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Whole house remodel

“Love at First Sight is not Just an Event; It’s an Evolving Journey” 
  1. Intro
  2. Goals
  3. Floor Plans
  4. Obstacles
  5. Gallery
  6. Conclusion
  7. Testimonial

INTRO

The complete remodel of this 1980’s home, to the ultimate delight of our clients, is a classic example of a successful yet ambitious and demanding remodel project; exacerbated by the existing home’s myriad of poorly constructed add-ons, concealed structural, electrical  and plumbing issues.  Further challenging the team was the absence of any existing plan or precise vision for what the remodel should ultimately consist of other than enhancing the panoramic  views from every room and transforming the outdated residence into a spacious, natural light infused and comfortable environment with contemporary designs. 

Goals

The central theme and initial drive for this evolving two year project was to maximize and enhance the panoramic views of the city and natural surroundings. As the initial requisite projects materialized, the Client’s uncertain wishful goals and loosening budget evolved into appealing and productive design drafts.
  • Remove faulty, undersized malfunctioning Heating & Cooling systems and replace with an efficient HVAC system for the entire residence.
  • Remove existing windows (including clerestory) and replaced with less obstructive window units.
  • Relocate the existing poorly placed and view obstructing living room fireplace.
  • Re-think a design for the existing nondescript Main entry that would entice visitors as they entered the living room with enchanting views.
  • Redesign/revitalize the Primary Suite to better utilize the existing 900 sq ft space with a medium sized bedroom and oversized closet area.
  • Remove and replace the dated living room stairs & support wall occupying prime living space with a design to complement the main entrance.
  • Revitalize/update 3-bathrooms and a funky powder room.
  • Remove all ceiling track lighting and replace with updated lighting.
  • Eliminate outdated sunroom structure, conjoined with the dining room, and failing raised wood deck and replace with a ‘to be designed’ exterior space.be designed’ exterior space.
Expanded “evolving” goals were affected by numerous existing building code violations and unknown conditions that mandated diligent Contractor/Client collaboration and open communication. 
  • Create a home that is spacious and comfortably facilitates large gatherings for visiting friends/family yet provides quiet meditative spaces.
  • Original partial roof replacement plan expanded to include the removal and replacement of all existing roofing and insulation as required by code.
  • Remove/replace all existing sub-standard electrical wiring (non code compliant and inadequate to accommodate revisions/remodel).
  • Remove all existing copper water lines servicing the house as existing copper water lines with pin hole water leaks were discovered during the relocation of toilets & shower drains.

Floor Plans

Obstacles &
Solutions

The  evolving construction efforts involved a myriad of remodeling projects that occurred over a 2 year period. However, due to the home’s underlying un know utility issues and code requirements resulted in numerous unanticipated scope of work revisions , requiring frequent scheduling changes.

1

Removing and replacing the discombobulated and malfunctioning heating and cooling system required significant areas of roofing to be removed, resulting in several months with no heat. With concerns of inclement weather, opening the the roof to completely remove and replace the duct work and HVAC over a large area (approx. 1400 sq ft), required a new pocket roof which presented a major scheduling impediment; potentially a 4 + month delay. The option of laying off workers and the impact on the schedule was unacceptable.

Expedient job decisions were made possible and the development of plans for permitting were achieved together with the helpful collaboration with Lisa Martinez, architect.

Obstacle

2

Removing and replacing the discombobulated and malfunctioning heating and cooling system required significant areas of roofing to be removed, resulting in several months with no heat. With concerns of inclement weather, opening the the roof to completely remove and replace the duct work and HVAC over a large area (approx. 1400 sq ft), required a new pocket roof which presented a major scheduling impediment; potentially a 4 + month delay. The option of laying off workers and the impact on the schedule was unacceptable.

Expedient job decisions were made possible and the development of plans for permitting were achieved together with the helpful collaboration with Lisa Martinez, architect.

Obstacle

3

Removing and replacing the discombobulated and malfunctioning heating and cooling system required significant areas of roofing to be removed, resulting in several months with no heat. With concerns of inclement weather, opening the the roof to completely remove and replace the duct work and HVAC over a large area (approx. 1400 sq ft), required a new pocket roof which presented a major scheduling impediment; potentially a 4 + month delay. The option of laying off workers and the impact on the schedule was unacceptable.

