Owner-Led NYC Design-Build Renovations Brownstones, Apartments & Commercial Spaces

Designs by D & J coordinates design, permitting, project management, and construction for residential and commercial renovations across New York City, with select work in Northern New Jersey.

About Us

About Designs by D and J and Our Team

Our company was built on a simple idea. Renovation should feel exciting, not frustrating. We work with homeowners, property managers, and business owners who want good results without confusion. Whether it is a small bathroom remodel, a kitchen upgrade, or a complete whole house renovation, we bring the same care to each job.

The team at Designs by D and J includes licensed crews, skilled contractors, and trusted technicians who know building codes and construction safety. We use clear estimates, honest timelines, and quality work so people always know what to expect. That is why families and businesses in NYC and Northern NJ often come back to us for more projects.

Happy couple standing in front of a newly renovated wall after home remodeling in New York City.

Why Choose Us

Owner-Led, Licensed and MWBE-Certified Renovation Team

Designs by D & J is led by co-owners Jay and Dominique, giving clients direct access to the people responsible for planning and delivering the work. Our team coordinates design, permits, construction, and project management with clear scopes, documented decisions, and accountable communication from consultation through closeout.

Home renovation and design by Designs by D and J

Licensed and insured contractors with strong local experience

Remodeling project by Designs by D and J contractors

Skilled crews for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and commercial spaces

Interior renovation by Designs by D and J in New York City

Affordable remodeling services with fair contracts and reliable warranties

Home renovation and design by Designs by D and J

Local experts who understand permits, codes, and inspections in NYC and NJ

Why Hire Our Expert Remodeling and Renovation Contractors in NYC and NJ

Our completed construction work is backed by a written one-year workmanship warranty, with closeout documentation and required final inspections handled according to the approved scope.

Working in New York City and Northern New Jersey requires knowledge of complex permits and detailed inspections.

Our team is fully licensed, insured, and local, which means we know the rules and follow them carefully.

NY License #623750 · NJ License #13VH12888200 · Fully insured general liability · MWBE certified.

We plan around project milestones and communicate schedule changes, site conditions, and decisions that may affect completion.

Detailed schedule milestones, weekly client check-ins, and a transparent change-order policy — no hidden costs after the contract.

Clients choose us because we are easy to talk to, honest with pricing, and focused on long lasting results.

Owner-led communication. Itemized estimates. Husband-and-wife led — the people you meet are the people running your job.

We use skilled remodelers and trusted contractors who bring years of real experience to every project.

15+ years combined trade experience. NTCA member. Licensed in New York and New Jersey.

Our goal is to increase property value and create spaces that fit the way people live and work today.

Specialized in NYC pre-war, brownstone, and co-op renovations. Apartment combinations, landmarked buildings, and full-gut transformations.

Our Services

Full Service Remodeling and Renovation for Homes and Commercial Spaces

Interior renovation completed by Designs by D and J
Brooklyn Townhouse

Home Remodeling and Renovation Experts

We plan and deliver full-home renovations, including apartment and townhouse transformations, room reconfigurations, and major interior upgrades. Every scope is coordinated around the property, the client’s priorities, and New York City construction requirements.

NYC kitchen remodel with custom cabinetry and modern finishes by Designs by D and J
Dumbo Kitchen

Kitchen Remodeling and Renovation Specialists

D&J renovates kitchens for better layout, storage, and everyday use. Depending on the approved scope, our work can include cabinetry, countertops, flooring, lighting, plumbing fixtures, appliance coordination, and finish installation.

Bathroom with tan square tile, black floor tile, tub and wood vanity in a renovated Brooklyn brownstone
Warm square wall tile with a black tile floor.

Bathroom Remodeling and Renovation Contractors

Many people call us for bathroom remodeling because it makes such a big difference. Whether it is a Jacuzzi bath remodel, a new shower, or a full spa style bathroom, our team handles it all. Local families looking for bathroom remodelers or remodeling services near me trust us to turn small or large bathrooms into beautiful and practical spaces.

Kings Highway Basement Renovation
Basement Renovation

Basement Remodeling and Renovation Services

We convert basements into living rooms, gyms, offices, or entertainment spaces. As trusted basement remodeling contractors, we know how to plan layouts that add both comfort and property value.

