Working With Your Spouse: The Comedy and Craft of Partnership in Renovation

One of the questions I get asked most often—right after “what color should I paint my cabinets?”—is: “How do you actually work with your husband without driving each other crazy?”

And honestly? It’s a fair question. Running a business with your spouse is not for the faint of heart. But when you find the right balance, it’s also one of the most rewarding (and occasionally hilarious) things you can do.

The Two Halves of Monaco

Our company has two very distinct halves, much like our marriage.

Denys: The Hands

My husband, Denys, is a craftsman through and through. He’s meticulous, particular, and has an eye for detail that borders on superhuman. He can walk into a room and instantly spot a tile that’s off by a millimeter. He’s the guy who will cut a piece three times just to make sure it’s perfect.

That kind of precision is exactly why our clients love him—and exactly why you will never find a crooked corner or sloppy finish in a Monaco renovation.

But… living with a perfectionist craftsman? Let’s just say that when I hang a picture frame at home, I don’t even look for the level anymore. It’s safer that way.

Me: The Mind

While Denys is busy with saws, tools, and grout lines, I live in an entirely different lane. I don’t work with my hands—I work with my head. My world is full of design boards, supplier calls, scheduling charts, and about 47 reminders on my phone at any given time.

I’m the planner, the organizer, the communicator. I like my schedules tight and my timelines efficient. There’s something deeply satisfying about checking off boxes and keeping things moving forward.

The Great Debate: Timelines vs. Craftsmanship

Here’s where our two worlds collide: my obsession with timelines versus Denys’s devotion to craftsmanship.

Picture this: it’s Monday morning, coffee in hand, and I stroll into the site, ready to fire off the week’s plan. My phone is open, the to-do list is glowing, and I announce:
“Okay, if we stay on track, we’ll have this wrapped by Thursday!”

Denys doesn’t even look up from his work. He’s carefully laying tile, each piece placed with surgical precision. Without missing a beat, he says in his calm, steady way:
“Craftsmanship takes time.”

And just like that, my perfect Thursday finish date dissolves into… let’s call it flexibility.

At first, this used to drive me crazy. I wanted everything neat, tidy, and on schedule. But over time, I realized something: he’s right. You can’t rush artistry. Perfection doesn’t have a shortcut. What he’s doing isn’t just “finishing a task”—it’s creating something that will outlast trends, weather, and years of family life.

So now, we compromise. I still push for efficiency (because otherwise we’d be on one project forever), and he pushes for perfection (because otherwise we’d have beautiful schedules but wobbly cabinets). And in that middle ground, our best work comes to life.

Why This Partnership Works

Working with your spouse is all about balance. Denys and I balance each other in ways that make Monaco what it is:

• He’s the hands-on perfectionist. Nothing leaves his care unless it’s flawless.

• I’m the big-picture planner. I keep projects moving forward, keep clients in the loop, and make sure the vision stays intact.

• Together, we’re both equally picky. Just in completely different ways.

And while yes, we sometimes drive each other a little nuts, that tension actually makes the work stronger. Because the truth is: I’ve learned to slow down and appreciate the artistry of his process, and he’s learned to (occasionally) humor my calendar-loving brain.

What Clients Get Out of It

At the end of the day, our dynamic is about more than just surviving marriage and business ownership at the same time—it’s about delivering a renovation experience that feels complete:

1. Craftsmanship you can trust. Every corner, every line, every finish has Denys’s meticulous touch.

2. A process that makes sense. From design decisions to schedules, I keep everything moving with clarity.

3. Spaces with heart. Because we pour not just skill, but our relationship, our humor, and our partnership into every project.

In Closing

Working with your spouse isn’t always easy—it’s equal parts partnership, comedy show, and marriage therapy session. But it’s also the best thing we’ve ever done.

Because when you hire us, you don’t just get a contractor and a designer. You get two people who are equally passionate, equally particular, and (sometimes stubbornly) committed to making every space not just beautiful, but meaningful.

