Old kitchens are warned: Your days are done!

Old kitchens are warned: Your days are done!

Our Burbank kitchen remodel is warning to all old kitchens, your days are numbered! Spazio LA is coming for you.

Our client had grown tired of their outdated kitchen, and dreamt of nothing more than a space that complimented their style and a place to entertain.

Problem areas of the existing kitchen: The dark and dreary color scheme of their kitchen made the space seem more small and compact than it was already. Lacking cabinet & storage space floating shelves housed appliances and décor. These problem areas our client hoped to fix with the new space we were going to deliver.

Remodel must haves:

1. More space to entertain – build Custom Island with seating and built-in appliances.

2. More cabinet & storage space – replace floating shelves with cabinets and pantry.

3. Upgraded appliances- add built in appliances, energy saving appliances.

4. Eco friendly materials – environmentally friendly flooring, light color flooring.

Have you made your remodel must have list yet?

Demo and construction gets under way as we plan to surprise our clients with a kitchen straight out of a magazine.

We gutted everything! From the floating shelves, sink, counters tops, cabinets, and range – we emptied the entire kitchen space.

Framing for the new skylight is in the works! Skylights are a great way to lower your energy bills and impress your family. And this skylight will be a show stopper when we are finished.

It may not look like much while we are in the midst of a remodel, but that just makes the outcome even more satisfying.

Say hello to a brand new kitchen! Is this the same house? Oh yes, this is the same house you saw in the very first picture. It now has the Spazio LA touch.

I bet you never would have thought that we could the dark and sad kitchen into something as spectacular as this! This magazine worthy kitchen has everything off the must have list plus more.

White cabinets and light floors make this room feel large, but the dark counters and pop of backsplash give a modern edge. Ecofriendly hard wood floors installed parallel throughout the space elongate the floor plan.

Our specialty is custom kitchens, and custom islands come natural for us. This custom island is well equipped with a built in microwave – say goodbye to a counter space thief! Built in range that will make any professional chef jealous, and seating for 3. I forgot to mention the outlets on either side of the island, just in case you want to throw a table lamp up there for ambience or need to plug in a crockpot during a family gathering. You will want to throw gatherings with a kitchen like this. The remodel makes organizing and utilizing space easy with custom cabinets and pantry – no more awkward spaces or flimsy shelves.

Every detail in this kitchen was done with special care, keeping one thing in mind: our clients dream. You give us your ideas and we make them become reality.

Budgeting Your Remodel: What You Need to Consider

Budgeting Your Remodel: What You Need to Consider During the spring and summer months, many home owners decide it's time for a remodel. Starting a remodel is a big decision as it can shut down a portion of your home for several days, or weeks. There is much to consider when beginning a remodel, including budgeting. Knowing the proper way to budget will help you stay on task as well as not go overboard with the changes to your home. Read on for top tips on how to budget your remodel and how to stay on track, avoiding spending more than you bargained for.

Consider Every Element

To begin, you will need to consider every element of the remodel. Let’s say that you have decided to remodel your bathroom. You are going for a complete overhaul. So, you will need drywall, new toilet, bathtub, faucets, vanity, light fixtures, etc. You will need to make a list of every item that you will be replacing and then go price out these items. This will give you an idea of material cost.

You will also need to consider if you will be using the services of a Los Angeles remodeling company or if you will be doing the project yourself. Hiring a company will have an added cost but can be well worth the price as you do not have to do the work yourself, the timeline is much shorter and you know there will be no mistakes in the process of the remodel. Have a company come out and price the job so you can have an idea as to how much the project will cost.

Once you have an idea of how much the project will cost see if you can cover the price. If not, take a little more time to save money so you do not end up charging the project on credit cards or taking out a loan.

Contingency Plan

It is always smart to plan on a contingency plan. With remodels, you never know what might be hiding behind the walls or for this instance, behind the tub. Have a little money set aside in case an unexpected need arises. In bathroom remodels, sometimes there is water damage or the need for re-piping. By having a contingency plan, you have money set aside that can pay for such needs, helping you to stay on budget. It is good to have at least 10 to 20 percent of your overall budget set aside as a contingency plan. This gives you a nice cushion if problems arise during the project.

Overall, if you plan out your remodeling project, you will be able to stay on task and on budget. Without proper planning, you can end up spending more money than you bargained for which can lead to further problems. You will also be able to stay on time with the completion of the project, able to enjoy your new space in no time. Plan accordingly and you will have a completed new space in your home that was finished on time and maybe even under budget!

Bathroom Remodel: The Shower and Tub Debate

Bathroom Remodel: The Shower and Tub Debate When it comes to a bathroom remodel, many home owners often find they are debating whether or not to add in a shower and tub combo, a simple shower or just a tub. This is a debate that can cause problems in many homes due to differing opinions on the matter. Often times, it is best to leave the decision making up to the experts so that the work is completed and hopefully the home owners enjoy the new space, no matter which was added! Read on to see the pros and cons of each option to help you make the best decision for your bathroom remodel.

Shower/Tub Debate

Depending on your bathroom space, you probably already have a shower/tub combo. For most homes, this is the standard installation provided. For newer homes, some contractors opt to provide a shower only or a bathtub with no shower combo. This is a personal preference for the home owner and is something to consider. For resale value, it is better to have a shower/tub combo as that is what home owners are looking for in general.

However, if you are remodeling your master bathroom, you do have the option to go with a separate shower and no tub. Perhaps you do not take baths or could use the main bathroom as an area for enjoying a soak every now and then. It is also important to consider the size of the space. In larger bathrooms, a standalone shower can be added along with a bathtub, just separately. If the bathroom is small, then a shower may be your only option.

