THE TOP REASONS WHY A RECESSION IS THE PERFECT TIME TO RENOVATE YOUR HOME

 

I know this might seem crazy but, a financial recession or downturn in the economy is the perfect time for you to start a home remodeling project in Los Angeles. This might sound counter intuitive. But, for so many people, this is the right time to act and invest in your homes’ future. …And here is why.

THE TOP REASONS TO RENOVATE YOUR LOS ANGELES HOME DURING A RECESSION:

You might be thinking now is not the time to spend your cash or take on a home improvement line of credit. Whether you’ve been dreaming of renovating your kitchen or a bathroom remodeling in Los Angeles, history tells us that what goes down must come back up. We have witnessed this several times in our own lives. When the economy turns around the experts predict that real estate prices in Los Angeles will skyrocket.

We will come back from this current downturn. If you take on a Los Angeles Home Renovation you will be financially ahead of the game when it’s time to sell your home. Meanwhile, you get to enjoy living in your dream environment now.

·        A home renovation is a perfect investment in your future. Prices are low. Labor and materials are less expensive. Construction Workers, Plumbers, and Electricians are more willing to negotiate their prices. In some cases, like with our team at Structura Remodeling there are also financing options available. This can reduce the price of your home renovation by as much as 50%.

·        Five years from now you ready to upgrade to a larger home or downsize to your perfect retirement cottage. You will be thankful you invested in a home renovation when the price was right! That kitchen or bathroom remodel will add thousands of dollars to the value of your home. If you are in a starter house, even small fixes can make all the difference in your selling price.

·        With the world shut down, you have more time to manage and oversee a home remodeling project. Decisions get made quickly. The work will get done faster and that will save you money. When your home functions better for your family it will bring you joy… and save you time and money.

·        Because of the pause on commercial projects, there is a glut in materials and workers. Concrete, rebar, copper, and steel beams cost less. Even the oil to ship them costs less. Take advantage of these adjustments in price. Plumbers, Electricians, Designers, Builders are looking for projects now.

·        Companies need to clear inventory. You might be able to negotiate the price on those French doors you have been pinning for. How about an upgrade to a tech-savvy bathroom with all the bells and whistles?

·        Life is too short. Now is the time to enjoy these projects while working with a team of expert remodeling contractors in Los Angeles. How about refreshing the exterior paint for some new curb appeal? Committing to a new backyard deck. Add to your summer BBQs and outdoor picnics with friends and family

·        Take advantage of Los Angeles home remodeling grants that are available for Seniors, Veterans, and Low-Income Families. Home Depot has pledged more than One Million Dollars to renovate Veteran’s homes. The Federal Government and other organizations work with people to keep their homes safe and livable.

Bottom line…stop putting off those renovations. Remodeling your LA Home is a savvy investment for your future. Get years of pleasure from your new kitchen, bathroom, flooring, or granny flat. You are investing in your property and enjoying the outcome of your home renovation projects for all the days and years to come.

HOW TO BUDGET FOR A COMPLETE HOME RENOVATION IN LOS ANGELES

This is one of those big life decisions, do you renovate, or do you sell? Some things are hard to replace. If you have fantastic neighbors and a community of friends that you have cultivated over many years, that is hard to give up and maybe irreplaceable. The garden you have tenderly nurtured with its heirloom plants and prize-winning blooms is not something you can easily pack up and take with you. And then there are the memories, the good times and the not-so-good time, all the moments that add up to the sum total of your life to date.

Can you, in good conscience, walk away? Would your kids and or grandkids even tolerate the idea? Now I know that we have become a culture of nomads in this country. We do not live our lives in our communities as much as we exist online. I’m not sure that is a good thing. Time will tell. After losing many friends and neighbors this year, I am partial to the idea that home, family, and community are essential to our physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing.

SO HERE IS MY CASE FOR STAYING PUT AND GOING FOR A FULL HOME RENOVATION.

1.    It is a sellers’ market. You can get full price for your home, and then you are on the other side of the equation. Now is not the best time to buy. Do you want to go through a stressful bidding process where it’s you and twenty other families in an obscene bidding war for the same house?

2.    No matter what home you purchase, you will end up with a few renovation projects to make the house your new home. So, no matter what you do, you can’t avoid a construction project or two unless you are buying new construction. Either way, you are managing a build.

