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Solving Space Problems and Making a Home Easier and More Enjoyable to Live In

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Eliad Vaknin

EV Remodeling focuses on a 25-mile radius around Peachtree Corners to give top-notch, personalized service.

Although Eliad Vaknin started EV Remodeling at the end of 2019 in Peachtree Corners, his years of experience and dedication to the craft go well beyond that.

“I started my business years ago, but it was a different name because I had a business partner,” he said.

When Vaknin decided to strike out on his own, he made a vow to give clients personalized and individual attention. “I consult with clients throughout the project, connect them to the right architects, get the proper permits, and help them choose the designs and items that are right for them,” he said. “I’m here for them every step of the way.”

Although home remodeling has seen a measured increase in the last decade — especially since the pandemic hit — the process can be daunting. Vaknin said he often hears horror stories from clients about contractors who left them frustrated and wary of ever taking on another home improvement project. 

“For us it’s more than just another project,” he explained. “Our clients deserve our time, care, and attention to detail. It’s my personal goal to make sure that everyone is not just happy, but ecstatic, at the end of the remodel.”

Above and beyond customer service

Vaknin recalled a customer who wasn’t completely satisfied with a tile job almost two years after a bathroom remodel was finished. Of course, any kind of warranty would have expired by then.

“I contacted the subcontractor and had him fix the problem — at my cost,” he said. “In my business, customer satisfaction is the most important thing. I learned early on that being able to see someone’s face as they watch their house transform into their dream home is among one of the best joys in life.”

It cost Vaknin about $150 out of his pocket, but the client was so pleased with the results and the seamless, hassle-free interaction, that he contracted with EV to completely redo the main level of his house.

“Since those early days I have made it our mission to make sure that everyone we work with has an enjoyable experience from beginning to end. After all, upgrading your home is something that should be exciting for you throughout the entire project,” he said.

Filling a need

Nowadays, homeowners have more time to think about improving their dwellings, but a trade labor shortage has been impacting the industry for several years. It’s made home renovations take longer to complete — or impossible to complete altogether — and cost more money than usual.

Since around 2018, the U.S. has seen a shortage of tradespeople for projects like kitchen remodels, bathroom remodels, flooring and electrical work. In addition, necessary supplies — including wood and metal — aren’t always available due to a materials shortage. 

Although he doesn’t have any magic powers to keep those problems from plaguing his business, Vaknin said he treats suppliers, contractors and customers with respect.

EV Remodeling isn’t the cheapest contractor in the area, but it’s certainly among the most reliable. That’s a value that Vaknin brought with him when he immigrated from Israel in 2009.

“My father was a contractor, and I learned the trade from him. It’s always been in my veins,” he said.

Vaknin started out in new home construction, building about 60 houses ranging in price from $500,000 to $1.5 million. However, he said he prefers the personal connections he has made working with existing homeowners.

“You might not ever meet the person that you built a home for,” he said. “This way, I know the customer is getting exactly what they want.”

Vaknin said he thinks of himself as a problem solver. “A lot of times, when you come into people’s homes, they have problems that they need you to solve,” he said. “It’s either the kitchen is too small, the family has grown and they need additional room or stuff like that. …I help people solve problems and make their lives easier.”

Focus on family and community

Although 2020 saw $420 billion spent by Americans on home improvement projects, subsequent years are projected to surpass that, according to a study last year from the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University. That same research shows that homeowners are also willing to spend more on home improvement projects.

The pandemic forced many to stay inside for months and a lot of Americans have been reluctant to return to offices. For them, having a functional, comfortable and livable home is a top priority — even in the face of higher material costs.

Vaknin continues to see a rise in remodeling projects for office space and home entertainment, but his bread and butter is still kitchens and bathrooms. That’s why he said he likes to keep his business in a tight radius, about 25 miles with Peachtree Corners as the epicenter.

It has helped him give his clients the time they need since he’s not spending so much time traveling around metro Atlanta. “Maybe that’s what makes me different than other contractors because …I’m controlling my schedule and my time. I really can give each client the attention that they need,” Vaknin said.

He recalled a family who wanted to add a bathroom for their four teenage daughters who had been sharing one bathroom. Most contractors said the only solution was to add a bathroom to the basement, although the girls’ bedrooms were on the second floor.

