Get to Know Jim Corthouts of Holland Kitchens & Baths
When you have a list of home renovation projects a mile long, it can be intimidating to start conquering those to-dos. This poses the important question, “where do I start?” The kitchen and bathroom are two of the most frequently used rooms in your home – a great starting point to dive headfirst and add value to your home and life. In order to do just that, the search for the best contractor for your project is crucial.
There are certain qualities one should look for in a contractor before getting started. Trust, integrity, and expertise, are all top priorities. Pair all that with kindness and immaculate attention to detail, and that perfectly sums up Jim Corthouts, owner of Holland Kitchens & Baths.
With decades of experience and a highly valued reputation, you couldn’t find a better “jack of all trades.” Business owner, general manager, senior designer, and craftsman, Jim embodies the definition of professionalism. We sat down with Jim for some great insight into what makes Holland Kitchens & Baths so special, some tips and trends in kitchen design, and advice for homeowners aspiring to start a remodel project.
Tell us a bit about Holland Kitchens & Baths.
Holland Kitchens & Baths is a family-run business that has been around for 45 years. We specialize in custom kitchens and bathrooms with a huge focus on quality products and design. We are a full remodeling service but we also sell everything from top-grade cabinetry to the little touches like knobs and faucets. Our involvement can also differ per the specific customer’s needs. Whether the client wants a step by step service through the entirety of a big kitchen expansion or just wants to purchase the best-named products for their own DIY remodel, we offer diverse support.
What makes Holland Kitchens & Baths stand out from the crowd of kitchen and bath remodelers?
What really differentiates us is our decades of experience. Everyone at Holland Kitchens & Baths has a minimum of 20 years of experience. With the high risk of pitfalls and landmines that are involved in a remodel, it’s really easy for things to take a turn for the worse if you do not have the proper knowledge and exposure. Our team of veteran designers and contractors have seen it all and ensure the entire process runs as smoothly as possible. Whether designing full scale remodels, hand-picking quality products, or completing a full demolition and installation, we are a one-stop-shop.
What have you been seeing a lot of in kitchen design?
I joke that if I see another shaker kitchen, I don’t know what I’ll do! But shaker is so popular right now and has been for a few years. Shaker style is characterized by a five-piece door with a recessed center panel. Shaker is often very clean and simple, but what I love about it is its versatility. What we see a lot of now is the transition from this industrial simplistic look to a more contemporary style. If you really love a shaker kitchen but you want to add a more personal look, a great tip is to try a beaded or flush framed inset cabinet. You can also go for a different texture or color on the doors. This can really liven things up and bring in that unique touch.
What is the best advice you can give a homeowner who’s considering renovating their kitchen or bath?
My best advice would be to go with a contractor who does it all rather than trying to do some things yourself. Look for someone with a good reputation and that has been around for a while. We have all heard the horror stories of contractors who come in to start a job and then disappear for weeks on end. Make sure you have checked the references and reviews and know exactly who you are working with.
My second piece of advice is to not just go with the lowest price. As the saying goes, you get what you pay for. This holds true in home remodeling as well. Try to spend a little more to get higher quality products that are sure to last and a contractor that is well versed in the field.
As a long-time member of the Design District, what are some benefits of the area?
I was one of the founding members of the Design District and since its inception, we have seen such a tremendous transformation. The location itself was once a rather unpleasant side of town, heavily industrialized and unattractive. Now the whole 06110 zip code has evolved into a sprawling destination. You can get a coffee and shop local antiques, fulfill all your home design needs within one square mile, and end the day with a cold beer at the brewery.
Aside from the location, the association as a whole has also undergone a fantastic change, opening its membership opportunities to all small businesses not limited to home design. It is a great time to be an active member in the neighborhood.
Since 1994, Holland Kitchens & Baths has been a leader in their field, providing innovative design, quality products, and meticulous craftsmanship with decades of experience. Learn more about Holland Kitchens & Baths and all that they have to offer at https://www.hollandkitchens.com/.