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This Finished Basement in Hatfield, PA captures the homeowner’s vision of an in-home Irish pub. This expansive basement has many features designed specifically for the customer’s needs—including special lighted displays for his model trains, custom-depth drawers to store his extensive record collection, and an accessible bathroom. The stone fireplace and sports bar backsplash give this spacious basement just the right amount of rustic, cozy feel. Design and Construction by Meridian.

Our Customer Said:“We recently completed a major design and build project in our 1500 square feet basement using Meridian Construction, and we must say we are extremely satisfied with the results. We had a pretty good idea what we wanted to achieve when we started the project, but had no idea how much better it would turn out, due to the efforts of the team at Meridian.

When we started our search for a contractor, we knew we were looking for a one-stop, design and build solution. We had heard many stories about people who decided to use one company for the design work, and then use another company for the construction phase. Or worse yet, those who chose to hire multiple sub-contractors to perform the framing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and other portions of the project. We decided not to go down that road. We spent several few weeks on the internet researching different D&B contractors in the local area; both via websites like Angie’s List and Houzz, and found a few likely candidates. After review of the Meridian Construction website, which depicts photo-shoots of many of their completed projects and actual customer reviews, we took the plunge and called Meridian. After our first one hour meeting at their office with Larry Giannone, one of the owners, and the rest of his staff, we knew we had found the right company for our project.

After we signed the design contract, the real work began. Through a series of weekly meetings, usually held at Meridian’s office through the design phase, we walked thru each step of the Meridian process. First, Larry and his design assistant, Austin, came out to our house and took complete measurements of our basement. Then, after review of some sketches of a proposed layout we had previously made, and a thorough discussion of what our goals and objectives were, Austin put everything in a computer program that gave us 2D and 3D dimensional views of our plans. It became very evident that we needed to make some changes, and with Larry and Austin’s guidance, we made significant improvements to our layout. This process got finer and finer in detail as we went along, everything – including electrical, plumbing, ceiling, flooring, doors, fireplace, bathroom and bar fixtures, cabinetry – was included in those plans. And each time, Austin would update the computer program, so we could see the changes clearly in great detail. And with each change, Martha, Meridian’s project coordinator, would update a cost spreadsheet and provide us with accurate cost update at all times. Through this process, we got to our final layout. Meridian then took all that information and developed a comprehensive construction quotation, which included all anticipated costs.

We were pleased with the quotation, and by this time, we had developed a great working relationship with Larry and his team. By our original agreement, we could have taken those plans and gone to another contractor for the construction phase. However, there was no question we would continue on with Meridian.

After we signed the construction contract, we picked out the material options for our renovation: plumbing fixtures and tile options for the bathroom, floor and ceiling for all four rooms, stone for the fireplace and the specific gas fireplace to be installed, granite for the bar areas, electrical fixture and outlet options, cabinets for the bar and entertainment area, and paint colors and trim options for all areas. This process was made easy by Meridian: by providing an allowance quote for every item with each supplier in their original quotation, we could decide if and where we wanted to stretch the budget. The allowances were generally spot-on, and we chose where we wanted to upgrade. Meridian provided a list of preferred vendors for these items, and as we visited each supplier, who all were very helpful during this process, and all had a great working relationship with Meridian. Once the selections were all made, Martha updated her cost spreadsheets and we made a few changes to meet our budget requirements.

We were now ready to move on to the actual construction phase. We were to the key members of the Meridian construction team – Mick Giannone, Larry’s brother and business partner, who runs the construction team, and Matt, the on-site construction leader, who worked on our renovation from start to finish. As this phase began, we met with Larry at our house every week, to review progress and discuss the next week’s activity. Even more importantly, we resolved unforeseen issues – in most cases, things that my wife and I thought of that could improve our project. This would require Larry and Austin’s input for feasibility and cost. And each week, we would confer with Larry and Matt in the basement to review final decisions on stone fireplace construction, granite sizes for bar areas, the height of the tray ceiling for the entertainment area, and others.