Narrowing Down Your Choices

When remodeling your bathroom, you will need to narrow down your choices by asking yourself a few questions. Think about how your bathroom is to begin with. Do you only have a shower? Could you make room for a tub? Do you like to take baths more than showers or do you want the option to do both? Consult with a Los Angeles remodeling contractor to see what you can do with the space you have. There may be enough room to add in a standalone shower with tile work and a tub in a separate area or you may just need to have a small standing shower and toilet area.

A contractor will be able to look at the space and configure the room so that it will work seamlessly. Ideas that you may have never thought of easily come to mind with a contractor. Take a look at plans provided to see how you can change up your bathroom and once work begins, you will soon have a brand new space to enjoy and relax in for years to come.

When considering a major remodel, always consult with a contractor. You want to work with individuals who have experience in bathroom remodels. Never try to tackle a project on your own or at least without consulting a professional first. You can easily get in over your head and end up spending more money, time and have a headache from the effort needed. Start the project off right by consulting with a professional to have a space you can enjoy and be proud of.

Pros and Cons of Flooring Options

Pros and Cons of Flooring Options When remodeling your home you may feel overwhelmed with the many choices of Flooring Options. And there are many options! You may want to consider a few things before you lay down that floor solely because it looks good. We will help you make smart choices before your regret the floor you picked out.

Spazio LA will break down the options and factors that will help you make the right choice.

Things to consider when doing your flooring are:

1. Cleaning and Durability:

If you have pets and kids you may want to consider an option that is easy to clean. Choosing an option that will hold up to traffic and accidents is important.

2. Cost and Value:

It is important to consider the quality of the flooring and the value for your money. You don’t want to throw away money to replace a floor that you had remodeled only a few years back because you went with a cheaper option.  Also, installing quality flooring adds value to your home for years to come.

3. Location, Location, Location:

The ideal flooring can change based on where you are installing it as well. Rooms used more often will require durable flooring. Bathrooms will require flooring that is moisture and water resistant- and safe! Some flooring options and the way it is installed can make an area look larger, or smaller. You want durable flooring in a kids rooms but it needs to be safe and warm also.

Here we lay out the pros and cons of only a few different flooring options. Never the less if you are in doubt call a professional to help you with your home remodeling needs.

Pros & Cons

                       

Carpet

Pros -Carpet can act like another layer of insulation and help keep cold or warm drafts from seeping through the floor.

-It goes without saying that carpet is always going to be the softest of any type of flooring. -Carpet helps to reduce sound and noises from one floor to the next. Cons -Regular vacuuming is needed (every one to two days for high traffic areas) frequently. Spills need to be removed immediately to prevent staining and liquid to seep deep into fibers to cause mold and mildew.

Hardwood

Pros -An upgrade to hardwood floors will add a lot of value to your home. -Hardwood floors are easy to care for by sweeping or vacuuming them daily and wiping them with an approved wood cleaner. -There are many different types of woods, stains and plank sizes to choose from.

Cons

-Every step that is taken on wood floors can be heard. Not to mention, furry friends can slip and slide because their padded feet can’t grip the shiny, smooth surface.

Laminate

Pros -The protective layer on laminate helps protect it from something that would normally stain easily. -Vacuum away loose dirt and debris and mop with a damp mop.

Cons                                                                                                                                                                     -Laminate may look like hardwood, but doesn’t have the value like hardwood. -Laminate flooring is easily dented. Laminate flooring cannot be sanded or refinished. Areas with large scratches or gouges need to be replaced with new laminate flooring.

Tile – Ceramic/Stone/Porcelain

Pros -Easy, fast clean up – and great for high traffic.

-Adds a clean and elegant finish to a room.

- Nontoxic and great for those who suffer allergies as it doesn’t harbor allergens.

Cons -Not a good insulator for heat.

-Dangerous when wet!

-Tiles can crack and need to be replaced.

5 Simple but Life-Changing Remodeling Ideas

5 Simple but Life-Changing Remodeling Ideas

Now that we are through the holidays and the New Year, it’s finally time to stop procrastinating and start turning the house remodeling gears. That long list of improvements you created last year has been gathering dust for far too long, and with spring just around the corner there’s never a better time to get remodeling.

While that list is probably long and distinguished, it’s important to narrow your scope down to a few projects to make sure you follow through rather than drowning in the overwhelming flood of ‘must do’ items. Keep it short. Keep it simple. Keep it on budget. With a streamlined set of tasks laid out with a clear budget and a clear schedule, you’ll be free to complete your remodels relatively stress free. Here are 5 simple but life-changing remodeling ideas to improve your house this 2017.

1 | Exterior Siding Improvements You’ve probably been yearning to take this task on since you purchased the home and decided to ‘live with’ the pink board and batten siding with bright purple trim. Well, now’s the time to stop yearning and start doing. It’s never been more affordable to bite the bullet and re-side your home. Not only will you increase market-value and weather protection, you’ll have full creative control to give your home the curb appeal you imagined it having.

2 | Flooring Updating your flooring is a no-brainer, and should be considered to be a worthwhile improvement for anyone’s first project. It’s a great way to ease yourself into the ebb and flow of a remodel project without breaking the bank (or more importantly, your spirit). Just like with exterior siding, there are unlimited options, so it’s best to agree upon a general aesthetic first and look at specifications later. Hardwood flooring is the most ubiquitous material choice, whether solid or engineered hardwood. If you’re looking to re-floor your home on the cheap, manufacturers are working magic these days with engineered hardwoods. Bamboo is a great option too because it’s sustainable sourced, easy to install, durable, and comes in a wide range of finishes.

