What geographic area do you serve?

Divine Kitchens is an award-winning design/build firm. We have completed luxury custom kitchens and baths in homes throughout Massachusetts. Please visit one of our two showrooms in Westborough or Wellesley.   In general, the Westborough showroom serves Metrowest Boston(Westborough, Shrewsbury, Hopkinton, Northborough, Southborough, Marlborough, Framingham, Holliston, Ashland, and Upton).  While, the Wellesley showroom serves Wellesley, Weston, Dover, Sherborn, Lincoln, Newton, Natick, Needham, Westwood, Wayland, Brookline and Chestnut Hill.

We have completed design/build projects from Cape Cod to the Berkshires, as well as in New York City and other New England locations. Your imagination is our only limit. Please never hesitate to ask.

How do I learn everything I need to know?

Our best customer is an educated consumer, and so Divine Kitchens offers monthly seminars, at no charge and with absolutely no obligation.

We will teach you about the full range of services, products and choices to be considered before any remodeling work begins on your home. We will walk you through the process, explaining both costs and timelines, so you can establish realistic expectations and budgeting.

All you have to do is sign-up. Our seminars are group classes conducted by our lead designer and company principal, Mariette Barsoum. Click here for additional information.  Please RSVP here or at (508) 366-5670.

How will remodeling affect the value of my home?

costvaluelogo.gif Many customers wonder what kind of payback one should expect on a typical Kitchen and Bathroom project.   Remodeling magazine compiles this information annually per region in the Cost vs. Value Report .  Take a look at the Boston area here.  In the 2007 report, homeowners recouped more than 77% of the cost for major kitchen remodeling and 75% for bathroom remodeling. 

Do you remodel only kitchens and baths?

We will design and build not only kitchens and baths, but associated additions and adjacent spaces.

While we specialize in design/build projects for luxury kitchens and baths, but we are accustomed to working with architectural layouts that require blended living spaces and open floor plans.

Our designers are skilled at bringing together living spaces that complement one another and that create continuity throughout your home.

Can I afford the new kitchen or bath I want?

At Divine Kitchens, we develop a Personal Cost Analysis System for our clients to help them understand all the possible options and combinations of choices that will make their dream kitchen or bath a reality.

Our lead carpenters are our full-time employees, not subcontractors. They are never over-extended, and have only one project to manage at a time – yours. 

To determine what your budget should be will depend on many factors. How big is your kitchen? How much cabinetry will be required? What type of countertops, appliances, and cabinets are you looking for? Don’t forget about the cost of labor.

During our initial meeting in the showroom, our lead designer and company principal, Mariette Barsoum, will ask you all of these questions and help you determine whether your budget is realistic for the scope of work you intend to do.

What is your Personal Cost Analysis System?
This system is based on three elements:

  1. determining your goals, needs and desires for remodeling your home.
  2. understanding the advantages and disadvantages of choosing various design options and materials, and about how those choices will impact your investment level.
  3. finalizing a design that will fit your needs and goals while accommodating your budget.

We will help you analyze the cost of your remodeling project by projecting the desired designs and materials (in a variety of price points), against your actual budget to make the best possible combination of choices for your new space.

What is a design/build firm?

A design/build firm is a full-service company that provides you with a turn-key process. We offer creative interior design services, and we provide the construction services for all building and installation work. We will design and then build your project – from beginning to end.

Our lead carpenters are our full-time employees, not subcontractors. They are never over-extended, and have only one project to manage at a time – yours.

Homeowners who want accountability and continuity benefit greatly from this combination of services. You will never wonder who is responsible for any aspect of your project. You will never be required to find a part or service for yourself. More about our design/build services here.

What is the scope of your services?

Our design team, under the direct leadership of Mariette Barsoum, will work closely with you from the very first stages of consultation and initial sketches, to the fully finished installation. We control and coordinate the process from beginning to end to ensure accuracy, and to create a stress-free experience for you.

