Ep 3. Long Island Kitchen

As a high-end contractor, Stephen Fanuka takes on his fair share of glamorous projects in New York City. But in season 6 episode 3 of Million Dollar Contractor, he heads out to Long Island to transform a kitchen in a modest family home.

The challenge for Fanuka and his team is to create a space that's functional for a family with young children while also being stylish and sophisticated. The homeowners want an open-plan design that's conducive to entertaining, without sacrificing practicality.

To achieve this, Fanuka opts for a range of premium materials and finishes, including Carrara marble countertops, custom cabinetry, and a sleek glass backsplash. He also adds a large island with seating for six, which will serve as the heart of the new kitchen.

One of the standout features of the remodel is the innovative use of lighting. The team installs dimmable LED lights under the cabinets and around the range hood, which can be adjusted to create different moods and atmospheres.

But the project doesn't come without its challenges. When it comes time to install the new Thermador oven, Fanuka discovers that the door doesn't quite fit. Undeterred, he finds a creative solution by modifying the surrounding cabinetry to make it work.

As with any renovation, unexpected issues arise along the way -- such as a broken pipe that causes flooding in the adjacent laundry room. But Fanuka and his team are able to address each problem quickly and efficiently, with minimal disruption to the project timeline.

Throughout the episode, Fanuka emphasizes the importance of communication and collaboration between the contractor and the client. He meets with the homeowners regularly to check in on their needs and preferences, and he encourages them to be involved in the design process.

Ultimately, the Long Island kitchen transformation is a success. The new space is functional, stylish, and perfectly tailored to the needs of the family. Fanuka and his team are able to showcase their expertise in high-end design and construction while also demonstrating their ability to work on a more modest budget.

Like many episodes of Million Dollar Contractor, this one offers viewers a glimpse into the world of high-end renovation and design. But it also highlights the challenges and rewards of working on a more intimate project, where the focus is less on grandeur and more on practicality and livability.