3.    It’s your house, so it is your choice about the renovation process. You can choose to do it in stages or pull the band-aid off and go for the complete house renovation. Living in Los Angeles, where the weather is excellent all year round, makes this prospect much simpler. No chance of snow, frost, and winter weather interfering with your project. You can set up an outdoor kitchen and live in your camper in the backyard. Think of it as a nature vacation.

4.    You decide your home renovation budget, so you control how and where the money is invested. Look for home renovation ideas on a budget. You will be on your own timeline so you can investigate budget kitchen remodels, budget bathroom remodels, and budget backyard renovations. Watch the home remodeling shows, read the home design magazines, go to the bath and kitchen showrooms. Go to open houses in your neighborhood and take the best design ideas you find.

Then you can start to assemble a working budget. You will know what things cost and how you want to invest your dollars. Here are some things to guide you on your journey to compiling your home remodel budget.

BREAKDOWN OF TYPICAL STARTING COSTS:

GUT RENOVATION VS. NON- GUT RENOVATION

In creating a budget, the first decision that impacts cost is deciding on a gut renovation vs. a non-gut renovation. A gut renovation is exactly as it sounds. You gut the house, removing everything down to the foundation. In a gut renovation, all visible surfaces are replaced. Interior walls are stripped down to the studs, and the framing is knocked out entirely.

A non- gut renovation may also involve a new kitchen, bathroom, new flooring, etc., but you will be using the existing structure and walls. A gut renovation will start at $100-$200 per square foot. A non- gut renovation will begin at about $75-$100 per square foot.

GENERAL GUIDELINE FOR A LOS ANGELES HOME RENOVATION BUDGET

·        Full-home renovation $100—$200 per square foot

·        Dry spaces- bedrooms and family rooms start at $50 per square foot.

·        Baths start at $400 per square foot.

·        Kitchens start at $300 per square foot.

·        Gut remodel with customization: $200—$300 per square foot.

·        Non-gut, remodel with customization: $200 per square foot.

·        Structural factors like staircases and second-floor additions- extensive customization: $300 per square foot+

·        Plumbing permits: from under $2,000 up to $5,000

·        Electrical permits: $900

·        Electrical permits: $900

Moving walls, adding staircases, shifting gas and plumbing, and electrical rewiring all contribute to a higher per-square-foot cost, plus add to the behind-the-scenes expenditures.

Since pricing for kitchens and baths runs higher than other rooms, more of those equal a higher price per square foot.

You can expect to see more extensive customization, fine finishes, and luxurious materials at this level and beyond. You will have access to handmade tiles, exotic wood grains, natural stone, and fine architectural details at this price point.

You might also see custom door casements and extensive lighting details at this level. There won’t be much in the way of off-the-shelf materials, and the artistry should be top-notch. Renovations that hit all of these notes can quickly run over $500 per square foot.

TIPS TO STAY ON TOP OF YOUR RENOVATION BUDGET:

·        Include an additional 10 to 15 percent in the budget for project overruns, unforeseen structural, plumbing, or heating problems.

·        Spend for high price custom materials only where it counts. Work with your designer to choose materials for maximum effect. Spend for the handmade tiles for your kitchen backsplash. They will create a standout design focus for your home. You can use standard material for the second bathroom to balance the budget.

·        Fix the plumbing and electrical infrastructure. Spend it now while you are under renovation or face more costly problems down the road.

·        Focus on kitchens and baths. Spend your money where it counts. Renovated kitchens and bathrooms add the most resale value to your home.

·        Consult experts upfront. If you plan to hire an architect or designer for a major home renovation, get them on board early. This can help save money by mapping out a clear plan to avoid costly changes mid-stream. Set aside 15 to 20 percent of your budget for your design team. Hire your licensed professionals early, a cost-effective way to prevent headaches later.

After planning your home renovation budget, it’s time to call in the experts. Structura Home Remodeling is the top company in the Los Angeles Area for a total home renovation.

Need to Get Away? How About an IKEA Tiny House?

Are you feeling the urge to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and embark on an adventure that's both sustainable and stylish? Well, IKEA, the Swedish furniture giant known for its innovative designs, has an exciting solution that might just be your ticket to the perfect getaway – an IKEA tiny house. Yes, you read that right! In collaboration with tiny house builder Escape, IKEA has ventured into the world of compact living. Let's take a closer look at this remarkable project and explore the allure of tiny living with an unmistakable touch of Scandinavian design.

Exploring the IKEA Tiny House: A Scandinavian Retreat

1. Efficient and Sustainable Living:

The IKEA tiny house is a shining example of how efficient and sustainable living can be achieved without sacrificing comfort or style. Measuring just 187 square feet, this tiny home is packed with clever solutions for making the most of limited space. From a functional kitchenette to a cozy sleeping loft, every inch of the space is thoughtfully designed.

