With each quality NYC renovation, Unicorn Builders challenges the ‘unreliable contractor’ narrative
- A boutique approach means a team experienced in design, budgeting, and construction
- Instead of blindsiding you with mounting costs, Unicorn sticks to an upfront estimate
Rendering of a gut renovation for a 4,500-square-foot kitchen in Gramercy, where Unicorn is executing a design/build project.
Courtesy of Unicorn Builders
Many New York City homeowners can tell you horror stories about contractors and renovations, typically involving projects that turned out far more expensive than initial estimates. Some can show you work that continues to find new and interesting ways to fall apart. Others can point to finishes that didn’t last nearly as long as they should have, especially considering the cost.
Brooklyn-based Unicorn Builders was founded in 2020, opening their doors to homeowner projects after more than 25 years working only as a real estate development group. Combined, the founders have more than 100 years of construction experience and are dedicated to rewriting this "unreliable contractor" narrative.
It’s unfortunately very common for a client to be won over by a low opening bid from a contractor that prioritizes getting the business over a genuine understanding of the work involved, said Jesse Klebanow, managing partner at Unicorn Builders.
The result? “You get blindsided by multiple unexpected costs that throw off both your budget and your timeline,” Klebanow said.
If you’re looking to avoid that, Unicorn Builders' team gives you an honest estimate up front, along with what that cost is built on, he said, adding, “our emphasis on communication and sharing our expectations up front is far more valuable to us and to you, in the long run.”
A focus on quality
Unicorn Builders uses superior materials in their New York City projects, Klebanow said.
“No one wants to pay for a project only to turn around a few months later and find several new issues. Instead of a fast, cheap, and likely a very short-lived fix, the team focuses on quality materials, aiming for long-term stability, and making sure you don’t end up facing years of instability—or potential legal issues.”
Cutting through the red tape
It’s a challenge to renovate in the dense urban environment of New York City, which has stringent permit requirements for major renovations. Many projects also require coordination with building management, adding another layer of complexity.
Unicorn Builders brings their experience from all aspects of the renovation industry to your project. “You won’t waste time tracking down someone you hope is the right person to talk to about whether you can or can’t do certain work,” Klebanow said.
The advantages of a boutique approach
Unicorn has a streamlined team to boost coordination. That means you do not have to juggle multiple companies and hope they all work out (and work well together), Klebanow said. Instead, you work with a team already composed of professionals in design, budgeting, and construction.
Unicorn Builders considers its “boutique” approach to be the best one for them as a company and for you as their client. A substantial portion of their growth has come from word-of-mouth recommendations and repeat clients. It’s an outcome of their conviction that relationships and experiences matter as much as the final product.
Interested in exploring a design project with Unicorn Builders? Check out their website and request a consultation, or email them directly at info@buildwithunicorn.com.
