WHAT BETTER TIME THEN NOW TO HAVE A FABULOUS HOME OFFICE!

 

Hey LA…

Like it or not, we are all spending more time at home these days. Whether you are on Zoom calls with your customers and office mates or teaching your fifth grade Math class on-line. Everyone is dealing with the new demands of working from home. We now view our favorite Late-night TV hosts and News Anchors live from their own homes.

We are getting a look into the inner sanctums of people’s lives in a way that we never have before. Working from your bed may have been acceptable in the past…it’s just not going to cut it for the long haul. Don’t you deserve a beautiful and functional space…. even if you use just to pay your bills.

Now is the time to consider a home office remodeling project.

You may be starting from scratch or realizing its time to remodel your home office space. It was fine working in the corner of your family room when it was you, your partner and your Great Dane. Now with your expanded family including kids, grandparents or returning college students you need your sanctuary…A place to work, create, dream and just get it done!

Let’s start by identifying your space. A professional LA General Contractor will help you get creative.

Do you have a room you can dedicate for your office? If not, you can start with a wall of your bedroom or maybe repurposing the basement space or the garage. There are solutions available even if you live in a Tiny Home.

Let’s get started by identifying your needs for your Home Office Remodeling:

1.     Do you work from home full time?

2.     Are you on regular video conference calls?

3.     Do you need space for designing, drafting or building?

4.     Do you generate a lot of paper or are you a green technology person?

5.     Do you work best in complete silence or do you need some signs of life around you?

6.     Do your technology needs require upgrades in cooling and electrical?

Here are some tips from the pro LA General Contractors:

• Lighting is an important key to having a space that energizes you and keeps you productive. Scientific observations suggest that when our natural rhythm of light and dark are not interrupted our health, immune system and hormones functions improve. The better we feel the more productive we are.

Now would be a great time to add natural lighting to your space. New Windows, French Doors to the garden or even a Skylight.

• Make sure you work with your General Contractor to create as much storage space as possible. They will help you to plan and use the space well. If you have high ceiling don’t be afraid to use the space above for storage. Built in Custom Cabinetry will keep you organized.

Psychologists observed that we are more peaceful and energetic when not distracted by piles of clutter. If you have the chance to watch the popular Netflix show Tidying Up with Marie Kondo or read her book Joy at Work: Organizing your professional Life you will get to observe how transformational organizing your workspace can be.

After all, you don’t want your conference call to go viral because your kid ran into the room naked while you were on a video call with your CEO…or you didn’t realize that your camera was on, revealing that your LA Home Office (with a much-needed room addition Los Angeles) was a total disaster.

Even if organization has alluded you for your entire life, having a custom designed home office will inspire you. Go online and find the perfect Chair, draw dividers, laptop stand and ways to hide all the wires. Find colors that make you feel happy and creative. Enjoy customizing your new domain!!!

This last tip is from the LA General Contractors at Structura Remodeling, a five-star LA based General Contracting and Remodeling company. Successfully Serving the LA community for more than 16 years with their amazing designs and execution.

Hire Professional LA General Contractors to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind. Structura will do the work so you can get back to work in a healthy, organized, and inspiring environment.

AVERAGE COST OF ROOM ADDITION IN LOS ANGELES

 

Ready to create more living space in your home this year?

For your home, this New Year could mean a new living space. Have you found yourself dreaming about that romantic master bedroom suite, or perhaps a bathroom addition? Maybe it’s been an additional dwelling or ADU that you’ve been dreaming of. Whatever living space upgrade has been on your wish-list it’s important to have an idea of the average contractor quotes in Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Room Renovation Cost Factors

There are a few key things to consider when researching the cost of room addition in Los Angeles

1. Room Size – The size of your room will dictate the cost of materials and labor necessary to complete a renovation. Once you know your room dimensions, you can estimate the pricing for flooring, cabinets, etc. This is where you have the most opportunity to control the budget. Whether you choose high-end, median-priced, or budget fixtures, cabinetry, and flooring will determine the pricing of your room remodel. The average budget for a room addition in Los Angeles is about $285.00 per square Foot.