  • We work with you to create an exciting new design for your space, order and track your materials, and then manage every aspect of the construction to keep your project moving all the way through to completion.
  • We employ our own licensed and insured carpenters and installers to actually build your new room(s) or addition.
  • We also offer interior design consulting services to help you make selections for countertops, backsplashes, hardware, fixtures, lighting, flooring, and even paint selections.

Because we employ our own dedicated staff of lead carpenters and designers, we guarantee they will never be over-extended or committed to jobs other than yours.

What should I look for when hiring a design firm?

The single most important decision you will make in the remodel process is the selection of a reputable design firm. The right design firm is critical to a smooth remodeling project that will result in a beautiful, functional design for years to come.

 Signs of a reputable company:

  • staff members who listen to your needs,
  • designers who will work within your budget,
  • designers who will provide you with investment options, and
  • firm, fixed pricing.

Ask yourself the following questions:
“Can I work with this designer for the next 6 months?”
“Will s/he return my calls promptly – even on a Sunday afternoon?”
“Can I trust him/her with my kitchen?”

Do your homework:

  • Look at the firm’s portfolio.
  • Check multiple references. Look at completed projects.
  • Go with your gut!

Who will oversee the design work?

Customer service begins with accountability. Mariette, personally, will participate in and oversee all phases of development and construction. Mariette has is a Certified Kitchen Design® by the National Kitchen and Bath Association.

Close attention to detail is a hallmark of our service. Mariette meets with clients to develop initial concepts, choose cabinet lines, doors and colors, and to arrive at a finished design objective.

We believe this level of attention to detail is what gives our clients the piece of mind they deserve, and the confidence to know that their gorgeous new cabinets, counters, hardware and appliances are going to fit like a glove.

What is a CKD? Why should I care?

A Certified Kitchen Designer® (CKD), or a Certified Bath Designer® (CBD) is a professional who has been certified by the National Kitchen and Bath Association ® for completing professional education requirements and minimum work experience to research, design, plan and supervise the installation of residential style kitchens and bathrooms.

A CKD or CBD designation means the designer has demonstrated advanced technical understanding and the ability to translate creative design ideas into functional and aesthetically appealing space. Clients can be assured the designated designer is experienced in supervising the physical development of projects according to set industry standards, which protect the long term investments of the client. Furthermore, CKD and CBD designers adhere to a strict code of professional conduct.

My budget is limited. Can I still use you?

Our first job is to help you arrive at a budget that will accomplish your goals. At Divine Kitchens, we have done award-winning work on even small baths and modest remodel projects.

Our Personal Cost Analysis will show you the “good, better, best" materials and pricing options within the scope of your project. This analytic planning allows you to select a combination of price points that will make your new kitchen, bath or living space a reality.

We carry a wide range of products and offer semi custom and full custom cabinet lines that fit most budgets. We also have design plans that accommodate more modest room sizes, like our Small Bath Program, to help you complete renovations to your home no matter the size of the space.

Developing a comprehensive design plan with a professional designer will ensure you are able to complete the full scope of work your vision requires.

How long will it take to plan my kitchen?

There are two main factors that play a role in how long it will take to complete your kitchen:

  1. the time required for you to make decisions, and
  2. material lead times.

Here is a general break down of approximate time frames for the work to be done:

  • Designing the space may take anywhere from 2-10 weeks
  • Installation requires 1-2 weeks
  • Counter tops and backsplash installations may take 1-2 weeks
The final length of time from design through completion may be between 9-27 weeks. Much of that time is devoted to the planning and design process, but also largely impacted by the availability of custom pieces, like cabinets, or special order finishes, for example.

Who will I be communicating with in your office on a regular basis?

At Divine Kitchens we work as a team, giving us the ability to integrate our services and ensure you always have access to a professional in our office that is familiar with your project. Under Mariette’s specific direction, our in-house designers are involved in each project and will offer assistance in design alteration decisions, pricing options, and choices of building materials. They can assist you with any questions, at any stage of development.

