SCHEDULE YOUR COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION

SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Optin

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Optin
Killer Custom Home Designs to Include In Your Next Remodel

Killer Custom Home Designs to Include In Your Next Remodel

primary-bath-remodel-foothill ranch - custom home designsThere’s no question that custom home designs can make your space truly unique. From meeting your specific household’s needs to creating an aesthetically pleasing space that’s full of flair and personality, there are so many reasons to customize your home. But which custom features should be included? That’s exactly what we’re going to explore today.

 

6 Custom Home Designs to Consider As You Renovate Your Home

 

1.  Heated Floor Tiles In the Bathroom

Depending on which area of California you live in, how you heat your home may not be at the top of your list when considering custom home designs. If you live in an area where winter or night time temperatures plummet, however, this is an important aspect to address.

 

Many of our clients choose to install beautifully tiled floors in their bathroom remodels. During the installation process, heating elements can be added, leaving you with radiant heat that is a welcome comfort when you’ve just finished a bath or shower and the air is chilly.

 

2.  Universal Design Features: Planning Ahead to Age In Place

Universal design is a concept that includes using fixtures, materials, and design elements to create a space that can be used by a wide variety of people and physical abilities. Examples include things like a barrier-free walk-in shower or motion sensor lighting throughout your home’s interior.

 

The universal design features that make your home accessible to more people can also impact your ability to stay in your home as long as possible. Aging in place is a relatively new trend where homeowners who are healthy enough to do so, age in their homes rather than moving to a nursing home or assisted living facility. As you plan your remodel, consider custom home designs that will enable you to age in place if you consider your current home to be your ‘forever’ home.

 

3.  First Floor Master Bedroom Suite

In keeping with the aging in place theme, it’s a great idea to have a master bedroom and bathroom on the first floor. As your mobility decreases with age, everything you need will be on one floor without requiring you to navigate stairs.

 

Of course, if your home does not currently have a first floor bedroom, the creation of a master suite may require a room addition. The additional cost and effort could be well worth it, however, if it allows you to spend more years in your own home.

 

4.  Custom Home Office: Designated Space For Work-From-Home

Custom home office in kitchen - Custom Home Designs

If there’s one thing we’ve all learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s that a work-from-home office might not just be a nice custom home design … it could be a necessity! As more people than ever were forced to work remotely during the pandemic, the thought of a home office suddenly became top of mind.

 

Now, as things return to a new normal, many people continue to work from home. Or, they work in a hybrid environment where remote work is sometimes required or allowed. Rather than trying to conduct important business at the kitchen table, how about creating a designated office space instead?

 

Even if you don’t plan to work remotely long term, the office can be used by other family members or even repurposed down the road if need be. In the meantime, you’ll have a private space to meet your work-from-home needs.

 

5.  Custom Kitchen Design Features

The kitchen is the heart of the home. When you consider how much time you and your family spend there, it’s no surprise that custom home designs have a prominent place in this room.

 

As you consider which custom design features to include, think about how you use your kitchen. Do you frequently entertain guests at mealtime? If so, you’ll want plenty of workspace to prepare meals – perhaps a large kitchen island will do the trick. Do you have children who often need help with their homework? A nook seating area or small corner desk would provide them a place to work while you’re preparing dinner. Do you enjoy preparing gourmet meals? Perhaps designing your space like a chef’s kitchen would be in your best interest.

 

All of these are important factors to think about as you customize your kitchen to meet your specific needs. When you work with a professional designer, they will help you understand current design trends as well as which features will work best to achieve your goals.

 

6.  Other Custom Home Designs

Home bar design - Custom Home Designs

The truth is, the sky’s the limit when it comes to custom home designs that can make your space more enjoyable. The trick is to find that middle ground where the designs you choose fit your personality and needs but don’t alienate potential buyers if you decide to sell your home in the future.