3 | Build a Fireplace Not too long ago adding a fireplace to your home meant ripping up some exterior walls, calling the town mason, and applying for a second mortgage to pay for the thing. Thankfully, times have changed, and adding a warm fireplace to your living room has never been easier. If your home is already stubbed out for gas, this proposition becomes a slam dunk, and there are a variety of ways you can finish the feature out – whether it be with brick, stone, or blackened steel. If you don’t have a gas hook-up, there is a growing list of wall mounted fireplace options.

4 | Make a Space for a Home Office You should look into sourcing some commercial grade hardwood floors, plenty of natural light (and ideally a view), and a desk that makes you feel like some work is about to get done. Be deliberate about every piece of furniture, and if you are creating this space by adding new walls, be sure to consider how you will be using your home office so you get things perfect the first time. You might even consider talking to an architect to make best use of your existing space.

5 | Rear Deck or Patio The backyard is the homeowner’s best friend. Host BBQs, a backyard is nothing without a proper place to flip burgers and kick up your loafers. Before you dive those loafers into the deep end, however, you might want to consider how the topography of your yard might determine going with a deck vs a patio. If your yard is sloping away from the house, a deck is going to be your best option. For flat yards, or yards that slope towards the home, a patio is the way to go.

Give us a call for help; you will be enjoying a margarita under your veranda a lot faster than the DIY way.

The Los Angeles home design trend you need to know about

The Los Angeles home design trend you need to know about  

Los Angeles is known for the glitz and glam, and in recent news the city is taking the same route when it comes to home design. Los Angeles home remodel companies are seeing more bold and innovative designs.

Bold and Innovative

Mixing materials and colors is a bold way to leave your mark on your home design and cater to your personal style. Some of the hottest looks today, such as the blending of unfinished industrial materials with modern floors and cabinets, would have been considered outlandish only a few years ago. We have learned over the years that matching everything precisely is not the way to go, not all the time at least.

Utility Meets Swag

We want things to be functional and make sense in our own homes, this is yet the biggest challenge Los Angeles remodel and interior design firms are faced with. Parents understand this, they want a home to work and look good – but be safe and kid friendly at the same time. Opting for materials that are durable and adding in those that are more for sparkle can create a space that never lacks taste. Design is evolving as life changes take place; therefore our designs are becoming stylish AND functional for your everyday life.

Built In Comfort

Another home design trend that is buzzing in Los Angeles is Built-Ins! This does not mean add some built in book cases around your TV in your living room remodel and call it a day. This means that wine cooler you have been dreaming about or that espresso machine will be custom built into your remodel. They will now be designed into the remodel and even save space. This is great news for those who lack space or just want more for their LA remodel.

For design tips and your free in home consultation, contact us today!

How to Design & Decorate with Pantone’s Color of the Year

How to Design & Decorate with Pantone’s Color of the Year The announcement of Pantone’s color of the year choice creates a new color craze for designers and washes the old colors away for a fresh slate for the New Year.  After all a new year deserves a new color, right?

There may have been a sense of panic or disbelief this year when the choice color was publicized.  The name of the 2017 Color of the Year speaks for itself, Greenery. Oh wow, green? Yes we are talking a yellowish green color that evokes the first day of spring. Greenery is such a color that matches that of a fresh leaf on the stem of a flower reaching towards the sun. Never has there been such a green of this shade to make it into the leading for color of the year, let alone be picked as 2017 Color of the Year.

In years prior Emerald and Turquoise were shades in the spot light, ones that were more subtle than were bold.  This year, Greenery will take center stage.

Greenery is the color that stands for refreshment, rebirth, rejuvenation and a re-connection.  This is what the world seems to need this New Year with the turn of a new president and life changes, or so the color world seemed to think for us. Now that we are past the shock factor of such a color for 2017, let’s talk about how to use this in your home and remodel design – without looking tacky.

Don't feel pressured to paint your whole house Greenery, be all means there are ways to incorporate the color without going that far- unless you want to.

Add pops of Pantone's Color of the Year by switching out your old curtains, or throw pillows with ones of Greenery.

Paint the back of your book case Greenery, or opt for a non permanent choice by using a shade of Greenery contact paper to line the back.

There is nothing wrong with using the bold green as an accent, versus a center focus.

For more ways to design and decorate, check back for more blog issues.

Pros and Cons of Flooring Options

Pros and Cons of Flooring Options When remodeling your home you may feel overwhelmed with the many choices of Flooring Options. And there are many options! You may want to consider a few things before you lay down that floor solely because it looks good. We will help you make smart choices before your regret the floor you picked out.

Spazio LA will break down the options and factors that will help you make the right choice.

Things to consider when doing your flooring are:

1. Cleaning and Durability:

If you have pets and kids you may want to consider an option that is easy to clean. Choosing an option that will hold up to traffic and accidents is important.

2. Cost and Value:

It is important to consider the quality of the flooring and the value for your money. You don’t want to throw away money to replace a floor that you had remodeled only a few years back because you went with a cheaper option.  Also, installing quality flooring adds value to your home for years to come.

3. Location, Location, Location:

The ideal flooring can change based on where you are installing it as well. Rooms used more often will require durable flooring. Bathrooms will require flooring that is moisture and water resistant- and safe! Some flooring options and the way it is installed can make an area look larger, or smaller. You want durable flooring in a kids rooms but it needs to be safe and warm also.

Here we lay out the pros and cons of only a few different flooring options. Never the less if you are in doubt call a professional to help you with your home remodeling needs.

Pros & Cons

                       

Carpet

Pros -Carpet can act like another layer of insulation and help keep cold or warm drafts from seeping through the floor.

