HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS TO DO THIS SUMMER

 

Spring arrives and you start dreaming of Summer trips to the beach and BBQs in the back yard. As you survey your Los Angeles outdoor space you start to make a mental list of all the projects that need to get done. The roof was a little leaky this winter and as a Los Angeles homeowner you may have been putting off these repairs. The deck is looking like it needs a refinish. Perhaps you’re thinking it would be a good time to call on a custom deck builders near me Los Angeles to help you repair those rickety steps. Your neighbor is siding his house and now and maybe you’ve notices that your home is now looking a little shabby. Have you been watching your favorite home remodeling shows all winter and while “sheltering in place” and now you’re dreaming of updating your space? Now is the time to work with a general contractor for kitchen remodel !!! Los Angeles is blessed with great weather year-round…. but there are some home renovation projects that are best reserved for summer.

Here are some of the top summer home improvement projects for Los Angeles homeowners.

Outside Projects:

Repair or replace your roof- Winter is the rainy season in L.A. The best time to replace or repair your roof is in the heat of the summer when it is nice and dry. Get it done now. Having a leaky roof could create mold issues in your home or cause further structural damage. This could add additional costs to your Roof Renovation if you wait.

Build an outdoor kitchen– We have all been spending more time at home. Cooking has become the new “it” hobby. Indulge your gourmet fantasies and build the outdoor kitchen of your dreams. Both practical for outdoor entertaining and a prudent investment in the value of your home. In Los Angeles, an outdoor kitchen renovation will provide many joyful opportunities year-round.

Replace Home Siding– Is your exterior paint no longer standing up? Is your house looking a little sad? It may be time to consider siding your home. There are so many new choices. Something for everyone’s taste. Most of these new materials are weatherproof and fireproof which is perfect for the challenges of living in Los Angeles. Make your neighbors jealous by renovating your exterior.

Build a New Deck/ Outdoor Living Space– A new deck design will add additional living space to your home and give you that resort lifestyle you have been craving. Add an option for shade. Maybe a fireplace or fire pit. How about a water feature or jacuzzi? When you hire a Professional L.A. Contractor, they will help you create an inspired space with whatever outdoor area you have to work with.

Summer Interior Renovation Projects:

New Kitchen– Have you been thinking it’s time for a new kitchen? Whether you invest in a full kitchen remodeling in Los Angeles or just focus on replacing the countertops and resurfacing the cabinets, summer is the perfect time to complete this home kitchen remodel. You can use your outdoor kitchen or set up a temporary outdoor space for your family. The kids are off from school. Life is more laid back. Choosing now as a time to remodel your kitchen will help the renovation project feel more like a camping adventure and less disruptive.

New Windows and Doors. – Add some drama and flair to your home with new windows and a new front door. This is a practical upgrade and will add a new dimension of beauty to your Los Angeles Home. New windows will save you time and money. They will keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Protect you and your furnishings from the sun and UV rays. You can even have windows installed that are made with earthquake-proof glass! A new front door not only provides an upgraded level of security but, also a wonderful opportunity to update your Los Angeles homes’ curb appeal. Your new door should be fireproof and break-In resistant. An easy way to upgrade the look of your home.

New Ceiling Fans– Are your ceiling fans from the 1970s and sound like they are limping along. New modern ceiling fans will keep you cool while lighting up your world. Important to have a ceiling fan in each room of the house for airflow and to help the air conditioning system on those steamy 100-degree Los Angeles Summer days. Replacing them will keep your family safe from any falling objects!!!

Some Simple Additional Hacks- Upgrade your curb appeal with a selection of Los Angeles Drought -Free Plants. Add a pop of color by including your favorite flowers. Your home will look amazing both inside and out. Add a vegetable garden and include your favorite herbs. Wrap some solar twinkle lights around your trees. Time to add a new fruit tree or exotic palm.

How to Choose a Kitchen Remodeling Contractor in Santa Monica?

Step by step from the kitchen remodels to choosing a local contractor company we are here to help!

Ready to dive into your kitchen renovation in Santa Monica and wondering what steps to take first? Come build design and dream with us! Here’s an important pro-tip, before starting your kitchen remodel in Santa Monica there are some decisions to be made, like if you are going to get an estimate to hire a local contractor or if you plan to take your design ideas and do the project yourself.