And if that means my carefully planned Thursday finish date gets bumped to Friday because Denys wants to shave a grout line by a hair? Well… that’s the price of perfection

Capturing the Whole Scope Before You Renovate

Hey friends,

Let’s talk about something that can make or break a renovation project: capturing the full scope of work before you begin.

Because here’s the thing—renovations are already full of moving parts. Materials, finishes, timelines, people coming in and out of your home… it all adds up fast. And if the scope isn’t fully laid out from the start, what adds up even faster is the stress.

The “Too Good to Be True” Estimate

Just recently, I was called in on a project that honestly left me horrified. A homeowner was doing a legal basement suite and had been referred to a contractor by her realtor. His price was extremely low—like “how is that even possible” low. But because it came as a trusted referral, she moved forward, hoping for the best.

Fast forward 2.5 months, and this suite that was supposed to be finished in six weeks was nowhere near complete. The homeowner had already had to push her tenants off for two months. And when I walked in? My stomach dropped.

Here’s what I saw:

• Drywall completely destroyed

• Brand new framing out of line and wobbly

• Plumbing in the wrong location and set way too low

• Building materials scattered like trash

• Degraded, rotting lumber being installed as if it was acceptable

I was horrified. This wasn’t just sloppy work—it was careless. The contractor had caused more problems than he solved, and the client was left with a mess that would cost her more time and money than if the scope had been priced properly in the first place.

Getting Real

At that point, I had to get real with her. She and her husband decided to tackle what they could themselves, and they gave me the rest of the scope to tie up and bring back to life. Our mission was clear: salvage what could be saved, fix what was broken, and do everything we could to respect the original budget—even though it was never realistic to begin with.

Why We Keep It Real From the Start

This experience is exactly why I take capturing the entire scope so seriously. Lowball pricing might look attractive, but if it’s not based on reality, it’s nothing but a ticking time bomb.

I don’t want my clients to feel blindsided, disappointed, or worse—horrified. That’s why I’d rather spend the time upfront to price the real project, not just a shiny number on paper. It means you might not get the lowest bid, but you’ll get the honest one. And with that comes trust, peace of mind, and a project that doesn’t spiral into chaos.

Stress Less, Build Better

Renovations are already stressful. They impact your home, your family, your daily rhythms. The last thing you need is the constant anxiety of wondering, “What disaster is waiting for me now?”

By capturing the full scope right from the beginning, we keep projects on track, on budget, and in integrity. No gimmicks, no games—just real numbers for real work.

At the end of the day, it’s not just about building beautiful spaces. It’s about building trust. And that always starts with keeping it real.

From Pins to Reality: How to Turn Your Pinterest Board Into a Real Home Project

Hey friends — it’s Sydney 🌿

If you’re anything like me (or like 99% of my clients), you’ve probably got a Pinterest board (or ten) saved with kitchens you love, dream bathrooms, cozy mudrooms, or maybe even a whole “someday home” collection.

The thing is — saving ideas is easy. Making them real? That’s where people usually get stuck.

So today, I want to share how I help clients take those dreamy pins and turn them into an actual space that feels like them— livable, functional, and beautiful.

Step 1: Look for the Patterns

Scrolling Pinterest, it’s easy to pin everything that catches your eye. (Been there. Still do that.) But before diving into decisions, take a step back.

👉 Ask yourself: What keeps showing up?

• Do you see lots of warm wood tones?

• Is there a color palette that repeats?

• Are your “dream kitchens” always bright with natural light, or are they moody and dramatic?

• Do you notice a common cabinet style, countertop material, or even a backsplash you keep saving?

Pro tip: Create one “master board” for the project you’re focusing on (like Kitchen Reno 2025), and move your favorite pins there. Narrowing down helps clarify what you actually love versus what was just pretty in the moment.