“It was doable, but it wouldn’t be convenient to have them go down three flights to get ready,” said Vaknin. “I’m sure there would still be fights and arguing every morning.”

He consulted with his best subcontractor and they came up with a solution to add a bathroom upstairs without increasing square footage. “It required kind of a complex work with plumbing,” said Vaknin. 

Everyone was happy with the solution.

Vaknin knows how important a happy home is. He has two children — a 9-year-old daughter and a 6-year-old son. He said that he and his wife, a real estate agent, hope to pass on their values to their kids.

“I will let them decide if they want to someday take over my business,” he said. “But I want them to know why I do it and what it means to be a good businessman and a good member of the community.”

Bathroom Renovation Photos by IMOTO, Family Photos by Oshrit Hakmon

Arlinda Smith Broady is part of the Boomerang Generation of Blacks that moved back to the South after their ancestors moved North. With approximately three decades of journalism experience (she doesn't look it), she's worked in tiny, minority-based newsrooms to major metropolitans. At every endeavor she brings professionalism, passion, pluck, and the desire to spread the news to the people.

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PCBA Celebrates Fifth Third’s New Location with Ribbon Cutting

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Group of people in front of a Fifth Third Bank location for a ribbon cutting

The Peachtree Corners Business Association (PCBA) celebrated the opening of Fifth Third Bank’s new branch in Peachtree Corners with a ribbon cutting on February 20.

Located at 3210 Holcomb Bridge Road, the new location features lobby and drive-thru hours, regular banking, investment services, loans and more.

“We are growing [and] proud to open up our new financial center at Peachtree Corners,” said Randy Koporc, EVP, regional president GA/AL Fifth Third Bank. “Congratulations to Financial Center Manager Jasmine Youngblood and her team, Retail Executive Dewayne King and all involved in getting us to this day.”

People in front of a new Fifth Third Bank location celebrating with a ribbon cutting and balloons
photo credit: Keri Zampano; courtesy of Peachtree Corners Business Association

“Thank you, Lisa Proctor of the Peachtree Corners Business Association, for helping us celebrate at our ribbon cutting,” Koporc continued.

Fifth Third plans to build more than 60 financial centers in Georgia and Alabama over the next five years and looks forward to strengthening the communities that they join.

“We love welcoming new businesses into Peachtree Corners,” said Lisa Proctor, president of the Peachtree Corners Business Association. “Fifth Third Bank will be a great addition to our banking community. We can’t wait to watch them grow.”

About Peachtree Corners Business Association

The Peachtree Corners Business Association (PCBA) is a business membership organization that focuses on innovative approaches, programs, shared resources, community outreach and opportunities for member businesses and professionals to connect, develop, grow, and prosper.

The PCBA is made up of businesses of all sizes and types who want to expand their reach and grow their business within Peachtree Corners and the greater metro-Atlanta area.

For more information call 678-969-3385, email membership@peachtreeba.com or visit peachtreecornersba.com.

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Sequel Coffee Debuts in PTC Summer 2025

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Rendering of a three story building with outdoor cafe tables and umbrellas along the side of it.

Sequel Coffee Co., a new specialty coffee brand, is set to open its flagship location in Peachtree Corners in the summer of 2025.

The new coffee shop will open alongside shared workspace provider, Roam, at Town Center and will feature a convenient drive-thru complemented by an inviting in-shop experience.

Premium coffee and locally sourced offerings

Committed to delivering an elevated coffee experience, Sequel Coffee Co. will serve freshly brewed coffee and handcrafted espresso beverages with responsibly sourced beans from Valor, a local metro Atlanta roaster.

Rendering of the interior of a coffee shop, with dark wood and white counters and tables and a sleek, modern design.
Interior rendering courtesy of Sequel Coffee Co.

The food menu will feature a curated selection of locally sourced café favorites and convenient grab-and-go options from local vendors Two Chefs and A Seasonal Affair.

Guests can expect a variety of delicious offerings, including breakfast sandwiches, quiche and freshly baked pastries, as well as yogurt parfaits, homemade granola bars and protein-packed power bites for on-the-go fuel.

In addition, rotating seasonal flavors and limited-time menu items will offer new and exciting food and beverage options throughout the year.

Strengthening community connections in Peachtree Corners

A concept created by Roam, the hospitality-focused work and meeting space, Sequel Coffee Co. is built on the belief that coffee is more than just a morning ritual — it’s a catalyst for creativity, productivity, community and connection.

