The next installation of our series, “What’s your Style”, is the traditional interior design style. Christian and Jessica share some of the key components of traditional style. Traditional   interior design  is one of the most enduring and familiar styles we work with at   Pinnacle . In this edition of our What’s Your Style series, I want to break down the essential elements that define traditional design so you can recognize it in your home and decide whether it fits your tastes and goals for a remodel. How we help you find your style Many clients tell us they are unsure which design style best reflects their preferences. To make the process easier, we use a simple two-step approach: We begin with a short survey to identify preferences and priorities. We follow up with a visual slideshow that shows different styles so you can see the look and feel of each option. This approach lets you see examples rather than guessing from labels. If you want to sit down with our interior designer Jessica to review your preferences and a sample slideshow, we would be happy to help. What makes a style truly traditional? Traditional design is rooted in classic details, rich materials, and a timeless sense of balance. When clients ask what makes a space traditional, here are the features we point to most often. Cabinetry One of the clearest signals of traditional style is cabinetry detail. Traditional   cabinets  typically use raised panels instead of the flat panels found in more contemporary or modern kitchens. The center panel of each door is slightly raised, creating depth, shadow, and an immediate sense of formality and craftsmanship. "Traditional to me, as far as cabinetry goes, are raised panels instead of a flat panel that you see a lot of." Countertops and surfaces Traditional countertops favor organic, varied patterns over the crisp white and gray veining that is common in contemporary looks. Think natural stone motifs with richer, warmer color variations—materials that read as layered and tactile rather than stark and monochrome. Color palette and tones Traditional spaces usually incorporate warmer tones. You will often see multiple tones working together across a room—wood, stone, and painted trim—all balanced to create a comfortable, anchored environment. Wood tones tend to be medium to darker, rather than the very light finishes that are trending in other styles. Architectural detail and trim Decorative moldings, trim profiles, and refined millwork are hallmarks of traditional design. Details such as pencil trim, crown molding, and classical proportions reinforce the style’s sense of permanence and refinement. A real-world example: a traditional bathroom We recently completed a bathroom remodel that illustrates many traditional characteristics. The space used natural stone—travertine—for flooring and wall surfaces, paired with classic trim elements. Pencil trim and detailed molding added the finishing touch, reinforcing the timeless aesthetic. These material choices and details give the bathroom a calm, established feel that will age well over time. Is traditional right for your remodel? If you prefer a classic, layered, and rich in architectural detail, traditional design may be a great fit. It works especially well when you want a home to feel grounded, warm, and comfortably elegant. If you have questions about whether tradition is the right direction for your project or would like to explore design options with our designers, please contact us . We would welcome the opportunity to review your preferences, share a curated slideshow, and help you plan a remodel that reflects your style.