Newark renovation work completed by Designs by D and J
Nyc Commercial Space

Commercial Remodeling and Renovation Experts

We also take on commercial spaces such as offices, apartments, restaurants, retail stores, and hotels. As licensed commercial renovation contractors, we provide reliable services that meet business needs while keeping design professional and modern.

More Services We Offer

We Also Offer Bathroom Remodeling and Kitchen Remodeling

Some people only need kitchen remodeling or bathroom remodeling. These projects are often the fastest way to improve both the look and the value of a property. We help with plumbing fixtures, cabinets, flooring, and much more.

Our remodelers also guide you in choosing the right materials like quartz countertops, wood flooring, or eco friendly finishes. With these choices, your kitchen and bathroom will not only look good but will also last for many years.

Before and after home renovation by Designs by D and J in NYC

Our Design-Build & Consulting Capabilities

Our work integrates architecture, engineering, interior design, permitting, project management, construction consulting, and execution—structured specifically for the regulatory, logistical, and financial realities of New York City projects.

Remodeling and Renovation Process From Planning to Completion

We make the process easy by keeping it simple from start to finish.

Begin with a project consultation so we can understand your goals, property, budget range, and scope. New Jersey in-person consultations are $250 and may be credited toward an approved project, subject to the written proposal.

After the consultation, we document the priorities, identify information still needed, and outline the appropriate path for design, estimating, permits, and construction.

When included in the approved scope, D&J coordinates design development, planning, professional consultants, permits, and required approvals before construction begins.

The pre-construction plan identifies responsibilities, decisions, lead times, inspections, and dependencies so the final schedule is based on documented project requirements.

Skilled remodelers and renovation specialists handle construction, installations, and finishes with care, making sure everything matches your vision.

In-house project management coordinates architects, engineers, expeditors, and trades — one accountable team from permit to punch list.

We finish with a full inspection, warranty, and compliance check so you feel confident knowing your home or business is safe, strong, and long lasting.

Final DOB sign-off where required, written warranty on workmanship, and a documented close-out package for your records.

Materials and Design Expertise from Licensed Remodelers

Every renovation depends on strong materials and skilled work. We use granite, marble, wood, tiles, drywall, glass, and many other options. Our team includes trained experts in plumbing, electrical work, HVAC, roofing, and masonry. We also work closely with architects, interior designers, and engineers so every project is designed and built the right way.

Luxury Remodeling Options in NYC and NJ

Not every project is the same. Some people look for affordable remodeling contractors who can update kitchens, bathrooms, or basements without stretching the budget. Others prefer a more detailed approach with luxury custom home renovation that brings in high end finishes and unique designs. We make sure both options are available, so every client can choose what feels right for them.

Our work covers many styles, from modern and contemporary layouts to rustic, minimalist, and even eco friendly designs. Whether you want something simple or a project that adds a touch of elegance, we create spaces that match your lifestyle and improve your home for years to come.

Garden-level kitchen with gray cabinets and oak floors in a renovated Bed-Stuy brownstone
Home renovation and remodeling completed by Designs by D and J

Why NYC Clients Trust Designs by D and J

Design-Build General Contractors for Residential and Commercial Projects

We handle both residential remodeling services and commercial renovations, giving clients trusted solutions for projects of any size. From apartment remodeling in Manhattan to office renovations in Northern NJ, our team delivers results that last. When people look for licensed renovation contractors in NYC or professional remodeling services in NJ, they often choose Designs by D and J.

We manage residential remodeling projects such as kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and full Gut renovations.

Our team also completes commercial renovations for offices, apartments, retail spaces, and hotels.

As licensed renovation contractors, we bring local knowledge, skilled crews, and dependable service across NYC and NJ.

Our Success Stories

Testimonials from New York City and Northern New Jersey Clients

Our work speaks for itself. In Manhattan we completed a brownstone remodel that kept historic charm while adding comfort. In Northern NJ we managed a whole house renovation that gave a family more space and modern design. Clients often share how they value our clear estimates, on time work, and detailed finishes.

