From beginning to end Chris and Bill, from 3 Stones, were
fantastic. We did a major renovation of our third floor to add
an additional bedroom and make a full bathroom. This involved
lifting and replacing 2/3rds of the roof...
From beginning to end Chris and Bill, from 3 Stones, were
fantastic. We did a major renovation of our third floor to add an
additional bedroom and make a full bathroom. This involved lifting
and replacing 2/3rds of the roof. Their communication was always
clear, they stayed on time, and we even ended up coming a bit
under budget. All the things people worry about were not issues
with these guys. We would highly recommend them and will book them
again if we do any more renovations.
As a practising architect I absolutely recommend 3 Stones Custom
Homes for a major house renovation. They skillfully and
collaboratively undertook a complex new renovation for us that
involved a basement underpinning, new...
As a practising architect I absolutely recommend 3 Stones Custom
Homes for a major house renovation. They skillfully and
collaboratively undertook a complex new renovation for us that
involved a basement underpinning, new structure, exterior
cladding, new systems, kitchen and washroom and overall
soup-to-nuts rework. They managed their trades well and were
communicative with us as owners. They were very open book with us
as we negotiated post COVID supply chain issues and needed to
consider options and availability of various products. We have
been back in the house for over a year, and they remain in touch
to check in or if we have any questions. We are very pleased with
the outcome and don't hesitate to recommend them to our friends.
Don't think twice - hire these guys! DO IT NOW
From beginning to end Chris and Bill, from 3 Stones, were
fantastic. We did a major renovation of...
We tried to ask friends for recommended contractors and never
heard from anyone that could truly recommend theirs. Common
stories of: being over budget, being over time, too many projects
at once, or not following up on deficiencies came up time and time
again.
Well thank heavens we found 3 Stones! These guys are the epitome
of professionalism, organization, accountability, and I could just
go on and on. Our project had everything to it and at no point did
3 Stones ever drop the ball. Let me try to paint a better picture
for you.
1- Communication and Professionalism
From the very beginning, 3 Stones worked with us to answer every
question we had before we ever signed a contract. I'm talking
months! They emailed or texted promptly and their budget proposal
was so thorough, it came with a gantt chart. We met with them
regularly throughout the project and they answered every question,
to put at ease any anxieties we had. Our neighbours even loved
them because they were always so courteous with communicating what
they were doing and why (and this is especially important because
we share a wall with our neighbour).
2- Accountability & Quality
3 Stones have built a business based on word of mouth and it shows
in their pride for their product and overall accountability. They
want happy customers and they do everything to ensure a project is
successful. Some examples:
a) I wanted a special kind of aluminum interior door for my
office that only seemed to come in at $$$$ unless you live in
Europe. Bill & Chris cold called everywhere and managed to find me
one at a reasonable price and also made the matching window
themselves since they could fabricate it a lot more reasonably
than sourcing from a window supplier.
b) we wanted to have this very moody blue bathroom and shelled
out $$$ for some eye popping wallpaper. Bill & Chris knew that to
ensure we got the biggest bang for our buck, we should paint the
walls a navy blue first so it would really pop. It looks so
amazing - I'm obsessed with it.
c) they would challenge the "on paper" design where it just
practically didn't make sense and they were always right. If we
didn't have 3 Stones and had a contractor that just implemented
the design, no questions asked, I feel we would have absolutely
hated some things in our home (e.g., 3Stones recommended changing
the new stairs to the basement in a way that saved us a ton of
space in both our upstairs and downstairs living rooms vs the
drawings).
d) the tiling in my bathroom is a work of art. When the mirror
the designer ordered was too big to fit between the sconces, 3
Stones was able to fix the tiling in a few hours and you would
never know there was ever an issue with the mirror ordered. It's
beautiful, top to bottom.
These large renovation projects are complicated and problems arise
but these guys are transparent, honest, and trustworthy. They will
solve the problem expediently and make sure the project keeps
moving to a high standard. They have been quick to wrap up
deficiencies and even still, if we texted them tomorrow, they
would respond quickly. This is just the type of company they are.
3- Accurate
We received three quotes at the time we were planning our project
and 3 Stones was the most expensive. But every time we challenged
them on things, they would be able to explain the 'why' so well
that we realized the other bidders were under-budgeting things
(and would just eat through contingency and likely blow the
budget). The same can be said for the schedule.
I can't stress this enough: 3 Stones is giving you accurate
budgets and accurate timings. We were back in our house to THE DAY
they promised and were actually a bit under budget. Everyone I
mention this to says that this is unheard of and to them I say,
no, we had good, honest contractors that know what they're doing.
