Eco Friendly Los Angeles Yards

How can you green your outdoor home this season?If you’ve been trying to think of unique ways to green your outdoor home, here are 5 eco-friendly ideas to get you started.

1. Mary the outdoors with your interior home: One of the easiest ways to green your outdoor home is to blur the lines between your interior and exterior home. While opening up your windows and doors is a great way to let in fresh air, architectural options such as window walls that open up to the outdoors as well as glazed doors with operating windows can let in a fresh breeze without allowing pests in during hot and humid summer months. Look into Nana walls for retractable walls that allow you to create one great indoor/outdoor space. 2. Use green materials when remodeling and renovating: If you are considering adding a wood deck – consider using recycled or reclaimed wood from other buildings for your exterior deck project. Many lumber yards have suppliers to provide a great selection of reclaimed and recycled timber for your outdoor home projects. Concrete, wrought iron, and even railroad ties are becoming gorgeous materials to use throughout outdoor projects. You will be surprised how your garden or DIY outdoor home project will be enhanced with one-of-a-kind green materials. 3. Replace worn out lighting fixtures with energy-efficient ones: Your outdoor home can have an aesthetic eco-friendly appeal as well as a functional appeal, and that’s where lighting fixtures are essentials. While you may not think about it outdoor lighting, especially old fixtures use a lot of energy and they can drive your energy bill soaring! Replace old fixtures with energy-saving varities or even solar powered fixtures. Old incandescent bulbs can be replaced with LED lights that burn cooler and give off a brighter glow of light. Consider using these for lighting your walkways, front and back entryways, as well as illuminating your garage and landscaping around your home. Repurpose old housing materials for new uses in your outdoor home

4. DIY Outdoor home ideas using repurposed decor: If you love to repurpose household items and use them in new and inventive ways, what better place to start than your outdoor home? Repurposing can be as simple as using an old piece of furniture that has been sitting in your garage and now using it for a decorative planter for your front porch. Repurposed home decor you see at your local yard sale or salvage yard can be painted, refinished, and given a new purpose in your outdoor home. This outdoor butler’s pantry table adjacent to a summer kitchen is made from a salvaged wrought iron balcony and a slab of bluestone. 5. Install innovative technologies to save energy Some of the most eco-friendly options for your outdoor home have to do with systems and technology as opposed to physical embellishments. Motion detectors placed near your exterior lighting will help save electricity. This will enable your lighting to only come on when a person, animal, or other motion is sensed. These detectors work best on floodlights in the rear of your home as opposed to architectural and landscape lighting. Consider having your home security and outdoor lighting systems connected to a “smart-home” technology. There are many examples of your electronic or e-home being able to be controlled through internet access. Turning off and on your home from your smart-phone, tablet and anywhere around the world can help save energy as well.

How do you make use of your outdoor space?

Salvaged materials make for great home décor

Salvaged materials make for great home décor BHG answers a good question that we all need to hear. Read below and we will show you how to salvage materials and turn them into something new.

Q: How does recycling apply to home construction and renovation?

A: Home building and remodeling involve a lot of materials that can end up in the recycling/reuse stream rather than in a landfill. Most common building materials—wood, plastic, steel, brick, drywall, concrete—can be recycled or reclaimed for future use, so product labels that read "100 percent recyclable" are largely meaningless. The potential is there, but unless there's a mandated or profitable recycling program in place, few builders or homeowners bother taking that step.

If you have a building or remodeling project in the works, ask your contractor or local building official how to recycle old or leftover materials. And where possible, specify new products that feature at least 25 percent post-consumer recycled materials. Some materials, such as composite decking, often contain recycled plastic resins and can be recycled again. The same potential exists for old copper or brass pipe, electrical wiring, and aluminum or vinyl siding.

This 1940's era sink was salvaged off Craigslist, and there is more where that came from. You can score great finds at your local swap meet or yard sale. Another man's junk is one man's treasure.

Photo credit: Custommade.com Save your old wood flooring and out it up on your wall for a natural texture and rustic look. DIY Rustic Old Door Coffee Table Single pane windows become art! They make for great picture frames and much more. Photo Credit: My Fabulous Life Throwing out your cabinets? Think again - sell them or donate to someone whom may be able to get use out of them.

Eco Friendly Kitchen Ideas – that aren’t so boring

Eco Friendly Kitchen Ideas – that aren’t so boring $30 billion: Money saved by Americans using ENERGY STAR appliances, lights, and windows in 2013, saving the energy equivalent to 277 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions.

Eco- Friendly kitchens go beyond just eating green and recycling materials. Now-a-days you have to think bigger and by bigger we mean lots of small details that make your kitchen a true Green Kitchen. Energy-efficient food preparation and cleaning habits, using equipment made from sustainable materials, and tossing out toxic chemicals are also important if you want to have a truly healthy kitchen. Fortunately, making the right choices for your well-being is also good for the pocket and the planet. Who knew that there could be more that we can do besides buying energy star appliances, and installing better insulated windows and doors could make such a positive impact on the earth!

We have broken down design ideas that go beyond just Energy Star appliances and recycled materials for your Green Kitchen remodel.

