Defining spaces

There's something about the smell of wood that is very evocative. Perhaps it brings back memories of your childhood home, the school house or maybe skiing trips to a log cabin the aroma usually brings back good memories.

Rick Baumgarten, president of Lee Lumber, knows this better than most. His father started Lee Lumber, and working with wood has created the values that shape the company today.

"We believe if all we do is quote a price we are doing a disservice. We know it can be intimidatingto try and match cabinetry to floorboards and joinery to countertops. That's why we are involved in a project from start to finish, either through our woodworkers in the mill shop, or through our certified installers," says Baumgarten.

Lee Lumber provides cabinetry, interior doors and trim for multi-unit projects. They specialize in high-rise condominiums, in particular those calling for custom Wood-Mode kitchens.

"We add value for the developer, who improves the project with upgrades, and the units sell more readily because the client gets what they want," says Baumgarten.

This integrated approach to sales and service is a hallmark of the business. Baumgarten says the key to maintaining good working relationships is making sure everyone involved in a project benefits in some way.

"So while the homeowners and developers get the results they want, our certified installers receive training to help them upskill. On top of this, the installers form business relationships with more than half the referrals they receive from us. If everyone is happy, you usually see great results."

For further details, contact Lee Lumber & Building Material Corp, 3250 North Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60618, phone (773) 509 6700, fax (773) 509 6704. Website: www.leelumber.com.

Story by: Trendsideas