When thinking through choosing a remodeler for your dream home renovation project, it's important to know what to expect upfront from that contractor. In this piece, I'd like to walk you through the next steps after we’ve visited your home and discussed the high-level scope of your remodeling project, what to expect, how we develop early cost estimates, and the role of the design agreement as you move forward with Pinnacle Remodel. Overview: The First Visit and What Comes Next After we tour your home and review the scope of work, our team returns to the office to begin two important tasks: Develop a budgetary price range that reflects what we expect the project to cost. Prepare and present a design agreement as the recommended next step if you want to move forward with Pinnacle. These steps help transform the initial conversation into an actionable plan while keeping expectations realistic and clear. What Happens During Your Office Meeting When you visit our office, you’ll be greeted by our office manager and escorted to our conference room for a relaxed, focused meeting. Our approach is straightforward and pressure-free. We’ll review the high-level scope of work that was discussed at your home. We’ll share the budgetary price range based on the information gathered during the site visit. We’ll present the design agreement and explain what the next steps look like if you decide to proceed. Our goal is to make sure the project is a strong fit for both you and for Pinnacle—quality projects require clear communication and aligned expectations from the start. Understanding the Budgetary Price Range A budgetary price range is an early estimate that gives you a practical sense of the investment required. It’s not a final bid, but it’s informed by factors such as: Scope and complexity of the work (layout changes, structural work, custom cabinetry, etc.). Quality of materials and finishes you’re likely to choose. Site conditions discovered during the home visit. Local permitting and code requirements. Think of the budgetary range as a directional tool to help you make decisions—whether to proceed to the design phase, scale the project up or down, or adjust priorities to match your budget. What Is the Design Agreement and Why It Matters The design agreement is the next formal step after your initial meeting. It typically covers the services we will provide during the design phase, including: Detailed planning and layout work. Selections of materials and finishes. Refined cost estimates based on finalized drawings and specifications. Project schedule milestones for design and permitting. Entering into a design agreement allows us to invest the time and expertise required to produce accurate drawings and a reliable construction estimate. This is a key step toward a successful, well-managed remodel. How to Prepare for the Meeting To get the most from the meeting, consider bringing or preparing the following: A list of priorities and “must-haves” for the project. Inspirational photos or ideas that show the style and function you want. Questions about timeline, budget flexibility, or disruption during construction. Any existing plans, surveys, or relevant documentation you may have. Having a clear set of goals helps us create a design and budget that aligns with your expectations. What to Expect After You Sign a Design Agreement Once the design agreement is in place, we move into a more detailed work phase: Design development and selections — we finalize layouts and material choices. Refined pricing — detailed estimates replace the initial budgetary range. Permitting and scheduling — we prepare permit-ready drawings and outline a construction timeline. Construction contract — with finalized scope and budget, we prepare a construction agreement to begin building. Each step narrows uncertainty and positions the project for smooth execution when construction begins. Why Pinnacle Remodel Pinnacle Remodel is committed to craftsmanship, integrity, and creating spaces that feel like home. We treat the early stages of a project; site visit, budgeting, and design agreement, as foundational to delivering a high-quality renovation. That early investment in planning reduces surprises, keeps budgets realistic, and helps ensure the finished project reflects your vision. Common Questions and Reassurances We often hear the same concerns at this stage. Here’s how we address them: Will I be pressured to sign?  No. Our meetings are informative and pressure-free. We want the project to be a good fit both ways. How accurate is the initial budget range?  It’s an informed estimate. Accuracy improves significantly after the design phase when selections and drawings are finalized. What if my budget changes?  We build flexibility into the process and can adjust scope or selections to meet your priorities. Conclusion After your first meeting with us, you can expect a clear, professional path forward: an informed budgetary price range, a no-pressure office discussion, and a design agreement that sets the stage for detailed planning. We'd love to work with you on your journey towards transforming your home.   Give us a call . We’re happy to help.

These homeowners have lived in their house since 1985 and had never remodeled. It was time for an upgrade! Not just a fresh coat of paint, but a transformation that would modernize the heart of their home and change how they lived in it. We worked with them through the exciting process of  seeing their home become something new. From Closed-Off to Open and Modern The project began with a simple but powerful goal: open up the closed kitchen and make the upstairs living area feel modern, welcoming, and cohesive. The clients described the change plainly: removing the enclosed wall completely altered the flow and light of the space. "We'd been in the house since 1985, hadn't remodeled anything, and it was just time to update." We redesigned the entire kitchen and living room area: Removed the enclosed wall between the kitchen and adjacent space to open up the layout and improve circulation. Full kitchen redesign and remodel including a new central island that serves as the visual focal point. Cabinetry overhaul, where we upgraded cupboards and layouts to improve storage, workflow, and aesthetics. Appliance installation and integration into the new kitchen layout. Coordinated finishes and design details to achieve a modern, cohesive look. Reimagined the adjacent living room area, including the fireplace focal point, to match the new kitchen aesthetic and create a unified upstairs space. Professional project management and onsite leadership to keep the job organized, clean, and on schedule. Daily jobsite cleanup and final touch-up cleaning to leave the home in move-in-ready condition each day. The result was more than a kitchen remodel. It was an upstairs renovation that made a statement. What the Clients Loved: Details that Mattered Our clients highlighted specific elements that made the renovation feel like a homecoming. The new island became the instant focal point; friends arriving at the house reacted with delighted surprise. Little details — the cabinets, the appliances, the island seating — all contributed to a dramatic reveal. "When our friends came over and walked up the stairs the first thing they saw was the island and they were just oohing and ahhing over the island and the chairs and the appliances and the cupboards. Then they turned to the right and saw the fireplace in the living room and they were just shocked — it doesn't even look like the same house." Project Leadership and On-Site Experience A renovation is as much about people as it is about materials. Our clients singled out the professionalism and character of the team member who led the project on-site. Caleb — our main point person for this job — earned their trust through consistent, respectful service and attention to cleanliness. "Caleb did a phenomenal job — he was polite and humble and respectful and tidy and trustworthy. Every day was spotless. When Caleb left he took out his shop vac and he vacuumed everything up, and when he left there was no mess." They trusted us with keys and access to their home for the duration of the work — a sign that clear communication and reliability built confidence throughout the remodel. Quality that Exceeded Expectations For these clients, the difference came down to craftsmanship. They told us we not only met but exceeded their expectations, and that the quality of work justified their investment. "The quality is incredible — they not only met but I think they far exceeded our expectations on the quality of work that was completed." They advised future homeowners to prioritize quality over the lowest bid: a reminder that long-term value comes from skilled workmanship and attention to detail. "One of the biggest reasons to pick Pinnacle over other competitors is — you get what you pay for. Pinnacle may be a little bit higher in price, but the quality and workmanship is well worth it. Don't go with the absolute lowest bid; you want to go with a quality company that's going to do an excellent job." Final Thoughts from the Homeowners The transformation was emotional and practical at once. The homeowners appreciate not only how beautiful the renovation turned out, but how the process respected their home and their lives during construction. For them, the remodel delivered both a new look and new life for their upstairs living area. As they put it, it "doesn't even look like the same house" — and that’s precisely the kind of thoughtful, high-quality results we aim to deliver at   Pinnacle  . We're committed to craftsmanship, clear communication, and delivering spaces that truly feel like home.   Contact us  to d