2. Room Type – What type of room are you adding? A bedroom, family room or sunroom will cost less than a bathroom or kitchen because of the added expenses of electric, plumbing, and cabinetry and fixtures. The average cost of a mid-priced bathroom in Los Angeles is $22,000-$30,000. A high-end bathroom in Los Angeles is about $55,000-$75,000.

3. Room Level – Are you adding a ground floor addition to an existing room? Are you thinking of a stand-alone guest room or workspace? Maybe a She Shed? Each one has different requirements for foundation work and permitting.

4. Second Story Addition – IF you are planning to add a second story addition to your home prepare to double your budget. Building up is more expensive. You have a more complex demolition and need to address additional structural issues. It requires hiring an Engineer to draw the plans for adding support beams, the additional foundation work needed, rebuilding the roof, and where the staircase will go. You may also have to consider a temporary living situation while the construction is progressing. Its difficult to live in a construction zone and relocating until the new supports and roof is in place may be a more comfortable and safer option.

5. Los Angeles Trends – Know what’s going on in your neighborhood. If you plan to stay in your house for the next thirty years, then It’s ok to add on to your home’s square footage anything that make you happy. If you plan to sell within the next five to ten years, find out what additions are popular and highly valued in your neighborhood. Is everyone adding on Granny Flats or separate workspaces? Maybe the trend is large master bedroom suites or home theatres? Go to a few open houses or check with a local realtor. They should be happy to help. After all, you could be a future client.

6. Budget – Again, your choices will affect your budget. The square footage and the type of space you are building will determine your budget. Kitchens are more expensive than bedrooms. Second floor additions are more expensive than first floor additions. Flooring, fixtures, and finishing’s will add to the budget as well as your furnishings. Remember always to have a 10-15% contingency plan for unexpected expenses. For example, if you open up the walls and find plumbing or electrical that is not up to code it will needs to be replaced. This is common in renovation projects.

How to Feel Confident in Hiring a Contractor

Hiring a contractor can be a confusing process. You hear stories from friends and family about frustrating experiences they had in hiring the wrong contractor. Here is how to avoid the mistake of hiring the wrong contractor.

• Check credentials- California has specific requirements for Contractors. Make sure that anyone you hire is licensed, insured, and bonded. Check online with the Contractors State License Board website. Also, if you are a member of Angie’s list, you can check with them.
• Online review and referrals- Make sure the contractor has been in business for at least five years so you can check their track record with customers and the Better Business Bureau. Business owners can buy online reviews, so make sure they are from actual customers. Speak to neighbors and friends. Get referrals from satisfied customers.
• Get three bids to compare. – The more specific you can be about your choices for cabinets, fixtures, flooring, the more accurate the bids will be. You have to be able to compare apples with apples. If you get a low-ball bid, ask the right questions to see what’s included and what’s not. What is their experience? Do they have licensed electricians and plumbers on staff?

Tips for hiring a Room Addition or Remodeling Contractor in Los Angeles

When you’re working with a Los Angeles local contractor, you’ll notice that companies have different ways of pricing their renovations. When remodeling your living space there are three components that will ultimately affect your quote:

• the total square footage or size of the addition.
• the fixtures and finishes that you’d like to see utilized within your new living space.
• the building materials.

These elements are exactly why we offer free in-home consultations to assess room additions in Los Angeles.

If you commission a professional general contractor, who has expert experience with room remodel, the average cost of room addition in the Los Angeles area would be starting at $285.00 per square foot of added living space.

So, for example, if you got a permit to add 300 square feet of additional living space that investment is roughly around $60,000 before any final features are added to your new room. This investment will cover all the professional components of the renovation such as any additions to your home’s foundation, framing, windows and doors, insulation and roofing to match the existing house. The electrical work would be included as well but there could be some projected savings if your room addition is, for example, a breezeway, sunroom or garage conversion  without the need for electrical outlets.

This projection gives you a brand-new living space built professionally within your home. Now comes the steps you’ll need to take to fill that space with epic style while keeping price in mind. Did you know that we also offering financing for our clients? Just in case you’re looking for a way to make your renovation dreams come true, while honoring a budget.

With a room addition in Los Angeles, you’ll find that the two largest investments will be plumbing and electric. Make sure you are completely clear on your general contractor’s plans and layout for the additional living space so you can keep an accurate read of the price. The last thing to explore is your amenities. What type of flooring, windows, fixtures, and furnishing do you plan to include?

