When it comes to remodeling a bathroom in Southern California, the beach lifestyle can inform design choices, with colors and materials that evoke a seaside environment. But Los Angeles is also the home of Hollywood glamor, and L.A. residents appreciate luxurious amenities in their bathrooms, too.

Smart homeowners take advantage of both worlds, with spacious, Zen-style bathrooms that feature high-end, deluxe appointments. Here are a few ideas to make the look fit any bathroom remodeling budget.

A professional bathroom contractor can help you configure the space to accommodate the new fixtures. Sometimes the existing space can be reorganized to fit the addition, but it takes an experienced contractor to ascertain if existing plumbing and electrical lines will need to be added.

For pricing on a bath remodel in your area, click here.

Contractors will also know about any local building codes that may restrict the design. In general, bathroom remodels are cheaper in the winter, as this is the slow season, when professionals have less demand on their time.

Luxury spas are popular in Los Angeles, but when it comes right down to it, most homeowners would rather enjoy the spa experience in the privacy of their own homes. An amenity like a large shower or whirlpool tub can be affordable when it becomes the star appointment.

Limiting the rest of the budget to more cosmetic makeovers, such as a fresh coat of paint, a new window treatment and new fixtures, can create the environment of an exclusive spa without breaking the bank.

If your bath requires more space, enlarging the bathroom is a popular option. Often, additional space can be found by annexing space from an adjoining hallway or bedroom.

When renovating a small bathroom to make room for a large shower, use a color scheme that makes the most of the addition by playing up the element of water. Limit the color palette to two colors: the cool blue tint of the shower surround glass and a neutral color like off-white or grey. Using reflective materials like glass tiles, high-gloss paint and chrome fixtures reinforces the shimmering effect of water.

For a bathroom with a new whirlpool bathtub, a serene aesthetic is appropriate. A tub surround covered in granite, marble or other stone work can set the tone for a natural, soothing environment. Extending the surround to include a shelf provides space for all the little amenities that make long soaks pleasurable, such as candles, a good book or a glass of wine.

Extending the existing window downwards can create a new perspective. Keep the color scheme neutral to accent the natural style, with a touch of black to add balance, weight and drama.

Effective lighting is essential when remodeling a bathroom. Taking advantage of a bathroom remodel to install recessed lighting is a sound investment. Functionality must also be considered.

A ventilation system that will adequately disperse humid air is a must. Professional contractors can offer further advice about all the extras that can transform a bathroom into a home spa. Contact one of our pre-screened contractors today for more information.

Photos via Houzz

San Jose residents get beautiful sunshine year round, but are often stuck paying high energy costs in the summer. If you’re looking to reduce those costs this year and for many to come, window replacement may be your answer.

Getting the best window replacement in San Jose is as simple as choosing the right installer. A good window contractor will be able to explain the difference between traditional and energy-efficient windows, and will provide a written estimate for the installation. The best windows are affordably installed, and can assist you in saving energy for years to come.

To get a few cost estimates for comparison, click here.

The Costs

A written estimate by your installer is key to low costs, but there are also rebates and energy savings to consider when choosing your windows. Energy-efficient windows are eligible for state and federal rebates of up to 10% of the cost, allowing you to recoup a portion of your investment. When estimating the cost of your window installation, make sure you factor the rebate savings into your total.

Both double- and triple-paned windows are eligible for rebates when the brand you choose meets Energy Star requirements. A good window installer can advise you on the type of windows that are best for your home. You may want to opt for windows with a UV-resistant tint or glaze to increase your energy savings over time. Taking your time and choosing the right windows can actually cost much less when you consider the energy savings that come with your installation.

The Real Benefits

The average savings that you’ll see by installing energy-efficient, double-paned windows can range from $70 per month to several hundred dollars per year. The size of your home and the type of windows will also determine the price of installation. Energy rebates in San Jose and California are among the most comprehensive in the country, allowing you to have the best windows for energy conservation at a lower price.

Energy-efficient windows can also block out more UV rays from the sun, keeping your furniture and curtains from fading. While double-paned windows with UV protection filters heat entering the home, they don’t keep the natural light out. You can easily use natural lighting during the day without wasting energy. In addition, every small change that you make in your home to reduce your carbon footprint has a positive impact on the environment. Simply switching off one light in exchange for natural light is a step toward greener living.