So of course buying EPA program’s Energy Star appliances can cut down water and energy use by 10-50%. This you should know by now, as the commercials about this are on every few hours, it feels this way at least.  But did you know that Electric stoves are actually the healthier option when it comes to purchasing Gas vs Electric range? Gas stoves can add 25-40% more NO2 or CO to the indoor air pollution than already being produced. Americans spend an average of 90% of their time indoors, which increases the indoor air pollution compared to being outdoors. No matter if you end up choosing a Gas or Electric range, make sure it is simple and remember that it doesn’t have to have any special features that are unnecessary. Quick tip: Save energy by skipping the “Preheat”, newer ovens heat quickly to their setting and do not need to be sitting for 30 mins “getting hot”.  Want to save more water? Efficient dishwashers can cut down on hot water as compared to you washing the dishes by hand! There is your great reason to stop washing all of your pots and pans and utensils by hand!

Also, purchasing good quality utensils and cookware can actually benefit the earth. If you are wasting fewer things, for instance you have to throw out a plastic spatula because it melted; you will save more materials and have a great impact on the environment. Ditch the Teflon – it has a very limited useful lifetime.  Think of the lifetime that each item you buy for your kitchen has the longer the lifetime the more eco-friendly you are becoming. Waste not, want not! You may have to invest a little bit more when it comes to quality utensils, and cookware – but the longer you have these things, the less has to be produced. Less production = less pollution. Quick tip: Use cloth towels for clean ups and ditch the old fashioned paper towels.

Don’t forget; if you can’t utilize any materials from your old kitchen for your new eco-friendly kitchen remodel, see if you can make a few extra bucks by selling them to someone who can use them. This will ensure that old materials and appliances are recycled and not gone to waste.

Check back for more use tips on remodeling and remodeling green.

Avoid the WORST kitchen remodeling mistakes

Avoid the WORST kitchen remodeling mistakes Everyone has heard the kitchen remodel horror stories about some contractor whom skips town with your money, or a contractor whom leaves your kitchen a huge, unworkable mess because a product is on back order. Let’s avoid those horror stories and get your kitchen remodel done the right way.

1. Don’t go with the first remodeling company you see online. This goes for the first company offering a big discount. Some companies can offer a savings if you sign up with them right on the spot. Avoid letting pushy tactics get you to sign a contract without much thought or research. Ask lots of questions, read reviews and ask for references. A remodel company’s work should speak for itself. If the reviews are reading the same thing over and over, describing poor quality and such forth, then you may need to pass on that company.

2. Don’t pay for the entire project until the entire project is completed. Most projects will require you to make a significant down payment. This is normal since the contractor has to place orders for products that are designed specifically for your kitchen. If you decided to withdraw from the project, the down payment is their financial safety net. However, you deserve a safety net too. It is good policy to always leave a portion outstanding until the kitchen is finished. 10% is pretty typical. If you have a problem giving your contractor a down payment, then you don’t trust them. If you feel your contractor is untrustworthy, it’s time for a new one. You should always be able to trust your contractor. They’re the one that will be in your home and making big changes.

3. Don’t stress yourself out if the project gets set back a few days. Think of the end result and how you will enjoy this kitchen remodel for a good amount of years, a few days off schedule will be ok. Projects will have draw backs and there will be things that come up and change plans. You will need to roll with the punches so to say, and trust your remodel team has everything under control.

4. Don’t expect a working kitchen until the project’s done unless otherwise stated. Make arrangements so you won’t need one. Cabinet refacing does not shut down your kitchen, but new countertops in addition to refacing will. You will probably be without running water and a sink for a day or two. New kitchens are shut down on day one, as soon as the old cabinets are torn out. Depending on the countertop chosen, you’re typically looking at 2-4 weeks before you have a fully functional kitchen again.

5. Don’t start your remodel before you’ve chosen your appliances. Make sure you have the specs in the contractors’ hands prior to cabinets being ordered. That way they can arrange a better fit for the appliance into the cabinets. This applies especially to wall ovens, built in microwaves, cook tops, and large refrigerators.

Read this before your remodel your kitchen

If you are planning a DIY kitchen remodel you better stop and check out this checklist before the final kitchen is installed. You could be missing small details that are not so small after all.

1. Is there plenty of counter space between appliances and sinks?
2. Is there enough space in corners to open drawers and doors fully?
3. Where will the pulls be placed on the cabinets? Will their design interfere with nearby appliance, door, or drawer openings?
4. Is the microwave at the right height for pulling out hot items? Can children use it safely?
5. Have you planned sufficient under cabinet lighting?
6. Are light fixtures planned for above the sink, cooktop, or range? Have you planned where the light controls will be?
7. Has the toe-kick below the cabinets been designed for the thickness of your flooring?
8. Will the new kitchen floor match the style and height of flooring in adjoining rooms? How will it be joined? Don't make the mistake of using cheap flooring either. Quality will look better and last longer, consider the fact that more money spent may mean you don't have to replace it after a few years.
9. Do you have plenty of electrical outlets? If you're planning an island or a peninsula, don't forget outlets there, too. The worst thing is to walk into a kitchen with one outlet! How will you use one outlet when you have a coffee machine, blender, toaster oven, mixer and so much more?
10. Is the work flow uninterrupted? Traffic should go around the kitchen's work triangle -- not through it.
11. Do you have enough storage space where you need it? Storage is a must in a kitchen. More storage means less clutter.
12. Last but not least, will you enjoy your kitchen?