I think about the cost savings when our project was finished
efficiently and as promised as we didn't have to pay rent to live
elsewhere for months after a missed project finish date.
I'll wrap this up to say that there are those few decisions in
your life that you just 300% know you got right. Handing over the
keys to our house to 3 Stones is one of those decisions. They are
the total package and I am so grateful to them for guiding us
through this process and helping us build our dream home.
3 Stones Custom Homes is the dream renovation company. Chris &
Bill are total professionals and, as importantly, really good
human beings. They are excellent communicators, creative
problem-solvers, great with the neighbours...
3 Stones Custom Homes is the dream renovation company. Chris &
Bill are total professionals and, as importantly, really good
human beings. They are excellent communicators, creative
problem-solvers, great with the neighbours, they kept the job site
very clean, and were completely transparent about the costs and
timing for the project. They provided a detailed budget with
separate line items for every material and service used on the
project and provided detailed updates with invoices every two
weeks. There were no surprises. The project was on budget and on
time. The project was precisely organized with trades moving in
and out seamlessly so there was no wasted time. Chris was onsite
every day so I always knew what was happening. The quality of
their work is excellent and they take pride in the quality of
their work. Their tradespeople all did excellent work and the
respect they have for each other is evident in the long-term
working relationships they've built. I highly recommend them. I'd
give them more than five stars if I could.
3 Stones Custom Homes are a top-notch operation. Our renovation
was straightforward and stress free. Their budget was clear,
transparent and thorough. While their quote was not the
cheapest, it was the most realistic...
3 Stones Custom Homes are a top-notch operation. Our renovation
was straightforward and stress free. Their budget was clear,
transparent and thorough. While their quote was not the cheapest,
it was the most realistic and accounted for many contingencies
other omitted which allowed us to plan our financing
appropriately. Their scheduling was incredibly well managed, and I
can't say enough good things about their customer service. They
know how to do business. They had great communication, were
collaborative, and incredibly easy to work with.
We're overall incredibly happy with the entire experience and
wouldn't hesitate to work with them again. My big takeaway was
they somehow managed to make a renovation of this scale stress
free and exciting while delivering on time, on budget and high
quality end product.
3 Stones did a major renovation and redesign of the second and
third floors of our old Victorian house. They provided a
detailed day-by-day! timetable and quotation of the work at the
start. Every two weeks...
3 Stones did a major renovation and redesign of the second and
third floors of our old Victorian house. They provided a detailed
day-by-day! timetable and quotation of the work at the start.
Every two weeks progress of the work and the budget was reviewed
on site, detailed invoice for payment, and receipts were provided.
Except for structural surprises and agreed-on savings as the work
progressed, they kept completely within budget, and within the
timetable. The work by all trades was excellent, progress meetings
valuable and instructive. We feel very fortunate to have them do
our work in such a transparent and excellent way.
Can't say enough good things about working with Bill and Chris.
Incredibly professional, honest and trustworthy. Despite
unanticipated challenges during our reno, they were there for us
and supported us every step...
Can't say enough good things about working with Bill and Chris.
Incredibly professional, honest and trustworthy. Despite
unanticipated challenges during our reno, they were there for us
and supported us every step of the way. I would highly recommend
them to anyone and you would be lucky to have them as your
contractor and engineer.
Bill and Chris were very responsive and professional. They
managed the project well in spite of COVID issues and were
genuinely interested in ensuring we were happy with all aspects
of the project...
Bill and Chris were very responsive and professional. They managed
the project well in spite of COVID issues and were genuinely
interested in ensuring we were happy with all aspects of the
project. I would highly recommend them for any size home project.
We have done multiple renovations over the years, this was our
first renovation with Chris and Bill of 3 Stones Custom Homes
and our best experience. During the initial interviewing process
3 Stones was highly professional...
We have done multiple renovations over the years, this was our
first renovation with Chris and Bill of 3 Stones Custom Homes and
our best experience.
During the initial interviewing process 3 Stones was highly
professional. They did a thorough walkaround, listened to our key
requirements, and prepared a detailed budget and timeline.
Communication was great for both my husband and I.
With 3 Stones, we used a time-and-materials contract instead of
the more typical fixed-price contract. All renovations have
surprises and unforeseen issues after the demolition starts and
these can cost extra regardless of the type of contract. A
time-and-materials contract can be more effective when a homeowner
and contractor are collaborative, mutually trustworthy, and
decisive.
The original projected 7-month project was fully complete in 7
months + 3 weeks, despite Covid issues and material availability
issues due to supply chain disruptions.