We were also impressed with Meridian efforts during this project. First, we have a physically challenged grandson (muscular dystrophy) who we want to be able to accommodate inthe basement area. Larry and Austin took care of details, such as the design of a handicapped-accessible bathroom and shower area, and the reinforcement of one set of steps to accommodate a chair lift for installation at a later date. Second, we have several antique model trains that we wanted to display. Larry and Austin suggested in-wall shelving with backlighting in the hallway, which turned out wonderfully. Third, we wanted a state-of-the-art, in-wall home theater system in the entertainment area. We had a local audio shop in mind for the installation and were pleased to hear that Meridian already had a great working relationship with them. The two companies collaborated to make the entertainment area a total success.

With the project completed, we would say that not only are we over-the-top satisfied with our basement renovation, we feel we have become friends with the folks at Meridian. Their attention to detail is unbelievable, and it shows in the final product. We have already talked with Larry abouta few other projects in our home, and would highly recommend anyone to consider Meridian Construction for their renovation work.”

Audrey Thomas Gahring
3 months ago

We had a very pleasant experience working with Meridian Construction remodeling our kitchen. During the design process, they took all our concerns into account and helped us design a kitchen within our existing kitchen and dining room that not only gave us more working and storage space, but more usable seating and dining as well. They thoroughly checked where existing utilities were to limit unanticipated issues after the demo. The construction ended up taking place during the holidays, and although not ideal, Meridian made it a pleasant experience. The craftsmanship was great, and they addressed our questions and concerns promptly and professionally. Our kitchen and dining look amazing and we’re so happy with their work. I would definitely call them again if we need any further remodeling or work around our home.

Rose Miele
4 months ago

While Meridian wasn’t the right fit for my home project, Holly was so generous with her time and design advice. I’m so impressed with how they treat customers—even those whose projects aren’t a perfect match. I would recommend anyone considering the design-build model to consider working with Meridian.

James O'Hara
5 months ago

*** Updated 1/7/25 ***
I am updating this review because even after the project is long done, Larry, Justin, and the folks at Meridian continue to earn our ongoing appreciation and praise. About a year after our project finished, we had an entirely unrelated plumbing issue in a completely separate part of the house. Larry and Justin had previously offered to put us in contact with the plumber (and other professionals) who had worked on our house and, absent any better ideas, we reached out to them for help. We figured they'd give us a name or two and maybe, given their recommendation, we'd have a slightly better experience than if we cold-called these folks ourselves.
I was amazed by the result. Not only did Justin contact the plumber on our behalf and then schedule the work for us - work, again, that was being done to an entirely unrelated part of the house - but the bill for several hours of labor and a bunch of parts ended up being a literal fraction of what we'd paid one of the big name guys a few years ago for a similar, but much smaller, issue.
The project was long done. We'd already written a review. None of this was their problem. They didn't see a dime off of this. They took care of us anyway. We can't recommend them highly enough.
Original Review:
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We worked with Meridian on a large addition and first-floor renovation to our 1940’s Cape Cod-style house. We could not have been happier with the process and the outcome, and recommend Meridian to everyone we know.
We met with several different builders at the outset, but Meridian set themselves apart right away. Some design-build companies wanted to charge for even an initial informational meeting. Others were larger businesses that may have done good work, but did so without much input from the client. Larry, by contrast, took the time and met with us several times to fully understand what was important to us. It was very apparent during these conversations that Larry was not trying to sell Meridian's services as much as making sure that Meridian's services were a good fit for our needs.
The design process was very collaborative and went much better than we’d expected. Going in we had a very clear understanding of our home’s problems, but not a clue about how to solve them. Larry and Steph were incredibly patient and responsive, and we ended up working through eight or nine different plans before finding the right design that worked for our family and budget.
Construction also went well. Mick, Justin, and their team were terrific to work with and were very flexible with both our schedule and working around some difficult site conditions. While there were some delays due to weather, the entire team came together and got our family back into the house in time for Christmas.
The results were outstanding. We not only have a vastly larger (and finally functional!) kitchen and living area, but the entire first floor has been reconfigured to make the most of the existing space. We can’t imagine how we lived in the house before this.
Overall, the most impressive part of working with Meridian was their attention to the little things. When our daughter was born mid-construction, a big basket of baby toys and clothes suddenly appeared on our doorstep. Before Mick broke ground, he let our kindergartner sit with him and steer the backhoe around the yard. The team was so easy to work with and considerate of our neighbors that one of them left their own Google review. Every question was answered — even on nights and weekends — and we received regular updates and felt informed throughout the entire process.
We feel extremely fortunate to have found Meridian — through a Google search, of all things — and look forward to working with them again on more projects in the future.