-It goes without saying that carpet is always going to be the softest of any type of flooring. -Carpet helps to reduce sound and noises from one floor to the next. Cons -Regular vacuuming is needed (every one to two days for high traffic areas) frequently. Spills need to be removed immediately to prevent staining and liquid to seep deep into fibers to cause mold and mildew.

Hardwood

Pros -An upgrade to hardwood floors will add a lot of value to your home. -Hardwood floors are easy to care for by sweeping or vacuuming them daily and wiping them with an approved wood cleaner. -There are many different types of woods, stains and plank sizes to choose from.

Cons

-Every step that is taken on wood floors can be heard. Not to mention, furry friends can slip and slide because their padded feet can’t grip the shiny, smooth surface.

Laminate

Pros -The protective layer on laminate helps protect it from something that would normally stain easily. -Vacuum away loose dirt and debris and mop with a damp mop.

Cons                                                                                                                                                                     -Laminate may look like hardwood, but doesn’t have the value like hardwood. -Laminate flooring is easily dented. Laminate flooring cannot be sanded or refinished. Areas with large scratches or gouges need to be replaced with new laminate flooring.

Tile – Ceramic/Stone/Porcelain

Pros -Easy, fast clean up – and great for high traffic.

-Adds a clean and elegant finish to a room.

- Nontoxic and great for those who suffer allergies as it doesn’t harbor allergens.

Cons -Not a good insulator for heat.

-Dangerous when wet!

-Tiles can crack and need to be replaced.

Make An Industrial Loft Your Dream Home

Many city dwellers salivate over the prospect of living in an urban loft. There’s something about those exposed HVAC ducts, wood beans, and wide open floor plans that makes living among the concrete jungle a much more feasible option in Los Angeles. Perhaps it’s because they often offer better views, or perhaps it’s because finding large space in a city is increasingly hard to come by. What ever your reasoning is, a loft can be just as much your dream home as a large house.

This modern loft in Downtown LA got a face lift with some unique details such as concrete polish floors and new wood floors to match the modern flat panel kitchen cabinets. This Downtown loft proves that even loft can be designed with luxury in mind.

Designer tip: Keep your entry way simple with an antique hall way table adorned with delicate decor.With so much open space and towering high ceilings,  it's time to curate a gallery wall. The revered design feat is a creative collection of artworks ranging in height, position, and style. From new artists to flea-market finds, the gallery wall is a humble dedication to all forms of creative expression.

Flat panel kitchen cabinets were installed with quartz counter tops and wood floors to make this small kitchen area anything less than spectacular. We used Polished Concrete in the entry way,  and kept the industrial exposed beams and ducting. Making use of the space under the stairway, a chic desk was styled with a chair in this seasons must have color; Mustard.

Since Downtown Los Angeles is notorious for small spaces, this simple design trick gives the room a spacious appearance, even if it's not. To ensure it stays looking that way, carefully consider your furniture placement. Even if your home isn't an open plan, you can give off the essence of one by thinking about your furniture placement. Once you've decided on your pieces, move them around, really work the space making sure to leave ample "white space" for breathing room.

Let Spazio LA help with your next remodel! Contact us today for an exclusive and always complimentary in house design estimate. 1.877.624.7772

Winter Remodel Trends You Must Follow

See all the colors that you must have in your interiors this fall and winter! As usual, all the color trends of this season are influenced by Nature’s Fall tones like green, brown, yellow, warm and neutral colors! Throughout this article, you’ll find some looks to inspire yourself and help you prepare for this new season! Here is a color that more than likely never even came to your head: Mustard!

This color brings warmth mixed with an eye-catching contemporary edge, and it’s very simple to apply in your home, a new cushion, a new lampshade… You can always mixed with accents of oranges and calm grays, and be bold and add a statement sofa or chair to your living room.

Photo Credit: Overstock.com

Grey

Shades of gray still dominate the home design world, with darker tones becoming more prevalent and combining perfectly with the ‘must-have’ mustard tones of the season. Grey can look totally at home in a traditional or modern interior design context.

Photo Credit: myhomerocks.com

Purple

This season, you’ll never overuse purple. This shade continues to offer home design a vast variety of room looks based on this popular color and it shows no signs of losing its grip on many of the retailers’ interior ranges for Fall and Winter 2016.  Mix the color with some floral patterns, paisley and folk inspired bohemian prints to bring a room totally up-to-date.

Photo Credit: terryfabrics.co.uk

Gold

Gold will continue to dominate this season, used as a metallic accent combined with the dark tones trend. Always stunning, gold will continue to chase copper to be the winning metal of choice in your home ambiance this season.

We really hope you liked our article. Feel free to pin all the images to your Pinterest board where you keep the best inspirations. You can also visit our Pinterest in order to find more inspirations on interior designs and architecture. Contact us today to get more ideas for your interior design projects and find functional, stylish, sizable and trendy decor choices.

Pros and Cons of Flooring Options

Pros and Cons of Flooring Options When remodeling your home you may feel overwhelmed with the many choices of Flooring Options. And there are many options! You may want to consider a few things before you lay down that floor solely because it looks good. We will help you make smart choices before your regret the floor you picked out.

Spazio LA will break down the options and factors that will help you make the right choice.

Things to consider when doing your flooring are:

1. Cleaning and Durability:

If you have pets and kids you may want to consider an option that is easy to clean. Choosing an option that will hold up to traffic and accidents is important.

2. Cost and Value:

It is important to consider the quality of the flooring and the value for your money. You don’t want to throw away money to replace a floor that you had remodeled only a few years back because you went with a cheaper option.  Also, installing quality flooring adds value to your home for years to come.