Will my phone calls be returned, my emails answered?

We believe communication is the key to a happy working relationship. Your questions, comments and concerns are very important to us.

We are tech-savvy and welcome your inquiries whether on-line or on the phone. We always return phone calls and e-mails promptly.

Why work with Divine Kitchens?

We have a passion for innovative design that is matched by our commitment to excellence. We guarantee careful attention to detail and very personalized service.

Our work has been nationally recognized and has been featured in numerous publications.

Divine Kitchens has received regional and national recognition and numerous awards for its outstanding work.

We offer the finest quality custom cabinetry and a broad array of unique products to produce truly personalized spaces.

Every member of our team is an experienced professional in their field and our lead carpenters and designers are employed by Divine Kitchens – not subcontractors. Every one of our team members abides by a strict code of ethics.

How experienced is your crew?

Professional achievement doesn’t stop professional development at Divine Kitchens. We encourage all our employees to continue their professional education through industry courses, seminars, designations and licensing requirements.

Owner and designer Mariette Barsoum has been in business for nearly a decade. Her educational focus was Interior Design and she has earned a Certified Kitchen Designer® designation through the National Kitchen and Bath Association .

All our on-staff designers also hold degrees in Interior Design.

All of our contractors and installers are licensed, insured, and the best in their field with decades of professional experience. Our Lead Carpenters are certified by the state of Massachusetts as Licensed Construction Supervisors. Some are Certified SEN Design Group Project Managers.

Can I install the cabinets myself?

The answer to this question depends on your skills and the amount of time you can dedicate to the installation.

Our professional cabinet installers require between one and two weeks to install the typical kitchen, or 5 to 10 business days. A homeowner who is only able to dedicate weekends to the project, will require between two and five weeks to complete the work – assuming he or she has the skill levels of our professionals. A less qualified homeowner may require the better part of two months to complete the work. Some finishes are much more forgiving than others. We recommend that painted and veneer cabinetry only be installed by a professional installer.

I have my own installer. Can I still work with you?

Of course, you can still work with us. Please take into consideration, however, that our installers are familiar with our products and with our designs; and because they are part of our design/build team, we take responsibility for their work. We will not assume liability for other installers.

I have my own contractor. Can I still work with you?

Yes, absolutely. About 25 percent of our clients come to us with a contractor already retained. Some of them still use our installers to install their kitchen or bath and then use their own contractor to complete the remaining labor.

Because we are a design/build firm dedicated to making projects stress-free for our clients, we work very closely with our own contractors and installers, scheduling all the subcontractor work that needs to be done. By using our services, you have a contract with us, so we take full responsibility for the work from start to finish.

What products do you carry?

We carry a very extensive list of high quality products that we stand behind.  This is a partial list of the products we carry.

What are your company values?

Professionalism. We take deep pride in our knowledge, creativity, service and business conduct.

Personal Touch. Our staff serves as your personal “coach” from beginning to end. We want you to have a rewarding and exciting experience.

Honesty. There’s no room for false or misleading statements in our organization. You will always get the truth- even if a mistake makes us look bad.

Trust. We believe in delivering what we promise- NO SURPRISES- and we believe in treating your home as if it was our own.

Value. We believe in working with you to get the most out of your investment dollar.

Will we provide References?

Absolutely. A major renovation to your home is a significant investment deserving of careful research and a thorough investigation of work quality and customer satisfaction.

Never agree to a remodeling contract without checking multiple references and seeing work samples.

Many of our former clients have expressed enthusiasm about recommending us. We also have written letters of recommendation that we are proud to show to perspective clients. Please ask.  See a sample of what our customers have to say about Divine Kitchens...

How do you charge for your services?

Your initial consultation with us at our showroom is free. This is our opportunity to listen to your ideas about the perfect kitchen or bath for your home. We encourage you to bring rough measurements, pictures of the current space and clippings from magazines.