From materials to installation styles, Pinnacle Owner , Christian Raab, shares some helpful information regarding windows in this short video. While windows might not be the most glamorous remodel item, the right choices will improve comfort, lower energy costs, and dramatically update the look of your home. Below is Christian's summary of the key takeaways and practical recommendations to help you choose the right windows for your Wichita home. Why Replace Your Windows? Replacing windows is an investment that delivers both functional and aesthetic benefits: Improved energy efficiency.  Modern windows carry far higher efficiency ratings than units installed 20–30 years ago. Upgrading can reduce drafts and lower heating and cooling costs. Updated curb appeal.  New windows change the look of your home. A modern frame or a contrasting trim color can make windows pop and refresh exterior and interior spaces. One aesthetic we've seen gaining popularity in Wichita is black windows paired with white trim. The thinner black frame creates a clean, contemporary sightline while the white trim provides contrast that makes each opening stand out. This combination works equally well on modern builds and traditional homes seeking a refreshed look. Long-term value and comfort.  Well-installed, high-quality windows improve the comfort of living spaces and contribute to the overall longevity of your home envelope. Window Materials: Pros and Cons The material you choose affects durability, maintenance, and interior appearance. Here are the options we recommend: Composite or Fiberglass Fiberglass is generally more durable than vinyl and resistant to warping, cracking, and heavy weather. It also requires little upkeep compared with wood window. Wood (Interior) / Wood-Clad (Exterior) A wood-clad window gives you the beauty of wood on the inside for a warm, finished interior while protecting the exterior with a metal cladding (commonly aluminum). The inside wood provides a premium look and allows you to stain or paint it to match the interior of your home. On the other hand, cladding the exterior with aluminum eliminates the need to maintain the exterior wood. It's the best of both worlds and a strong choice when you want interior craftsmanship without exterior maintenance concerns. Installation Options: Full Replacement vs. Insert Replacement How a window is installed has as much impact on performance as the window itself. We recommend the full replacement (new construction) method for most projects. Here’s why: Full Replacement (New Construction Window) When you go with this option, you're basically installing fresh material and finishes without having to deal with the wear and tear of old windows. For us, we install newly constructed windows by first removing the old window, frame, and trim down to the studs, installing the new windows, and then applying caulk behind the new windows' fin, plus wrapping a weatherproof tape around the opening to create a tight exterior seal. On the inside, we spray foam around the frame and finish the trim, ensuring a well-sealed opening.  The second option you can go for is the replacement window. Replacement/Insert Window These windows are generally quicker to install than building new windows. The contractor leaves the existing frame, removes the sashes, and slides in the new unit without the nail fin. While it's faster and often less expensive upfront, you would miss out on the opportunity to fully seal the opening with foam and tape, which could compromise long-term performance and durability. Our Recommendation For most homeowners who want long-term performance and the best possible efficiency, we recommend: Choosing composite/fiberglass or wood-clad windows for the balance of durability, performance, and interior finish. Opting for a full replacement (new construction window with a nail fin) so the opening can be properly sealed with caulk, weatherproof tape, and foam. This approach helps ensure your new windows perform well for years to come and protect the investment you make in your home. Next Steps If you’d like to explore window options for your home—materials, finishes, or installation methods— our team  at Pinnacle Remodel is ready to help. We can walk through styles that fit your home’s architecture, evaluate existing conditions, and provide a plan that balances appearance, performance, and budget. For more information or to schedule a consultation,   contact us  to review your project and recommend the best path forward.

Cabinetry is the focal point of any kitchen remodel, and the details selected in the cabinet door really make or break the overall style of the space. There are so many options available, it’s helpful to have a basic knowledge of what’s out there before you begin looking. In this video, Pinnacle owners, Christian and Rachel Raab, show us a few of their favorites!

