Two Wilmington home renovation and design companies have merged, according to a news release Thursday. MarKraft Cabinets has acquired Kitchen & Bath Studio, along with its lead designer, Meghan Lewellyn, in a move aimed at expanding the range of products and services.

"Kitchen & Bath Design Studio and MarKraft Cabinets are like-minded companies, and we share a common goal—superior customer service,” Cee Edwards, president of MarKraft Cabinets, said in the release.  “The blending of our two companies will enhance our ability to serve our customers by offering an unmatched selection of products and the best kitchen and bath design expertise around."

Founded in 1985 with just two employees, MarKraft now employs more than 50 people full time and provides cabinet and countertop products and services in North and South Carolina as well as Tennessee, according to the release.

For most of its 30 years, the company offered a complete range of cabinetry products along with design, consultation and installation for new construction and remodeling, said marketing director Mary Kurki. When the recession hit, however, the company decided to focus on high-end single family homes. As the economy improved more recently, MarKraft relocated to new facilities at 2705 Castle Creek Lane. With an eye to expanding again into the design aspect of the business as well as commercial residential, it is building a design showroom and was planning to hire a designer.

When the opportunity arose to acquire Kitchen & Bath Studio, the timing was perfect, Kurki said, calling the capabilities and assets of the other company "a wonderful addition."

While still under construction, the new design center is open for business. Kurki said MarKraft expects to complete the center in May and plans a grand opening event in September.