Ep. 05: Building Dream Spaces: Collaboration, Creativity, and Renovation Insights With Kat Gallardo

Ep. 05: Building Dream Spaces: Collaboration, Creativity, and Renovation Insights With Kat Gallardo

What if your dream home renovation turned into a nightmare—simply because you hired the wrong contractor? On this episode of "Demo This, Build That," we’re tearing down the illusions of luxury renovations and diving into the REAL challenges and wins of building (or rebuilding!) your perfect space. Join host Elizabeth Vergara as she welcomes acclaimed interior designer, journalist, and photographer Katherine (Kat) Gallardo, a creative force who brings stories of both dazzling design and renovation disasters. Together, they reveal the surprising truths behind high-end residential projects, from the must-have creative team to the pitfalls that could cost you hundreds of thousands if you’re not prepared. Key Highlights: * Why hiring your design team from the very start can make—or break—your project * The dangers of poor contractor choices (and real client stories of what can go disastrously wrong) * Behind-the-scenes secrets of integrating architecture, décor, and technology for flawless results * The magic of custom furnishings and sourcing textiles straight from the source (hello, weaving communities in Argentina!) * The unglamorous realities of interior design—firefighting, problem-solving, and why your designer is literally saving your investment * Pro tips for due diligence, building the right team, and creating collaborative renovation chemistry This episode is a goldmine of actionable advice and compelling stories, perfect for anyone dreaming up a transformation—without the costly or stressful surprises. Listen in, get inspired, and learn what really goes into making luxury design look effortless! Episode Overview * 00:00: Welcome & episode intro * 00:40:Katherine Gallardo shares her multi-hyphenate background and approach to creativity * 02:00: How interior design and construction roles work together for seamless projects * 05:05: The importance of hiring your design and construction team early * 07:00: Integrating décor, architecture, and tech (AV teams, lighting, custom features) * 12:09: Real-life renovation nightmares and lessons learned about due diligence * 17:35: Budgeting smartly and expecting the unexpected (gas risers, new regulations) * 20:00:Katherine Gallardo's favorite vendors and artisan textile adventures * 23:43: Why working with a designer is critical—and what they really do for your sanity and investment * 28:11: What makes a project or team truly successful (hint: collaboration and honesty!) * 33:02: Where to find Katherine Gallardo and closing thoughts

Ep. 04: Customer Service That Never Sleeps: The Secret to Elegance in Hardware’s Success

What if the difference between renovation chaos and seamless dream-home design is hidden in something as small as a doorknob? In this episode of "Demo This Build That," host Elizabeth Vergara sits down with Ali Moneer, owner of Elegance in Hardware, and hardware specialist Richard Carpio, to reveal the extraordinary world behind high-end hardware—and why it’s the secret weapon in luxury renovations. Get ready for an inside look at what happens when over 150 years of collective expertise in hardware meets the hustle of New York City’s toughest renovation projects. You’ll discover: * How Elegance in Hardware started with just three employees, a single display, and nerves of steel—and now stands as a leader serving architects, designers, contractors, and homeowners nationwide. * The essential (yet overlooked) role of customer service in hardware, with incredible stories of solving seemingly impossible challenges, from custom renovations in century-old buildings to creating bespoke doorstops for radiant-heated floors. * Why a true hardware specialist doesn’t just take your order—they guide you from design to installation, anticipate problems nobody else sees, and even pick up the phone at 4am from Hawaii to answer a client. * Major brand insights, with the team’s breakdown of why companies like Baldwin are trusted for their quality, flexibility, and style—plus the story behind packaging each door’s hardware "like jewelry for your home." * The real reason architects and designers keep coming back: free expertise that turns weeks of work into hours, and the secret language of hardware that only a select few understand. From troubleshooting mysteries to mixing and matching finishes on the fly, this candid conversation exposes the grit, heart, and technical wizardry that turn dust into luxury. Whether you’re planning a full gut renovation or hunting for the perfect cabinet pull, this episode will change the way you think about hardware forever. Episode Overview: * 00:00: Introduction & Origins of Elegance in Hardware * 02:10: Building the Team & Customer Experience Philosophy * 06:10: How Typical Projects Unfold (and What Makes Them Different) * 09:17: Demystifying the Hardware Schedule – What Customers (and Architects) Miss * 13:34: Hardware as "Jewelry for Your Home" * 14:30: Conquering Challenges—Unique Solutions for Century-Old Doors * 17:47: Favorite Brands & Product Flexibility Insights * 19:11: Troubleshooting and Going Beyond the Sale * 20:44: Mixing, Matching, and the Importance of Service Over Sales * 23:22: Where to Find Elegance in Hardware—and Their 24/7 Service Mantra * 24:38: Closing Thoughts & How to Connect Tune in and see why—in the world of luxury builds—the smallest details make all the difference.

