistance throughout the projects and always being a calming influence when Marlene was stressing!!
From the moment we walked in your showroom, some nine months ago through to the completion we have been really impressed by the attention we have received, the response to problems (some of our own making - the kitchen lights!!) and the courtesy and cleanlieness shown by every contractor or sub contractor.
In particular we would like to acknowledge the roles of Frank Antonaci, Ralph and his sons for whom nothing seemed to be too much trouble, indeed Frank's attention to detail was beyond our expectation(s) and he is certainly a great asset to your organization.
We would like to see the before and after pictures that you took, I think Marlene want me never to forget just how "old fashioned" the two rooms looked prior to the work!!
LaMantia can feel free to use Marlene & I as references should you so choose and if we have remodeling needs in the future we'll be sure to call you first.
Last but not least you will find enclosed a check as payment for the final balance.
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02-02-2008
Liz & Terry Murray
Palos Park, IL
Dear Tony,
As we sit in our room LaMantia recently built for us, we wanted you to know that we couldn't be more pleased with the finished product. Our home is a 110 year old Victorian and since the first time we met Jim your company stood out from the competition as Jim took the time to understand our vision for the extension and our desire to have it fit the historic period of our house. His creativity and attention to detail truly made a difference. We knew we would be in good hands.
Both Jim and Katie were extremely patient with us as the room evolved and accommodated all our changes including our addition of the fireplace. The various drawings they provided made it easier for us to visualize things and make final changes. Katie also facilitated our selection of the right tile and mantel for the room.
It was also a pleasure to work with Frank as he was professional, knowledgeable, and followed through on insuring our project was completed timely and as planned including the changes we requested along the way. He coordinated all the teams coming and going in a manner that fit our schedule and was sensitive to meeting our personal needs especially when my husband had to undergo surgery.
From Janesh and his team to the HVAC contractors, the electricians, drywallers, concrete pourers, roofers, and cleanup crew we were very pleased with all of their finished product and the neat manner in which they left the job site each day.
Guido surely did an outstanding job matching our unique esting trim and Andy did an excellent job with the installation of the trim, mantel, tile, and so many other finishing touches. As we look at the finished product, we feel fortunate t have had Andy as he is a true Master Craftsman!
We would also like to thank you personally as when unforeseen issues arose which required additional work, you were more than fair with what you charged us. We wanted you to know that we truly appreciate LaMantia sharing in some of the unforeseen costs.
You truly run a first class Company and we look forward to working together on our next project with you.
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09-01-2001
Jill Spector
Skokie, IL
Dear Mr. LaMantia,
I am writing to let you that we are very pleased with the home addition that we have just completed. We believe that there was a strong effort to not only do quality work but to minimize the inconvenience associated with construction. We started out with some problems related to the weather but they were all resolved as promised.
Rich Hoffman did a great job on the design. It fits well with the house and the neighborhood. We have had total strangers stop and comment about how much they like our house. I also felt that Rich was helpful in making design choices. I counted on him to give me an honest opinion if something really didn't work. As a result, it all looks great.
Mike Ryzner worked very hard to make sure that things went smoothly. He was not afraid to get in there himself and help. For example, he helped Greg build the steps on Saturday of Labor Day weekend. Everyone that entered our house was polite and respectful. Mike made sure that the job site was kept as clean as possible. One example was that at the end of the job we had just gotten new carpet. When the plumbers arrived I asked them to remove their shoes. They told me that Mike had already let them know that they needed to do this. Mike was also helpful in making suggestions about grout color and doorknobs etc. It was also nice to know that if I had a question or concern, Mike was available by cell phone. I didn't have to spend the day playing telephone tag.
Another persona I would like to mention is Greg the carpenter. Greg did a beautiful job on all the trim work. He also built the steps and various other parts of the addition. He not only did a great job but would ask about our preferences for edges and shelf heights etc.
In general, we felt that everyone involved worked to do the best job possible and that we are happy with the results.
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01-11-2012
Kathy Johnson
Deerfield, IL
Mike - I can't thank you enough for all your help today. John boarded up the window, which makes me feel much safer (and warmer should we finally get snow). Rich got me the price quote, so we are all set.
You really take care of your customers, even when their problems are caused by other people. I can't believe how quickly you and everyone on your team responded to my cry for help!
I look forward to hearing from you when the window comes in.
Thanks again for everything -
Kathy