Starting a big remodel like your kitchen should not be a project taken lightly, as this remodel can make or break any value that you are trying to add to your home. A well planned kitchen remodel can transform your whole house.

Create a Zen inspired bathroom

The first step to creating a Zen bathroom is to make sure the floor plan flows smoothly. Although zen is not a proper design style and does not come with a book of strict rules, it is often associated with simplicity and purity of lines. It is rather a way of arranging your home and creating an atmosphere that offsets the stress and hassle of your daily routine.

Homeowners starting from scratch may want to remember that the bathtub works best when installed by a window in order to allow individuals to feel at one with nature while soaking. The view from the bathroom should be calm and attractive - if this is impossible, lush plants should be placed nearby in order to facilitate a feeling of connecting with nature. The bathroom should interact with adjacent rooms so that the view looking in and out of the bathroom is appealing and serene. The toilet area should not be seen from the doorway. Consider placing a beautiful piece of artwork within viewing distance of the toilet; let that art be the focal point from the doorway.

Additionally, it's important to keep all of your surface areas clean, which may require purchasing a deeper medicine cabinet or a set of drawers. The zen approach is that of a minimalist, the less over stocking and stuff, the better for your design.  If you still don't have enough space, consider using woven reed boxes or baskets, two beautiful options which can also weather the steam from your shower. The thought of clutter free spaces and relaxation comes from the Japanese culture’s take on mental health and well-being. As well you will want to use as many candles as you'd like and don't be afraid to incorporate plenty of stones, flowers and other natural earth elements to give your zen inspired bathroom a perfect ambiance.

Finally, make sure your color scheme matches your new accents and fosters a feeling of relaxation. Go for the natural color scheme and stick to greens, browns, beiges and blues. If you're distracted by toiletry bottles, consider replacing them with decorative ones that blend into your tile or walls. Using naturally scented soaps, oils and bath salts can add to a more soothing experience and are a must in a Zen bathroom.

All that's left to do is sit back, relax and let the stress melt away.

Awarded Best Of Design on Houzz 2016! Best in design 2 years in a row

SPAZIO LA of Los Angeles, California

Awarded Best Of Design

 Houzz 2016

Over 35 Million Monthly Unique Users Nominated Best Home Building,

Remodeling and Design Professionals in North America and Around the World

January 12, 2016, Los Angeles, California – SPAZIO LA of North Hollywood has won “Best Of Design” on Houzz®, the leading platform for home remodeling and design, for the second year in a row. SPAZIO LA was chosen by more than 35 million monthly unique users that comprise the Houzz community from among more than one million active home building, remodeling and design industry professionals.

The Best Of Houzz is awarded annually in three categories: Design, Customer Service and Photography. Design award winners’ work was the most popular among the more than 35 million monthly users on Houzz. Customer Service honors are based on several factors, including the number and quality of client reviews a professional received in 2015. Architecture and interior design photographers whose images were most popular are recognized with the Photography award. A “Best Of Houzz 2016” badge will appear on winners’ profiles, as a sign of  their commitment to excellence. These badges help homeowners identify popular and top-rated home professionals in every metro area on Houzz.

SPAZIO LA helps the client realize their vision for their home & actually attain it.

“Anyone building, remodeling or decorating looks to Houzz for the most talented and service-oriented professionals” said Liza Hausman, vice president of Industry Marketing for Houzz. “We’re so pleased to recognize SPAZIO LA , voted one of our “Best Of Houzz” professionals by our enormous community of homeowners and design enthusiasts actively remodeling and decorating their homes.”

Follow SPAZIO LA  on Houzz: http://www.houzz.com/pro/spaziola/spazio-la

About SPAZIO LA :

SPAZIO LA’s vision is simple DREAM + DESIGN + BUILD

DREAM

From the mind of the client to reality, SPAZIO LA creates functional yet highly stylish spaces that clients had only dreamt of. Specializing in home design, decoration, & remodeling, SPAZIO LA helps the client realize their vision for their home & actually attain it.

DESIGN

The Award Winning man behind the designs, Ezekiel (ESSI) Safdie, has been designing homes in LA & Southern California since 2005. From painting & sculpting, to designing high fashion jewelry lines, Safdie has experience creating aesthetically pleasing, one-of-a kind works of art that not only showcase his incredible talent for design but also his need to succeed at everything he does. His multifaceted art background aids in his space planning from picking colors & textures, to the placement & flow each room. Safdie’s travels & appreciation for various cultural backgrounds are a continuous source of influence on his designs.

BUILD

Utilizing the latest cutting edge materials, SPAZIO LA homes are not only the envy of the neighborhood but also stand the test of time. Safdie & his team of designers have close relationships with reputable suppliers and retailers & craftsmen which will ensure the client not only the top-of the line materials but also cost-effective methods which equals more style with less cost.  SPAZIO LA is a licensed and bonded contractor firm that will ensure each project will be built up to code and with a five year warranty on all jobs.

So make sure your next home is professionally designed and built with the expertise that only SPAZIO LA can deliver.

About Houzz

Houzz is the leading platform for home remodeling and design, providing people with everything they need to improve their homes from start to finish – online or from a mobile device. From decorating a small room to building a custom home and everything in between, Houzz connects millions of homeowners, home design enthusiasts and home improvement professionals across the country and around the world. With the largest residential design database in the world and a vibrant community empowered by technology, Houzz is the easiest way for people to find inspiration, get advice, buy products and hire the professionals they need to help turn their ideas into reality. Headquartered in Palo Alto, CA, Houzz also has international offices in London, Berlin, Sydney, Moscow and Tokyo. Houzz and the Houzz logo are registered trademarks of Houzz Inc. worldwide. For more information, visit houzz.com.