Getting Started

The first steps to getting energy-efficient windows installed in San Jose is to get your bids. Request a few here, and compare them line by line for competitive energy features, installation guarantees and workmanship quality. A good rule of thumb is to go with the middle-range bid, as the lowest bid will most likely deliver lower quality. Once that’s complete, you are ready to have your new efficient windows installed. Let us know how it goes!

If you’re in the market for replacement windows (as most of us with cold, drafty homes in San Francisco unfortunately are), there are several unique ways to go about cutting costs on your purchase. Know that San Francisco holds a vast pool of talented window installers with competitive rates, as well as tax credits and good info for informed comparison shopping.

To check rates quickly on window installation in your area, click here.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

Finding the Right Installer

There are many window installers in San Francisco, so finding the right one for the job can be quite daunting. In order to choose the best installer, request estimates from multiple companies in your area, and then narrow your options down to a few above-average candidates. You can check out window installers on CalFinder by viewing their profiles, searching the Better Business Bureau and looking for reviews by previous customers.

Once you’ve chosen your two or three favorite installers, interview each candidate separately and make notes about their services. Most window replacement companies will offer a lower price per window if you choose to do multiple windows at the same time, so you should factor that in when deciding which windows you will replace.

Gather pricing information from each company, and let them know that you will inform them of your final decision at a later date. Next, compare your estimates and choose the best candidate for the job. A good rule of thumb is to avoid the lowest bid, as it often produces low-quality results.

Choosing the Best Windows

After you have chosen the contractor of your dreams, you need to select your new windows. There are many different varieties available, making this a complicated decision process. However, it is worth noting that you can claim a solid tax credit if you install energy-efficient windows in your home. This credit will be equal to 10% of the product value, a fairly good incentive to install this type of window.

Though energy-efficient windows may cost more up front, it will be worth it when you receive your tax credit. In addition, choosing to install energy-saving windows will reduce your utility bills for many years to come. After a short time, the windows will have essentially paid for themselves. In fact, San Francisco homeowners save anywhere from 15-25% on energy bills when they replace single-pane windows with double- or triple-pane upgrades.

Having your home’s windows replaced may seem like a complicated process, but if you follow these tips, you can be confident in the decisions you make along the way. Choosing an installer you trust, deciding on the right products, and applying for eligible tax credits are all important things to remember in order to get the best deal possible on your new windows.

Photo via Bluepics

Oakland residents can reap all kinds of benefits from replacement windows, especially energy-efficient windows. But there are a few things you should know before making a purchase:

• How to find the best pricing offered by your local window contractors
• How to choose energy-efficient windows that qualify for tax credits
• How much you can expect to save on your energy bills from now on

To get pricing on replacement windows in your area, click here.

Let’s begin with how to find the best deals and window contractors in Oakland.

Comparing Estimates

For a job as technical as windows, it’s critical that you shop around. Request estimates from a few licensed window installers and compare them for the best bid. Replacement of multiple windows can cost anywhere from $500 to $10,000 or more, assuming that your window frames are intact. For more on costs, click here.

The estimates should include the removal of your current windows, installation of the new windows, and cleanup of the old parts. You may incur additional costs if there is any damage to the window frame. Also, if you’re installing custom-sized, aka non-standard windows, the price of the project could increase.

How to Qualify for Tax Credits

A major benefit of installing energy-efficient replacement windows is the ability to claim tax credits. According to the federal government, to qualify for a tax credit, the window must:

1. Meet ENERGY STAR program requirements
2. Be installed in a taxpayer’s primary residence
3. Be installed by December 31, 2011

The amount of the tax credit is 10% of the cost of the window, or as much as $200 per window. Keep in mind, though, that total tax credits of this type cannot exceed $500. If you want to save money over the long-term, then energy-efficient windows are your best best.

Energy Bill Savings

Another amazing perk of energy-efficient windows is a reduced energy bill. Because these windows do a better job of insulating, you don’t have to pay as much to heat or cool your home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a resident can save about 15-25% on energy bills yearly. Over the course of many years, this is a substantial sum of money.

Use this information when looking for replacement windows in Oakland, California. It can help you to find the best deal, pay less in taxes, and save money on your energy bill. Start saving today.