Once you’ve taken all these elements into consideration, you’ll have your average price range for a room addition in Los Angeles. As professional contractors, we suggest you budget between $40,000 and $80,000.00 to upgrade your living space. Remember when you invest in your home, you enhance your property value immediately and invest in your family’s future.

Smart Home Innovations for Modern Living by Structura Remodeling

 

Introduction

In today's fast-paced world, the integration of smart technology into our homes is no longer just a luxury; it's a necessity. Smart lighting systems, security solutions, and appliances that can be managed with smartphones or voice assistants are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. This trend is driven by a desire for convenience, energy efficiency, and increased security.

---

Smart Lighting Systems

Smart lighting systems are at the forefront of home automation. These systems allow you to control your lights with a simple voice command or through an app on your smartphone. Whether you're looking to dim the lights for a movie night or turn them off remotely while you're away, smart lighting provides unmatched convenience. Additionally, many of these systems are energy-efficient, reducing electricity consumption and lowering your utility bills.

When considering a home upgrade, Structura Home Remodeling Services can help you seamlessly integrate smart lighting systems into your living space. Their expertise ensures that the installation complements your home’s design while maximizing the functionality and energy efficiency of your new lighting solutions.

---

Security Solutions

Home security is another area where smart technology is making a significant impact. From video doorbells that let you see and talk to visitors remotely to smart locks that can be controlled from your phone, modern security solutions offer peace of mind like never before. These systems are not just about convenience; they are about protecting your home and loved ones. With features like real-time alerts and 24/7 monitoring, homeowners can ensure their property is safe at all times.

Smart Appliances

The convenience of smart appliances extends to the kitchen and beyond. Imagine preheating your oven while you're still at the grocery store or receiving a notification when your laundry is done. Smart appliances are designed to make everyday tasks easier and more efficient. They integrate seamlessly with other smart home devices, creating a cohesive and connected living environment.

---

Conclusion

As smart technology continues to evolve, its integration into our homes will only become more prevalent. Homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to make their lives easier, more efficient, and safer. Smart lighting systems, security solutions, and appliances represent the future of home living, offering benefits that go beyond mere convenience. If you're considering expanding your living space, Room Additions by Structura can help you incorporate these smart solutions seamlessly into your new rooms, ensuring that your home remains at the cutting edge of modern living.

 

---

FAQ

Q: What are the benefits of smart lighting systems?

A: Smart lighting systems offer convenience, energy efficiency, and customization. You can control the lights remotely, set schedules, and even change the color and brightness to suit your mood.

 

Q: How do smart security solutions enhance home safety?

A: Smart security solutions offer features like real-time alerts, video monitoring, and remote access. They provide peace of mind by allowing homeowners to monitor and secure their homes from anywhere.

 

Q: Are smart appliances energy-efficient?

A: Yes, many smart appliances are designed to be energy-efficient, helping homeowners reduce their utility bills and environmental impact.

OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN

 

MAXIMIZE YOUR SPACE! ADD AN OUTDOOR KITCHEN TO YOUR LOS ANGELES HOME

While the team at Structura Remodeling continues to serve the Los Angeles area with creative and professional remodeling services, we’ve also been paying close attention to trends within general contracting. Now, with Summer approaching…tis the season of the epic BBQ, and the perfect time to discuss one of those general contracting trends. Did you know you could maximize your living space by adding an outdoor kitchen?

When it comes to Los Angeles renovation projects, we find that many clients weigh their options between expanding their current living space with a home addition vs. adding an outdoor kitchen design. I’m sure you can imagine that adding an outdoor kitchen is much less of an investment than an addition to your home…but, there is more than just the benefit of saving on your estimate. Outdoor kitchen designs allow you to incorporate style, design, and convenience into your backyard.

HERE ARE A FEW PRO-TIPS ABOUT WHAT TO EXPECT WITH AN OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN:

●      Custom outdoor kitchens might consist of wine chillers, under-counter refrigerators, pizza ovens, wet bars, fireplaces, side burners, smokers, warming drawers and even roasting spits.