3. Location, Location, Location:

The ideal flooring can change based on where you are installing it as well. Rooms used more often will require durable flooring. Bathrooms will require flooring that is moisture and water resistant- and safe! Some flooring options and the way it is installed can make an area look larger, or smaller. You want durable flooring in a kids rooms but it needs to be safe and warm also.

Here we lay out the pros and cons of only a few different flooring options. Never the less if you are in doubt call a professional to help you with your home remodeling needs.

Pros & Cons

                       

Carpet

Pros -Carpet can act like another layer of insulation and help keep cold or warm drafts from seeping through the floor.

-It goes without saying that carpet is always going to be the softest of any type of flooring. -Carpet helps to reduce sound and noises from one floor to the next. Cons -Regular vacuuming is needed (every one to two days for high traffic areas) frequently. Spills need to be removed immediately to prevent staining and liquid to seep deep into fibers to cause mold and mildew.

Hardwood

Pros -An upgrade to hardwood floors will add a lot of value to your home. -Hardwood floors are easy to care for by sweeping or vacuuming them daily and wiping them with an approved wood cleaner. -There are many different types of woods, stains and plank sizes to choose from.

Cons

-Every step that is taken on wood floors can be heard. Not to mention, furry friends can slip and slide because their padded feet can’t grip the shiny, smooth surface.

Laminate

Pros -The protective layer on laminate helps protect it from something that would normally stain easily. -Vacuum away loose dirt and debris and mop with a damp mop.

Cons                                                                                                                                                                     -Laminate may look like hardwood, but doesn’t have the value like hardwood. -Laminate flooring is easily dented. Laminate flooring cannot be sanded or refinished. Areas with large scratches or gouges need to be replaced with new laminate flooring.

Tile – Ceramic/Stone/Porcelain

Pros -Easy, fast clean up – and great for high traffic.

-Adds a clean and elegant finish to a room.

- Nontoxic and great for those who suffer allergies as it doesn’t harbor allergens.

Cons -Not a good insulator for heat.

-Dangerous when wet!

-Tiles can crack and need to be replaced.

Clues your water heater is junk

Clues your water heater is junk You wake up to take your morning shower and there is ice cold, Alaska water coming out of your showerhead. This could be a very good sign that your water heater is not functioning at all anymore and it’s time to get a new one.  If you wait too long it may lead to bigger problems as well, such as large leaks and water damage to your home. So aside from complete catastrophe know when to replace your water heater from the small signs.

1. Water Temperature – Water temp variance could be a good indication that the water heater is getting ready to call it quits. If your water heater doesn’t get as hot as it used to be or the temperature comes in waves, invest in a new one before you are left in the cold water!

2. Age – Electric water heaters usually only last for 8-10 years, while gas water heaters last 6-8 years. You may even be making a eco friendly upgrade when you swap your old water heater for a newer model.

3. Leaks – If your water heater is creating an ocean or lake in your garage or basement, fixing it is recommended before water damage arises. You can trouble shoot your water heater but depending on the age you may just need to replace it.

4. Rusty water – A gush of rusty colored water when you open the hot water faucet is a major indicator of an aging water heart. Generally this is caused by years of sediment that has been deposited in your tank. When you turn on the hot water the sediment is stirred up and comes out. Usually seeing this rust colored water is a sign that corrosion and leakage is on its way. Draining and flushing your water heater can help, but when this is not enough – replace.

5. Drain issues - Over time, sediment builds up inside a water heater. Flushing your water heater once a year will help solve this and extend the life of your water heater. However, if this task isn’t performed for an extended period of time then the sediment build-up will eventually reach a point where it can no longer be resolved. At this point a water heater replacement will be necessary.

When deciding to replace your water heater, you will want to decide if you would like one powered by electricity, natural gas or propane gas. Water heaters these days are amazingly efficient. Look for models that sport the government-appointed Energy Star label. The tag also is supposed to indicate the annual operating cost of the device. You also will need to determine the size of the water heater you need, in gallons. After choosing your water heater, you will want to either hire a qualified installer or learn how to do it yourself.

What are the advantages of using a DESIGN BUILD company?

 

Most people when they want to remodel their entire home or just one specific area such as the Kitchen, or the master bathroom, they call up a general contractor or a home improvement company to get bids.  Little do they know that, in most cases, contractors or home improvement companies have no experience in designing spaces.  They will rely on the client to tell them what to do in terms of finishes and overall look.  This is where it gets tricky for the clients, most people don’t have the vision to successfully create a new space from scratch, let alone tell a contractor what to do.  So things can get out of hand and usually projects will take longer than normal leaving the clients very frustrated at the end of the project.

When people hire a Design Build company like Spazio LA , clients get a full team of experts.  In other words, a Designer in charge of absorbing all your design wishes as well as incorporating functionality within the overall design; a contractor with a full team of professionals to work on the project, and an onsite project manager that will, periodically, inspect the progress of the project.  Design build companies also have a number of highly qualified architects that work in conjunction with the designer in the cases where new additions, structural changes or even new construction building permits are required.

Designer:

A designer is a professional with a degree in art and design that has the tools to come up with ideas and put them on paper or computer so that it can be transformed into reality.

What kind of services does a designer provide to my home remodeling project?

For one, you can actually look at your designer as your personal assistant and best friend throughout your remodeling process.  Your personal designer will listen to your ideas, will share inspirational pictures, and will try to put together your perfect space just like you have dreamed it; and in most cases, even better than your dreams.  Your designer will also take you to showrooms to select finish materials such as, tiles, wood floors, fixtures, curtains, and even furniture and art work.  A designer from Spazio LA will also visit the project on a regular basis to make sure his designs are well executed by our builders.  In sum, your designer is the go to person throughout your entire project and is an immeasurable value to the success of your project.

