Goal:  Create a new carriage house/garage structure —including a large, well-lit studio with extra storage — that complied with the Saint Paul historic district, or HPC, requirements.

Solution: Demolishing the old garage was prelude to an interesting learning experience for Christo, but one he managed with his usual charm and aplomb. Before he could begin construction on the new structure, Christo entered the inner workings of Saint Paul city government for the first time to get approval from the Historic Preservation Council.

Once the green light was given, Christo and his team followed architect Jim Mackey’s stunning design for the new-but-classic-looking “carriage house” with its attached car port, ample storage for the clients’ vehicles, etc., and a spacious, sunny studio above for the home business. 

"Working with Christo was truly a pleasure from beginning to end. Never at any point (from historical committee reviews to budgeting to material selection and troubleshooting) was he anything less than completely honest, straightforward and professional. In addition to simply being a great guy, Christo was attentive to our needs throughout. He not only stands behind his own work, but also that of his subcontractors and suppliers, all of whom are first-rate, friendly and professional. When we received a flawed flooring product, Christo did all the legwork with the installers, suppliers and manufacturers to correct the problem; today, our cork floor looks great. Christo was an ideal contractor and, ultimately, became a friend. We’re already dreaming up our next project!" — Chad Dayton