Throughout the renovation process, we met with Chris and Bill at
least every 2 weeks. They provided detailed times when decisions
were required, construction alternatives when various issues
arose, useful recommendations based on their past experience, and
typical costs associated with the alternatives.
As our renovation happened during Covid, there were a few
estimates that were off that could not have been anticipated, but
Chris and Bill were effective at helping find reasonable
alternatives in each case (e.g. substitute joist type, different
vendor, modifying an existing fireplace, etc). At all times we
felt we knew how, where, and when money was being spent. This
approach let us work out details and changes on the fly that
resulted in a much more effective and great-looking renovation.
They continue to follow up effectively on details after project
completion. Chris and Bill are highly experienced and have great
long-term relationships with their trades. They are highly
people-focused and a pleasure to work with. We are highly
satisfied with the result and highly recommend Chris and Bill.
We feel lucky to have worked with them.
Renovations are a field of land mines that you have to face
every day and if there was anyone you need by your side to calm
you down and get the problem fixed and give you the results you
need, it's 3 Stones. Chris and Bill gave us our dream...
Renovations are a field of land mines that you have to face every
day and if there was anyone you need by your side to calm you down
and get the problem fixed and give you the results you need, it's
3 Stones. Chris and Bill gave us our dream home and in the
deadline they promised. They were there at the drop of a hat when
we needed help and had creative solutions for any issues we faced.
We might buy a new home just to work with them again!
We hired 3 Stones Custom Homes for the gut renovation of our
house in Little Italy. It was a very complicated project since
the house was in very poor shape structurally and on very bad
soil. Not only that, but all of the framing...
We hired 3 Stones Custom Homes for the gut renovation of our house
in Little Italy. It was a very complicated project since the house
was in very poor shape structurally and on very bad soil. Not only
that, but all of the framing in the house had been warping for a
hundred years, so there were no straight lines. As professionals
who have renovated a few houses in Toronto, I have to say that our
experience with 3 Stones was extremely positive and we hope to
work with them again soon. Throughout the process there were
several aspects of working with 3 Stones that made it so good:
• Realistic estimates of schedule
• Realistic and real time estimates of budget
• Quick estimates of costs of design changes (we made a lot of
design changes)
• Openness to changes and to all of the one of a kind details that
we designed
• Professional demeanor and positive attitude
• Friendly and accommodating
• High quality workmanship
Our house now looks beautiful but also feels solid and well made.
We can't recommend them enough.
We are so pleased with our renovations and highly recommend 3
Stones Custom Homes!! Chris and Bill are a perfect team and an
absolute pleasure to work with! They are highly skilled with
many years of experience...
We are so pleased with our renovations and highly recommend 3
Stones Custom Homes!! Chris and Bill are a perfect team and an
absolute pleasure to work with! They are highly skilled with many
years of experience, extremely organized, and truly care about
their clients and doing a good job. Throughout the renovations, we
always felt confident that we were in very good hands. Chris and
Bill worked very well with our designers and have obviously built
excellent working relationships with all of their trades' people
over the years as all of them are knowledgeable and work well
together in a timely and efficient manner. Chris and Bill are
always very responsive. They get back to calls and texts
immediately and are good at fixing any small deficiencies in their
work without delay. We especially like that Chris and Bill
provided us with a detailed break down of all costs and expenses,
along with a chart setting out the timing for different parts of
our various projects, so that we could keep up to date with
exactly what was being done and how much was being spent. They
scheduled regular check-ins to go through progress, solicit
feedback and provide updated charts so that we continuously felt
satisfied that things were getting done in best way possible to
meet our needs. The results speak for themselves! Our top floor
master bedroom with A-frame ceiling, creatively hidden AC unit,
walk-in closet with custom built-ins and ensuite bathroom with
skylights is particularly lovely. Thank you 3 Stones!!
3 Stones Custom Homes are everything excellent contractors
should be : honest, responsible and reliable. Their way of
working is transparent and accountable. Any unforeseen issues
were resolved quickly...
3 Stones Custom Homes are everything excellent contractors should
be : honest, responsible and reliable. Their way of working is
transparent and accountable. Any unforeseen issues were resolved
quickly and amicably. We feel Three Stones Custom Homes are
singlehandedly restoring the reputation of contractors.
We did an extensive renovation project with 3 Stones that
included fully gutting and rebuilding the basement and third
floors and rebuilding our front porch. Chris and Bill always
provided expertise and great advice...