Step 2: Translate Inspiration Into Reality

This is where Pinterest can get tricky — because not everything you see online is realistic for your space, your budget, or even your climate. (Sorry, indoor olive trees don’t thrive in Calgary winters 🥶).

Here’s what I do with clients:

• Measure the space. What works in a 500 sq. ft. open-concept loft might not fit a 90s suburban kitchen.

• Evaluate function. Do you cook big family dinners? Do you need space for kids’ homework? Do you entertain a lot?

• Source locally. A tile that looks perfect online might not be available here — but I can often find a local or custom option that achieves the same look.

Think of it like translating a language: Pinterest is the inspiration language, but your home is the lived-in, real-world version.

Step 3: Build a Mood Board

A Pinterest board is endless and overwhelming. A mood board (digital or physical) is where the real magic happens.

This is where I take:

• Cabinet samples

• Countertop swatches

• Flooring options

• Hardware styles

• Paint chips

…and pull them together so you can actually see how they play off one another.

Suddenly it’s not just “that one pretty pin” — it’s your actual space, taking shape.

Step 4: Create a Realistic Plan (and Budget)

This is the part most people skip when they try to DIY from Pinterest — and it’s also where most projects go sideways.

• Timeline: Decide what’s realistic (a full kitchen might take 8–12 weeks once materials arrive).

• Budget: Match your dream elements with real costs. (That $20k marble slab may not be the right fit — but a quartz lookalike might save you thousands and still give you the vibe you want.)

• Phases: If your budget doesn’t allow for everything at once, break it down. Sometimes we’ll start with painting and hardware now, then add countertops and backsplash later.

Step 5: Work With the Right Team

Pinterest is full of “DIY hacks” — and while I’m all for a weekend project, bigger renovations need a team. Designers, contractors, cabinet makers, trades — these are the people who make sure your vision is built to last.

And here’s the thing: working with professionals doesn’t mean giving up control. My job is to make sure your Pinterest inspiration shines through, while also making sure it’s functional, code-compliant, and beautifully built.

Step 6: Enjoy the Process (Not Just the Before + After)

The part people don’t see on Pinterest? The late-night texts with clients about cabinet handles. The laughter over tile samples that looked so different in real life. The joy of seeing the space come together step by step.

That’s the part I love the most — and it’s why your Pinterest board isn’t just a collection of pretty photos. It’s the starting point of a collaboration that can turn your house into a home that feels authentically yours.

Final Thought

Pinterest is an incredible tool for dreaming — but the real magic happens when those dreams start taking shape in your space.

So if you’ve been staring at a board full of kitchens, bathrooms, or mudrooms, wondering where to start — this is your sign.

Take the pins. Find the patterns. Build a plan. And if you want help translating all of that into something real, that’s exactly what I do.

This is Sydney Paulsen — with a sage-green heart, a clipboard full of samples, and a love for turning inspiration into livable beauty.

How did we choose our name?

The moment I met Denys Krasnikov on that job site, it felt like fate had a hand in bringing us together. We were working on a custom Bathroom off Crescent Boulevard in Downtown Calgary. Both of us were entrenched in uninspiring companies, yearning for something more meaningful to channel our skills and passion. Our conversations quickly unveiled a shared frustration and a deeper desire to create spaces that truly reflected who we are.

Long days of discussing design, materials and schedules turned into shared dreams of innovation in design. I was a 26-year-old project manager juggling the chaos of motherhood with the rigors of a corporate job. Meanwhile, Denys was a craftsman who had spent years perfecting his skills, culminating in a burst of inspiration during his time in Monaco. He would often tell me stories about the stunning architecture that graced the streets of that glamorous city, where every renovation seemed like a work of art and each building told its own story.

As weeks turned into months, the spark between us ignited into a flame of ambition. We realized that we could take our collective experiences and expertise and mold them into something uniquely ours. It felt inevitable; we needed to break free from the mold of our routine jobs and dive into the world of custom renovations. That's when the idea for Monaco Custom Renovations truly blossomed. We wanted to capture the elegance and creativity of Monaco and infuse it into every project we undertook.