The year of the bathroom remodel: 2016

The year of the bathroom remodel: 2016 #1 Trend of 2016: Personalization

Bathroom remodels are taking over the world! Ok, not the world, but bathroom remodels are taking over the year. 2016 is going to be a big year for bathrooms that will dominate the remodel game. The number one trend in bathroom remodels will be; Personalization. The main reason for a homeowner to remodel their bathroom during 2016 will be to fit the room to their lifestyle and tailor to the needs of each family member. Kitchen remodels are taking a back seat this year.

What you need to do to rock this year’s bathroom remodel:

-Focus attention on a main focal point in the bathroom. Emphasizing a bay window, free standing tub, or playing up the drama with a grand light fixture, are examples of creating a focal point. When someone walks into your newly remodeled bathroom you want them to be amazed, but also have one feature really stand out. Here is a good article to draw some inspiration for your focal point. http://www.bathrooms.com/inspiration/10-ways-to-create-a-focal-point/

- Make your fixtures bold, statement pieces. You may always hear that fixtures are an easy way to update your bathroom, but bold fixtures will give you better results.  Check out: http://www.hgtv.com/design/rooms/bathrooms/bold-new-fixtures-on-a-budget

- Modernize your bathroom with wall tile and subway tiles. Subway tiles have yet to go out of style, and this year slate gray, winter white, and cobalt blue color schemes are in trend. Wall tiles may be a great way to create a focal point with a patterned tile or design.

- Add a Walk in shower with frameless glass enclosures, and free standing tub to be ahead of the trends. This will add a spa like feature, and create more of a relaxing atmosphere.

- Turn to Zen inspired designs for that extra relaxing feel. Heated rocks, calming water features and indoor plants can add to this design.

Now you cannot skip out on Technology for your bathroom this year. On the level above water resistant sound systems, bathrooms are being equipped with self-cleaning toilets, and a new product from Kohler. Kohler has raised the bar this time, and developed a touchscreen Digital Showering System that is based on real life hydrotherapies. This DTV Digital Showering System has 6 user presets to help save your favored experience. What is the best part? We can’t decide if the temperature controlled settings, lights set to music, or hydrotherapy is our favorite. Best bet is to get this new technology installed in your bathroom remodel and let us know what your favorite feature is.

Check back for more on bathroom remodeling and other great remodeling tips.

Los Angeles Remodeling – Why you can remodel too!

Los Angeles Remodeling – Why you can remodel too! Stop looking at all the reasons why you don’t think you can remodel your home, and start dreaming of what your home will look like after we are done with it. I am sure you can list all the cons and reasons to validate your reason for thinking negatively. We can list all the reasons why you should think different about kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling, and remodeling in general.

What your list looks like against remodeling:

1. You think that your house, kitchen, bathroom, or square footage is too small for a nice remodel.

This is the perfect reason to start a remodel! We can increase square footage with an addition; this can transform your home and give you the space you want. We have experience tuning 750sq ft into over 2,000sq ft. If you don’t want to do an addition, we can change the layout of your room to function better and feel larger.

2. The only thing that would make you happy is if your whole home layout where changed. You can’t see remodeling the kitchen because you hate that it is in the front of your house. You hate that you do not have an en suite master bathroom.

Nothing is permanent. We can move walls, remove walls, change the layout and plan of your house, add bathrooms, move your kitchen, make your home an open floor plan. You name it, we can do it. There is nothing more important to us than making our clients happy. We will take all your ideas and dreams and build them for you.

3. You don’t think that you can afford a remodel.

The fact is that remodels can be expensive; there is no hiding that truth. You can afford a remodel, and we will tell you why. There are options for financing an eco-friendly remodel with a program called HERO. This program is an easy way to get your home updated and save the environment. Not only is there this program that we offer, but we can tell you what other options you have. You don’t have to live in a house that you hate anymore.

 

Contact us today to go over your Remodeling options and talk about scheduling a Free in-house estimate.

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.

Radiant Heated flooring keeps more than your toes warm

Radiant Heated flooring keeps more than your toes warm Stepping on toasty warm floors every day is no longer a dream, radiant heated flooring is what you need. Heated flooring originally came from the ancient Romans whom had workers below their marble floors fanning fires to heat the floors and home above. We now have radiant heating systems installed below our floors to give us heated flooring rather than hiring staff to do the job of the Roman workers. Read on if you are ready to pull up your old floor or are in the stages of a new floor.

Radiant heated flooring comes in a few different types of systems but, Electric and Hydronic systems are more popular. These systems produce infrared radiation that rises from the floor to warm up the house or building mass, making sure heat isn’t lost on contact surfaces. This Radiant Heat keeps your whole body comfortable and warm, not just your toes. This alone will have heating efforts as you won’t have the need to crank up your forced heating system during those colder times.