We did an extensive renovation project with 3 Stones that included
fully gutting and rebuilding the basement and third floors and
rebuilding our front porch. Chris and Bill always provided
expertise and great advice as we went, which was especially
helpful during the permitting process with the city. Of the three
quotes we got at the beginning of our project, they actually came
in the highest, and we were nervous about that, but in the long
run we were reassured by their open-book budgeting process, which
meant we knew exactly what we were spending, and on what.
Remarkably, they came in slightly under budget, despite some scope
changes along the way.
Overall, it was a real pleasure working with Chris and Bill. They
and their tradespeople were always efficient, courteous, and kept
the place clean as they went. On top of that, they always showed
up when they said they would. This was a real change from our
previous renovation experiences! They brought a great depth of
knowledge and imaginative solutions to their work with us. We
can't recommend them highly enough.
On time, on budget and to high quality standards - what more
could you ask for? Great up-front project scoping meant we
avoided surprises along the way. Really appreciated their open
book approach and...
On time, on budget and to high quality standards - what more could
you ask for? Great up-front project scoping meant we avoided
surprises along the way. Really appreciated their open book
approach and continual timely communications that kept our
confidence high throughout. All of the trades they use are at the
top of their game. By far the best reno company we've hired in
over twenty years - wholeheartedly recommend them.
The 3 Stones team was great to work with. We found Chris and
Bill to be very good communicators throughout the process. When
we encountered unexpected situations (like mold in basement),
they explained to us the various options and worked with us...
The 3 Stones team was great to work with. We found Chris and Bill
to be very good communicators throughout the process.
When we encountered unexpected situations (like mold in basement),
they explained to us the various options and worked with us to
find one that would best suit our requirements and budget.
They were also supportive of getting multiple quotes for the most
expensive items in our scope of work, rather than sole-sourcing to
their preferred trades.
At the conclusion of the project, they did a thorough job of
documenting any remaining deficiencies and have kept their
commitments to resolve them in a timely manner.
Whenever we had any issues / concerns, we felt that Chris and Bill
would listen to our perspectives and work with us to find a
solution that suited both parties.
All-in-all, we would recommend 3 Stones.
3 Stones were incredible to work with! Not only were they
incredibly detailed in the work itself - with the project coming
in on time. They also were transparent and detailed in their
quote and kept us up-to-date weekly...
3 Stones were incredible to work with! Not only were they
incredibly detailed in the work itself - with the project coming
in on time. They also were transparent and detailed in their quote
and kept us up-to-date weekly as to any changes in the quote. We
also appreciated their customer service - taking time each week to
walk us through the project progress, emailing us progress
reports. They always took the time to answer our questions and
helped to problem solve and make suggestions to ensure we were
happy. They also were quick to accommodate changes in our design
as we made slight changes and added things throughout the project.
Lastly, their post reno customer service has been second to none.
They've been committed to answering any little hiccups that popped
up after the Reno itself. Honestly, at the time i don't think we
appreciated how lucky we were to have worked with them. Having
swapped stories now with other friends who have undergone renos, I
now recognize how lucky we are!!! Highly recommend!!!!!
We engaged 3 Stones Custom Homes to do a renovation of our
kitchen and basement including complete demolition and
waterproofing of the basement area. We worked on a cost-plus
basis. The work was very well done...
We engaged 3 Stones Custom Homes to do a renovation of our kitchen
and basement including complete demolition and waterproofing of
the basement area. We worked on a cost-plus basis. The work was
very well done. We have a fully renovated Victorian in the Annex
with high-end finishes.
What I appreciate most about Chris and Bill is their open,
frequent, and clear communication. No material decisions are made
on-site without first clearing with the client, and Chris and Bill
were available at literally any time to review questions we had
about the site, or the work.
Bill is also a structural engineer; so changes to the design as
required can be handled by the contractor. This is very important
during a renovation when you find unexpected goodies in the walls
(like, for us, rotted beams!).
We were not living in the house during the renovation, but Chris
and Bill spent 2 hours with us every Saturday walking us through
the work which had been completed, the next 2 weeks, and clearing
any design decisions with us.
I would highly recommend 3 Stones for any high-end home
renovations.
I would recommend 3 Stones without hesitation. Bill and Chris
possess a truly remarkable combination of craft, attention to
detail, problem-solving abilities, and most importantly,
dedication...
I would recommend 3 Stones without hesitation. Bill and Chris
possess a truly remarkable combination of craft, attention to
detail, problem-solving abilities, and most importantly,
dedication. Our project (kitchen, furnace & AC, flooring,
fireplace) came in on time and under budget. Any setbacks or bumps
in the road that we encountered (They are inevitable, no matter
who you've hired.) were dealt with swiftly and easily. From the
time we first met with 3 Stones until the time the last bit of
drywall dust was swept up, Chris and Bill's sincere desire for our
best, most satisfactory outcome was always evident.
