Where Vision Meets Craft.

What began as a passion project for family and friends has grown into one of Southern Chester County’s most trusted remodeling companies. A2 Design Solutions specializes in home remodeling and renovations, transforming kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and living spaces into functional, beautiful places you’ll love coming home to.  Enjoy this conversation with Alicia Crymes of A2 Design Solutions.

Alicia, Andy and their children

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Tell us about A2 Design Solutions — how did the company get its start?

A2 Design Solutions was founded in 2011 by my husband Andy and I, the two A’s in A2! We combined our backgrounds in project management and construction with a shared passion for design and decided to turn that into a business. We started small, helping family and close friends transform their spaces, and grew steadily from there through word-of-mouth referrals. Today we serve homeowners throughout southern Chester County and beyond.

 

What types of projects do you specialize in?

Our focus is interior home remodeling. Kitchens, bathrooms, and basements are our most popular projects. We also do a lot of custom tile work, trim and finish carpentry, and other home improvements. If you’re looking at a space in your home and thinking “this needs to change,” chances are we can help.

 

What makes A2 Design Solutions different from other contractors?

A few things stand out. First, we’re not just builders, we bring a design eye to every project. We help clients think through layout, materials, and finishes so the end result is something they truly love, not just something functional. Second, communication is a core part of how we work. We keep homeowners informed throughout the process, no wondering what’s going on or when someone will show up. And third, we treat your home with respect. Our clients often tell us that’s a rare find.

 

I’m not sure exactly what I want — do I need to come in with a plan?

Not at all! In fact, many of our clients start with just a general idea or a feeling that a space isn’t working for them. We take the time to walk through your home with you, ask questions, and explore options together. We’re also happy to look at inspiration photos, Pinterest boards, or screen shots. We love translating those ideas into real, livable spaces.

 

Be honest with us — what’s the number one thing that surprises homeowners when it comes to cost?

How much things actually cost today! We hear it often, someone has a budget in mind based on what a neighbor paid five years ago, or a number they saw online, and the reality of today’s material and labor costs can be a real eye-opener. A full kitchen renovation, for example, involves cabinetry, countertops, appliances, flooring, plumbing, electrical, and skilled labor, it adds up quickly. Not to mention, the cost of materials alone has risen significantly in recent years.

We’re never going to give someone a number that sounds good just to get the job. We’d rather have a candid conversation upfront so there are no surprises down the road. If a client’s budget isn’t quite aligned with their wish list, we’ll say so and then work together to figure out what’s possible, whether that means phasing the project, prioritizing certain elements, or adjusting some selections. Our goal is always to help you get the most out of your investment, but we start with honesty. An informed client is always a happier client.

 

What does the process look like from start to finish?

It usually starts with a conversation, either by phone or an on-site visit, where we learn about your goals and take a look at the space. From there, we put together a plan and estimate. Once we’re aligned, we get to work, keeping you informed at each stage. Our goal is to make the process as smooth as possible for you from day one to the final walkthrough.

 

This is truly a family business — what does that mean for your clients?

It started with family, our first projects were for relatives and close friends who trusted us to get it right, and that foundation shaped everything about how we work today. Andy and I built this business together, we’re raising our kids here in southern Chester County, and this community is home for us in every sense of the word. We shop at the same places our clients do, our kids go to school with their kids. That kind of connection keeps things personal and keeps us accountable.

When you invite us into your home, you’re not getting a big faceless company. You’re getting Andy on-site and a team that takes real pride in the work they do. Most of our business comes from referrals and repeat customers, and that means everything to us. This community has supported our family and our business for over a decade, and we try to give that back in the quality of every project we complete.

 

Before we go – What’s one piece of advice you’d give a homeowner before starting a renovation?

Do your homework on who you’re hiring. Ask for references, look at reviews, and make sure you’re comfortable with how they communicate before any work begins. A renovation is an intimate process. Contractors are in your home, sometimes for weeks at a time. You want someone who you can rely on who is responsive, transparent, and treats your space with respect. The lowest bid isn’t always the best value, and a contractor who communicates well will save you far more stress than a few dollars saved upfront. When you find someone you genuinely trust, the whole experience, from the first conversation to the final walkthrough, is smoother and more enjoyable.

 

How can someone get started with A2 Design Solutions?

The easiest way is to give us a call at (484) 928-0099 or visit our website at www.a2designsolutions.com to fill out a contact form. Whether you have a fully formed plan or just a dream, we’d love to hear from you.