Electronic vs. Hydronic: Electronic heating systems utilize electric cables or mats installed below your floor, though they can put a damper on your electric bill. One way to offset the cost of electric heated flooring is to balance the cost through solar energy. The benefits of electric systems are the ease in installation, cost to install and the luxury of on demand heating. Hydronic systems use the water from your water heater to push around water tubes that are installed below your floor. This method is best for large scale heated flooring needs where you will love year round heated floors. Hydronic systems heat the slab as a whole, and can be more energy saving than electric systems. Radiant heated flooring gave your comfort a whole new level. (Hydronic heated flooring installation)

Why don’t you just turn up your heater instead of having heated flooring installed? This question comes up a lot, and for valid reasons. The answer may surprise you. Regular forced air heating systems heat the air only to have the heated air rise to the ceiling and drop back down toward to the floor once it cools. (Hot air rises)This makes it very difficult to keep your feet warm, as well as could be the reason you feel cold even though your thermostat is at the temperature you want it at. Heating flooring will allow you to heat your whole room to a comfortable temperature, and not lose the heat that you are paying for.

(Electric heated flooring installation in bathroom)

Thinking of heated flooring but don’t know what flooring material to use? All flooring materials can be used with heated flooring, though some work more effectively than others. Materials like stone, concrete, and ceramic tile conduct, transfer, and hold heat better than other materials. Carpet, to my amazement can be used with heated flooring systems – but does not encourage the flow of heat, therefore it may be crossed off your list. Vinyl and laminate flooring have certain heat limits, and may not be able to be warmed up to the temperature you are looking to achieve. Lastly wood floors should only be installed by a professional that can account for the shrinking and expanding of the wood with a heated floor system in place. This should take some of the guess work out of heated flooring.

With a better understanding of radiant heated flooring systems we all can say goodbye to freezing floors!

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.

Common Backsplash issues that will make you glad you hired a contractor

Common Backsplash issues that will make you glad you hired a contractor

Your kitchen backsplash may be just one of the simplest parts or your home. However, you could have so many dilemmas when it comes to the installation and probably with remodeling in the future. When you look at a backsplash area, it seems so simple being a rectangular space on your kitchen wall. When you try to work on it and improve it the way you like, you come to find that it is not that easy to handle the job. Working on any vertical surface can be challenging. You may need to find a contractor for your Los Angeles Kitchen remodel to assist you and take some work off your hands.

Why hire a contractor to work on your backsplash project?

Here are some common problems about kitchen backsplash that would require help from a professional contractor, and make you thankful that you have some professional help.

1. Timing in placing the backsplash – everything should start with planning, most especially when it comes to the kitchen backsplash. What most people have dilemmas about is when to fix the backsplash. Do you install backsplash before the cabinets go in? Do you do the backsplash last? The say of a professional contractor is needed in this case. The experts will know when to take care of the backsplash, appropriately, to make sure that everything will turn out with the best quality. For example you won’t ruin a new countertop by dropping grout.

2. Right height for backsplash – this is a common problem for most homeowners. They end up doing the backsplash themselves but are not sure about the right height for it. Would it be alright to keep it low or high? Should the height be dependent with the width of the kitchen counter? A contractor will be able to measure the perfect height for it, and make sure that the wall is ready for any height and weight you choose.

3. Tiling process – it could be easy to place the tile on the wall, but which tile should be used for the backsplash purposes? You may need to contact a professional to help you in choosing the right type of tile to use. You can let them do the installation as well for better results. Although you can install the tiles yourself, a professional contractor can do it expertly in a timely manner. Get the best results for your money, after all this is an investment.

4.  Backsplash design – how should a backsplash look like? Is it a must for it to match the tiles with the designs on the kitchen floor? What material should you use? What angle should the backsplash be installed?  Your contractor can answer all these and more questions about back splashes and remodels.   

A good contractor can help you fix your kitchen backsplash in Los Angeles homes or even your business. If you have any more problems with installation and maintenance of backsplash for your kitchen you could always ask your contractor. Look for the right contractor to help you expertly with your project. Make sure all your kitchen backsplash dilemmas are resolved by hiring a professional contractor

Backsplash meant to catch your eye

Backsplash meant to catch your eye Every square inch of your kitchen should be used to improve the flow and design of your newly remodeled kitchen. Homeowners are no longer ignoring the space between the kitchen counter and the cabinets, and back splashes are no longer only 4 inches tall. Now colorful and eye catching backsplashes are being installed. Backsplashes are reaching new heights and design; even new materials are taking the kitchen remodel by storm. No longer are stone, subway tiles, and stainless steel the only “trend” when it comes to backsplashes.  Tile will remain in the number one spot for 2016 with stone falling shortly behind at number 2. Although the materials used for tiles and backsplashes are ever growing.

If you do want to stick to the older trend, you can buy your subway tiles for cheaper than regular tiles, and natural stone will give your kitchen a durable edge. Though the latest rage in tile is now 3D tile and textured tile. Textured tile can add depth to your kitchen backsplash wall, and create a cool piece of art to look at. If you spend time in the kitchen you will more than likely look at your new backsplash, so make it something worth looking at.

But if you want to liven up your kitchen and install eye catching backsplash, you will need to match your backsplash to your personality. Try mixing it up with White marble and a flashy wallpaper or river rocks. Our Advice: If you want something amazing and fit for your personal style – go with a material that complements your life. Green gurus and ecofriendly homeowners are reaching for the reclaimed wood and antique wood tiles for their kitchen backsplashes. Ever have left over wood from your homes’ flooring? Now you can put it to use by using it as backsplash. But your wood backsplash doesn’t have to match the color of your floors – opt for staining your left over pieces to your taste. Even concrete can be an ecofriendly option for backsplash. Embossed concrete will be seen on kitchen walls – and can be embossed to look like individual tiles – though with less work.

