An Interview with NYKB CEO: Perry Hiiman
Meet Perry Hiiman from NYKB, the man who stands behind countless successful NYC remodels & designs. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Perry Hiiman shares his insight and expertise in the world of remodeling, designs, and installation services.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING IN THE NY REMODEL AND BUILD INDUSTRY?
Perry Hiiman: I have been in the industry for over 20 years and in my two decades of experience, I’ve had the good fortune to work on a diversified portfolio. This includes everything from essential room discussions to high-end multimillion-dollar renovation work. In Manhattan alone, I have managed over 10,000 projects.
Although I am unable to participate in every venture, I can confidently state that my creative team has the training to provide Manhattan’s finest quality of designs. Our purpose is to simplify your renovation process, and we will also make sure to complete your project on schedule.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFICULTIES OF REMODELING IN NYC?
Perry Hiiman: It is essential to have as much information as possible regarding remodeling. Most important is the cost aspect and the key challenges you will likely encounter. It makes all the difference between being very successful in your project and becoming a complete failure.
Some of the challenges you are likely to face include:
· Costs: Staying on a budget so that you don’t overspend poses a challenge to many. Utilizing proper budgeting tips for renovation can help you limit unnecessary spending.
· Timing: How long a remodel will take depends on various factors. Staying on schedule can be hard, yet it will prevent the job from being delayed further.· Products: Defining your style and finding the right products for your remodeling project.
· Decision Making: This includes self-educating yourself in order to make decisions right for you. Also, making decisions in sync with your spouse or partner can be difficult at times.
· Permits: Receiving different permits for the various works you will be undertaking since they have different licenses. Therefore, it’s essential to know what permits you will need before embarking on your project.
· Surprises: Dealing with surprises you may find behind the walls for pre-war buildings.
· Building Guidelines: This can include interior plumbing upgrades required by the building’s management and code requirements.
ARE ALL KITCHEN CONTRACTORS ALSO KITCHEN DESIGNERS?
Perry Hiiman: No, not all kitchen contractors are designers. Kitchen contractors are onsite when the building project is in progress. They ensure that the project conforms to the drawings done by a kitchen designer or an architect before the commencement of work.
YOU DEAL WITH COMMERCIAL RENOVATIONS; HOW DO THESE DIFFER FROM RESIDENTIAL REMODELING?
Perry Hiiman: Commercial and residential remodeling differs in every way. From the construction materials used to the necessary equipment, even the method of obtaining project funding. These two property types have different construction needs and regulations. Commercial and residential renovations must therefore also take place differently.
Some of the differences include:
- Utility upgrades:
- Residential properties are generally for a few people, and commercial construction systems are more intricate. Commercial properties usually have more sophisticated utility systems in place. This is because they entail more electrical outlets, switches, and communications networks.
- Construction materials:
The cost of revamping a commercial property is much higher than remodeling a residential property. The materials used in either remodeling are also vastly different. Construction of commercial properties is from a mixture of steel and concrete. It provides the structure with the solid foundation it requires. It is usually the case for large, several floored properties. Residential facilities, on the other hand, are typically framed with timber.
- Design choices:
When you redesign or remodel a project, you usually have an idea in mind. For residential properties, there is more room for creativity in your designs. However, since the occupiers of commercial property are different, it is more difficult to design anything too wild because of a difference in people’s tastes.
- Building codes:
Different building codes guide commercial and residential properties. Therefore, it is vital to be aware of these before you start your renovation. It helps ensure your operations are in line with the law. Understanding NYC building codes will make sure that your improvements are entirely compliant.
HOW HAVE HOME RENOVATIONS CHANGED OVER THE YEARS?
Over the years, a lot has changed. Nowadays, people are placing more emphasis on personal and specialty spaces. There is also an emerging need for eco-friendly renovations and insistence on outdoor living spaces.
Many of these dynamics, for example, emerged as a result of necessity in 2020 and 2021. As a result of post-pandemic changes in lifestyle, certain facets, such as homework spaces, became an expectation.
There is also an increasing need for purposeful living spaces. Such is necessary because people spend more time working or studying remotely at home. People are investing more in hobby rooms, meditation rooms, Zen gardens, outdoor dining rooms, kitchens, and some are even putting up DIY waterfalls.
Other notable trends are:
- Ending kitchen segregation:
Previously, the kitchen was completely separate from the living room area when remodeling a home. This possibly happened to contain odors or warm air or simply to disguise all the efforts to prepare meals. However, the trend is changing, people are starting to demolish walls between the living room area and the kitchen. These modern “open kitchens” have become an important advance among remodelers for the past few years. - Going eclectic:
- This would include blending the traditional and modern. An example would be using shiny glass and steel restroom light fittings with a clawfoot tub, granite kitchen cabinetry next to a vintage Welsh dresser.
- Lightening things up:
On flooring, light, gray and whitewashed finishes are slowly replacing the use of dark woods. Others prefer light-colored stone flooring or porcelain tiles in rooms other than kitchens and bathrooms.
WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON COMPLAINTS CUSTOMERS HAVE WITH CONTRACTORS?
Perry Hiiman: Remodeling your home is always a welcome idea. However, the process itself can be tedious, frustrating, and time-consuming. There are many issues that customers bring up in their experience of dealing with contractors.
Some of the most common complaints include:
- Poor quality of work: This is the most basic grievance for projects. The final result of any project is the most significant factor in deciding a client’s satisfaction with the contractors.
- Failure to keep time and show up at the agreed time.
- Failure to clean up after the project.
- Failure to complete all the agreed work.
- Not sticking to project timelines causes completion delays.
- The lack of a project manager, resulting in the customer managing the project themselves.
- Not listening to and understanding customer requests.
- No Labor Warranty for most contractors.
CHOOSING A CONTRACTOR
What are the top 3 things to look for when choosing a contractor for a home remodel?
You need to consider: How accommodative they are to your needs, their licensing status, and their state of insurance. I would also recommend checking them up in the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Do I need to check the licensing and insurance of the remodeling contractors?
Yes. Licensing allows you to ensure you’re hiring the right person for a job. Insurance covers accidental damages to your property. It also protects workers who might sustain injuries while on the job.
What can customers do to ensure they will be happy with their contractors and not have complaints?
When choosing a contractor make sure:
· They are passionate about their work.
· They treat your home with respect.
· They are knowledgeable and solution oriented.
· Their team or crew members are well experienced.
How can one ensure the nearest contractor offers the best customer service and satisfaction?
In addition to ensuring their accreditation by the Association of the Remodeling Industry, check with the consumer protection agency governing your state. Also, confirm with your local Better Business Bureau (BBB) that a company is reputable, and check for any recent complaints against the company. NYKB has an A+ record with the BBB.
WHAT MAKES NYKB DIFFERENT FROM OTHER REMODELING CONTRACTORS?
Perry Hiiman: NYKB is a one-stop shop, design and build firm that has the solution for any kitchen, bath, general construction, design, and remodeling needs.
Our dedicated team comprises highly skilled professionals with unparalleled expertise in bathroom remodeling, kitchen design, and renovation. We have extensive experience in the intricacies of Manhattan service-oriented work. This allows us to create affordable and unique kitchen/bathroom designs for our clients.
Despite being in the industry for over a decade and a half, we pride ourselves on the ability to remain up-to-date with the latest trends in traditional, transitional, and contemporary styles. Because of this, we can provide our clients with a highly educated and experienced team of designers. Their cutting-edge designs are always leading in the industry.
Feel free to contact us and book your free consultation with. Begin remodeling your NYC home with the guidance and skill of our top professionals.
