Sierra Zaremba
General Manager
When did you first become excited about design?
When I was in elementary school, I went to work with my dad (a contractor) to a new construction home for Bring Your Daughter to Work Day. I loved the hustle and bustle and new home smell! I thought it was the absolute coolest atmosphere to work in. I loved it so much that I spent summers through high school and college working with him! Now my daughter comes to work with me and is starting to learn about the industry!
What is your favorite style of design?
I’ve liked Bohemian Chic since before it was a trend. I like to mix and match pieces and add cheerful colors to put personality into a space.
How do you approach design jobs?
I approach every job from a point of empathy. Most homeowners are only doing these types of jobs once or twice in a lifetime. It is a huge investment and can be very overwhelming. So, I always try to place myself in the client’s shoes. I try to guide them to pick out what feels right for them for the long term. I help them make choices that balance their budget and their lifestyle.
If you could design any room for any client, what/who would you choose?
I would design my own kitchen! And it would be massive!
What do you love about KBC?
Everyone has a great attitude. We try to keep a relaxed ambiance with candles and music in the showroom. We’re at work a lot, so it’s important that we feel happy and comfortable when we’re here. And we want our customers to feel that easy, relaxed atmosphere when they are here.
What advice would you give someone considering a kitchen remodel?
Choose a designer you trust and feel comfortable working with. Your designer will help you make your kitchen a room tailored to you that you’ll enjoy living with every day.
How do you approach design jobs?
It all starts with the initial phone consultation. I find out what the client likes and dislikes about their kitchen or bathroom and discuss what’s needed to improve their lifestyle. I like to take the time to collect as much info as possible before I go to the house to measure so I can envision the problem areas before I see them.
If you could design any room for any client, what/who would you choose?
I’d like to do something completely different. I think it would be fun to design a master closet for Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, or any of the Kardashians!
What do you like about working at KBC?
Everyone at KBC is a team player. Each designer brings something creatively different to the table, and we are always willing to help each other out. From Sierra to Josh, everyone will give you the time and tools you need to succeed.
What is a fun fact about you?
I’m a crazy dog mom to my Puggle, Winston. I’m also a gym enthusiast and a certified spin instructor.
What advice would you give someone considering a kitchen remodel?
Come to us! That’s why we’re here! Come to the showroom and we’ll walk you through the options and everything we have to offer.
Amanda Webster
Designer
How did you first become interested in design?
I was actually working at Kitchens by Countryside in an administrative assistant capacity when they were looking for a new designer. I shadowed Sierra, did some hands-on training and discovered that I really love design!
How do you approach your design jobs?
I have a background in professional organizing, so I focus not only on a great-looking remodel but also on functionality. My goal for every client’s kitchen is to marry beauty and function in balance.
How would you describe your design style?
I’m very honest. If there’s something you’ve seen online that you want and it just won’t work in your kitchen, I’ll explain why and help you find an alternative. If you have something, in particular, that’s very important to you, we will find a way to make it work. My goal is for you to be 100% happy in your new kitchen or bathroom.
What advice would you give someone considering a kitchen remodel?
A kitchen remodel is a complicated process — there’s a lot of bits and pieces that you don’t even realize — and I’m here to guide you through it. Before we begin, you should know your space and budget, and have realistic expectations for your home.
What is your favorite television show?
I love Grace & Frankie — I got hooked because of the gorgeous beach house!
What is a fun fact about you?
When I’m not designing, I publish two neighborhood magazines, for Spencerport and Chili, to bring communities together. I’m a busy people-person!
Diana Coleman
Designer
How long have you been a designer?
I’ve been a designer for close to 18 years, and I’m lucky to work on the design team at Kitchens by Countryside. I’ve been thinking like a designer since I was young — envisioning how I would redecorate and redesign homes that I visited, even if they were well decorated already.
What is your favorite style of design?
I like all styles of design, but I’m partial to traditional. If you live in an older home, I’ll likely encourage you to keep the original hardwood floors, crown molding, and other features to preserve the home’s style. I love homes from the 1800s-early 1900s.
How do you approach design jobs?
When we work together, don’t be surprised — in my quest to simplify the process for you, I ask a lot of questions. Each selection you make will narrow down the number of choices for the next selection. We’re here to guide you so you don’t feel overwhelmed.