Photo via Paintergirl

According to the EPA, the average Phoenix homeowner spends over $2,000 a year on energy costs. Nearly half of that money goes toward heating and cooling. By upgrading your HVAC system to a modern, energy-efficient unit, you can save up to 68% on your energy costs. This translates into hundreds of dollars per year in savings just by switching to a properly installed HVAC unit.

To see how much it costs to install air conditioning in your area, click here.

Local HVAC Sales in Phoenix

For a limited time, there is a local Phoenix special being offered by Trane, one of the largest HVAC manufacturers in the U.S. Customers can take either zero interest if paid in full within 36 months, 5.9% APR financing, or up to a $1,000 instant rebate on purchases made between March 1, 2011 and May 30, 2011. Please note that this offer expires soon and purchases must be made by May 30,2011, with eligible install dates to June 15, 2011. Get in touch with a local installer by clicking here.

Efficient Types of HVAC for Phoenix

So which types of units are ideal for the hot, dry climate of Phoenix, Arizona? Evaporative cooling systems are an ideal choice to cool your home this summer. These energy-efficient systems work by drawing hot air into the system, where it naturally causes the water within the system’s cooling pads to evaporate.

The cooled and humidified air is then circulated back into your home. The hotter and drier the climate, the more efficient the unit will run, making it a superb choice for Phoenix and the other Southwestern regions of Arizona. Evaporative coolers can use up to 75% less energy when compared to traditional air conditioning units, with lower installation costs from your HVAC contractor as well.

Split System Air Conditioning Units

Other attractive options are the split systems and mini-split systems, also known as ductless air conditioner units. These units are made up of two main components. First, there’s the condensing unit. This unit contains the compressor and traditional air conditioning refrigerant, and is installed on the outside of the home. Second is the air handler, which is mounted on a wall or ceiling within the room that is to be cooled.

Installation of these units is generally less difficult, as they do not require any duct work. It’s this absence of duct work that also makes them some of the most energy-efficient units available. In addition to being significantly quieter than a standard window box air conditioner, split system units are also flexible; multiple air handlers can be installed and zoned in multiple rooms and run off of a single condensing unit. Models are also available with an added heat pump to provide warmth in the winter time if needed.

Federal Cash Rebates for Energy-Efficient HVAC

Select units are also eligible for the federal cash rebate of up to $500. Qualifying HVAC systems must be ENERGY STAR rated to earn the federal rebate. Check with your installer to ensure your system meets these requirements.

Proper sizing and installation of an HVAC unit is as important as the actual unit itself when determining energy savings, so don’t hesitate to shop around, get multiple estimates and select the best contractor for the job. Contact us now to begin getting estimates on your new HVAC system, and enjoy a cool, comfortable home before these savings disappear. Click here to get started.

Photos via Humberto Moreno and Phil Roeder

However, it was clear from the get-go that one structural blunder needed to be repurposed for their modern family: a two-story 1970’s glass tower addition that had little to no apparent purpose. They could have decided to tear the structure down, but instead hired architect Todd Hansen of Albertsson Hansen Architecture to transform it into a new kitchen, mudroom, and second-story master bedroom.

Before: Odd 1970s tower addition        After: New addition is elegant and seamless

Another view of the new addition

Since the kitchen tends to be gathering spot for the Scott’s, they wanted to make it as accommodating as possible.

The end result was a space with two stoves, sprawling Shaker-style cabinets, a large center island perfect for lounging, and a bay window to bring in ample natural light.

Walls were then torn down on the second floor of the tower to allow for the master bedroom, as well as a family room with double French doors.

Next up on the renovation list was reinstating some of the home’s original charm. They replaced a missing railing on the main floor with a coat cabinet that doubles as a stair railing designed by Hansen himself. Flower boxes were also added to the exterior, along with cedar shake shingles. A red brick fireplace was revamped with paneling and a wooden mantel.

With an eye for architecture and a little careful remodeling, the Scott’s were able to create the home they’d always dreamed of. Better yet, they didn’t have to do a complete overhaul.

Aptly named SOL, or Solutions Oriented Living, this unique community is only a few short miles outside of downtown Austin, and offers plenty of open space and garden areas. The homes are available in a variety of sizes, ranging from 1,000 to 1,800 square feet, with prices starting as low as $190,000.