Let’s explore the kitchen renovation process 1 step at a time:

First, you’ll want to start with the vision for your kitchen remodel ideas. Don’t be afraid to dream big with your design. This is where you’ll think about the countertops you’d love, if you want to move a wall and expand your kitchen space, flooring, appliances, kitchen islands, start to map out your ideas.

Next, you’ll want to outline a budget. Giving yourself an idea of what would be the average cost of your kitchen remodel in Santa Monica. When giving your kitchen an upgrade you may want to plan to set aside 10 to 20% extra within your budget to cover the cost of supplies.

After that, you’ll move into planning out your kitchen renovation. The process of planning out your kitchen remodel in Santa Monica includes measuring your space, ordering cabinet samples, perhaps talking with a kitchen designer, who can support you with taking your ideas to update the design of your kitchen and translate those ideas into something functional. This stage of the planning process also includes applying for a building permit and finalizing your kitchen remodel plans. By finalizing your renovation plans before you start the project, you’ll get a better sense of the average cost of materials and ensure that there are no delays during your remodel.

Now, we move into the 2nd phase of your Santa Monica kitchen remodel, ordering your products. Keep in mind that shopping for renovation isn’t always a quick process. It takes time to identify the items that will fit your design. Ordering products for your kitchen includes ordering of appliances, ordering your cabinets, ordering the pieces that will compliment your design. Such as flooring, faucets, hardware, and lighting. In this phase of your Santa Monica kitchen remodel you’ll also want to set up a temporary kitchen so that you have something to work with during the renovation.

Are you wondering what’s up next? Well, at this stage in your kitchen remodel it’s time for construction. With construction also comes demolition. That’s right, at this point it will be time to demolish your current Santa Monica kitchen and begin creating the new kitchen you’ve been dreaming about. Also, during this stage of the project is where structural changes are made, here you’ll also update your plumbing, install drywall and install the flooring you chose for your kitchen redesign.

Next up, it’s time to finish the construction. This is where all the new products will be installed in your Santa Monica kitchen. A fun part of the remodeling process because you’ll see your ideas come to life! Here, Los Angeles house additions contractors will help install your kitchen cabinets, countertops, lighting, appliances, and fixtures. You’ll also polish up the details by installing a backsplash, and of course, clean up so that you can begin to enjoy your brand-new kitchen.

Kitchen design tips:

Now that you have a better understanding of the flow of a kitchen renovation let’s talk about some redesign tips! Some of the best design ideas are created from simple updates. For example, including pops of color to create those modern touches, or including natural stones and sand elements into your Santa Monica kitchen to give it that perfect Southern California vibe. One of the best tips we can offer when it comes to renovating your kitchen is to make it your own. Bring in elements that give your kitchen a personality that matches the overall feeling of your home. Don’t be afraid to have some fun.

How to hire the best local contractor companies:

If you’re looking to hire a general contractor in Los Angeles to help you upgrade your kitchen in Santa Monica, it’s important to do thorough research. We recommend identifying and interviewing at least three contractor companies to find the best fit for your project. Checking their client testimonials can also provide valuable insights when making your decision. Additionally, it’s wise to start the hiring process early, as the best local contractors in Santa Monica are often booked out 6 to 8 months in advance.

LOS ANGELES HOME IMPROVEMENT GRANTS

 

DO YOU NEED SOME FINANCIAL SUPPORT TO REMODEL AND RENOVATE YOUR HOME IN CALIFORNIA?

Owning a house in California can certainly mark a very exciting chapter in life. However, as we’ve served a variety of clients including veterans, teachers, seniors, single parents, and disabled or handicapped homeowners with their home improvement projects, we’ve found that sometimes there is a need for financial support. If you’re a veteran, a single mother of find yourself working within the constraints of a low income we’re sure that you’d appreciate some support to allow your dream home remodeling project to become a reality.

For our team, no project is ever too small and at Structura Remodeling we offering financing to help you bring your California house renovations to life.

 

A home improvement grant also called a “home repair grant,” is a type of financial aid issued by the government at the federal, state or municipality level. It’s designed to help homeowners in the greater Los Angeles area make select improvements to their properties even when navigating a low income.

If an applicant and their project meet certain requirements, a home improvement grant does not need to be repaid. So, essentially this gives you access to free funds to have your house remodeled in California.

