The Blog
Find invaluable resources and inspiration for your home and your life with detail-oriented stories, design how-tos, and recipes from resident experts from Lars Remodeling and Design. This is your one place for all information and imagination you require.
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Kitchen & Powder- Bath Remodel Case Study: Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Client Success Story SPENCER & ADIAHA Kitchen & Powder Bath Remodel • Rancho Santa Fe, CA 2 Spaces Transformed 15 Months Total Build Time KITCHEN & BATH Project Type HOME SHOW EVENT How They Found Us Their Story Spencer and Adiaha Donkin came to Lars with a clear sense that the heart of their Rancho […]
How much does it cost to completely renovate a house in San Diego in 2026?
Whole-home remodel costs in 2026: Lars planning references for a new kitchen, bathrooms, and updated systems. 2026 Whole-Home Remodel Budget Planning Budget line item Low reference Typical published planning band* High reference Complete design-build scope $250,000 $250,000–$600,000+ $600,000+ Separate contingency, illustrated at 10–20% $25,000–$50,000 $25,000–$120,000+ $60,000–$120,000+ Scope plus illustrated reserve $275,000–$300,000 $275,000–$720,000+ $660,000–$720,000+ Housing, storage, […]
How Long Do Home Additions Take? What to Expect from Our Guarantee Program
TL;DR: Wondering how long do home additions take? This guide breaks down the full home addition timeline—from planning and permits to construction—so you know exactly what to expect and how our guarantee keeps your project on track. Key Takeaways: The typical timeline for home addition project depends on size, scope, and complexity. A well-defined home addition […]
Home Remodel Experts in San Diego: Why Predictable Remodeling Starts with the Right Process
Remodeling your home should feel exciting—not uncertain. But for many homeowners, the process comes with understandable concerns: Will the project stay on budget? Will it finish on time? Will communication break down between designers, contractors, and vendors? And will the final result actually reflect the vision that started the project in the first place? Those […]
Home Remodel Design Process: How Lars Plans for a More Predictable Build
When most homeowners think about remodeling, they picture the visible parts of construction: demolition, framing, cabinets, tile, lighting, and the final reveal. But the truth is that the best remodeling experiences are usually shaped long before construction ever begins. A successful remodel or custom kitchen design and build depends on the planning, design, budgeting, selections, […]
How to Compare San Diego Remodeling Estimates Without Getting Burned
Most remodeling nightmares don’t start during construction. They start when homeowners compare estimates that only look similar on paper. Two contractors may bid on the “same” kitchen remodel, but one estimate may include detailed planning, permitting, design coordination, selections, project management, and construction oversight — while another leaves those details undefined until later. The numbers […]
The Hidden Costs of a Cheap Remodel in San Diego
When comparing home remodeling costs in San Diego, most homeowners naturally focus on price first. Remodeling is expensive, and choosing the lowest reasonable estimate can seem like the safest financial decision. But in remodeling, two projects that sound similar can be priced very differently depending on the scope, planning, materials, permitting, and level of project […]
Aging in Place Kitchen & Bath Remodel Case Study: San Diego
Client Success Story RON & CHRISTINE Kitchen & Bathroom Remodel for Aging in Place · San Diego, CA 3+ Spaces Transformed 6 Months Total Build Time KITCHEN & BATH Project Type GOOGLE How They Found Us Their Story Ron and Christine first came to Lars with an ADU idea. They were exploring whether a backyard […]
Why Online Home Remodeling Cost Estimates Can Mislead
Most homeowners begin their remodeling journey by searching phrases like “How much does a kitchen remodel cost?” or “average home remodeling costs San Diego.” Before committing to a renovation, they want a quick understanding of what their project might realistically cost. The challenge is that online remodeling numbers often create unrealistic expectations. While online calculators […]
How We Guarantee a Kitchen Remodel Time Frame and Completion Date
TL;DR: Wondering about your kitchen remodel time frame? This guide explains how a design-build approach creates a predictable, well-managed kitchen remodel timeline—so you know exactly what to expect from start to finish. Key Takeaways: A clearly defined scope of the project is essential to avoid delays. Planning around material lead time keeps the kitchen renovation timeline […]