The name was a nod not just to Denys's journey, but also to our mission: to innovate, to renovate, and to create homes that tell stories. It felt like a perfect blend of our backgrounds—his craftsmanship and my design experience—and a tribute to the place that fueled his passion for architecture.

We knew we had something special, something that would resonate with others who, like us, craved personal and bespoke solutions in their homes. With each project, we don’t just renovate; we embrace the process, showcasing the beauty behind every transformation. We take pride in our craft, revealing the journey every step of the way, because it's not just about the destination, but the path we take to get there.

And as I stand back to admire the final touches of each project, I see not just a well-executed renovation but a piece of our story, intertwined with every beam and cabinet we’ve crafted together. It's not merely a business; it's our passion, our love, and our legacy, shaped by the charm of Monaco and the magic of our shared journey.

Custom cabinetry, the what why and how

Custom cabinetry isn’t just about storage—it’s about making a space truly yours. As a project manager juggling two little whirlwinds (my daughters) and a business, I’ve seen firsthand how custom cabinetry transforms a house into a home.

First off, let’s talk style. When you choose custom cabinets, you’re not picking something off the shelf that a hundred other houses have. Nope. You’re designing pieces that fit your space perfectly—not only in size but personality. Whether it’s sleek, modern lines or a cozy, rustic feel, custom cabinetry lets you reflect who you are. I find it’s kind of like picking the perfect outfit for a big day: it needs to fit right and make you feel confident every time you walk in.

Now, from a practical standpoint, with two little ones running around, durability matters just as much as style. Custom cabinets are crafted with expert care and quality materials to stand up to the chaos of daily life—sticky fingers included. Denys always reminds me that good craftsmanship doesn’t just look good; it stands the test of time. Getting a custom solution means we get the exact storage spots for toys, crafting supplies, and yes, all those snack containers that multiply like magic.

What I love most about our skilled team at Monaco Custom Renovations is that we don’t hide behind the process. We show every stage—from bare bones to that final reveal where your cabinetry is ready for its close-up. It’s a bit like watching my daughters grow: you see the messy middle, the hard work, and then the beautiful result.

In the end, custom cabinetry is a perfect blend of form and function, tailored just for you. Whether you’re a busy parent like me or just someone who loves their space to feel special, it’s worth considering. After all, your home should tell your story, one beautifully crafted cabinet at a time.

Tile Craftsmanship and why it is essential to your space

Tile Craftsmanship: An Insight into the Artistry Behind Tile Installation

Hey there! I’m Sydney, co-founder of Monaco Custom Renovations, and I’m absolutely passionate about design—with an eye for detail, I get thrilled every day working alongside Denys, the mastermind behind our tile craftsmanship. Watching him work? It’s downright inspiring.
Denys has this magical way of handling tile that’s like watching a master artist paint a canvas. Every movement he makes is deliberate and precise. He doesn’t just lay tile; he breathes life into every piece, blending tiles and epoxy with such skill that raw materials transform into these flawless, seamless surfaces that elevate a room beyond ordinary.
To me, tile installation isn’t just a technical job—it’s an art form that requires an understanding of aesthetics, durability, and function.

