Huntsville contractors' remodeling efforts cited at Alabama Remodeling Excellence Awards

HUNTSVILLE, Alabama -- The biggest challenge was perhaps the boulder in the backyard. The boulder was on a sloped and shady street in southeast Huntsville, the first potential hurdle in the remodeling of the home.

Before the additions could be made, the foundation had to be built on top of the boulder.

"The house is on the upslope of the street, and we had to install and build the footing for this addition on top of a large bolder, which extended beneath the home," said John Allen, president of Southern Construction & Design.

The remodeling lasted from the end of July last year until December. The new bedroom and bathroom were added first, then the kitchen and the outdoor living area.

For its work at the house on Tannahill Drive, Southern Construction & Design was one of the local winners in the 2012 Alabama Remodeling Excellence Awards, held recently at the Marriott Legends at Capitol Hill in Prattville.

Southern Construction & Design won three awards - second place in Outdoor Living, third in Kitchen Remodel $40,000-$80,000 and third in Residential Specialty Project.

The Outdoor Living Award was for the screened porch, and the Residential Specialty Award was for the butler's pantry.

Slaton Custom Homes, owned by Bret Slaton, president of the Huntsville/Madison County Builders Association, placed second in Bath Remodel Under $20,000 and third in Commercial Renovation.

Slaton's awards were for his company's work on a home in Governor's Place and the renovation of a Chevron station at East Limestone and Capshaw roads.

"I guess the question is, 'Why do you do this?' " Allen said. "Why is it important for us? It touches on our business, submitting for these awards. We are proud of our work. It's helpful to show people our work, and it's an honor to be recognized by our peers."

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Huntsville contractors' remodeling efforts cited at Alabama Remodeling Excellence Awards