Contractor:

As licensed general contractors, Spazio LA can build and remodel anything that we set our minds to.  From complete home remodels to room additions, to kitchens, bathrooms and even outdoor spaces such as pools and patios; Spazio LA has done it all. Different from most home improvement companies, that in order to cut on costs, they would bring a crew that will basically start and finish your project.  The same crew that does your demolition will also be doing your plumbing, and your electrical as well as your drywall and tile installation.  This been a normal practice among home improvement companies, at Spazio LA we run the show in a different manner.  Every crew that comes to our client’s projects is specific to their trade.  The demo crew does only demolition and cleaning of all trash and debris.  We only use license electricians and plumbers and our tile installers are exclusively doing that for us.  This guarantees our clients that the project is done right by a trade professional and with the highest of qualities.

Project Manager:

Why is important to have a project manager at my home remodeling project?

Think of your project manager as your quality control guy, as well as your problem solver.

We all know that no matter how good a construction crew is, there are always surprises along the way.  A project manager is the one that is there to take care of those problems when they arrive.  A project manager makes sure to schedule each crew according to the progress of the project in a seamless way so that there are no intermissions in the job, guaranteeing the early completion of the project.  Our project managers have worked in the construction field for over a decade and are very knowledgeable in all aspects of the construction process.  Between your personal designer and your project manager, you can make sure you can sleep well at night; your house is in great hands.

Spazio LA, was born with a single great goal in mind “customer satisfaction”.  By providing a full design build service, we are able to get close to our clients in ways that the home remodeling industry has been lacking.  We take pride in our work and are fueled by our client’s satisfaction.

Kitchen trends you need to know about

Good news for remodel goers this year,  if you are in the process of changing your current kitchen color pallet or you are designing a new remodel. Color trends are changing dramatically and you are in the color changing business during the best time yet. Wouldn’t you just hate to have just changed to a bold blue kitchen and then find out bold is out of the question?!

Soft muted colors are taking over kitchens this year. Bold is no longer the way to go when it comes to kitchen colors. Kitchen colors are changing, according to interior designer Jane Lockhart. Though white motifs will still dominate, everything from cabinets to backsplashes will be done in less saturated tones. “Charcoal, grays and even neutral pastels like pale blue, pale green gray and tinted whites are the new alternative to the standard white,” she says. She also foresees kitchens sporting lighter wood tones, including walnuts, whitewashed woods and white oak in rift grain. Metals are sneaking into the kitchen again.

There has been a revival of warm toned metal accents in the kitchen. While the last few decades seemed to be all about stainless steel and chrome, lately gold, brass, and copper have been making a strong comeback for cabinet hardware, other accent areas, and decor or appliances- such as a row of copper pans hanging above the stove. When it comes to color pairings for the rest of the kitchen, there are multiple possibilities. Black and white give off a luxe feel when paired with gold or brass, cream works well with all three, and you can also go for subtle contrast by pairing cool pastels with warm metal accents.

The trend of two toned cabinets that started back in 2015 will continue this year. This trend is basically combining 2 different colors of cabinets.  This could be uppers in one color, bottoms in a different one, or the whole kitchen cabinets in one color and the island in a different tone. To achieve this look and make your kitchen look larger, pain the upper cabinets a lighter color than the lower cabinets.

For other remodeling ideas, stay tuned to our blog.

Forget what they told you, this is really how long a remodel takes

Forget what they told you, this is really how long a remodel takes The common misconception is that remodels have to take forever long and always drag on and on after numerous issues. The stuff you read online when you search, “how long does a remodel take?” is downright frightening.   Who would want to remodel their house after horror stories and a super long time line? We are going to break down the remodel myths and get you on the right track to remodel facts.

Let’s talk about remodel issues foremost. It is true what they say about issues, they can pop up at any time, but the key is having a great remodel team like Spazio LA, behind you to solve issues fast or prevent them in most cases. No remodel team can see the future, but there are some that are specialized in the industry and know what signs to look for to prevent failure.

Now let’s talk about how long a remodel takes. A good remodel can take anywhere from 1 month and up – all depending on the size and complexity of the remodel. You can’t give an average time estimate when no two remodels are the same. No two remodels will require the same materials, same design and have the same team running them – therefore there is no average number of days or months that a remodel takes. But, we can talk about our remodel experience and how long it took our experienced team to complete our Spazio LA design projects.

To give you an idea of how long a remodel takes, we would love to share our Culver City remodel with you. This remodel took 10 weeks to complete from the time demo started to the time we were able to showcase the finished project. We remodeled 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a full kitchen, two living rooms, an office and a laundry room. That's 11 rooms remodeled in 10 weeks, all thanks to great coordination and planning by our team of experts. Here are a few of the rooms, before and after remodel

This is Culver City kitchen before any remodel had taken place. You can see the layout of the kitchen is tight, and the existing color nor materials did it any justice. The design made the kitchen cramped and cut off from the rest of the house.

This is Culver City after a kitchen remodel! What an amazing difference without completely moving the kitchen. We created a larger kitchen by designing a small opening from the kitchen into the rest of the house and went with a two tone cabinet color scheme.

You can tell from these before images that the flooring material was used throughout the entire house, from kitchen and into the bathrooms. This Culver City bathroom went from outdated to...we you can see in the next image what we transformed it into. Hello beautiful! Now this is a remodel design that is bold and classy. Do not be afraid to use different floor materials in any of your remodel rooms.