The first charge for our services is a measure fee, which is required when you schedule an appointment with Mariette to visit your home. She will measure the space and ask you about your preferences for both function and design. She will then prepare a presentation of multiple preliminary designs and pricing for your review. The one-time design fee begins at $750 depending on the location of the project and the complexity of the design.

The second fee is a retainer, which is due after you have accepted a design proposal detailing the exact cost for your project. This fee is 10% of the estimated project cost. Once we receive a retainer from you, we finalize your design to include any changes made during the preliminary presentation.  The measure fees and the retainer are applied towards the cost of the project.

A deposit is due upon signing a contract authorizing Divine Kitchens to perform the work.  This contract is presented during a final planning meeting where you will review and approve the design exactly as it will be ordered for you. You will see and approve detailed final drawings, elevations, schematics and material specifications.  Additional payments are due at different milestones (e.g. rough inspections, cabinet installation).  The payment schedule varies depending on the scope of the project.

Samples of all our contracts, retainer forms and measure fee are posted on placards at our showroom.

All prices include the material, labor (if applicable), shipping, delivery and applicable taxes.  We always provide firm, fixed pricing.  The contract amount will never change unless you expand the scope of the project (e.g. replace a window) or unforeseen pre-existing damage (e.g. water damage from a leaky pipe) is uncovered during the project.

What do I get for the measure Fee?

For the small measure fee investment, we perform the following services:

  1. Come out to your home to measure the space.  This allows us to see first hand how you live, and what style your most comfortable with.   This allows us to create a design that is truly unique to your needs.  
  2. Prepare a Personal Cost Analysis (PCA) Proposal for your design.  The PCA includes multiple design & style options for your kitchen or bathroom. We include a complete selection of all the materials such as countertops, fixtures, lighting, accessories, flooring and backsplash.  We provide exact pricing (not an estimate) for each option.   Stop by our showroom for a sample PCA.
  3. In addition, we provide detailed pricing for the labor required for your project.

At this point you have seen design options that you will love and have detailed, exact cost information for each option.  Of course, you can make tradeoffs, for instance, combine Option #1 with the countertops from Option #2.   All this information is presented in a clear, concise manner for your review.

Of course, the measure fee is credited towards your overall project cost.

What the difference between a Proposal and an Estimate?

Many competitors give you an estimate, e.g. "it will be around $35,000".  The problem with this approach is that it is just an estimate.  It is not uncommon that by the time you are done, you have actually spent two or even three times the original amount.

At Divine Kitchens, we choose to work it differently.  We know our customers do not like surprises, and we don't either.  We never provide estimates.  We only provide proposals.  A proposal is a detailed design with all the materials selected and a corresponding exact price, down to the penny.  We also know that our customers like options so you are able to make a educated choices of what ultimately works best for you.  Our Personal Cost Analysis provides multiple options, each with a detailed design, material selection and an exact price.

When should I start the process?

It is never too early to start. The overall process can take between 9-27 weeks or longer, depending on many factors including your ability to make decisions. So, if you have a time frame that you need to work within, you should give yourself as much time as possible to get the project done.

I am ready to remodel my kitchen or bath. How do I start?

The first step is to carefully consider the reasons for remodeling your kitchen or bath, and what kind of financial investment you are able to make. By determining these important factors ahead of time, we will be better able to meet all of your goals.

Consider attending one of our free monthly seminars to learn about the process in detail. We will educate you about the many ways you can undertake an exciting new remodeling project that will make you feel like you are in a new home. Our monthly classes are offered to teach consumers what they need to know before they make key decisions. Our best customer is an educated consumer!

Look through design and kitchen magazines and collect all the pictures that appeal to you. Keep them in a folder, so we can review them together. This will help us develop a clear idea of your personal design style.

Make an appointment to meet with Mariette in our showroom for a consultation. Once you do this you will be well on your way to a beautiful new kitchen.