 

One unique custom home design we recently completed was the creation of a custom-built dog wash room. Our clients have dogs that frequently spend time outdoors. Instead of stressing out about how much dirt they bring in the house, the dog wash room provides a perfect solution. Muddy paws or a dusty coat can be thoroughly cleaned before the dogs fully make their way inside. In addition, the dog wash shower can double as a way to clean muddy boots or soiled garments. Plus, storage cabinets keep necessary cleaning products nearby but out of sight.

 

Custom Home Designs and Remodeling In Orange County

Sea Pointe Design & Remodel has been meeting the remodeling needs of Orange County residents for almost 40 years. During that time, we’ve completed a wide variety of custom home designs to help clients make their personal space uniquely their own. For some samples of our completed work, check out our online portfolio of kitchen renovations, bathroom remodels, and whole home remodels.

 

Then, if you’d like additional inspiration for your next home renovation project, register for one of our upcoming remodeling webinars. Our home design/build experts will walk you through some of the challenges of remodeling so you can avoid major pitfalls and end up with a custom-designed space that you truly love.

 

When you’re ready to start planning your remodel, simply give us a call at (949) 861-3400 or fill out the form below to schedule your complimentary design consultation.

Let's Discuss Your Next Project!

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
  • We guarantee 100% privacy for all information!

 

Killer Custom Home Designs to Include In Your Next Remodel was last modified: December 18th, 2025 by Smart Marketing
Thinking About Expanding? The Pros and Cons of Adding an Addition to Your House

Thinking About Expanding? The Pros and Cons of Adding an Addition to Your House

finished-attic-addition-remodel - house addition

Planning for extra space in your home but not sure if adding an addition to your house is the right move? Maybe you’ve outgrown your current layout or envision a custom-designed space tailored just for you. Whatever the case, building a house addition is an exciting prospect, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Let’s break it down so you can decide if this is the right path for you.

 

Pros of Adding an Addition to Your House

 

1. You Get to Design a Space That’s Truly Yours

 

Most remodeling projects involve tweaking what’s already there, but with a house addition, you’re starting from scratch. So whether you want a sun-filled reading nook, a guest suite for visitors, or a game room for family nights, the choice is yours.

 

Working with a professional designer can bring your desired space to life while ensuring it blends seamlessly with the rest of your home.

 

2. It Boosts Your Home’s Square Footage

 

Adding an addition to your house doesn’t just give you more room; it transforms how you use your home. Do you need a larger kitchen? An extra bedroom? Or maybe a home office? Adding multiple rooms can significantly increase your home’s livable area, giving everyone in your household the space they need to thrive.

 

3. Increases Your Home’s Value

 

A well-planned house addition can also be a smart investment. Not only does it meet your family’s needs, but it can also make your home more appealing to future buyers. When done right, you’re not just building for today but adding long-term value.

 

Plus, staying in your current home saves the hassle of moving and lets you keep enjoying the neighborhood you love.

 

Cons of Adding an Addition to Your House

 

Room Addition Remodel in Mission Viejo with Stone Fireplace And A Barndoor Closet

1. The Costs Add Up Quickly

 

Building a house addition isn’t cheap. The costs can stack up fast, from permits and professional services to materials and labor. And don’t forget the ongoing expenses, higher property taxes, additional utility bills, and maintenance for the extra space.

 

That said, with proper budgeting and planning, you can manage these costs to ensure you stay within your financial comfort zone.

 

2. You Might Lose Yard Space

 

Adding an addition to your house often means sacrificing some of your outdoor area. If you have a small lot, this could be a dealbreaker. However, the trade-off might be worth it if you value indoor living over outdoor space. And if you’re concerned, consider creative solutions like vertical gardens or rooftop decks.

 

3. It’s a Time-Consuming Process

 

Unlike quick remodels, a house addition can take months to complete. During that time, you’ll have workers coming and going, which can disrupt your privacy and daily routine. But with a detailed plan and clear communication with your builders, you can minimize these inconveniences and enjoy the journey.

 

Professional Remodeling Services in Orange County

 

At Sea Pointe Design & Remodel, we specialize in turning your remodeling plans into reality. With over 38 years of experience, we’ve helped countless Orange County residents with everything from small upgrades to extensive house additions.