Carpet may be one way to date a home, but it definitely is not child friendly. This living room needed a facelift if any room ever needed one.

Removing the carpet, and painting the walls a bold color gave this room a sleek style and focused attention toward the fireplace which was updated with a neutral color stone.

As you can tell from the few pictures we shared, beautiful remodels do not have to take forever and a day. To see the rest of this project and others just as perfect - check out our website.

Nothing lasts forever – that goes for your plumbing too

Nothing lasts forever – that goes for your plumbing too

Nothing lasts forever, and this goes for pipes and plumbing, especially if you are in an ancient house. Aging pipes can become restricted, which in turn discolors water and affects water pressure. Your pipes will wind up corroding, rusting, decaying, and causing you problems. Sure, you can deal with a not-so-great water pressure in the shower; it will lead to bigger, more costly problems later on. We’re talking the possibility of getting leaks, floods, or even raw sewage leaking into your home and costing you thousands of dollars in damage to your home. Know the signs and when it is best to replace your plumbing before you run into a disaster. Stop! This does not mean that you must replace every single pipe in your house and the whole plumbing system must be gutted. This means that you need to follow these tips and learn when you need to replace and when you are okay. 1. Know what pipes inhibit your house: When it comes to supply pipes, that is, the pipes that are under constant pressure, brass pipes can last between 80 and 100 years, copper pipes can last between 70 and 80 years, and galvanized steel can last between 80 and 100 years. Drain lines tend to have a shorter life span. Cast iron pipes tend to last between 80 and 100 years; however, P.V.C, usually last between only 25 and 40 years! But don’t panic. Just because your pipes are older than the years mentioned above doesn’t mean that you need to rush out and replace them. Well-maintained pipes can last longer than the guideline above. Just keep an eye on them, and you should be fine! 2. Get rid of Lead and Polybutylene: These pipes need to be removed from your house as soon as possible. While they may seem fine they can sneak lead into your drinking water and harm the health of your family. 3. Keep an eye out for problems: You may think that a small leak is something that can just be overlooked and you can deal with later. But this is a misconception as small leaks lead to bigger problems as well as eat up a hole in your water bill. On average small leaks cost you 14% of your water bill. Keep an eye out for leaks, and check exposed pipes frequently for signs of corrosion.

Clues your water heater is junk

Clues your water heater is junk You wake up to take your morning shower and there is ice cold, Alaska water coming out of your showerhead. This could be a very good sign that your water heater is not functioning at all anymore and it’s time to get a new one.  If you wait too long it may lead to bigger problems as well, such as large leaks and water damage to your home. So aside from complete catastrophe know when to replace your water heater from the small signs.

1. Water Temperature – Water temp variance could be a good indication that the water heater is getting ready to call it quits. If your water heater doesn’t get as hot as it used to be or the temperature comes in waves, invest in a new one before you are left in the cold water!

2. Age – Electric water heaters usually only last for 8-10 years, while gas water heaters last 6-8 years. You may even be making a eco friendly upgrade when you swap your old water heater for a newer model.

3. Leaks – If your water heater is creating an ocean or lake in your garage or basement, fixing it is recommended before water damage arises. You can trouble shoot your water heater but depending on the age you may just need to replace it.

4. Rusty water – A gush of rusty colored water when you open the hot water faucet is a major indicator of an aging water heart. Generally this is caused by years of sediment that has been deposited in your tank. When you turn on the hot water the sediment is stirred up and comes out. Usually seeing this rust colored water is a sign that corrosion and leakage is on its way. Draining and flushing your water heater can help, but when this is not enough – replace.

5. Drain issues - Over time, sediment builds up inside a water heater. Flushing your water heater once a year will help solve this and extend the life of your water heater. However, if this task isn’t performed for an extended period of time then the sediment build-up will eventually reach a point where it can no longer be resolved. At this point a water heater replacement will be necessary.

When deciding to replace your water heater, you will want to decide if you would like one powered by electricity, natural gas or propane gas. Water heaters these days are amazingly efficient. Look for models that sport the government-appointed Energy Star label. The tag also is supposed to indicate the annual operating cost of the device. You also will need to determine the size of the water heater you need, in gallons. After choosing your water heater, you will want to either hire a qualified installer or learn how to do it yourself.

Old kitchens are warned: Your days are done!

Old kitchens are warned: Your days are done!

Our Burbank kitchen remodel is warning to all old kitchens, your days are numbered! Spazio LA is coming for you.

Our client had grown tired of their outdated kitchen, and dreamt of nothing more than a space that complimented their style and a place to entertain.

Problem areas of the existing kitchen: The dark and dreary color scheme of their kitchen made the space seem more small and compact than it was already. Lacking cabinet & storage space floating shelves housed appliances and décor. These problem areas our client hoped to fix with the new space we were going to deliver.

Remodel must haves:

1. More space to entertain – build Custom Island with seating and built-in appliances.

2. More cabinet & storage space – replace floating shelves with cabinets and pantry.

3. Upgraded appliances- add built in appliances, energy saving appliances.

4. Eco friendly materials – environmentally friendly flooring, light color flooring.

Have you made your remodel must have list yet?

Demo and construction gets under way as we plan to surprise our clients with a kitchen straight out of a magazine.

We gutted everything! From the floating shelves, sink, counters tops, cabinets, and range – we emptied the entire kitchen space.

Framing for the new skylight is in the works! Skylights are a great way to lower your energy bills and impress your family. And this skylight will be a show stopper when we are finished.

It may not look like much while we are in the midst of a remodel, but that just makes the outcome even more satisfying.

