Darren and Kim Smith had a dream home in mind. Colella Construction Inc. made it a reality.
When the Smiths purchased a Williamsburg Cape Cod home in the absolutely ideal location in Devon a few years ago, their search didn’t end there. While the couple was delighted with the quaintness of their new residence, they had bigger and better things in mind for the place they were certain they’d call home for the rest of their lives. They wanted to expand the kitchen and family room, expand with multiple bedrooms and baths, and add a second story and a walk-up attic.
But the Smiths also had a dream of finding a construction company that shared their vision of the perfect home, a company committed to ensuring that every last detail they wanted was carried out to the letter, and one that would treat them and their dream as if it were their own.
They found it with Colella Construction, which is based in Hatfield.
“We couldn’t be more satisfied with the work that Colella did for our home,” says Kim Smith. “They took our Cape Cod down to the basement ceiling and turned it into a two-story home. They did a complete renovation, with all new systems, and all new exterior and interior.”
In order to build this home to fit the Smiths’ lifestyle, the architect designed the space to mesh part of the old 1970s structure with modern features and design. The entire second floor and back half of the house was demolished to create a 9-foot-high ceiling on the first floor, add five bedrooms and five bathrooms and create a large open/custom kitchen. The use of natural stone such as limestone, marble and slate, as well as custom cabinets and architectural details such as wainscoting and custom built-ins throughout the home, added distinction and character to the beautiful property.
“It was a great experience working with Colella,” Smith says. “It was the first time my husband and I did a project of this size. If we ever needed to do something more, we’d hire them again. What they did is make us realize our dream home. We are thrilled.”
For the past 12 years, such craftsmanship, attention to detail and commitment to the customer have been the trademarks of Colella Construction. The philosophy of treating each customer, regardless of the size or price of the project, like a member of the family has been the company’s hallmark.
“We encourage the homeowner to be involved as much as possible,” says Joseph Colella, company president and co-founder with his father, Salvatore, the company’s vice president.
“In order for a project to be successful, a high level of communication and trust is developed from the start. We want everyone to be on the same page throughout the entire design and construction process. Keeping our customers informed during each phase minimizes the risk for any surprises.”
Colella Construction is a full-service design/build firm with more than 40 years of combined experience. The company, which is a member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, offers an extraordinarily high level of quality and craftsmanship for projects including new custom-home construction, renovations and additions, as well as entertainment rooms, wine cellars, patios decking and more.
The goal at Colella Construction is for their customers to be satisfied with their work long after the project has been completed. “We are committed to the quality of our work and the products we offer,” Colella says. “Our goal is to satisfy our customers through strong communication and staying dedicated to the success of each project.”
Done Right and on Time
Joseph Colella learned the technical and people-skills side of the business from his father, who was employed for more than 25 years as a residential builder for one of the largest companies in southeastern Pennsylvania.
“When I was in college, I worked in the accounting office for that same residential builder,” Colella says. “After spending some time in the field alongside my father, I realized this is where I want to be. He taught me the ropes, and I truly admire his dedication to getting the job done right and on time.”
After graduating from Gwynedd-Mercy College with degrees in business and marketing, the younger Colella began his construction company in 2000. Five years later, Salvatore joined him to create a true partnership.
“Working with my dad, learning from him, paying attention to his eye for detail, benefiting from his knowledge and expertise has been invaluable,” Joseph Colella says. “Without his experience and work ethic, our company would not be in the position it is today.”
Carla Colella, a graduate of West Chester University who joined the team in 2007, has taken the firm’s business development to another level. With a strong background in sales and project management, she has made it her goal to produce the highest level of customer satisfaction.
Together, Carla and Joseph Colella host “Lunch and Learn” events, which are free and informal seminars that educate those contemplating home improvements. Topics discussed at these events include planning and budget, selections and construction phases, products, finance options, cost versus value and new trends.
“The seminars are yet another way for our company to show customers we’re committed to giving them all the information they need for a successful project,” Joseph Colella says. “My father and I believe that’s the best way to do business: Keep the customer informed.”
In fact, it was at a Lunch and Learn seminar where a certain married couple with a vision for their dream home in Devon first met the Colellas.
“The Smiths came to learn about cabinets,” Joseph Colella says. “We introduced ourselves and started talking about what we might be able to do for their house. Next thing you know, we’re rebuilding their home. They’ve been very satisfied.”
Colella Construction Inc.
1200 Cabin Road, Hatfield, PA 19440
Phone: 215-368-3196
Fax: 215-368-2986
Website: www.colellaconstructioninc.com
E-mail: info@colellaconstructioninc.com
Phil Gianficaro is an award-winning writer based in Doylestown.
Rob Hall is a photographer based in Plumsteadville.