Shannon Dalessio
8 months ago

Meridian did our kitchen remodel and the entire team is fantastic. Our project was on time and on budget, which was critical for us. Communication was great and they handled any issue or change that came up without question or push back. I never had to argue, be the team was accountable and solution oriented. I’ve heard enough contractor horror stories, and Meridian is the dream. The work and exceeded my expectations. Have already recommended them to several people and will absolutely have them run our next project.

Michele
8 months ago

We recently added an in-law suite to my daughter and son-in-law's home. We chose Meridian Construction in Lansdale because it was a family owned business. They had their own team to do the construction - from owners, office personnel, project manager to trained carpenters, and skilled sub contractors as needed to complete the job. Everyone was professional, communicated during the process, and kept the project on schedule. The quality of construction from painters, cabinet makers, tile and floor installers were great. Thank you for helping us achieve our goal and a beautiful home to enjoy.

Andrew Myers
1 year ago

It has been a pleasure working with Meridian. They helped us come up with a design we love, and we are now enjoying the benefits of their attention to detail and quality craftsmenship. On top of all that, what really separated Meridian from the other companies who engaged with was the people that work at Meridian. From the owner, to the design team, to the carpenters that worked in our house, they all made us feel like part of their family. They treated us like we were their family and our home like it was their home. We will definitely work with them again.

David Carney
1 year ago

We recently worked with the Meridian team to renovate three of our bathrooms and replace our front door, and we couldn't be happier with the results. From start to finish, the entire team was prompt, courteous, and respectful of our home. They stayed on schedule and maintained excellent communication throughout the project.

Larry was forthright and informative about the entire process, which gave us confidence and peace of mind. Stephanie was amazing to work with during the design phase—she truly helped bring our vision to life. The craftsmanship throughout the renovations was topnotch, with great attention to detail. Everyone that worked on our projects --from Austin, Justin, Elvin and others--were great to work with daily.

It was a pleasure working with a team that understood our needs, shared our vision, and communicated with us nonstop to make sure everything turned out just right. We were so impressed with the experience that we’re already planning our next project with Meridian.

Nancy Flanagan
12 months ago

We had an amazing experience with Meridian! From our first contact through to the finished product, we could not have been happier with everything. What really sold us on working with them was their clear process including design. We started with a large unfinished basement, and we had no idea how to organize the space. Meridian's designer, Stephanie, took all our suggestions for how we wanted to use the space and provided 5 different layouts. The design process is extremely thorough with floorpans and design renderings that allowed us to really see what the space would look and feel like in order to make the best decision for us. Larry helped us get the process started. He explained everything in such detail, and everything that occurred from the initial steps until the last day happened as he outlined. The subcontractors were wonderful. Meridian made sure everyone who came through our home respected the space and treated our home with care. We really appreciated our project manager, Justin, who kept the project moving and communicated with us regularly. We had brief weekly meetings to update us on the process, and to ensure any questions we had were answered. The final product is truly lovely - and the space designed and built for us is perfect. The craftsmanship is top notch. We love spending time in our new basement that looks and feels like a seamless extension of our home.

Dave Horrocks
9 months ago

My wife and I decided to have our basement finished and after several recommendations we hired Meridian Construction to do the work. From the very first meeting we felt comfortable with the project recommendations and design. We were updated daily as to what work had been completed and what was next. A shout out to Mikayla for all her help in picking out all the items that were needed for the project. Meridian gave us a timeline to complete the work and they finished on time and it turned out beautiful. Thank you Meridian for a job well done.

Patrick Heavens
12 months ago

Couldn’t be happier working with Meridian to do a full scale renovation of our entire downstairs. Meridian brought a dream to life. From design to completion they were excellent across the board and great to work with. You can tell this company values customer service!

Irish Pub Basement

Hatfield, PA

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