Say hello to a brand new kitchen! Is this the same house? Oh yes, this is the same house you saw in the very first picture. It now has the Spazio LA touch.

I bet you never would have thought that we could the dark and sad kitchen into something as spectacular as this! This magazine worthy kitchen has everything off the must have list plus more.

White cabinets and light floors make this room feel large, but the dark counters and pop of backsplash give a modern edge. Ecofriendly hard wood floors installed parallel throughout the space elongate the floor plan.

Our specialty is custom kitchens, and custom islands come natural for us. This custom island is well equipped with a built in microwave – say goodbye to a counter space thief! Built in range that will make any professional chef jealous, and seating for 3. I forgot to mention the outlets on either side of the island, just in case you want to throw a table lamp up there for ambience or need to plug in a crockpot during a family gathering. You will want to throw gatherings with a kitchen like this. The remodel makes organizing and utilizing space easy with custom cabinets and pantry – no more awkward spaces or flimsy shelves.

Every detail in this kitchen was done with special care, keeping one thing in mind: our clients dream. You give us your ideas and we make them become reality.

Your Holiday home remodeling Wish List

Your Holiday home remodeling Wish List  

Dear Santa,

This year I have been nice! A few things that I am asking for are:

Luxe Countertops- Marble or Granite may be pretty. I am in need of something fancy to impress all my friends, and last as long as I will. You can even throw in a luxe backsplash if you must.

Floors- I am thinking hardwood or bamboo. Bamboo is eco-friendly and looks great. I would be happy with Wood, Terra Cota, or Marble floors. Something that will give me a rich look and last as long as my countertops. I need a material that is easy to keep clean and doesn’t need a lot of maintenance.

Drawers instead of doors – The kitchen is in need of desperate organization, and I would love drawers instead of doors. This hidden feature makes the kitchen look sleek and the organization factor leaves a decluttered elegance. Extra deep drawers would be great for pots and pans, and all those baking dishes.

Light – I need windows everywhere! Bringing the light from outdoors will limit my electricity usage and make me feel larger. In place of cabinets in the kitchen I would like large windows. More light will allow my rooms to feel larger and more open, giving me the free space I have always wanted.

Pantry wall – Better make it a Pantry room. Since we will be removing cabinets for windows, we will need a pantry built to store all of our goods. A floor to ceiling pantry will be a great addition and organization tool.

Upgraded appliances – I’m talking double oven, 8 burner stove top, high power venting hood and separate full size refrigerator and freezer. These appliances will make life easier and enjoyable for all whom enter the kitchen. I mean, who doesn’t want a professional kitchen?

Curbless, glassless shower and spa soaking tub – No more glass to clean after every shower and the seamless look of a curbless shower has me in awe. Adding a spa soaking tub will not only kick the bathroom up a notch, but add that luxury retreat feel.

Radiant heated floors – I have heard it can be quite chilly on toes stepping out of the shower or bath; I need heated floors in the bathrooms this Holiday to make sure toes stay warm.

Walk in closets – Walk in closets are a must on my Holiday list. Clutter, clothing, shoes and items build up over the years , a deep walk in closet in every bedroom would be delightful.

I hope that I am on the Nice list this year, as my list is rather small. :)

Sincerely,

Your house

Building a custom Wine Cellar in your home

Building a custom Wine Cellar in your home

Wine aficionados have one, why can’t you? Adding a wine cellar to your home can increase the value, give a focal point and most importantly preserve your wine collection. There are a few things you need to think of before you take the leap and start remodeling. Temperature, humidity, light and vibration are things that need to be considered.

When choosing a location for your wine cellar location is everything! Most people keep their homes at the 70 degree temperature; a wine cellar must maintain a 55-58 degree temperature and 50-75 percent humidity. This means that you will want a room that isn’t frequented often and remains colder than the rest of your house. Basements, attics and garages are usually the best first choices.

Windowless areas are a must when choosing a location for your wine cellar addition. The ultraviolet rays found in sunlight can do serious damage to your wine, particularly if the bottle is made of clear or blue glass. You can invest in special low-UV lighting for your wine storage area, or you can take the low-tech route and cover your windows and wine racks to prevent light from reaching the bottles. Even artificial lighting can ruin wine, so dimmable lighting is a good choice.

Your floor will play a major role in your rooms’ humidity, thus being said carpet is not an option in your wine cellar. Hardwood, granite tiles and porcelain tiles are a good option for flooring. Not only is flooring important but your walls must be properly insulated as well as the door. Keeping your wine cellar at the right temp and humidity level is the most important thing.

Choosing the right cooling unit will make your life easy to maintain adequate levels. You can opt for a split cooling system, through the wall system or duct cooling systems. Ducted cooling systems, where the entire cooling unit is located remotely and cold air is ducted into the wine cellar, are the most expensive wine cooling systems. Their main advantages are that the wine cellars won’t be subject to noise from the cooling unit, and commercial systems can be serviced by most HVAC professionals. In addition, space in wine cellar can be maximized for wine storage, because the cooling unit doesn’t take any space inside the cellar.

This will end up being the easiest room to maintain, they require less maintenance then most rooms in your house. Once you have the climate controlled you will be able to enjoy this classic addition.

Now that you have the main points down, we can move on to storage. Another key aspect of wine storage is bottle position.  Placing bottles on their sides keeps the corks wet.  When corks dry out, oxygen can reach the wine and cause it to oxidize.  This will spoil the taste of your wine.  You can get wine cellar racks in pre made kits, or have them custom built for your room.

Décor and friends to enjoy your wine cellar with is the last piece to your addition.

Contact us today if you are interested in adding on a Wine Cellar to your next remodel.