●      Not much space is needed to install an outdoor kitchen, the space just needs to be functional for cooking, entertaining, and relaxing.

●      Something to consider when planning your outdoor kitchen is the proximity to the indoor one.The more convenient this kitchen is to your indoor one, the less travel for items such as seasonings, utensils, dinnerware and food items.

●      Also, having an attached, covered outdoor kitchen can extend the length of time you can use this new food preparation and serving area.

When it comes to your outdoor kitchen remodeling project, lighting is just as important for making a mark in your outdoor space as it is when setting the tone for your indoor space. The ambiance is great, of course, but safety should be your top prioritywhen it comes to lighting around an outdoor kitchen.

 

HERE ARE A FEW SUGGESTIONS WHEN LOOKING AT LIGHTING FOR YOUR OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN:

●      Brighten areas where cooking.

●      Pathways should be well-lit.

●      Your outdoor lounge and dining areas should have adjustable lighting.

During your outdoor kitchen design project, you’ll want to careful in selecting your materials. This is something that your general contractor should help you with. However, we wanted to offer another remodeling pro-tip when selecting your materials.

 

HERE ARE THE TOP MATERIALS TO USE FOR YOUR OUTDOOR COUNTERTOPS:

●      Granite. Granite is probably the best choice for outdoor kitchen countertops.

●      Next on the list would be Soapstone. Soapstone is another natural material that can be used outdoors.

●      Tile. Tile is a good choice for outdoor use as well, especial in warmer climates.

●      Concrete. Concrete countertops would be another great option for your outdoor kitchen. Not only are they on-trend with 2020 kitchen designs in Los Angeles but, also great with the weather.

When it comes to your remodeling project remember that no job is ever too small. We invite you to take advantage of a compliment in-home consultation. Having our team by for a consultation is a wonderful way to receive an estimate for your outdoor kitchen while also creating a 3D design. Remember, together with Structural Remodeling we can dream…design and build. We’re happy to answer any questions about your Los Angeles outdoor kitchen renovation.

Essential Goals to Set Before Starting Your Home Renovation

 

Life evolves, so do our living needs. Whether you’re adjusting to an empty nest, accommodating family members, or shifting to a home-based business, remodeling your home can be an effective solution to meet these changing demands without the need to relocate. Here are five essential goals to consider when planning a home remodel that aligns with your evolving lifestyle:

Expanding Your Living Space: Growth in family size or the need for specialized space, such as a guest suite for elderly parents or an au pair, often necessitates expanding your living areas. Home remodeling can creatively integrate additional space for these purposes, ensuring comfort and privacy for everyone at home.

Repurposing Existing Rooms: As lifestyles and family dynamics evolve, so does the function of your living spaces. With bathroom remodeling in Los Angeles, an outdated bathroom can transform into a luxurious spa retreat. This adaptive approach maximizes the utility and aesthetic appeal of every square foot in your home, ensuring it meets your current needs and preferences.

Creating New Rooms: Specific changes, like starting a new home-based business, may require constructing entirely new rooms. Deciding whether to expand outward or upward is crucial and depends on your property's layout, zoning regulations, and personal preferences.

Designing Outdoor Living Areas: More homeowners are seeing the value of outdoor spaces for entertainment and relaxation. Incorporating a deck, patio, or even an outdoor kitchen can significantly enhance the enjoyment of your home during warmer months, boosting both your home’s aesthetic and functional appeal.

Modernizing for Style and Efficiency: Over time, a home’s style may look dated and its fixtures less energy-efficient. A remodel is a perfect opportunity to update aesthetics and integrate green technologies. Modern fixtures, energy-efficient appliances, and sustainable materials not only reduce your environmental footprint but also decrease energy costs.

Communicating your goals clearly with your remodelers Los Angeles CA is vital. It ensures the final design is beautiful and perfectly tailored to your new life chapters. By focusing on these objectives, your renovated home will serve you well for many years, adapting right alongside you and your family.

