For over 50 years, the Ken Spears Construction team has worked hard to earn a place as one of the most trusted names in Illinois kitchen and bathroom remodeling. Our dedication to exceptional design, top-tier craftsmanship, and a focus on customer satisfaction has consistently raised the bar for what homeowners can expect from a remodeling project.
We started in the small town of Shabbona, Illinois, with a vision to provide homeowners with high-quality remodeling services. Since then, we’ve grown into an industry leader known for delivering award-winning kitchen and bathroom renovations throughout Dekalb County and beyond. Our success is not only a testament to our team’s skill and commitment but also to the trust our clients place in us when they choose us to work on their most cherished spaces.
In this article, we’ll take you behind the scenes and share how we’ve earned our reputation as a top remodeling company in Illinois. We’ll highlight some of our most notable accomplishments and showcase the stunning transformations that have helped solidify our legacy in the world of kitchen remodeling and bathroom renovations.
From Humble Beginnings to National Recognition: Winner of the Big 50 Award
When we first opened our doors in 1975, we were a small operation based in Shabbona, Illinois—a town with a population of under 1,000 people. Back then, we didn’t have the same technology or resources that many of our larger competitors enjoyed. Still, we had something that set us apart: an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and quality.
In 1999, we were honored with the prestigious Big 50 award from Remodeling magazine, a national recognition of our hard work and dedication. The Class of 1999 was selected for their business acumen, exceptional service, and ability to create companies that serve as industry models.
This award, presented on May 17 at the Crystal City Marriott in Washington, D.C., was a defining moment for us. Featured in Remodeling magazine’s May issue, it symbolized not just an achievement but the trust we had earned from our clients. Being recognized on a national stage, despite our small-town roots, was a powerful message: our team could compete with the industry’s best.
Leading with Industry Expertise
One of the keys to our success over the years has been our relentless pursuit of excellence. While some companies might rest on their laurels after a national award, we’ve always believed that there’s always room for improvement. That’s why we’ve remained committed to continuously refining our skills and staying at the cutting edge of the remodeling industry.
Today, many of our project managers and lead carpenters hold prestigious NARI certifications, such as Certified Remodeler and Certified Lead Carpenter. These certifications aren’t just badges on the wall—they are a reflection of our commitment to the highest standards of quality, safety, and craftsmanship.
Having a team of experts who hold these industry certifications ensures that our clients can have confidence in every part of their project. Whether it’s a kitchen renovation or a bathroom remodel, we handle every detail with precision and care.
We know that the remodeling industry is always evolving, and we work hard to stay ahead of the curve. Our team participates in regular training, attends industry conferences, and stays up to date on the latest trends and techniques in the field. This dedication is what allows us to continue offering top-notch services and deliver results that exceed expectations.
Showcasing Award-Winning Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling Projects
At Ken Spears Construction, we know that the kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s a place where families gather, share meals, and create memories. That’s why we focus on designing spaces that not only look amazing but work well for our clients.
Over the last five decades, we’ve had the privilege of transforming homes across Illinois, and each project has been a unique opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to quality. We’ve received numerous awards for our work, and we take great pride in the recognition we’ve earned for our kitchen remodeling and bathroom renovation projects.
One of the most memorable projects for us was a bathroom remodel that was recognized with the 2024 NARI Regional Contractor of the Year (CotY) Award for Residential Bath Remodel under $40K. This bathroom remodel completely reimagined an upper-level space, turning it into a more functional and storage-savvy haven. The homeowners were craving the convenience of a shower on the upstairs level—something the original design didn’t offer. Our innovative solution? We bid farewell to the free-standing bathtub and made way for a sleek, compact shower that packs a punch, elevating both the style and practicality of the space.
We were honored to receive both regional and national awards for that bathroom remodel because it’s a perfect example of what we do best—take the client’s vision and elevate it with our expertise.
In addition to our success with bathroom renovations, our kitchen remodeling projects have also garnered attention for their exceptional design and functionality.
Click here to see our Kitchen Remodeling Portfolio
The Importance of Communication and Client Relationships
It’s clear to us that communication is key to a successful project. Remodeling can be a complex process, and we know how important it is for homeowners to feel informed and involved every step of the way. That’s why we’ve developed systems to ensure that our clients are always in the loop and able to track the progress of their projects.
Our client portal allows homeowners to monitor their project’s status, review design options, and communicate directly with our team—whether they’re at home or on the go. We’ve found that this level of transparency helps reduce stress and ensures that the entire remodeling experience is smooth and enjoyable.
At Ken Spears Construction, we’re always just a call or click away. We want our clients to feel confident and excited throughout the entire process, from the initial consultation to the final walk-through.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Remodeling
As we reflect on over 50 years of transforming kitchens and bathrooms across Illinois, we are incredibly proud of all that we’ve accomplished. Our journey from a small-town operation in Shabbona to a nationally recognized remodeling leader is a testament to our unwavering commitment to quality craftsmanship, integrity, and client satisfaction.
Get Your Project Started With Ken Spears Construction
When it comes to remodeling your kitchen or bathroom in Illinois, you want a company that has the experience, expertise, and commitment to deliver exceptional results. At Ken Spears Construction, we have over 50 years of experience and a portfolio of stunning projects that speak for themselves. From the initial consultation to the final touches, we’re dedicated to making your house a home.
Create your dream space with the award-winning team at Ken Spears Construction. Explore our blog for design ideas and tips, and browse our portfolio to see some of the projects we’ve helped bring to life in Dekalb and beyond. Then contact us for a complimentary remodeling estimate so you can get started creating a space you’ll love for years!