Small kitchens are happy to get a backsplash made of tile mirrors! These mirrors come in any shape or size and can really reflect the light a small kitchen may be lacking. We first saw them in kitchens of the 80’s – but they are making a strong come back for 2016. The reflective power of a mirror can catch what small light you have in your kitchen and make it appear brighter and larger. Say good bye to dark and dingy – get yourself mirrored backsplash tiles.

As you can see there are so many more options rather than simple subway tile or natural stone for your kitchen backsplash and it doesn’t take much more than a creative idea to get a cool backsplash. Some installations take less work and time than others. If you have questions or need help with a remodel project don’t be afraid to reach out and contact us. 1.877.642.7772 Spazio LA

Now is the best time to remodel and we will tell you why

Now is the best time to remodel and we will tell you why If you are like most homeowners you have had the thought of taking on a remodel project. You may have even asked yourself this question, “when is the best time remodel my home?” Many will argue that the warmer months of spring and summer are best; some will argue that the winter months are best. Every season will have pros and cons. So you can sit there and dream about what your home could possibly, one day over the rainbow, look like; or you can get your remodel kicked into gear and get a new house for the New Year.

Stop waiting for the perfect season:  Now is the best time to remodel!

1. January is always a great time to start fresh and make new plans for the New Year. While a home remodel can take place anytime of the year, making plans ahead of time can make your project more affordable and easier for everyone involved. Why start a remodel during January and the holidays? Most homeowners don’t want to deal with a remodel or big project around the Holidays, thus leaving the perfect opportunity to take advantage of discounts contractors and designers are offering to book up their slow season. As it turns out, January is also the best month to upgrade your AC during. When the temperature is low, heaters are in demand and leave plenty of AC’s out in the cold. The holiday season also means for tons of sales as everyone is in the season of spending money. Appliances, windows, doors, tile, carpet – you name it, it’s probably on sale during these months.

2. If you are starting a project around this time of year you will have the warmer months to look forward to it being completed – and if you are remodeling to sell your home – you will be ready for the prime home selling season. This could mean you can sell your home faster and for a lot more than you intended. Don’t let your investment sit there on the market, have it ready – start now!

3. Start now so that you can thank yourself later. We have all had that idea in the back of our head that we sit and think about and never act on. Now is the time to stop thinking about it and actually make it happen. The New Year means resolutions, for most remodeling isn’t on their list, but it should be.

Now is the perfect time for you to pick up the phone and contact us for your free in home estimate. We guarantee to make your remodel pain free, and turn your home into something you never even expected. Your ideas and dreams matter to us, and we can ensure you won’t be disappointed.

Contact us today 1.877.642.7772 Spazio LA  - Los Angeles’ best interior design and remodel company.

Where do you start fixing up a fixer upper?

Where do you start fixing up a fixer upper? Buying a brand new house or even newer house isn’t feasible for everyone. Buying a fixer upper could have been your dream, who knows. Though now that you are all moved in, where do you start when you can’t fix up the whole house at once? It seems like there is an issue every corner your turn and the issues keep adding up.

If you haven’t ever experienced a fixer upper or older house, the experience is like this; kitchen & bathroom sink backs up and wont drain, bathroom shower is slow to drain (so you are standing in dirty water),  the washer is flooding your laundry room or garage, your windows are all single paned and have no barrier to the outside elements, you have a leaky roof, your lights only turn on half the time you flick the on switch, let’s not even talk about the flooring (it’s that bad). The kitchen layout is horrible – don’t even think about having more than one person in the kitchen at any one time, mismatched cabinets, no garbage disposal or dishwasher,  ONE electrical outlet, and the appliances are not energy saving friendly. Now on to the bathroom- it may be shaped like a hallway – long and narrow, or it may be the size of a closet. It is outdated, no ventilation, and the word relaxing doesn’t pop into your head. Older houses have either very small closets or no closets, this just spells disaster. This is just the start to what a fixer upper has in store for you.

All you can see in your head is knocking down walls to make that grand open floor plan, a large chef’s kitchen, walk-in closets, spa style bathroom, new floors throughout, and to have your electrical and plumping situation in working order. All you can see is your fixer upper looking like a brand new house .The whole house remodel is nice, but sometimes you have to start small, and that’s perfectly fine. You have to figure out where to start before you start.

Make a list of all of the major issues, like the sinks not draining, leaks, plumping and electrical issues – make a list of all the major things that have to work before anything else. There is no point in remodeling the kitchen if the ceiling leaks so bad it’s like the kitchen is raining. Once you have the major issues listed you can now move on to the things that you need to change or fix, then a list of the things you want to add. Rome wasn’t built in a day, so your house doesn’t have to be remodeled in one either. Consulting a remodeling company after you have created your list is recommended.

