Business & Tech

Westfield Based Construction Company Featured on NBC's 'George to the Rescue', Oct. 10

Local Westfield general contractor and interior designer donate a home remodel for a deserving Fanwood family with George Oliphant.

A team of local subcontractors led by Mike and Ellie Mroz of Michael Robert Construction, and George Oliphant of NBC’s weekly home improvement show, George to the Rescue, joined together to give the Davis Family of Fanwood the kitchen and family room of their dreams. The remodel was achieved solely through local contractors and suppliers’ donations.

The family was nominated for the home renovation by a neighbor nearly two years ago. “One day I was talking to [neighbor] Tina Fairweather about Thanksgiving and that our oven was too small to make a holiday meal,” explained homeowner Sally Davis. “Tina wrote a letter, submitted pictures, and explained our situation. We didn’t hear anything for a while, so we forgot about it. A year and a half later, it happened.”

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The Davis Family has been dreaming of remodeling their cramped and outdated kitchen for quite some time, but prohibitive medical costs have not allowed them to do so. The family’s oldest son, Matty, was born with developmental issues that have required various surgeries and treatments throughout the years and left them on a tight budget.

The TV show’s producers found Michael Robert Construction through the home design website Houzz.com, where the local general contracting company has made a name for themselves showcasing their beautiful Westfield area construction projects. The producers were impressed with the company’s work, and loved the concept that Mike and his wife Ellie were hyper-local - both were born and raised here in Westfield - and a husband/wife team. Mike would serve as the episode’s lead contractor, and Ellie as the lead designer. All of the couple’s work, and the work of their subcontractors, would have to be donated. Materials, as well.

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When they contacted Michael Robert Construction to collaborate on the “rescue,” it didn’t take long for owner Mike Mroz to jump on board. “Ten seconds into the Davis Family’s casting video, I was committed, and I knew my team would be in,” said Mroz. “They all have a contagiously positive, happy attitude. And they live so close, they’re basically neighbors. How could you not want to help?”

Michael Robert Construction gutted the existing kitchen, added new windows, built custom cabinets, and designed a new and improved layout. As an added surprise, they gutted and furnished the adjoining family room as well. Designer Ellie Mroz knew the extra work was a must as soon as she saw the existing kitchen’s layout and heard that the Davis Family, especially son Matty, loves to entertain. “We were about to give them this gorgeous, bright, new kitchen. How could we not also update this space they need to accommodate their family and friends?”

While the family vacated their home so the construction team could work their magic, Michael Robert Construction arranged yet another incredible surprise. The Davis Family, huge New York Rangers fans, had the opportunity to visit the team’s training camp with Rangers legend Adam Graves. “When we met the Davis’s for the first time, both Mr. Davis and Matty were wearing Rangers gear and told us how excited they were to watch the game together that night,” noted Ellie. “We have a great connection within the NHL, and with a few calls we were able to get them on board, too. Mike and I were both floored by everyone’s generosity and willingness to help. This is truly a great community we live in.”

The remodel, estimated to be worth roughly $70,000, includes the newest innovations in appliances, custom cabinetry, marble countertops, detailed trim work, custom window treatments, designer accessories, and even a special area for the family dog.

“Seeing the family’s reaction was priceless,” remarked Mike Mroz. “Michael Robert Construction would like to thank everyone who helped make this dream a reality for the Davis Family. We couldn’t have done this without each and every one of you. I think it’s safe to say this has been a rewarding experience for everyone involved.”

Watch George to the Rescue this weekend to see the incredible transformation, and to see the family’s show-stopping reactions. The episode airs on NBC on Saturday, October 10th @ 9 AM. Sunday October 11th @ 12:30 AM (Sunday into Monday)

Visit Ellie and Mike’s website: http://www.MichaelRobertconstruction.com

Find them on Facebook, Instagram (@MichaelRobertConstruction), and Pinterest (@njcontractormrc) as well

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