So what sets them apart from other homes in the area? All SOL homes are net-zero capable, meaning they could potentially generate more energy than they consume. They’re all-electric and each carry a 4-5 star rating from the Austin Energy Green Building Program.

In terms of green features, each home comes equipped with:

• Solar panels with energy capacities ranging from 3-6 kW
• Double-pane aluminum-frame windows
• FSC-certified wood
• Hardie-board cladding
• Metal roofing
• Energy efficient appliances

Drought-tolerant vegetation helps bring each property to life, and homes are rain collection ready as well.

This two-story abode is a recently completed SOL home totaling 1,331 square feet. It offers three bedrooms and two bathrooms, along with ample open space and a light, airy feel. Clean lines make the interior feel clutter-free with a modern touch.

This particular home is selling for $246,000, but the energy savings it offers might just make it priceless.

Via Jetson Green

Wanting to give a fresh look to this 1960′s Los Angeles abode, designers used modern functionality as their driving force. In the end they gave a family of four a comfortable yet stylish home with plenty of room to grow.

The team, a group of designers from Curated and Delta Wright, as well as general contractor Stephen Apelian, began by transforming the home’s existing facade with a fresh white coat of paint. They then moved to the interior, getting rid of awkward elements that restricted the flow of the floor plan, but paying careful attention to the parts that expressed the structure’s original character.

The color palette was kept neutral, with various shades of whites and grays juxtaposed with warm wood finishes. A bright, bold canvas by Dirk De Bruycker livens up an otherwise simple dining area.

The kitchen, with its dark tile backsplash and similarly colored walls was lightened by a center marble slab and wood cabinetry.

While still adhering to the style of another era, the living room combines comfort with a variety of unique furniture pieces and decorative elements.

Redesigning the master bed and bath helped create a better sense of flow, and resulted in this invigorating space subdued by cool colors and natural stone elements. The bathroom is encased in porcelain tile and silver cut travertine.

Not everyone would call this 1960’s home-turned-modern-abode suitable for a growing young family. But in LA, conversation-worthy style may just trump any notion of what’s “normal.”

Photo Credit: Joshua McHugh

Patrick and Libby Castro may have been content staying in their Milwaukee East Side bungalow, but as their family grew, the home’s dysfunctional layout and lack of square footage meant it was time for a change.

Since their property sat untouched on the market for two years, the couple continued to look for a house that would fulfill all their needs. In the end, it was a midcentury modern gem on the North Shore that caught their eye.

With only an exterior photograph of the house in hand, Libby checked out the property several times before venturing inside. Once she did, however, the search was called off. There was work that needed to be done, but as an architect, she was more than capable of recognizing a good foundation.

Two key pieces served as the home’s selling points: slate flooring in the entryway and a stone fireplace. But there were also a few features that needed to be taken care of: 1980’s shag carpet, an excess of heavy window coverings, and unattractive wallpaper in a majority of the rooms.

The third owners of the 2,000-square-foot 1959 midcentury modern home, the Castro’s made their purchase and went to work personalizing the space. The carpet was the first to go, replaced with a commercial-grade nylon style instead. Window coverings were replaced with non-woven polyester shades to allow more light in.

Then, a bathroom in the basement received a much-needed upgrade.

Next on their list of things to do: replace the carpet in the dining room and kitchen with something more food-spill-friendly. But for the time being, small changes here and there are all the Castro’s have needed to feel at home in their new space.

This home in Lexington, Massachusetts reflects the shape of its two adjoining arched porches, and has a wide array of windows to serve as focal points. Contrasting colors on the facade also add interest.

Traditional in appearance, this Winchester, Massachusetts has a beautifully modern interior, as evidenced by the impressive walk-in shower illuminated by a mosaic wall.

This home, also located in Winchester, Massachusetts, was built on a site with unique challenges, but in the end was able to blend seamlessly with its surroundings. The kitchen is particularly interesting with its view of the exterior stone wall.

Built for homeowners with slightly more eclectic tastes, this Winchester property has an exceptionally vibrant interior. Noteworthy is the bathroom with an enclosed bathtub/shower combo.

The diversity of Domus’ portfolio conveys one very important quality of this Boston-based firm: their ability to take the personality of their clients and embody them into the home they have always envisioned.