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Richard Clark profile picture
Richard Clark
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What started as a small bathroom job ended up being a whole-house refresh. We’re beyond happy with everything.
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Tasnim Saida profile picture
Tasnim Saida
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Jay’s knowledge of structural work helped us open up walls safely and create an open-concept layout we love.
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Richard Schmid profile picture
Richard Schmid
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Dee’s design ideas completely changed how we use our space. It’s now open, bright, and so much more functional.
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Sk Joy king
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From day one, the communication was clear and consistent. Every milestone was met on time, and the final result looks amazing.
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Lesley Lopez profile picture
Lesley Lopez
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Extremely impressed with the quality of work and the professionalism of the crew. They transformed our old kitchen into a modern, functional space!
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Anthony Fleenor profile picture
Anthony Fleenor
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Designs by D and J turned our outdated bathroom into a modern, functional space. From the initial consultation to the finishing touches, they were easy to work with and very skilled.
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James Valentino profile picture
James Valentino
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Beautiful Design Meets Flawless Execution” We hired Designs by D and J for a full gut renovation in Brooklyn. Dee’s design recommendations made our home feel both modern and warm, while Jay made sure everything ran like clockwork. Couldn’t ask for more.
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Mominul Islam profile picture
Mominul Islam
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Transparent, Professional, and Highly Skilled” Dee helped us reimagine our outdated kitchen, and Jay made sure every tile, cabinet, and fixture was installed to perfection. The transparency from start to finish is what impressed me most — no surprises, just results. True professionals.
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Shimu Jannat profile picture
Shimu Jannat
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Five Stars Isn’t Enough!” Dee turned our chaotic Pinterest board into a cohesive, breathtaking space. Jay managed every phase, coordinated trades, and kept us updated daily. As a working family, we appreciated their respect for our time and budget. Five stars isn’t enough — they deserve ten.
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Marfua Mehjabin profile picture
Marfua Mehjabin
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From the 3D mockups Dee created to the daily updates Jay sent, this team delivered excellence across the board. Our new bathroom looks like it’s straight out of a magazine — elegant, timeless, and functional.

Frequently Asked Questions

Renovation pricing depends on the property type, existing conditions, scope, finish selections, access, permits, building requirements, and schedule. D&J develops a project-specific estimate after reviewing the property and documenting the scope; we do not promise a fixed price before that review.

The schedule depends on the scope, design decisions, material lead times, permits, building approvals, inspections, and existing conditions. D&J provides a preliminary schedule during estimating and finalizes the construction schedule after the approved pre-construction requirements are documented.

Yes, when permitting and approvals are included in the approved scope. D&J can coordinate design professionals, filings, expeditors, building management requirements, permits, inspections, and closeout documentation for New York City renovation projects.

D&J is owner-led by Jay and Dominique. Clients receive direct, accountable communication while the team coordinates scope, scheduling, trades, site conditions, decisions, inspections, and project closeout. Responsibilities for each project are confirmed in the approved proposal and pre-construction plan.

D&J provides a written one-year workmanship warranty for completed construction work. The signed contract and warranty documents define the covered work, exclusions, reporting requirements, and applicable correction process for each project.

No. The $250 consultation fee applies only to in-person consultations in New Jersey. It may be credited toward an approved project, subject to the written proposal. Consultation requirements for New York City projects are confirmed during intake.

We’re based in Brooklyn and serve clients across New York City, with a focus on Brooklyn, Manhattan and Queens, plus select Northern New Jersey communities including Hoboken and Jersey City.

Yes. As a design/build firm, one team takes your project from initial design through completed construction.

Every project begins with a detailed, itemized written estimate presented as a proposal through Houzz, so you know exactly what’s included before work starts.

Yes — tub-to-shower conversions are one of our most requested bathroom remodels, handled start to finish including demolition, tile, fixtures, and glass.

Work with Licensed and Insured Renovation Experts Today

Ready to renovate your home or business? Start with a project consultation so we can understand your goals, property, scope, and next steps. Designs by D & J serves clients across New York City and select areas of Northern New Jersey. New Jersey in-person consultations are $250 and may be credited toward an approved project, subject to the written proposal.

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