A basement can be one of two things. Four gray walls perfect for storage or an addition to your living space. The Kunz family of Cary chose to enhance their home by first finishing their basement, making their very own billiard hall. Next, the family returned to their faithful builder J. S. Glasder Builders for a trickier remodel.

The Kunzs’ wanted an entrance to their home from their beautiful backyard pool. At the same time, they did not want wet bodies tracking in all that water. The solution: convert their basement with nine-foot walls and no exposure to a walk-out basement elevation. Needless to say, this was going to be a feat of engineering.

Architects designed serpentine, steel-reinforced concrete walls finished with masonry and custom stone work. A circular staircase fitted with more intricate stonework added to this architectural standout.

The homeowners also wanted to include a cabana, complete with a changing room, lockers, bathroom suite and heated, tumbled marble tiles. To complete the remodel, a stunning bar room with custom-made cabinetry by Tim Pollard serves as a lovely transition from the pool area to the rest of the home.

On the main level of the home, a new sitting room was added to the master suite, over the new cabana. It was completed with a vaulted ceiling, windows for panoramic views of the pool and landscaping, a stunning fireplace with surround designed by Pollard and a newly paneled opening enhancing the entrance to the new space.

The complete project was awarded a Silver Key Award from the Builders Association of Greater Chicago.

Builder Bio

An established builder with more than 20 years of building experience, J. S. Glasder Builders is dedicated to bringing the finest homes to the dynamic area that makes McHenry County. Glasder Builders creates tangible embodiments of homeowners’ dreams, wishes and interests. Absolutely no cookie cutters allowed. Since they complete both high-end custom homes and remodeling projects, the builder has flexibility of layout and materials to create a home or remodel a homeowner can be proud of. They offer design and building services to combine architectural and functional elements to make each project a home.

Glasder Builders offers timeless, traditional architecture with unmatched quality. Their homes are filled with trustworthy appliances and fixtures, and they take the time to custom mill the trim for each home. From extra-wide crown mouldings, to built in display alcoves and shelving provided by Dennis Glasder, it is this special attention to detail that places them above the others.

“The job starts with an idea, evolves into a scheme, which evolves into a plan and then to a desired outcome,” says Joe Glasder. Each project is as unique as the clients themselves. The customer is involved with very step to ensure they feel comfortable with the process. Expression and style are encouraged so the client feels they have had an integral part in the outcome. A positive experience is a must because Glasder Builders relies heavily on positive referrals.

Past clients have said that Joe is “hands on and visual.” He sees the finished product, from footprint to finished carpentry, before construction even begins. He understands what the customer is expecting.

To find out what you can do to make your house your dream home call 815-459-1155 or visit www.glasderbuilders.com.