There are several places you can find available home improvement grants. A great place to start is with your local California HUD office (Housing and Urban Development). HUD offers grants like the HOME Investment Partnerships Program for low-income homeowners, as well as various types of house remodeling loans. Visit HUD.gov to find the offices within the greater Los Angeles area.

Eligibility requirements vary by grant. For the most part, grants will have requirements about the homeowner’s income, their location, as well as the suggested projects that this grant money will invest to support.

Here are some resources that you can explore to determine eligibility. If you’re a Veteran, Teacher, Senior Citizen, Single Parent, or find yourself handicapped or disabled, you could potentially meet the qualifications for some of the more commonly used home improvement grants:

HOME Investment Partnerships Program

USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans and Grants

HUD Community Development Block Grant Program

VA Specially Adapted Housing Grant

Just like with your mortgage application, you will need to produce documentation to prove your financial need. You may also need to prove that you’re working within a low-income, as well as offer assessments of your home’s conditions and your estimated project costs. Make sure you know the full scope of requirements for each grant you apply for. Remember, most home improvement grants in California are very limited in number and only a few homeowners are chosen.

For house remodelling and renovation, you must enlist the help of a professional general contractor in Los Angeles. We encourage you to make your ideal home remodelling project a reality.

HOW TO AVOID MAKING INTERIOR DESIGN MISTAKES- BE SMART ABOUT THE TRENDS

 

One thing that keeps Interior remodeling Companies in Los Angeles very busy is redesigning our DYI project mistakes, our obsession with design trends that turn into design trends faux pas, and trends that last for only a season or two.

Just like high fashion, where elegant styles are timeless and can be worn and appreciated for many years, we can have a high-end, sleek home design with a fresh and timeless style we can enjoy for years—for example, an all-white marble tile bathroom.  You will never get tired of that classic look. If you want to change it up a bit, change the accessories, but the bones are solid.

On the other hand, think of fashion trends that flamed out in a season, and you would never be caught dead wearing again. For example, long-sleeved shirts with a bustier top over them or animal print everything!!!

Will we ever forgive ourselves for shag carpets and plastic-covered furniture?!!!

HERE ARE A FEW INSIGHTS AND LESSONS FROM SOME OF OUR FAVORITE INTERIOR REMODELING COMPANIES IN LOS ANGELES ON HOW TO AVOID MAKING THOSE MISTAKES IN THE FUTURE.

 

THE SECRET TO GOOD INTERIOR DESIGN- HOW TO STAY CLASSY AND LOOK TRENDY

·         Use quality design materials as the foundation.

·         Save the trends for things that are easily changed or replaceable.

·         When you get bored or the design world has moved on, you can quickly move on by changing paint colors and accessories without tearing down walls or replacing fixtures.

DON’T OVERUSE A DESIGN ELEMENT.

Have you heard the expression “too much of a good thing”? Apply that to design as well. Just because you love mid-century modern doesn’t mean that every single piece in your house should be from the ’50s or the ’60s.  Don’t listen to your mother, the curtains, carpet, walls, and furniture do not need to be the same color. It’s like wearing all denim. You know better!!!

FORGET YOU EVER LEARNED THE WORD “SHIPLAP.”

Tale the truth!!! Before Chip and Joanna Gains started renovating all of Texas with reclaimed Shiplap, had you ever heard of this wood before. Did you crave it? Did you dream about rooms in your house covered in reclaimed Shiplap? Since the Gains started promoting Shiplap on their show, there has been a 150% increase in the demand for this reclaimed wood.

Shiplap was not used for ships, as the name implies. It was primarily used for barns and sheds as inexpensive weatherproofing. The trend is now reversing as people tire of the dark wood. I think they finally realize it needs to go the way of the 50’s knotty pine paneling used in every finished basement and family room of that decade.  If you are still set on Shiplap, use discretion.   How about behind the television or an accent wall? According to Joanna Gains, it looks excellent painted a dark color.

MID – CENTURY MODERN MANIA

Interior remodeling companies in Los Angeles are overrun with requests to renovate Mid- Century Modern Homes. Los Angeles County has many great examples of the 50’s architectural style. Some have been perfectly preserved or renovated to preserve the integrity of the design. Design features like the unique window shapes, flat roofs, asymmetrical shapes, open floor plans, and the way the homes connect to the outdoor space and nature are very appealing.