A remodeling company isn’t you worst enemy. You may be thinking that they are more expensive than you can afford, but this may come to a surprise to you, you can afford them. Remodeling and interior design teams can help look at your house and your list of issues and break down where to spend your money first, where you can save money, and if they can help you finance the remodel projects. For help with your fixer upper – contact Spazio LA today. 1.877.642.7772

Make your kitchen more efficient

Make your kitchen more efficient 1. If your refrigerator or appliances are more than 10 years old – replace them. We tend to think that old refrigerator would make a great garage “beer” or “wine” fridge, but this is very bad news for your electrical bills. Old refrigerators are taking up 15% of your electrical bill, this number adds up year after year. Update old appliances and your refrigerator with ones that you have a need for, and ones that are energy star approved.

2. Choose the right size appliances. Of course, the bigger the more energy is used. Opt for a standard size fridge or freezer if you are a single home owner or a smaller family. If you don’t need the super-sized appliances, save the energy and get the right size for you.

3. Out with the outdated water fixtures. Older water fixtures like those made Pre-1992, are water hogs. Low flow products work 10times better than that or their older version and save you money.

4. Consider upgrading your water pump to an On-Demand water pump. On-demand water pumps are more efficient, and deliver electrically heated water while waiting for the hot water from the heater to reach the faucet.

5. Eco-Friendly lighting is important to reducing energy. Look for Energy Star lights and fixtures to save 66% energy compared to regular lighting. This choice will save the environment by reducing pollution and greenhouse gasses by energy production at power plants.

6. Arrange your kitchen to utilize work surfaces that have the most window or natural light. Natural sunlight is the highest quality light, and it’s free of charge. Having work areas that take advantage of this day light will save the use of artificial light for the evening, when you really need it.

7. Fume exhaust with variable speeds. This is a great option to allow you to control the energy used when you need to evacuate smells and cooking smoke. Look for the Energy Star label.

8. The newest thing that we are seeing – operable windows and skylights. Save the energy from the exhaust fan and turn the switch to vent your skylight! This is great for natural lighting and ventilation.

9. Don’t forget about your ceiling fan! Having an energy efficient ceiling fan can cut your energy bill, and I bet you never knew it could.  This will also allow for proper circulation of warm or cold air.

10. Out with the old and in with the new. If you don’t use it, don’t need it – get rid of it. Having that ice machine plugged in all the time when you haven’t used it in decades, isn’t really worth it. Make some money off your outdated stuff or donate to the less fortunate.

There are plenty of ways to make your kitchen more efficient, start with this list and get your kitchen in gear for the New Year.

Who cares more about “Going Green”?

Who cares more about “Going Green”?   The 2015 Smart Market Report, surveyed a total of 249 builders, remodelers, multifamily firms, and conducted nine in-depth interviews with homebuyers who purchased a home within the last year.

Nearly one-third (31%) of builders report that over 60% of home projects they've built this year featured green technology. By 2020, more than half , about 51% of builders project that they'll reach that same level of green work. The numbers are increasing as we are subject to seeing the documentaries about how the world is in great danger, and hear the news about global warming. People whom take this information to heart know that they can make a difference by investing in a greener home.

“Our studies demonstrate that home builders still think of green homes as an important trend,” said Dr. Donna Laquidara-Carr, industry insights research director at Dodge Data & Analytics, during a Wednesday presentation at the 2015 Greenbuild conference in Washington, D.C.

Remodelers and builders are driven by multiple factors to build greener homes, including customer demand (68%), energy cost increases (66%), green product availability and affordability (66%), greater valued recognized appraisers (66%), and code, ordinance, and regulation changes (65%). Green products can be more expensive, though understanding the impact of using green products will ease the pain of the costs.

The use of renewable technology has also grown over time. This year, 76% of surveyed builders report offering renewable energy on their projects, compared to 65% two years ago. By the year 2018, 85% of builders will offer renewable energy, such as wind or solar energy, on their products.

“The numbers that we have here are really striking,” said Dr. Laquidara-Carr. “We believe that builders are building greener because homeowners are gaining more knowledge, and there’s a greater consumer interest in these kinds of projects.”

The HERO program is one that is giving this type of Green knowledge, as they offer financing for eco-friendly projects and describe the positive impact that will come with them. In terms of potential buyers, more remodelers and builders believe that baby boomers, rather than millennials, are the most crucial customers in green home markets. This belief is echoed by builder and remodeler responses to how influential green home options are to home buyers by age: “Older buyers with previous home buying experience simply have more knowledge about homes, and therefore will value high-performance homes better,” explained Laquidara-Carr. “Millennials, however, have limited financial resources to invest in greener homes, and are also more motivated by convenience than home performance.”

With this being said, more funding and financing programs will come available and be able to offer the Millennials the chance to invest in their home with water and energy saving remodel.

Sherman Oaks Remodel goes from 700 sq feet to over 2000 !

Sherman Oaks Remodel goes from 700sq feet to over 2,000

This Sherman Oaks home is a great way to display the love and passion we have for what we do here at Spazio LA. We were able to build a home of our client’s dreams as well as bring our creative expertise to another level. After 7 months of hard work and over 1300sq feet added on to this beautiful home, we are proud to go ahead and share all details with you.

750sq feet before – 2150sq feet after: Smooth grey stucco, Brazilian Ipe siding, modern metal and glass gates and beautiful landscaping makes for this gorgeous house front. Can you say major curb appeal right off the back? I think we can be safe to say that this makes you want to come on in and see what’s on the inside.

Let’s get started with all the great details that made this remodel whole.