What advice would you give someone considering a kitchen remodel?
If you’re considering a kitchen or bath remodel, remember that we are here to do as much or as little as you want. A remodel can be a roller coaster of emotions, but we want to make it as stress-free as possible. Our ultimate goal is for you to be in love with your kitchen or bath at the end of the process.
What’s your favorite book?
The Secret by Rhonda Byrne was life-changing for me.
What is a fun fact about you?
You might be surprised to know that I’m a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I have participated in martial arts for more than five years, and I love how it builds a sense of team, self-confidence, and mutual respect. It has truly changed my life.
Heather Zapf
Designer (NKBA Certified)
When did you first become interested in design?
I’ve always loved art. I wasn’t sure what to do with that love until I discovered design through TLC and HGTV. Design was always in me — I just needed to find the right outlet. My past experience was in commercial design, but I much prefer working with homeowners.
How many years of design experience do you have?
I have 14 years of experience as a designer of kitchens and bathrooms.
What advice would you give someone considering a kitchen remodel?
To have fun! Many people can become overwhelmed with a remodeling project. The decision making process can sometimes feel daunting, but your designer can assist with the process and expectations upfront to make the process more enjoyable. That is why we became designers!
If you could design any room for anybody, who/what would you choose and why?
I would love to design and restore the kitchen in The Mushroom House in Rochester! I love unique projects like that and the idea of bringing new life to an old home and keeping with the integrity of the home’s architecture and style.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I enjoy making each design different. I love customizing projects to meet the clients’ needs.
What is a fun fact about you?
I am a long distance runner and run 25-30 miles a week! I love training for half and full marathons in all seasons (even in the winter 😊).
Julia Punzi
Designer
Where are you from?
I grew up in Colorado, and have family in both Colorado and upstate New York. I moved to Rochester to attend college at RIT, where I earned my BFA in Interior Design.
Jeff Kline
Estimator, Designer
How long have you been in the home improvement business?
I’ve been in the home improvement business for my entire life. I worked with my grandfather in his woodworking shop, starting when I was six years old, then I helped with my father to remodel our family’s houses as a teenager. Now I’m remodeling my own home.
What advice would you give someone considering a remodel?
If you’re considering a full remodel, pick a contractor that can do all the phases of the remodel. Our designers can help you with everything from the initial design to fixtures and lighting. KBC can take care of every detail from design through installation.
How do you approach design jobs?
I enjoy working with my clients to make sure they end up with the kitchens and bathrooms they really want. As a homeowner, I can relate to what you’re going through during the remodeling process. I look at projects and give honest advice — as if your home was my own.
What do you like best about working at Kitchens by Countryside?
The culture. Everyone here is happy, helpful, and excited about what they are working on. We all work collaboratively to give every customer the best possible experience.
If you could design any room for any client, what/who would you choose?
I’d choose Jay Leno’s garage! I love those car guys.
What is a fun fact about you?
When I’m not working on new kitchens and additions, I enjoy kayaking and spending time with my adult children — and I’m looking forward to becoming a grandfather very soon!
Josh Kay
Project Manager
When did you first become interested in home remodeling?
I’ve always enjoyed building, from Legos to tree houses! Throughout my career, I’ve been able to experience every stage of construction, from foundation to finish work. The detail and outcome of the finish work is what I enjoy the most.
What is your favorite style of design?
I really like rustic, cabin styles.
What do you admire about your coworkers?
I definitely admire the designers and how they can take a vision and put everything together. Everything in a kitchen needs to flow together and they choose the best products for the clients’ wants and needs.
What advice would you give someone considering a kitchen remodel?
As far as the production side goes, have fun with it. The tradesmen are great people to get to know. They take a lot of pride in their work and want you to be happy with the outcome.
Our Misson
At Kitchens by Countryside, our mission is to make the design and installation process seamless for the homeowner. Your go-to partner for all your kitchen and bath remodeling needs—our team of experts can help you reimagine your space and create beautiful results!
From beginning concepts and 3D rendering to project completion and final walk-through—our designers will be with you every step of the way. Whether you live in Rochester, NY, Spencerport, or one of the surrounding communities, we are here to serve you.
Design Tips From Sierra
Contact Us
Showroom Hours
Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
*Additional times available by appointment only
