PRO F I LE
Dale Contant
R E M O D E L E R • G A R D E N E R • F A M I LY M A N
By Stacy Moser
Q
Why did you start your remodeling business, Atlanta Design & Build, in East Cobb?
We moved out here from North Carolina 29 years ago, and we chose East Cobb almost by accident. We lucked out with the fantastic neighborhood, great schools and good shopping areas.
Q
The concept of universal home design (accommodating aging or disabled people) is growing in popularity. How do you incorporate this idea into your projects?
Many houses have two stories here, with bedrooms and bathrooms upstairs. If you want to stay in your home—“age in place”—you need single-level living with a master suite downstairs. Then you can keep upstairs bedrooms for guests or grandkids. We widen doorways, retrofit elevators in homes and, in bathrooms, add taller toilets and curbless showers with benches. We customize closets so they’re more reachable. We recently filled in a sunken living-room floor for a client. We move laundry rooms and mudrooms closer to the master suite.
Q
What factors should a homeowner consider when deciding whether to remodel?
When you bought the house, you probably bought someone else’s tastes and design choices. When you remodel, make it yours with individual touches and design criteria. I’m chairman of the board of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) and I’m passionate about promoting our group of good remodeling companies with tight standards.
You have a large vegetable garden. Any tips regarding a garden remodel for East Cobb homeowners?
It’s all about the soil. I repurposed old lumber to make raised planter boxes instead of trying to amend the clay soil. I purchased good dirt and compost and got horse manure from a horse farm. With this healthy soil, I’m growing four-pound sweet potatoes and zucchinis that are 24 inches long!
Q
What are your favorite spots in East Cobb?
Aspens Signature Steaks or Cazadores, a little neighborhood restaurant with great margaritas. Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar, of course, and AJ’s Famous Seafood and PoBoys has fantastic Cajun food. My wife, Keely, is a Trader Joe’s disciple! After watching our neighborhood swim or tennis teams with our daughters, we go to LA Fitness for a workout. AtlantaDesignBuild.com
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SPRING 2017
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATMAX PHOTOGRAPHY.
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25 3/23/17 5:00 PM