 

Browse our online portfolio for inspiration, give us a call at (949) 861-3400, or fill out the form on our website to schedule your complimentary design consultation. Our experts will walk you through the process to help you avoid common pitfalls and achieve a space you’ll love for years to come.

 

FAQs

 

How long does it take to build a house addition?


The timeline varies on the size and complexity of the project. A typical house addition can take anywhere from three to six months, including design, permitting, and construction. Larger and more complex projects will take longer.

Do I need a permit for a house addition?


Yes, most municipalities require permits for structural changes. Usually, your builder or designer should take care of the permitting process to ensure everything is up to code.

Will a house addition increase my property taxes?


Yes, adding an addition to your house will likely increase your property taxes, as the taxable value of your home will go up with the added square footage.

How can I make sure my addition blends with my existing home?


Work with a professional designer who can match your current home’s architectural style, materials, and finishes to create a seamless look.

Is it better to build up or out?


Building up (adding a second story) is ideal for preserving yard space but may require structural reinforcements. Building out (expanding horizontally) is simpler but reduces outdoor space. The best choice depends on your lot size, budget, and needs.

 

Let's Discuss Your Next Project!

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
  • We guarantee 100% privacy for all information!

 

Thinking About Expanding? The Pros and Cons of Adding an Addition to Your House was last modified: December 18th, 2025 by Smart Marketing
5 Things to Do BEFORE You Start Remodeling

5 Things to Do BEFORE You Start Remodeling

compact-primary-bath-design-ideas - what to do before you start remodelingIf you’ve made the decision to renovate all or part of your home, it’s equally important to know what to do before you start remodeling. You’ve likely heard the saying “hindsight is 20/20” … while this is true for many things in life, it’s absolutely true with remodeling! Rather than waiting until your project is finished and wishing you had known more before you started, you can take advantage of the experience of those who’ve remodeled before you.

 

5 Key Factors to Consider Before You Start Remodeling

 

At Sea Pointe Design & Remodel, we have almost 40 years of experience remodeling homes in Orange County. During that time, we’ve helped countless clients turn their remodeling dreams into reality through award-winning design and high quality craftsmanship. There’s one common thread we’ve noticed through it all, however … The homeowners who are most satisfied with the finished product are the ones who did their research and took the time to be fully prepared before the work even began.

 

We’ve boiled our years of experience down into this handy list … 5 factors to think about before you start remodeling.

 

1.  Prioritize your remodeling projects.

 

Unless you’re planning a whole home remodel, take the time to evaluate which room should be done first. Since the kitchen is the heart of the home, we often recommend that this room take priority over others. If you’re already living in the home, you’ll need to set up a makeshift kitchen or food prep area in another room while construction is in full swing. Similarly, if a bathroom remodel is at the top of your list, you’ll want to make sure you’ll have sufficient access to other bathrooms in the home during construction.

 

2.  Decide on your design style.

 

Hopefully you’ll make the wise decision to work with a professional designer before you start remodeling. They will be able to help you better, however, if you’ve done your homework ahead of time and narrowed down your ideal designs. Take some time to go through online remodeling portfolios or Pinterest boards to get inspiration. Then, collect the designs that excite you the most, fit with your personality, and blend well with your overall home design. Your designer will then have a better idea of exactly what you like and can help you make the best decisions that fit with that style.

 

3.  Hire a remodeling contractor before you start remodeling.

 

Residential-remodeling-contractor what to do before you start remodelingAs tempting as it may be to try to save a few bucks, doing your own remodeling rarely saves you time or money unless you’re a building professional yourself. In fact, mistakes made by do-it-yourselfers often lead to wasted time and more money spent. Instead, we recommend hiring a professional remodeling company to do the work.

 

With the right remodeling contractor at the helm, your project will be handled and installed by experts in the field. This will minimize mistakes, maximize time, and ultimately leave you with a better end result. To make things even easier, hire a design/build company. You’ll have access to designers, builders, engineers, and more all under one single contract. Plus, the company will handle any permits required and act as a general contractor for other trades such as plumbers and electricians.