Expedient job decisions were made possible and the development of plans for permitting were achieved together with the helpful collaboration with Lisa Martinez, architect.

Obstacle

4

Removing and replacing the discombobulated and malfunctioning heating and cooling system required significant areas of roofing to be removed, resulting in several months with no heat. With concerns of inclement weather, opening the the roof to completely remove and replace the duct work and HVAC over a large area (approx. 1400 sq ft), required a new pocket roof which presented a major scheduling impediment; potentially a 4 + month delay. The option of laying off workers and the impact on the schedule was unacceptable.

Expedient job decisions were made possible and the development of plans for permitting were achieved together with the helpful collaboration with Lisa Martinez, architect.

Obstacle
living room
entrance
Stairs
dining room
outside
view
In the kitchen, white oak cabinets and high stool chairs contrast with the white walls, while a gray mid-age oval faucet adds a vintage touch. The skylight, framed by a wood beam, enhances the rustic Spanish charm with natural light.
Before
Progress
After
The installation of the 33’ x 24” x 10” structural beam expanded the living room to 1200 sq ft of open space with virtually unobstructed views of the natural surroundings, the city and mountains in the distance.
In the kitchen, white oak cabinets and high stool chairs contrast with the white walls, while a gray mid-age oval faucet adds a vintage touch. The skylight, framed by a wood beam, enhances the rustic Spanish charm with natural light.
Before
Progress
After
The installation of the 33’ x 24” x 10” structural beam expanded the living room to 1200 sq ft of open space with virtually unobstructed views of the natural surroundings, the city and mountains in the distance.
Embracing a rustic Spanish theme, the master suite renovation combines bamboo blinds and wood ceilings for a natural feel, set against warm beige walls that highlight the cozy fireplace. The suite is completed by rattan furniture, contributing to the room's comfortable elegance and rustic charm.
Before
Progress
After
The installation of the 33’ x 24” x 10” structural beam expanded the living room to 1200 sq ft of open space with virtually unobstructed views of the natural surroundings, the city and mountains in the distance.
Before
Progress
After
This rustic Spanish-themed living room renovation boasts an ethnic southwest sofa and matching carpet, a traditional kiva fireplace, and French doors that bathe the room in natural light. The unique Granada floor tiles and wood ceiling tiles add to the room's authenticity, creating a harmonious blend of rustic elegance and Spanish charm.
Before
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After
The living and dining rooms, with a rustic Spanish theme, feature wooden furniture, a southwestern sofa, and carpet. Sunlight from French doors highlights the Granada tiles and kiva fireplace against the white walls.
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The CERILLO house renovation, inspired by a rustic Spanish theme, seeks to radiate warmth and rustic elegance. Each room, including the kitchen and living room combines simplicity with sophisticated Spanish charm.
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Conclusion

The project tested all of our remarkable team’s remodeling experience and strengths by evincing constant and transparent client communication; their creative ability in addressing unknowns and ever evolving design considerations;  innovative engineering;  flexibility with scheduling changes impacted by supply chain;  lack of labor issues during and following COVID and weather issues during the winter of 2022-2023 in the midst of critical exterior roof work.  How about a 60’ by 50’ Big Top tent to address the situation!

The Fabuwallous team, including 3rd party professionals demonstrated relentless flexibility and ingenuity while not only fulfilling the dreams of our clients (essential contributing team members), but also while shepherding an evolving budget with vigilant attention to building details and an energy efficient remodeled  home with numerous remarkable details.  This is a testament to what remodeling is about!   

VIEW FINAL PROJECT GALLERY

Testimonial

  • Time management
  • Adaptability
  • Problem solving
  • Top keywords

We have renovated 11 homes in our lifetimes – in Los Angeles, in Ojai, Palm Springs and two in Buenos Aires.  Until working with Bill and everyone at Fabu-wall-ous, never have either of us ever uttered the sentence “I love my contractor.”

- STEVE LEVITT and ERIC COWGER

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