2. Scandinavian Aesthetics:

As expected from IKEA, Scandinavian aesthetics take center stage in this tiny house. Clean lines, minimalist décor, and a soothing color palette create an inviting and uncluttered atmosphere. It's a testament to the idea that good design can make any space feel open and inviting.

3. Eco-Friendly Materials:

Sustainability is a core principle in both IKEA and Escape's ethos. The tiny house is constructed using eco-friendly materials, and it's equipped with energy-efficient appliances. Solar panels on the roof provide power, making it an off-grid gem that treads lightly on the environment.

4. A Mobile Retreat:

One of the joys of tiny living is the ability to take your home wherever your wanderlust leads. The IKEA tiny house is mounted on a trailer, allowing you to easily transport it to your favorite destinations. Imagine waking up to a different view outside your window every morning.

5. The Allure of Simplicity:

In a world often marked by excess, the IKEA tiny house reminds us of the allure of simplicity. It encourages us to question what we truly need to live comfortably and happily. It's a testament to the idea that less can indeed be more.

6. A Versatile Retreat:

The IKEA tiny house is a versatile retreat that can serve multiple purposes. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway, a backyard guest house, or a minimalist living experiment, this tiny house can adapt to your needs.

 

7. Smart Storage Solutions:

Maximizing storage in a tiny space is essential, and the IKEA tiny house doesn't disappoint. It features an array of smart storage solutions, including fold-down tables, built-in shelving, and hidden compartments that make organization a breeze.

8. Compact Kitchen Convenience:

Despite its size, the tiny house boasts a compact yet fully functional kitchenette. It includes a mini-fridge, a two-burner cooktop, a sink, and even a microwave. You can prepare simple meals with ease, whether you're in the wilderness or your backyard.

9. Tranquil Sleeping Loft:

Climb the ladder to the cozy sleeping loft, where you'll find a comfortable bed with a view of the stars through the skylight. It's the perfect place to unwind and recharge after a day of exploration.

10. Connection to Nature:

Living in a tiny house promotes a stronger connection to nature. With large windows that let in natural light and allow you to enjoy the beauty of your surroundings, the IKEA tiny house encourages you to savor the great outdoors.

11. Minimalist Living Philosophy:

The tiny house embodies the minimalist living philosophy, emphasizing the importance of experiences over possessions. It encourages a decluttered lifestyle, where you carefully choose what brings you joy and purpose.

12. Customization Potential:

While the IKEA tiny house comes with a thoughtfully designed interior, there's room for personalization. You can add your own touches, from decorative elements to storage solutions, to make it truly your own.

13. Affordable Adventure:

Compared to traditional homes or vacations, the IKEA tiny house offers an affordable way to embark on adventures. It's a cost-effective way to experience different places without the expenses of hotels or rent.

The IKEA tiny house is not just a dwelling; it's a concept that challenges our notions of space and possessions. It's a reminder that we can live more sustainably without compromising on style or functionality. So, if you're yearning for a unique adventure, consider the charm of tiny living in an IKEA tiny house. It's an opportunity to simplify, to reconnect with nature, and to embrace a Scandinavian-inspired retreat on wheels. Whether you choose to travel the open road or simply use it as a tranquil backyard escape, the IKEA tiny house offers a world of possibilities in a tiny, stylish package.

Room Addition: Expanding Your Living Space with Structura Remodeling

When it comes to enhancing your living space, room additions are a remarkable solution that brings new dimensions to your home. Just as the IKEA tiny house cleverly maximizes space, Structura Remodeling specializes in creating seamless room additions that not only increase your home's square footage but also elevate its functionality and aesthetics. Whether you're dreaming of a sun-soaked breakfast nook, a spacious home office, or a luxurious master suite, Structura Remodeling's expertise in designing and constructing room additions allows you to expand your living space with confidence and style. Our commitment to innovative design, eco-friendly materials, and efficient construction ensures that your room addition is not just an expansion but a transformation of your home. Experience the joy of more space, more comfort, and more possibilities with Structura Remodeling by your side.

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 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.

The garage needs to be rebuilt as well. This entails making space in a small area to produce a unique design according to your wishes. You need a professional to make it happen, or you may hunt for garage remodelling services in Los Angeles that make it reality for you.

 

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 panelling 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 panelling 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 panelling 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. 

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.