 

4.  Before you start remodeling, get a realistic idea of the project timeline.

 

Once you’ve determined the scope of your project and hired a remodeling company, it’s time to get down to business. Before you start remodeling, it’s important to have a realistic estimate of how long the project will take. This will help you make important decisions about using the rest of your home and when you may be able to occupy the newly remodeled space.

 

Just remember this … remodeling projects often take longer than predicted. Factors such as supply chain issues, contractor availability, and other things beyond your control can affect the overall timeline. If your project is completed exactly on time or even ahead of schedule, great! In most cases, however, be flexible and be prepared for changes in the timeline as the project progresses.

 

5.  Expect additions or changes to your remodeling budget.

 

Value engineering made possible with design build - what to do before you start remodelingBefore you start remodeling, having a remodeling budget is a MUST. After all, if you don’t know how much you have available to spend, how can you accurately decide what work can be completed and what materials can be purchased? In this budget, though, it’s wise to have an additional 10-20% reserved for contingencies. In other words, prepare for the unexpected.

 

Your remodeling company will give you an estimate for how much your project will cost based on what they know and see. It’s what is unseen that can often cause hiccups with remodeling. For example, perhaps your bathroom remodel requires moving electrical or plumbing. If mold is found behind the wall during the construction process, additional time, money and resources may be required to get rid of it before the project can continue. When you plan for these scenarios up front, you won’t be caught without the funds to pay for them. And, if you’re lucky and don’t have any surprises at all, you might just have some extra money in your budget at the end.

 

Home Remodeling in Orange County

 

If you’re looking for the best remodeling company in Orange County, we think you’re in the right place! At Sea Pointe Design & Remodel, we have an expert design/build team full of building professionals who are committed to your satisfaction. We take great pride in being ranked among the top remodelers in the country and we take pride in every remodeling project we complete.

 

Before you start remodeling, we recommend taking a look at our online portfolio that showcases some of our completed projects. Or, if you need additional inspiration, register for one of our upcoming remodeling webinars. Our design/build experts will teach you about the benefits and complexities of home renovations so you avoid major mistakes and end up with a space you truly love.

 

When you’re ready to start planning your remodel, simply give us a call at (949) 861-3400 or fill out the form below to schedule your complimentary design consultation.

Let's Discuss Your Next Project!

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
  • We guarantee 100% privacy for all information!

 

5 Things to Do BEFORE You Start Remodeling was last modified: December 18th, 2025 by Smart Marketing
5 Function-Packed Home Improvements That Also Add Style

5 Function-Packed Home Improvements That Also Add Style

Thanks to post-pandemic inflation and building material shortages, home improvements planned for 2022 will already cost you more than they would have in previous years. Why not make sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck with a stylish remodel that also packs in as many function-packed home improvements as possible?

full-length-porcelain-tile-backsplash-mission-viejo

While individual tastes change and remodeling trends vary from year to year, the need for function has been and always will be present. That’s because our homes are not mere show pieces but rather, built for our pleasure, enjoyment, and everyday use. As such, the rooms and living spaces we create should be a blend of usefulness and style, meeting the homeowners’ needs in an attractive way.

 

Function-Packed Home Improvements That Help You Do More

 

Before you get too involved in scouring online remodeling portfolios for ideas, let’s talk about 5 home improvements you could make now or in the near future to help you get the most out of your space.

 

1.  A Home Office

Thanks to the pandemic, the popularity of a home office has risen to new heights. Even though the pandemic is waning, however, the need for a designated office space at home is expected to continue. That’s because many employers and employees now realize the benefits of a remote working environment.  A home office can also be beneficial for students who simply need an organized, quiet place to study, do their homework, or complete other school projects.

 

In this Newport Coast whole home remodel, the homeowners opted for simple white walls contrasted beautifully by a stunning Monark Plank hardwood floor with a herringbone design. There is ample room for comfortable chairs and a work desk while built-in cabinets and shelving provide plenty of storage space to keep this work-from-home office neat and tidy. This is a perfect example of what a stylish but function-packed home improvement can look like!