GARAGE CONVERSION IDEAS IN LOS ANGELES 2024

 

Have you been priced out of the crazy Los Angeles real estate market, but you crave more space? Have you been planning your future and thinking you need an income property or a granny flat for your aging parents? These are some of the issue’s homeowners are dealing with these days,

BUT THERE IS GOOD NEWS

The city of Los Angeles has recently relaxed the laws and regulations around building ADUs.
An ADU is an accessory dwelling unit or additional dwelling unit built on your property. The official names for granny flats, garage conversions, or home additions separate from the main dwelling.

Whether you want more space for your family or starting a business from home, one of the easiest and most cost-efficient ways to do that is with a garage conversion.

HERE ARE SOME GREAT GARAGE CONVERSION IDEAS FOR YOUR LOS ANGELES PROPERTY.

●      Convert your garage into a dual-purpose pool house and guest house. This way, you will have an extra bathroom and kitchen out by the pool and also a place for your weekend guests away from the house. Great for when the kids come home from college. It will keep your peace and sanity. It can become a rental or granny flat as your needs shift. Well worth the investment.

●      Convert your garage into your ultimate office space. Whether you’ve decided you are never going back to an office again or it’s time to start your own business, make your vision a reality with this cost-effective solution. In your retirement years, you can repurpose it as your writer’s studio or for your artistic projects.

●      Convert your garage into a home theatre and family room. If you can’t imagine going back to your local movie theatre, create your own. A big screen, surround sound, comfy reclining chairs, and your own private stocked concession stand complete with a popcorn maker.

●      Some of the best garage conversion ideas I have seen are adding creative living space to the overall home by taking down the garage and building a two-story addition in its place. Some include an apartment and additional living space or a soaring two-story open plan kitchen. If you can dream it, your garage conversion contractor in LA can build it.

You will want to discuss your garage conversion ideas with a local architect who can draw the plans for you and submit them to the city building department. It is essential to get everything permitted for your safety and the future sale of your property.

If your garage conversion ideas include building an addition to your garage, there are a few more things to consider. A single-story addition to the garage or a second story built over the garage will require meeting different city requirements. If the expansion is over 500 square feet, you may be required to meet the low-impact development requirements. Your architect and your city building department will be able to guide you.

While waiting for the permits to come through, take your garage conversion ideas and interview several Los Angeles general contractors. You want to hire someone local. Make sure they are licensed and that they are active on the state licensing board’s website. Make sure that they have up-to-date active insurance and experience building ADUs in your community. This way, they are familiar with all the regulations for your town. You can also check their online reviews and ask for references.

Now that your garage conversion ideas have been converted into your designer’s plan and you have hired your licensed Los Angeles general contractor, it is time to focus on the renovation details.

Before your L.A. contractor can give you a final bid, you will need to make decisions about electrical, lighting, plumbing, HVAC. These items are not part of the plan submitted to the city building department.

FOR EXAMPLE:

●      Your electrical needs- Where do you want the light switches, outlets, and lighting fixtures? How many in total? Where will the electrical panel be located, and what are your needs?

●      Your plumbing needs- What type of hot water heater? Are you going with the new tankless design, and will it be gas or electric?

●      Your HVAC needs- do you want a whole HVAC system, or do you want a small ‘ductless’ unit? The ductless unit will be less expensive but cover a smaller area,

In your original garage conversion ideas, I’m sure you included all the bells and whistles, but then there is the reality of the budget. Here are some examples of areas where you can decide that you want to invest or go for savings.

●      How much do you want to invest in a new driveway and landscaping?

●      Will you invest extra for vaulted ceilings?

●      Is it critical to level a sloping garage floor?

●      Do you need to paint the exterior of your garage conversion?

●      Do you want to spend it on a bathtub or just a shower?

●      Will your kitchen include prefab cabinets or custom?

Sometimes you must decide to spend on issues that will not add visible value but are essential structural items. For example, do you need a new roof, or do you wait? Some things can’t be put off, like repairing termite damage or water damage. Pay now or pay later? What are the best options?

The more you can plan, the fewer surprises there will be for the budget and the project timeline.

Consider Structura Remodeling, the top Los Angeles Home Renovation Company. With more than sixteen years of experience serving the Los Angeles Community. The Design Team at Structura offers a free in-home budgeting and design consultation. Their clients love their attention to detail, excellent artistry, and professionalism. They deliver on time, on budget—great pricing, “0%” interest, and “0” down.