Cabinetry replacement is typically one of the biggest ticket items in a remodel. And many homeowners don't know what their options are when it comes to cabinets. In this video, Pinnacle Owner, Christian Raab, shares a few questions we can ask to determine if it's time to replace the cabinetry, and if not, some options to bring existing cabinets up-to-date.

You’ve worked with one of our designers to pick out and finalize your fixtures and materials; now it’s time to start ordering the materials and planning for the construction phase of your project. In this video, Christian shares additional details about this stage of the process so you know what to expect every step of the way.

By Christian Raab Open floor plans have become a hallmark of modern home design, and for good reason. They offer a sense of space, light, and connectivity that traditional layouts often lack. However, before you start knocking down walls, it’s crucial to understand the full picture. At Pinnacle, we believe in designing spaces that fit your lifestyle, not just following trends. Let’s explore the pros and cons of open floor plans to help you decide if this concept is right for your next remodel. Pros of Open Floor Plans Great for Entertaining One of the biggest benefits of an open floor plan is the ability to connect with family and friends. If you enjoy hosting gatherings, an open layout allows you to cook, socialize, and relax in one connected space. You won’t feel isolated in the kitchen while everyone else enjoys the living room. This setup has been a game changer for my family. We love having guests, and the open floor plan helps us do that more effectively. Natural Light Throughout Another advantage of open floor plans is the seamless flow of natural light. This design creates a more open and airy feel. It not only brightens your home but also fosters a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Improved Traffic Flow With a large family, I’ve found that an open layout significantly reduces bottlenecks caused by narrow hallways and small doorways. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or moving from the kitchen to the living room, the space feels more accessible. This user-friendly design makes it easier for everyone to navigate. Cons of Open Floor Plans While there are many advantages, open floor plans have some drawbacks, too. It’s important to be aware of these challenges before making a decision. Less Privacy One downside is the lack of privacy. With fewer walls, it may be difficult to find a quiet spot when needed. For those who work from home, have young children, or value solitude, this openness can present challenges. There have been many moments where I wished for a secluded area to focus on my book! Sound Travels Easily Another consideration is acoustics. Open spaces mean that sounds carry more freely. Conversations, TVs, and kitchen noise can create a livelier, sometimes noisier environment—especially if you have kids like I do! My wife often wishes we had a separate room for watching our Sunday Pittsburgh Steelers games. Is an Open Floor Plan Right for You? Ultimately, the decision comes down to how you live. Consider your lifestyle and needs when deciding on an open floor plan. It can be a fantastic addition for some families, while others may miss the boundaries and privacy that traditional layouts offer. Final Thoughts on Open Floor Plans In conclusion, open floor plans offer both benefits and drawbacks. They promote social interaction, enhance natural lighting, and improve traffic flow within the home. However, they can also lead to the challenges of reduced privacy and increased noise levels. Before you commit to a remodel, make sure to weigh these factors thoroughly. An open floor plan can indeed transform your home, but it's essential to ensure it aligns with your daily life and family dynamics. If you’re considering a remodel and want to explore the potential of open floor plans or any other design concepts, feel free to reach out to our team at Pinnacle. We’re here to help create a space that reflects your lifestyle and feels like home. Written by: Christian Raab Christian is the founder and owner of Pinnacle. He established the company in Wichita in January 2012. Growing up in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, he worked summers with a neighbor who was a contractor. Later, he earned his degree in business with a construction emphasis. Christian’s vision has always been to provide homeowners with a fantastic experience as they partner with a professional team they can trust. When Christian isn’t at the office, you can find him spending time with his five kids, woodworking, and cheering on the Steelers.