 

Herringbone flooring in Newport Coast home office remodel - Function-Packed Home Improvements

 

2.  Informal Seating Nooks

If you have a formal dining room or outdoor living space with a dining area, these are perfect places for entertaining large groups or for everyday family dining. But what about the times when you want something more informal? Like when you grab a bite to eat with your child before soccer practice or when you want to sit with a cup of coffee and check out the morning news?

 

A built-in seating area in a kitchen corner or alcove is the perfect informal dining solution. That’s exactly what the homeowners opted for in this Laguna Niguel coastal farmhouse kitchen remodel. The kitchen island has countertop seating for two and the adjacent dining area can handle larger groups, but a small alcove lined with windows makes the perfect spot for a cozy meal or someplace for the kids to sit while doing their homework.

 

Laguna-Niguel-Blue-rain-custom-cabinetry - function-packed home improvements

 

3.  Curbless Walk-in Showers and Built-In Shower Benches

Now this is perhaps one of the most future-thinking function-packed home improvements you can make. That’s because curbless showers not only look sleek and stylish but they also fit with today’s hot trend of aging in place. Living in your home as long as possible means making it easier to do so, even when you face mobility challenges. A shower that’s easy to enter and a built-in bench for sitting makes for the perfect aging-in-place design.

 

For example, the shower in this Mission Viejo bathroom remodel boasts an easily accessible entrance while the built-in shower bench offers both function and visual appeal.

 

Walk in shower with shampoo niche and bench - function-packed home improvements

 

4.  Custom Cabinetry For Unique Storage Options

Whether you have a uniquely shaped room or you simply have a lot of things to store, custom cabinets can provide essential storage solutions. They serve the useful purpose of keeping things neat and tidy but can be functional in other ways as well.

 

In this Newport Coast remodel, for example, the recreation room/den boasts an entire wall of built-in cabinets. The largest cabinet houses a big screen TV while other smaller ones hide a mini beverage fridge and ice maker – an entertainer’s paradise!

 

Entertainment room remodel with hidden fridge - function-packed home improvements

 

5.  Mudrooms or Wash Rooms

Whether you have small children or indoor/outdoor pets, a mudroom located near an outside entrance is one of the most useful function-packed home improvements you can make. Cabinets, cubbies, and baskets provide storage space for boots, shoes, bags, and other items that would dirty or clutter the rest of your house.

 

In this Laguna Hills whole home remodel, the homeowners opted for a custom-built dog wash room. Although it’s currently used to keep dirty pets from tracking through the house, it could just as easily be used for dirty children or soiled shoes!

 

Designated-dog-shower-remodel - function packed home improvements

 

Ready to Plan Your Function-Packed Home Improvements?

 

At Sea Pointe Design & Remodel, we’ve been helping Orange County residents pack style and function into their home renovations for over three decades. From whole home remodels and kitchen renovations to bathroom redos and everything in between, our expert designers and master craftsmen are able to design and build aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces.

 

If you need ideas and inspiration for your next remodeling project, register for our upcoming remodeling webinars to learn about current design trends, see before and after pictures of some of our recent work, and hear from our remodeling experts how to plan and design your project.

 

Then, when you’re ready to start planning your own remodel, simply give us a call at (949) 861-3400 or fill out the form below to schedule your complimentary design consultation.

Let's Discuss Your Next Project!

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
  • We guarantee 100% privacy for all information!

 

5 Function-Packed Home Improvements That Also Add Style was last modified: December 18th, 2025 by Smart Marketing
What Is a California Room and How Much Does It Cost?

What Is a California Room and How Much Does It Cost?

electric-Smart-heaters-built-into-the-ceiling

Built for luxurious outdoor living, exquisite entertaining, or tranquil relaxation, a California room can be the perfect upgrade for your southern California home.

 

Today’s homeowners are often looking for outdoor living space, either in the home they already own or in a home they wish to buy. Rather than simply desiring a pretty patio or comfortable outdoor dining area, however, a California room has become the newest way to enjoy more time outside. Let’s take a look at what a California room is, some of the common features that are included, and how much it costs to build.