We can celebrate the beauty of the design and brilliant architecture, but do you have to decorate with all things 50’s. This is the same interior design mistake that people make when they fall in love with a style or concept. If you appreciate antiques, does that mean your home has to be filled with antiques only? Have we not made anything of use or aesthetically appealing in the last two hundred plus years? I’m sorry, but those antique couches are not made to be sat on by twenty-first-century bodies. We are used to being comfortable, and we should have it.

To appreciate the design aesthetic we are better off highlighting it with a few fantastic pieces instead of having people feel like they are entering a museum when they come to visit.

CHALK BOARD PAINT

Every DYI starting in 2016 show demonstrated how to organize your life by having a chalkboard painted wall. You could keep your grocery list up to date, track carpool schedules, or create that tavern, pub environment right in your own home. Use it to organize your office space or give the kids a wall to draw on in their rooms.   It turns out that it’s a lot harder than it looks to get that perfect chalkboard surface, and people actually don’t want their homes to look like a tavern. Interior remodeling companies in Los Angeles recommend updated technology- whiteboard wallpaper walls. Easier to apply and less messy. No soft chalk dust anywhere.

WALLPAPER IS BACK IN STYLE

Wallpaper is back in fashion, but not how we think about it remembering our grandmother’s house back in the day. We are not going back to complicated floral patterns in every room of the house. Think accent wall—a bold graphic print on a wall to break up a large room or highlight a specific space.

Again, technology has brought up some excellent decorating opportunities, offering temporary wallpaper. This is a boon to apartment renters. And just like a henna tattoo, when you get tired, you can remove it for those who are commitment-phobic.

CONCRETE COUNTER TOPS

Concrete Counter Tops were trendy, with the HGTV Design Show starting about 2016. Concrete does have a great industrial look and offers some creative design options. The problem is that once you pour it, you can’t change your mind. The only way to remove it is with a jackhammer. It’s heavy and porous.  If not properly sealed and maintained, your countertops will stain.  Interior remodeling companies in Los Angeles say their clients are really done with concrete counters.

ON TREND FOR 2023

Now that you know how to avoid critical interior design mistakes, it’s time to plan for your 2023 design projects. Work with a company that can keep your project on track, save you from the common DYI mistakes and deliver professional results. This is an investment in your home.  When it comes to interior renovation projects like bathroom, kitchen, office, or home additions, you want to work with the top Interior remodeling company in Los Angeles.

When you work with best interior remodelling companies in Los Angeles, at the same time, you also need some home interior designers in Los Angeles for the plan of home renovation project in 2023.

GARAGE MAN CAVE IDEAS: UNIQUE DESIGNS FOR EVERY PERSONAL STYLE

It’s no wonder man caves have become a common remodel request in recent years. After all, who wouldn’t want some extra space to display their favourite things? Man caves aren’t just a commodity for guys looking for display space or a place for their hobbies though; They make a great entertaining area too! 

Often enhanced by TVs, pool tables, bars, and the like, they’re the go-to spot for any event. Sounds good, right? Unfortunately, not every home has the space but that doesn’t mean the man cave of your dream is out of the question. This is where garage man cave ideas come into play. 

Curious how you can take your builder grade garage to an entertainment hub? Maybe looking for the garage man cave ideas that’ll fit even the most unique of hobbies? Stick around and you’ll quickly see why the garage man cave is a remodel on the rise. 

 

WHY IS A GARAGE THE BEST CHOICE FOR A MAN CAVE?

Garages are the best option for man caves for many reasons, the first being cost. An addition to the home is far more expensive than transforming an existing space like the garage. Likewise, it’s a larger space than you’d likely have with an interior room. 

Also, a garage conversion in LA is an especially good option for those with extracurricular that fall on the messy or loud side. Confined to the garage, it’s less likely to affect others in the home than that of using a room inside the home. 

 

MAN CAVE REMODEL CONSIDERATIONS

Since the garage isn’t an interior room, it may lack some of the luxuries you want in a man cave. While you can transform a garage into a man cave without all of these, consider the following garage man cave ideas before getting started with your remodel.

•         Plumbing: A critical step if you plan to add a bathroom, sink etc.
•          Electrical: Additional access may need to be added for custom lighting.
•          Air Conditioning and Heating: Rerouting through the existing central AC unit. 
•         Refrigeration and/or Bar: Combination of custom water, drainage and electrical.