Our Fixed-Price Agreement Solves That By Christian Raab I had a client come to me the other day, concerned about tariffs and price increases. He was concerned that if the tariffs caused the material of his project to go up that we would be raising our prices on him. I completely understand his concern. We’ve all heard the horror stories: A project starts with one price and ends with a final invoice that’s thousands—sometimes tens of thousands—higher than expected. Whether it’s surprise fees, vague allowances, or market-driven “adjustments,” those extra costs can derail your experience and your finances. At Pinnacle, we don’t believe in surprises . That’s why we use fixed-price agreements. What is a Fixed-Price Remodeling Agreement? A fixed-price agreement means the price you agree to at the start is the price you pay at the end. Period. It doesn’t change due to shifting material prices, labor shortages, or global supply issues. We take the risk so you don’t have to. You’re not paying for uncertainty—you’re paying for results. No Escalation Clauses, No Hidden Fees, No Surprise Extras Many contractors build escalation clauses into their contracts, giving them the ability to raise prices during your project if their costs go up. That includes increases in labor, material costs—and yes, even tariffs. In construction, there are a lot of variables, and it makes sense why there would be these additional costs. We’ve been seeing a lot of volatility in the market. Lumber prices spike at times, steel tariffs, fuel surcharges, and labor shortages. Our cabinet company recently sent an email saying they are now adding a “tariff surcharge” to the invoices for the foreseeable future.  I’m not exactly sure what that means, except that it’s another cost. Why a Fixed-Price Agreement Makes Remodeling Less Stressful At Pinnacle, we don’t pass those costs onto the customer after the fixed-price remodeling agreement is signed. So you can rest easy and know that unless you make a change to our scope, you will pay exactly what you signed up for! Here is what I told our client who was concerned about the tariffs and price increases: Let’s call him Bob (That’s not his real name). “Bob, you have signed an agreement with us, and you will not pay a dime more than what that agreement says. If the tariffs cause the lumber to double, you will still pay the same amount. If concrete goes up 10%, you will not pay any more than what your agreement says. We will cover everything. You’ve signed a fixed price agreement and it will stay fixed until we are finished.” That seemed to set his mind at ease. It is a large project, and even small percentages can cause the price to rise substantially, and that was his concern. Guess what? The concrete cost did go up a little bit, and we didn’t charge him any more. Remember that cabinetry “tariff surcharge” I told you about earlier? We didn’t pass it on either! Yes, we did lose a little money on those things, but what is more important to us is our clients' trust! If you’re interested in learning more about how to get started with your next remodel, check out a few of the links below: Our Process Our Services Our Portfolio Or you can just do it the old-fashioned way and give us a call: 316-260-4502 Written by: Christian Raab Christian is the founder and owner of Pinnacle. He began the company here in Wichita in January of 2012. He grew up in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, working the summers with his neighbor, who was a contractor. He later went to school to earn his degree in business with a construction emphasis. Christian’s vision for the company has always been to provide homeowners with a great experience as they work with a professional team they can trust. ​ When Christian isn’t at the office, you can find him spending time with his five  kids, woodworking, and watching the Steelers.

Working with a contractor can be intimidating, especially if you're hiring one for the first time, simply because you don't know what to expect. We do our best to walk you through the design and remodel  process so that you know exactly what's happening each step of the way. In the video below, Christian  shares what to expect during your consultation with Pinnacle.

In this series, we'll be exploring different interior design styles and sharing some of the key components of each. In the first video of this series, we explore the Modern Farmhouse style.

Many of our  Wichita remodeling  clients in the area complain about their small, outdated kitchens. Today the trend is open concept—the kitchen and living area open to each other—so that you can enjoy your family or friends as you prepare things in the kitchen. Entertaining is very important for many people and small, cramped kitchens make that priority difficult, if not impossible. Our clients in Wichita’s neighboring Haysville, KS were frustrated  by the cramped space in their existing kitchen. They wanted a  kitchen remodeling  project to use an open concept design. The existing golden oak cabinetry and compartmentalized rooms were outdated and they wanted a new look. We worked with a local designer who designed the space and finalized the selections. The first thing we did was remove the cabinetry and demolish the wall that separated the dining room and kitchen. This immediately gave the space a much more open feel. The photo pictured below is an angle from the living room looking into the kitchen showing how much bigger the space looks! These next few pictures show a very large island in the center of the room. The client previously had a table just off the kitchen where they would eat less formal meals. We removed that table and made room for this island that serves many purposes – storage from both sides of the island, eating spot, food prep space, and location for the cooktop. The next two pictures show a wall oven with a microwave on top of the oven. It is a great idea to put the microwave in a cabinet to clear space on the countertop. We were also able to give them prep space on the right side of the oven and microwave. The picture below shows the huge amount of space on the sink side of the kitchen. As you can see, redesigning this kitchen created much more usable storage and work prep space than the previous kitchen. This picture shows another project we tackled while we remodeled the kitchen. We removed the “half wall” on the sides of the stairwell and installed new newel posts and wrought iron balusters. This continued to help with the open concept feel our client was trying to achieve. These pictures show the updated flooring as well. We removed the existing flooring, installed a new underlayment and installed a groutable Luxury Vinyl Tile. This tile looks just a ceramic or porcelain tile that we’re used to seeing in Wichita, KS, but the labor cost to install is less than traditional ceramic tile, it is softer and warmer on your feet. We applied a specialty grout in between the tiles to finish the authentic look. Click here to see some of the other kitchens we’ve completed!