 

What Is a California Room and What Does It Look Like?

 

Imagine all the comforts and luxury of an indoor living space with the fresh air and tranquility of an outdoor living area – that is the ultimate definition of a California room. Although the idea for such a room originated in Florida, these outdoor living spaces have become popular in areas such as southern California because of the mild year-round weather.

Beamed-ceilings-continue-from-indoors-to-covered-patio-emphasize-architectural-continuity

California rooms are typically open on just one or two sides and have a complete roof. This gives them an open-air feeling but with added protection from the elements vs. a patio or outdoor seating area that isn’t enclosed at all. In fact, a California room is often a nice transition element between enclosed indoor living spaces and open outside features such as pools, patios, or barbeque areas.

 

Features vary widely and can include just about anything you can imagine! For example, this Villa Park California room has a large TV, fireplace, comfortable lounging area, and a full kitchen with built-in storage – the perfect place to entertain or simply enjoy the outdoors in luxury!

 

big-outdoor-family-room

 

Just as luxurious but on a smaller scale, this outdoor living area in Mission Viejo is an entertainer’s dream. It boasts a built-in beverage center, barbeque area, comfortable seating, TV, surround sound, and more, all in close proximity to a stunning water feature.

 

Spanish-oaks-california-room-style

 

Lastly, take a look at this lounger’s paradise in Coto de Caza. Gorgeous porcelain plank flooring, comfortable couches, a built-in beverage center, large screen TV, cozy fireplace, and beautiful pendant lights are just a few of the things that make this California room the perfect place to relax and recharge.

 

Primary-Room-Escape-remodel

 

How Much Does a California Room Cost?

 

Now that you know what a California room is and what it looks like, it’s time to answer the big question: How much does a California room cost to build? Well, just like any other home remodeling project, the final cost depends on a variety of factors. These can include, but are not limited to:

 

  • Square footage of the room
  • Quality of materials
  • Features and appliances – entertainment center, fireplace, cabinetry, etc.
  • Geographical conditions (i.e. what needs to be done to make that particular part of the property buildable)
  • Electrical and plumbing

new-roof-including-skylights-in-ceiling-speakers-recessed-lighting-radiant-heaters

To get the most accurate estimate of cost, it’s wise to work with a design-build remodeling company that has experience in designing and creating California rooms and other outdoor living spaces. Although the overall cost will depend on the specifics of your property and what you want to include in the room, here’s how the cost typically breaks down in terms of percentages:

 

Working with a design-build firm, you have a host of benefits all under one roof:

 

  • Architecture, engineering and design professionals – They can combine your vision of the ideal California room with sound building principles and appropriate design techniques to create a space that’s functional, beautiful, and architecturally sound.
  • A project manager – Rather than having to coordinate multiple building professionals or contractors on your own, the project manager does it for you, helping to streamline the process and get the work done in a timely fashion.
  • Top quality builders and other construction professionals – From master builders to expert electricians, plumbers, and more, a design-build firm has the professionals you need all in one place and wrapped up in one single construction contract.

 

Orange County Remodeling for Outdoor Living

Outdoor Kitchen Remodel

Sea Pointe Design & Remodel has been meeting the remodeling needs of Orange County residents for over three decades. From California rooms and other outdoor living spaces to whole home remodels, kitchen renovations, and more, we’re your source for design-build remodeling in southern California!

 

Need ideas and inspiration for your next remodeling project? Register for our upcoming remodeling webinars to learn about current design trends, see before and after pictures of some of our recent work, and hear from our remodeling experts how to plan and design your project.

 

Then, when you’re ready to start planning your own California room or other remodeling endeavor, give us a call at (949) 861-3400 or fill out the form below to schedule your complimentary design consultation.

Let's Discuss Your Next Project!

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
  • We guarantee 100% privacy for all information!

 

What Is a California Room and How Much Does It Cost? was last modified: January 19th, 2026 by Smart Marketing