We took root in 1973...
What happened when two young men joined forces to pursue their passion for great design and craftsmanship? An award-winning remodeling team was born.
In 1973 The Transformed Tree “took root” in St. Paul’s St. Anthony Park. Mel Salmi joined the company in 1975 and became the owner in 1977. Peter Hagen joined Mel in 1979 and became the company’s co-owner two years later. Both men were determined to put their love of woodworking, craftsmanship, and design to work in offering superior home remodeling services. In 2013 Travis Rieck brought his incomparable carpentry and client relations skills to the company and is now part of The Transformed Tree’s leadership team.
All these years later, the goal and mission remain the same; Provide exceptional service, inspiring design, and unequaled craftsmanship in creating stunning spaces that stand the test of time and the rigors of daily living. The award-winning team is consistently recognized for seamlessly blending old with new and helping homeowners reimagine their space in unique and exciting ways. Clearly, the formula is working. In 2023, The Transformed Tree celebrated its 50th Anniversary. In early 2024, the company relocated to a new, expanded facility in Burnsville, positioning the team to continue building on its impressive legacy.
“We start by being great listeners, then work closely with clients to ensure the project outcome is all they hope for and more. Our attention to detail, years of experience, custom cabinet shop, design/build services, and commitment to our craft set us apart. Whether your project is large or small, simple or sophisticated, you will get our utmost attention, and we’ll formulate a plan that suits your vision, schedule, and budget. Our team is ready when you are to explore ways to make the most of your home and create a space that is uniquely yours.“
Meet the Transformed Tree Team
Mel Salmi
Owner
Hailing from Cloquet, Minnesota, Mel pursued his education in applied physics, math, and engineering at the University of Minnesota and adopted St. Paul as his home. After a brief stint in the restaurant trade, Mel’s friend and owner of The Transformed Tree asked him to join the company. He quickly realized it was the perfect fit for his math, physics, engineering, and design skills. Today, his primary focus is on sales and design/build activities. Mel particularly enjoys the day-to-day interaction with The Transformed Tree clients and creating unique and inspired solutions for stumped homeowners.
Travis Rieck
Owner
From an early age, Travis saw the work and reward of the remodeling business. His dad was a remodeling contractor, and after high school, Travis joined him in the trade. With a Certificate of Carpentry from Hennepin Technical College and plenty of “boots on the ground” experience, Travis found a welcome home at The Transformed Tree in 2013. He enjoys interacting with clients, the challenge of making the work look seamless in older homes, and seeing it all come together in the end. Clients celebrate his carpentry skills, personable style, and stellar work ethic. Travis feels fortunate to have partnered with Mel and Peter in the business and take an increasing leadership role as the company continues to grow.
Katy Rieck
Business Manager
With more than 20 years of experience as a human resource professional, Katy brings a wealth of experience to her role at The Transformed Tree. Given the demands of her previous positions, she is well-equipped to manage the company’s day-to-day operations and ensure things run smoothly. And with Peter Hagen’s retirement in January 2025, her responsibilities will continue to evolve and expand. Katy welcomes the chance to work alongside her husband, Travis, a dream they shared for many years. She looks forward to developing this family enterprise (including an occasional “assist” from their high school son) as they continue to build The Transformed Tree’s business, meet new clients, create new spaces, and advance the company’s reputation for exceptional work.
Peter Hagen
Owner, Remodeler Emeritus
After graduating from New Hampshire’s Philips Exeter Academy, Peter studied architecture at the University of Minnesota. In joining The Transformed Tree in 1979, he discovered a place to fully apply his passion for woodworking and design. He became co-owner of the company in 1981. Peter holds a BAS degree in construction management and served as The Transformed Tree’s production manager. Peter brought project management expertise, keen attention to detail, and passion for quality craftsmanship to his work. Working closely with homeowners, craftsmen, and contractors, he ensured everything went according to plan. With his retirement in early 2025, Peter embarks on new adventures but will maintain close contact with the team and company he so adeptly helped build and for whom his roots run deep.