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Author: Gary Knowles

Gary Knowles is the owner of GJK Remodeling, a residential design-build remodeling company serving Charlotte, North Carolina, and surrounding communities. With more than 35 years of experience in building and remodeling, Gary brings extensive knowledge of home design, construction methods, materials, and the practical challenges of renovating existing homes. His passion began at age 16, hand-drawing home designs and renovation plans. Throughout his career, he has combined that creative foundation with hands-on building experience to help homeowners make informed decisions about their homes. His approach emphasizes thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and solutions that balance each client’s needs, style, and budget. Through GJK’s articles, Gary shares insights drawn from decades in the field, helping homeowners understand the remodeling process and plan improvements with confidence.

Save Time, Save Money: The Benefits of Multiple Room Renovations

Modern kitchen with white cabinets, gray tile backsplash, gold hardware and faucet, wood shelves, and a stainless steel stove under a white and gold vent hood—showcasing the benefits of multiple room renovations in a cohesive design.

When remodeling their homes, homeowners in Charlotte often wonder whether it’s smarter to tackle one room at a time or to “pull off the band-aid” and renovate multiple rooms at once. On the surface, it can feel easier to take things slowly — update the kitchen now, maybe do the bathroom next year. However, understanding […]

How to Plan a Seamless Room Addition

A modern, light gray house with a two-car garage and landscaped front yard, surrounded by trees under a blue sky.

A well-planned room addition can transform your daily life, create additional living space, and significantly increase the value of your home. Whether you’re considering a kitchen renovation with addition, a second-story addition, or something else entirely, expanding your current home is often a cost-effective way to modernize your home and gain space—without moving. At GJK […]

How to Prepare for Your First Meeting with a Contractor

A two-story house with brown siding and a large backyard, perfect for meeting with a contractor to discuss updates. The space features a stone patio, fire pit, outdoor furniture, and landscaped greenery.

If this is your first time planning a home renovation, it’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves before that first meeting with a contractor. After all, you’re not just dreaming about updates anymore—you’re taking the first real step toward turning your living space into something better suited to your life. At GJK […]

Planning a Home Remodel in Charlotte: What to Expect When Working With a Design-Build Firm

Curved wooden staircase with dark railing in a modern, open foyer with white walls and dark hardwood floors.

Planning a home remodel in Charlotte is an exciting opportunity to reimagine how your home looks, feels, and functions. Whether you’re updating a kitchen, reconfiguring your floor plan, or tackling a whole-home renovation, the right plan—and team—can make all the difference.  In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to plan your remodel with realistic timelines, […]

Setting a Realistic Budget for Your Home Renovation

A room with hardwood floors, glass French doors, a white sofa, a desk with a lamp, wall art, and a window letting in natural light.

Your dream remodel can quickly become a financial headache if you don’t start by setting a realistic budget for your home renovation. Whether you’re updating a kitchen or tackling a whole home remodel, working with a professional design-build firm is the best way to plan smart, avoid costly surprises, and complete your home renovation with […]

7 Reasons Charlotte Homeowners Trust GJK With Their Remodeling Projects

Brick house exterior with a black-railed deck and patio furniture. Steps lead down to a garden with shrubs. Large windows and a sloped roof are visible, showcasing the quality work that's the reason why homeowners trust GJK Remodeling.

Thinking about remodeling your Charlotte home? Discover why so many homeowners trust GJK Remodeling to bring their vision to life—with expert knowledge, creative problem-solving, and unmatched craftsmanship. Charlotte homeowners have plenty of choices when it comes to remodeling their homes. So why do so many choose GJK Remodeling? It comes down to more than just […]

A Homeowner’s Guide to Preparing for a Remodel

Modern kitchen with a white marble island, four wooden stools, stainless steel appliances, and pendant lights. Large window in the background and wooden ceiling beams above.

Preparing for a remodel is an exciting yet significant undertaking, and at GJK Remodeling, we understand how important it is to minimize disruptions while ensuring a smooth construction process. Whether updating your kitchen, remodeling a bathroom, or expanding your home, taking the right steps before construction begins will help keep your project on track. Remodeling […]

Why GJK Remodeling’s Streamlined Proposal Process Stands Out

A group of nine people stand in a kitchen showroom, posing for a photo. Some are wearing branded shirts and hats. Kitchen cabinets and lighting fixtures are visible in the background.

The process your remodeler follows can significantly impact the time, cost, and overall experience of your renovation project. While many remodeling firms use a traditional design-build approach, GJK Remodeling takes it further with a streamlined proposal process that prioritizes efficiency and transparency. Let’s explore why our approach stands out. The Traditional Design-Build Approach The traditional […]

Is a Kitchen Remodel Worth It?

A kitchen with white cabinets, brass handles, a marble countertop, and wooden accents. A small lamp and plants are on the counter under a wooden shelf.

Do you ask yourself, “Is a kitchen remodel worth it?” The kitchen is often the first space to consider when planning home improvement projects. It’s where you spend much of your daily life—prepping meals, hosting gatherings, or simply catching up with family. At GJK Remodeling, we’ve seen firsthand how transforming a kitchen can elevate a […]

How to Prioritize Home Projects: A Step-By-Step Guide for Charlotte Homeowners

Modern bathroom with a double-sink vanity featuring wooden cabinets, wall-mounted lights, and a glass-enclosed shower with a tiled interior.

Knowing how to prioritize home projects is key to making the most of your renovation journey. Whether you’re updating an outdated kitchen, reimagining a living space, or addressing structural concerns in an older home, deciding where to start can feel overwhelming.  At GJK Remodeling, we help homeowners make informed decisions that align with their lifestyle, […]