Amagansett, New York
Project Overview
A leak caused by the water filtration system beneath the kitchen island in an unoccupied luxury Hampton home went undetected for two weeks. Once they had discovered the severity of the situation and the extent of the damage, the property manager and homeowner engaged a mold remediation specialist. Given my expertise in managing high-end environments, I was engaged to oversee the restoration and renovation process for an unoccupied Hampton’s summer home.
Unique Element
This project was particularly unique as the homeowner, residing in Boston, handled all communication remotely through phone calls and Zoom meetings. Despite not being able to visit New York, she had a clear vision of her home, down to the most minor details. The property held great sentimental value, with much of the design and decor personally chosen by the homeowner, reflecting her keen eye for aesthetics and her emotional connection to the space. The specialized finished flooring was especially significant to her, making it a critical part of our initial discussions.
One of the challenges we faced was managing the water damage, which primarily affected the floors. The water had seeped into the basement, further complicating the restoration as both levels required floor extraction. Work couldn’t proceed until the flooring was addressed, as it formed the foundation for all subsequent restoration efforts, including sheetrock replacement and structural repairs.
In addition to managing the restoration, I took on the responsibility of overseeing the removal and safe storage of the homeowner’s possessions. Given the high value and emotional significance of the contents, this was a delicate process. I also organized the cleaning and preservation of custom drapery and other textiles, ensuring that everything was handled with the utmost care. Throughout this period, I acted as the homeowner’s point of contact, providing reassurance and oversight, even from afar.
Custom Creations
One of the key challenges in this project was managing the flooring. The homeowner was deeply particular about the finish, and I recognized the need for a highly skilled flooring contractor and an expert finisher. I brought in a specialist who teaches high-end floor finishing techniques globally, from Dubai to California. This decision proved beneficial for everyone involved. The flooring contractor handled the installation and structural work, while the specialist executed the finishing touches.
In The Details
In the end, the project exemplified the importance of expert management, attention to detail, and clear communication—especially in high-end environments where luxury possessions and intricate design are paramount. The homeowner’s satisfaction and the successful coordination of the entire team underscored the value of early involvement and strong professional relationships, ensuring a seamless restoration and renovation process.
The timeline was crucial, and the restoration was completed in time for her to celebrate the Fourth of July in her home. The entire project was completed ahead of schedule, with my team ensuring that the home was spotless, the contents returned, and the air ducts cleaned to eliminate any residual dust or debris. When she returned to the house, it was turnkey ready—cleaned to professional standards, with every detail meticulously attended to.
The trust we built during this remote renovation was crucial, as the homeowner only met me in person after completing the project. This confidence level allowed us to work efficiently and collaboratively despite the distance. It was the second time I had established such a relationship, having previously worked with another high-profile client who trusted me to manage every detail of their luxury renovation.