The Company Profile ~ Cover Story

      ...In high school [Steve] studied American History and drafting. He thought about engineering and architecture; he worked weekends for carpenters and framers.
      After graduation, he apprenticed for eight years for established contractors in the area; he gained knowledge and experience, and he found a dream.
      To restore older homes and preserve the past. Living in northwest New Jersey offered him the best market for his trade... the older quality home with the owner who could afford to have fine restoration work done.

Love of History
      Thus Steve was able to take his love of American History and combine it with his talent as a master builder and carpenter to renovate, restore, and create memorable and authentic period reproductions. Whether constructing a custom home or renovating, restoring, or remodeling an existing home, each Mongno creation is authentic, individually distinctive, and unsurpassed in craftsmanship.
      His work and his reputation were recognized when he was asked to sit on the Board of Directors of the Somerset/Morris Builder's Association and was named Chairman of the Remodeler's Council of Somerset/Morris Counties.

The Farmhouse Renovation
      The picturesque farmhouse on 95 rolling acres of Hunterdon County has been totally rebuilt with all the original warmth and character skillfully preserved. Much of the original hand hewn beams, stone work, moldings, and floorings remain and have been restored. The slate roof added around the turn-of-the-century also remains in excellent condition. The appointments for 21st century living - a modern kitchen and baths - have been added creating a residence of comfort and charm.

      "I know immediately when I see a property what's been done to it over the years. If need be, I consult with the historical society to add to the accuracy of the restoration. This house was originally half its present size. Inside, half had an early colonial look and half had a Victorian flair. To some extent we followed each half according to its existing style."
      The entrance hall, living room and two of the upstairs bedrooms form the addition of the 1840 and remain light Victorian in appearance; whereas the kitchen, dining room, and master suite form the original house built in 1790.
      "When we began working, chipping away at concrete and plaster, we found beautiful New Jersey Red Fieldstone fireplaces in the kitchen, dining room, and master bedroom, as well as hand hewn beams throughout. We stripped, chipped, and pointed up the stone, and refurbished all the beams along with the newel post and balasters in the entrance hall leading to the second story."
      Outside the original cedar clapboard was retained and refurbished, painted white and the shutters green. The new 6/6 Thermopane double hung windows offer panoramic views in every direction from every room in the house.
      Framed by cooling century old shade trees, this colonial farmhouse is a delight to an old home lover and a testament to the artistry of authentic restoration and remodeling.