Ep. 03: Meet the New 700 Park: Where Chic Meets Functionality

What happens when Park Avenue tradition meets jaw-dropping modern luxury? In this episode of "Demo This. Built That," we take you inside a once-dated, quintessential New York apartment that’s been transformed into a dream home—where high-end finishes, glamorous fixtures, and clever design solutions bring a bold new life to every corner. Host Elizabeth Vergara leads a behind-the-scenes tour in “700 Park audio final,” where every room tells a story of renovation magic: moody blue foyers, glitter grout in the girls’ bathroom, gold fixtures that make the powder room pop, and a master shower designed for two (complete with Samuel Heath fixtures and a bench!). From demolition drama to the selection of custom tiles and restoration hardware lights, you’ll be inspired by luxe details, practical tips, and a touch of renovation reality. Whether you’re looking to refresh your own space or just dreaming of Park Avenue views, this episode is packed with designer secrets, storage hacks, and the satisfaction of seeing a vision come to life. Episode Timestamped Overview: * 00:00:00 – Introduction and show setup * 00:00:10 – Welcome to “Demo this. Build that.”: high end renovations go behind the scenes * 00:00:33 – Transformation of the living room and foyer: open spaces and modern art steals the spotlight * 00:01:35 – A look inside the palantir: gold fixtures, restoration hardware lights, luxe finishes * 00:02:11 – Butler’s pantry: Sub Zero wine cooler, storage solutions, wet bar features * 00:02:44 – Kitchen tour: expansive appliances, double ovens, dishwashers, entertaining-ready setup * 00:03:24 – Master bathroom reveal: double sinks, marble, blue tile, dual shower, luxury touches * 00:03:56 – Girls’ bathroom tour: custom crackle tile, glitter grout, brass and gold fixtures * 00:04:29 – Guest bathroom: 3D tiles, chrome, compact but mighty design * 00:04:54 – Closing thoughts and where to find more from Elizabeth Vergara Get ready for a renovation journey that proves luxury and livability don’t have to be at odds—sometimes, you really can have it all.

Ep. 02: Raising the Bar: Behind the Scenes at The Chandelier Room

What does it really take to build a show stopping luxury bar in just five days—while battling curveballs, tight budgets, and midnight pivots? In this can’t-miss episode of Demo This Build That, host Elizabeth Vergara sits down with Jose from The Chandelier Room in Staten Island for a brutally honest, behind-the-scenes look at the wild journey of transforming his space and business. You’ll discover: * How a single DM on Instagram kickstarted a whirlwind collaboration that turned speedy sketches into a dream bar—practically overnight. * The surprising last-minute design changes, budget challenges, and relentless work hours that went into making the Chandelier Room a true NYC-inspired stunner. * The impact of the new bar on public and private events, from paint-and-sip parties to karaoke nights, and how the right design can literally change a business’s trajectory. * Real talk about learning from mistakes, transitioning from “glam” Instagram moments to hard-earned expertise, and finding friendship and partnership along the way. * A candid discussion about being proud, minority business owners, supporting each other in a competitive industry, and why “taking criticism from people who aren’t in the game” can set you back. Plus, you’ll hear insights on partnering for decor (think: balloon artistry and custom backdrops), discovering unexpected allergies (who knew balloons could be so dangerous?), and the joys and challenges of building something that truly lasts. This episode is for anyone curious about the grit behind the glamour, and anyone dreaming about transforming their own space or business with vision and teamwork. Episode Overview: * [00:00:00] Welcome & Introduction to The Chandelier Room journey * [00:01:12] How it all began—Instagram DMs & speedy sketches * [00:02:32] Design pivots and real-time problem solving * [00:03:15] New York vibes and creating a business showstopper * [00:04:12] The bar’s impact on events, function, and clientele * [00:06:06] Launching public events: Paint-and-sip & culture * [00:07:59] The balloon store story: From trial-and-error to high quality * [00:09:22] Health surprises and learning to adapt in business * [00:10:29] Hard work, long hours, and “delusional” hustle * [00:12:08] Advice, support, and growing together in business * [00:13:45] Importance of detail, mutual expertise, and collaboration * [00:14:40] Expanding services: Backdrops, candy carts, and creative builds * [00:15:30] Connecting through culture and overcoming obstacles * [00:16:29] Women and minorities in business—the real story * [00:17:19] Manifesting the future—and celebrating new beginnings Don’t miss this episode if you want to lift the curtain on what it takes to build more than just a beautiful bar—but a thriving community.

Ep. 01: Building Luxury From Scratch: The St. Augustine Home Tour Experience

Ever wondered how luxury dream homes are really built from the ground up—structural surprises, clever tricks, and all? On this episode of "Demo This. Build That," host Elizabeth Vergara pulls back the curtain on an extraordinary new build in St. Augustine, Florida, taking you step-by-step through the design decisions, challenges, and jaw-dropping details that turn a construction site into a bespoke masterpiece. From a kitchen overflowing with hidden storage (even inside custom columns) to a show-stopping banquette and a lanai built for year-round entertaining, Elizabeth reveals the meticulous planning and must-have features behind this project. Highlights include: * How they turned a structural column into a design feature (and doubled the storage in the process!) * The secrets to a truly functional, luxury kitchen—think paneled fridges, pot fillers, and appliance drawers galore * A primary suite designed for relaxation, with a spa-inspired bathroom and clever, beautiful finishes * Why thoughtful outdoor living spaces are a Florida must-have (and exactly what was installed in this dreamy lanai) Whether you’re dreaming up your own space or just love peeking inside high-end home projects, this episode is packed with insider tips, unique solutions, and inspiration you can actually use. Episode Overview * [00:00:10] Show introduction and episode welcome * [00:00:36] Walkthrough begins: Entryway, dining room, and bar * [00:01:36] Kitchen tour: storage, bay window banquette, and more * [00:02:46] Living room highlights and seamless flow to the lanai * [00:03:27] Kitchen storage solutions and luxury appliances * [00:04:57] Custom kitchen island and architectural design secrets * [00:05:39] Powder room tour and outdoor entertaining space * [00:06:21] Primary suite highlights: bedroom and spa-inspired bathroom * [00:07:13] Outro and how to connect with Elizabeth Vergara Ready for your backstage pass to luxury homebuilding? Hit play and get inspired!