Jerry Burdi and wife Vita, who designs most of the company's projects, focus on up-front planning to take clients through a successful, well-designed and built remodel. “We market ourselves as the company that creates the plan, not just one that does the execution,” Jerry says.

Originally in the computer industry, Jerry found his way into remodeling after he and Vita did a major renovation of their own home during three years of hardworking Saturdays. “We'd let the boys play in one room and we'd work on the house,” he says.

The couple's complementary skills serve them well. They've received several Contractor of the Year awards from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, and have developed a solid referral base in their competitive Long Island market.

- Stacey Freed