Selecting the right tile, considering texture, colour, and size, impacts the entire vibe of a space. Placement is equally crucial—the pattern, how light plays across the tiles, and the flow within the room all come together like a symphony when done thoughtfully.
And then there’s installation—the moment where the vision truly takes shape. A poor installation can undermine even the most beautiful design. But when done right, it creates surfaces that last for decades, maintaining their beauty and integrity over time. That’s why we don’t just rush through this step; meticulous attention through our selection process ensures you get a space that feels right and stands the test of time.
If you’re thinking about a renovation, I can’t stress enough how important it is to have an open conversation with your contractor about a design consultation. This is the perfect opportunity to explore what tile options will work best for your specific space and lifestyle. After all, the right tile choice combined with expert placement and installation will elevate your home in ways you might not have imagined.
At Monaco Custom Renovations, we’re committed to transparency in the renovation process because we want you to love every inch of your home, from the materials chosen to the craftsmanship that brings it all to life. With Denys’s mastery and a bit of my design passion, we create spaces that aren’t just beautiful—they’re meaningful and enduring.
So, next time you’re considering tile, remember: it’s more than just a surface. It’s an art, a craft, and a crucial part of your home’s story. And trust me, watching Denys turn tile into treasure is a sight you don’t want to miss!

Looking for a Contractor? Here’s some tips

When embarking on a home renovation project, selecting the right contractor is paramount to ensure a smooth process and a successful outcome. With the myriad of options available, it can be challenging to determine which professional is best suited for your specific needs. Below are key considerations to help you make an informed decision.

Define Your Project

Before you begin searching for a contractor, clearly define the scope of your renovation. Are you looking to update a single room, or are you planning an entire home overhaul? Having a well-defined project will help you communicate your vision effectively to your potential contractors. If this step is something you are struggling with, consider asking your potential contractor for a Design Consultation.

Research and Recommendations

Start your search by asking friends, family, and colleagues for recommendations. Personal referrals can provide you with valuable insights into the contractor's quality of work, reliability, and professionalism. Additionally, explore online reviews and ratings on reputable renovation websites and social media platforms to gauge the experiences of previous clients.

Verify Credentials

Once you have a shortlist of contractors, it’s essential to verify their credentials. Past client references are a great way to ensure quality workmanship. Check if they possess the necessary licenses and insurance required to be doing work in your home. A legitimate contractor should have liability insurance to protect against accidents on your property and workers’ compensation insurance for their team. This verification step safeguards you from potential legal issues down the line.

Review Portfolios

A professional contractor should have a portfolio or website showcasing their past work. Take the time to review their previous projects, paying attention to the style, quality, and complexity of the renovations they have completed. This will help you assess whether their aesthetic aligns with your vision.

Seek Multiple Quotes

Request detailed estimates from multiple contractors to compare pricing. While it's natural to lean towards the lowest bid, be cautious; a low quote could indicate subpar quality workmanship or hidden costs. Look for transparency in pricing and ensure that all aspects of the renovation are included in the estimates. A detailed scope of work should be attached to quotes provided by the contractor. Many companies may give you a ballpark quote without looking at the scope in its entirety. This will result in extra costs homeowners do not anticipate.

Ask the Right Questions

During the consultation process, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Inquire about their experience with similar projects, timelines, and the materials they recommend. A reputable contractor will be open to discussing their approach and should demonstrate a clear understanding of your renovation needs.

Evaluate Communication Skills

Effective communication is vital to a successful renovation project. Pay attention to how promptly contractors respond to your inquiries and how clearly they convey information. A contractor who values communication is more likely to ensure your expectations are met throughout the renovation process. There will be contractors that are right and wrong for you, finding someone you feel comfortable with is essential.

Assess Their Team

Inquire about the team that will be working on your project. Knowing who will be on-site, their experience, and their work ethic can provide additional peace of mind. Contractors with skilled, dedicated teams are more likely to deliver quality results on time.

Trust Your Instincts

Finally, trust your instincts. Choose a contractor with whom you feel comfortable and confident. A good working relationship built on trust can significantly impact the overall success of your renovation.

Finding the right renovation contractor is a crucial step in transforming your space into something you will love. By following these tips, you can ensure that you select a person who aligns with your vision, understands your needs, and delivers exceptional craftsmanship. At Monaco Custom Renovations, we take pride in our expert craftsmanship and attention to detail when it comes to planning a project. We ensure that your renovation experience is seamless and enjoyable.