 

GARAGE MAN CAVE IDEAS 

There’s no shortage of garage man cave ideas as these spaces can accommodate nearly any type of interest or hobby; That said, it would be impossible to cover everything here. We’ve narrowed it down to the designs so special you’d want to be sure they’re done right with the help of a professional. Each with their own unique remodel needs, the final result is well worth the extra time and money.

 

SHARED/FUNCTIONAL SPACE

 

If you’re into garage man cave ideas but can’t fully commit, this shared space concept is the perfect fit. Splitting it right down the middle, the garage can still accommodate a car and the usual garage odds and ends; Still providing half the space for an impressive man cave given the space. 

Extra storage added on the walls and in the headspace above free up much needed square footage for both sides. Cabinetry and countertop space allow for ample man cave storage while also offering electrical access for anything you may need. 

 

BARE BONES WITH STYLE

Another great example of doing a lot with a little, garage man cave ideas such as this scream luxury without the price tag. Unfinished walls and ceilings painted bold colors give it a much more polished look. They opted to redo the flooring with a black, glossy coated finish making it feel a lot less like a garage and more like an intentional space. 

The addition of dark wood and leather furnishings not only give the space style but also comfort. Of course, who could forget the man cave staples too? The foosball table, poker set up and TV make for an entertaining space you’ll never want to leave.

MINIMALISTIC

It’s easy to see garage man cave ideas and think they require extravagance or a large budget, but that’s not entirely true. The minimalist garage man cave above is proof! Finished floors and walls give the space an interior feel while added wood accents and lighting embellish. 

The minimalist look allows the space to be used for many purposes from guy’s night to meeting space. A one size fits all at an affordable price, a simple look goes a long way. 

 

SCREENING ROOM

You wouldn’t think the garage is the best seat in the house for a movie, but garage man cave ideas like this show otherwise. Appearing as just another room in the house, you’d never know this space was once your average garage. A backlit tray ceiling accompanied by custom overhead lighting takes the space to the next level. 

Carpeting, sconces and wall paneling reminiscent of a true cinema truly immerse you in the experience. The final touch, oversized leather loungers, make this screen room every movie lover’s dream. 

PRIVATE BAR

 

The bar garage man cave is a more meticulous remodel, requiring specialty work with plumbing, refrigeration and the like. The addition of beer and soda taps creating further detailed installation. Regardless, it’s not without some serious rewards as shown in the picture above. 

A lengthy bar accompanies plenty of counter space for creating your favorite drinks. Specially made shelving adorns a planked wall with display space and a chalk bar menu for personalization. Unique hanging lights and the extension of central AC into the space make for optimal comfort year round. 

MUSIC AND/OR RECORDING ROOM

 

Music and recording rooms are fairly common in garage man cave ideas, even more so in the garage man cave. Reason being that noise like this in an interior room might not be welcomed by everyone. Making or playing music in the garage, allows the noise to escape the interior of the home with extra precautions to boot. 

As you can see above, this garage man cave features a recording studio with custom paneling for sound absorption; Allowing less noise pollution outward. Panelling aside, the installation of wood flooring, track lighting and fixed AC give the area an indoor vibe with all the benefits of a garage man cave. 

 

MECHANIC’S QUARTERS

A car enthusiast’s dream, garage man cave ideas like the one above take the art of mechanics up a notch. With several bays to work in, the space also provides a sleek and inconspicuous place for tools in the wall lockers. Likewise, there’s storage space for motorcycle apparel on the wall. As if the work space wasn’t impressive enough, the aesthetics are a head-turner.

Black tiled flooring in the work space collides with warm wood as you enter a furnished area to kick up your feet and admire your work. Touches of wood beams and industrial, black track lighting give the room a balance in both style and function. 

 

NATURALIST AND/OR TROPHY SPACE

Whether you just like the wood look or you want an aesthetic that highlights your hunting trophies, this rustic style is sure to please. Wood paneling surrounds this garage man cave with a warm and raw feel, bringing the outdoors inside. 

Wooden beams not only add to the rustic nature of the design but also act as an architectural highlight, accentuating the height of the ceilings. 

GAMING HIDEOUT

 

Garage man cave ideas are a common request among avid gamers. Here, they chose not just to include a space for video games but other physical games as well. The added touch of a cork wall for darts is a particularly unique idea. 

Neutral flooring and walls add a bright and welcoming contrast to the wood elements making the space naturally pleasing to the eye.