Master Bedroom and Kid’s Bedroom:

This beautiful master bedroom has lots of natural light thanks to the use of the world famous NANA wall (retractable glass door panels, we have a great blog about them and how to get your own) as well as the 14 foot vaulted ceilings. The NANA walls open up to the IPE deck and patio area.  Some will argue that the NANA walls make this room feel so huge, some will argue that the incredibly tall ceilings make this room feel huge – but we will tell you that the combination of the two make for one amazing sight to see. The art work on the walls are all original pieces, and the bed frame was designed and fabricated specifically for the client. We will always go above and beyond to make sure our client is entirely happy with their space.

The beautiful kid’s room has zebra hardwood floors, a custom aluminum and glass doored closet, and a custom blue ocean chalk wall mural. This room was designed for a younger child – but the design can most certainly grow with your child or become an office later on when they fly the nest.

Open floor plan:

 

Our design for the sunken living room was to and depth and dimension, maybe even bring in some drama. This open floor plan needed a little change in level, so we sunk the living room and opened it up with more 11ft NANA walls. This makes for the perfect indoor/outdoor experience, just open the glass walls to bring the life to the party.

An open concept design and polished concrete floors, Spazio LA was able to achieve a loft feel in this large home. Concrete flooring throughout the kitchen, island with seating – plus room for a dining table, are just a start to this great kitchen. This contemporary kitchen shows off master chef appliances and became an entertainer’s delight.

This bathroom design incorporates concrete onto the walls with a beautiful green color pallet and black slate tile on the floors.  The shower has large Italian porcelain tiles complemented by a Brazilian teak wood floor. For those of you whom don’t know much about Brazilian Teak Wood it is durable, and will not absorb water – which makes it good for showers or saunas as it will never rot.

We spent a lot of time on this project from the design to the build, but we are very proud to share this with you. Spazio LA hopes to inspire you to believe that your home can be just as beautiful as you dream it to be.

Waterwise plants for a low maintenance yard of Los Angeles

Waterwise plants for a low maintenance yard of Los Angeles

A lawn might be lovely, but it takes a lot of hard work to make it so; you’ve got to mow, weed, thatch, reseed, aerate. Then repeat. If you’d rather spend more time enjoying the outdoors instead of working on it, switch to one of these low-maintenance yard ideas. As a bonus, you’ll also save on your water bill because these alternatives use less water.

Low maintenance does not necessarily mean that you will avoid plants all together; the use of water wise plants will require less water and grow well in your area. As well as water wise plants, use of rocks in your yard will allow run off water to collect and feed your plants.

Gardeners wishing to live in a sustainable way will want to plant water-wise plants in their gardens. Indeed, many cities may soon require it. Waterwise plants have developed qualities that help them tolerate low rainfall, high heat and drying winds. These characteristics are taproots, leaves with fine gray hairs or high oil content, and bulbous, water-storing roots.

Here are  a list of water wise plants and alternatives:

Perennials, Shrubs, and Ornamental Grasses  Agave species (Agave)  Alyogyne huegelii (Blue Hibiscus)  Arctostaphylos species (Manzanita)  Artemisia species (Sagebrush)  Ceanothus species (California Lilac)  Chamelaucium uncinatum (Geraldton Waxflower)  Cistus species (Rockrose)  Dudleya species (Live Forever)  Echeveria species (Hens-and-Chickens)  Encelia californica (California Encelia)  Galvezia speciosa (Island Bush Snapdragon)  Grevillea species (Grevillea)  Heteromeles arbutifolia (Toyon)  Lavandula species (Lavender)  Leucophyllum species (Texas Ranger)  Lobelia laxiflora (Mexican Bush Lobelia)  Mahonia nevinii (Nevin’s Barberry)  Melalueca nesophila (Pink Melaleuca)  Myrtus communis (Common Myrtle)  Nassella species (Needlegrass)  Penstemon species (Penstemon)  Rhus species (Sumac)  Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)  Salvia, selected species (Sage)  Sisyrinchium bellum (Blue-Eyed Grass)  Tapetes lemmonii (Copper Canyon Daisy)  Verbena, selected species (Verbena)

Trees  Arbutus unedo (Strawberry Tree)  Chitalpa tashkentensis (Chitalpa)  Geijera parviflora (Australian Willow)  Laurus nobilis (Sweet Bay)  Olea europaea ‘Swan Hill’ (Swan Hill Olive)  Pinus eldarica (Afghan Pine)  Prosopsis chilensis (Chilean Mesquite)  Quercus agrifolia (Coast Live Oak)  Rhus lancea (African Sumac) Vines  Bougainvillea species (Bougainvillea)  Macfadyena unguis-cati (Cat’s Claw)  Vitis californica (California Wild Grape) Turf  Buchloe dactyloides (Buffalograss)  Cynodon dactylon (Hybrid Bermudagrass)  Zoysia ‘Victoria’ (Victoria Zoysiagrass) Ground Cover  Acacia redolens ‘Desert Carpet’  (Dwarf Prostrate Acacia)  Achillea species (Yarrow)  Baccharis species (Coyote Brush)  Cotoneaster dammeri (Bearberry Cotoneaster)  Lampranthus species (Ice Plant)  Lantana montevidensis (Trailing Lantana)  Myoporum parvifolium (Myoporum)  Sedum species (Stonecrop)