Rendering of the exterior of a three-story brick and glass building with green space area and outdoor cafe tables.
Image courtesy of Sequel Coffee Co.

Sequel’s tagline, “start your story strong,” reflects its mission to inspire the potential in every day by championing stories, embracing moments and thoughtfully crafting coffee.

Sequel seeks to become an integral part of the Peachtree Corners community by fostering meaningful interactions through hospitality-driven experiences. With a brand philosophy centered on people, purpose and belonging, the company aims to inspire customers through delicious coffee and intentional service.

Bringing Sequel Coffee Co. to you

Ahead of its brick-and-mortar opening this summer, Sequel Coffee Co. is currently serving the community through its mobile coffee cart, offering a full-service espresso bar and trained baristas for offsite events.

Ideal for corporate offices, networking events, school functions and private gatherings, the mobile cart provides an opportunity to enjoy Sequel’s signature coffee experience in any setting — before the shop even opens its doors.

To book Sequel’s mobile coffee cart, visit sequelcoffeeco.com/mobile-coffee-cart.

Career opportunities

Sequel is also currently hiring a Shop Manager to lead daily operations and cultivate an inviting experience for customers. Interested applicants can learn more about the position and apply at sequelcoffeeco.com/shop-manager-job-listing.

Sequel Coffee Co. logo in gold type on dark green background

About Sequel Coffee Co.

Sequel Coffee Co. is dedicated to inspiring potential in every day through thoughtfully crafted coffee and warm hospitality.

Offering handcrafted espresso beverages, freshly brewed coffee and a curated menu of café favorites — along with a convenient drive-thru and cozy café space — Sequel aims to create a welcoming spot for guests to fuel their day and transform the daily coffee routine.

For updates and opening announcements, follow @sequelcoffeeco on Instagram or visit sequelcoffeeco.com.

Night time rendering of the exterior of a three-story brick and glass building with roadway, green space and outdoor cafe tables.
Image courtesy of Sequel Coffee Co.

About Roam

Roam is a comprehensive workplace solution offering co-working memberships, private offices and meeting space for professionals and businesses of sizes.

Opening in Peachtree Corners at 3847 Medlock Bridge Road in summer 2025, Roam provides flexible and inspiring environments to help individuals and teams accomplish their best work. Now leasing private offices and pre-booking meetings and events.

Learn more at meetatroam.com.

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LOL Burger Bar Owner Honored on 40 Under 40 List

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A young Black woman with long straight hair and red lipstick, wearing a white suit and standing with her arms crossed in front of her as she smiles at the camera.

Savannah State University’s inaugural 40 Under 40 list recognizes the achievements of young alumni

Cassidy Bass Jones, owner of LOL Burger Bar, was recently recognized as one of Savannah State University’s (SSU) inaugural 40 Under 40 award recipients. 

The award recognizes the contributions of individuals who have excelled in their respective fields before the age of 40. This year’s recipients work in a wide array of environments from municipalities and universities to federal agencies and Fortune 500 companies.

The list includes company founders, executives, state representatives, doctors and lawyers.

“We’re overjoyed to share with the world what these young alumni have accomplished in just a few short years since graduating from this beloved institution,” said SSU Interim President Cynthia Alexander. “These alumni are the best and brightest and truly reflect the values we hope to instill in all SSU graduates.”

By highlighting the achievements of these alumni, SSU aims to inspire its current and future students to aspire to greatness and to emphasize the university’s role in shaping future leaders across various fields.

Each of this year’s honorees attended SSU and seeks to uphold their core values of collaboration, academic excellence, discovery and innovation, integrity, openness and inclusion and sustainability. 

“As we honor these remarkable alumni, we celebrate not only their achievements but also reaffirm the value of an SSU education,” Alexander continued.

About Cassidy Jones and LOL Burger Bar

Originally from Newnan, Georgia, Cassidy Jones opened her first burger bar location in West Midtown in early 2023 and quickly gained public recognition and accolades. In 2024, LOL Burger Bar’s Patty Melt was named a Top 10 burger in Creative Loafing’s Burger Week competition.

Jones recently opened a second LOL location at the new Politan Row food hall at The Forum where her team is serving up signature burgers, fries, wings and shakes to the Peachtree Corners community.

For more information about LOL Burger Bar, visit lolburgerbar.com.

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