We were delighted with the entire renovation process with 3
Stones Custom Homes. This was our first major renovation, and
Bill and Chris took the time to explain (in great detail) the
entire process & anticipated costs...
We were delighted with the entire renovation process with 3 Stones
Custom Homes. This was our first major renovation, and Bill and
Chris took the time to explain (in great detail) the entire
process & anticipated costs. It was so helpful to have a step by
step calendar which outlined exactly what would be happening at
any given time - with detailed deadlines for homeowner
decisions/input/payments. We also received week to week status
reports, so there were no surprises. Dealing with Bill & Chris was
a true delight, and our home (built in 1913) looks like a new
home.
I also appreciated the knowledge they shared which allowed us to
cut costs. The tradesmen who did the work on the house really took
pride in their crafts, and the results show this attention to
detail.
We had a tight timeframe for the house reno (3 months) and
although we added several additional jobs (new flooring,
additional air conditioning, etc.) we were still able to get the
work done in 3 months.
I think having open, honest communication was key to the process.
I can't recommend 3 Stones highly enough.
After meeting with several potential local builders we decided
to hire the 3 Stones Custom Homes team to plan and renovate our
two bathrooms. From the outset, Billy and Chris were amazing. We
were happy with the results...
After meeting with several potential local builders we decided to
hire the 3 Stones Custom Homes team to plan and renovate our two
bathrooms. From the outset, Billy and Chris were amazing. We were
happy with the results. Not only, did they deliver excellent work
but proved to be incredibly flexible and responsive as we made
changes in direction and requirements. I strongly recommend 3
Stones Custom Homes for any project where delivering on time and
budget is just as important as the quality of the work completed.
With 3 Stones, it doesn't matter the size of your project. They
approach each job with care and handle it all with
professionalism, efficiency, honesty and integrity. Their
attention to detail is...
With 3 Stones, it doesn't matter the size of your project. They
approach each job with care and handle it all with
professionalism, efficiency, honesty and integrity. Their
attention to detail is one of the things that sets their
design/build projects apart from "the other guys." If you're
looking for the kind of builders and renovation experts that will
make your life easier, Bill, Chris and their team should
definitely be at the top of your contact list for your next
renovation.
Chris and his team are incredible. They renovated both our
Master and Kids bathroom the first time then 10 months later we
called on them again to re-do our hardwood floors, install
wainscotting and paint our entire house...
Chris and his team are incredible. They renovated both our Master
and Kids bathroom the first time then 10 months later we called on
them again to re-do our hardwood floors, install wainscotting and
paint our entire house. The final results are amazing! The team is
reliable, honest and easy to communicate with, providing input
when needed while staying with our detailed vision. Demolition was
neat and quick and work proceeded steadily without delay. It was a
pleasure to work with them. I will recommend 3 Stones Custom Homes
to everyone. You won't be disappointed.
We recently purchased a newly 'flipped'" home that was renovated
by 3 Stones Custom Homes, and have nothing but positive things
to say about our entire experience with the company. In
particular, we have been very pleased by the...
We recently purchased a newly 'flipped'" home that was renovated
by 3 Stones Custom Homes, and have nothing but positive things to
say about our entire experience with the company. In particular,
we have been very pleased by the diligence, service and attention
to detail provided by Chris Lawrence (a partner at the company),
especially in the months *after* we purchased our home.
From our first visit during an open house, this home stood out
from many other "flips" we saw during our search. It was clear
that 3 Stones put much thought into the renovation. From the
reconfigured layout of the home down to the every design detail,
not an item was overlooked. This home was thoughtfully designed
and beautifully refinished to be a functional family home.
In the months since we have moved in, Chris has been a phone call
away at anytime we have found ourselves needing guidance or
information (even on things that fall outside of his official
purview). As first-time homeowners, this support has been
invaluable.
We would highly recommend 3 Stones Custom Homes for any new buyers
looking to purchase a renovated home, or homeowners looking to do
some renos of their own. We love our home, and can't speak highly
enough of our experience with the company and their work.
3 Stones built a 3rd story addition to our home on time and
budget. Their high level of communication, respect, and high
level of workmanship made for the perfect job...
3 Stones built a 3rd story addition to our home on time and
budget. Their high level of communication, respect, and high level
of workmanship made for the perfect job. I would highly recommend
3 Stones for any size or scale of project.
