Marin Home Magazine Spring 2014

MBA BUILT KASTEN BUILDERS DELIVERS INNOVATIVE CUSTOM HOME

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SPACE EXPERT TIPS TO DESIGN YOUR GREAT ROOM

MADE OF MARIN OUR PICKS AND PREVIEW FOR MARIN OPEN STUDIOS 2014

MARIN HOME MAGAZINE

Design Issue style, space & sustainability

FACING THE ELEMENTS Sutton Suzuki Architects Define Sustainable Design in Marin

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Resource Guide of Local Experts the essential home resource

How Did You Get Here?

Roads. Roads allow us to travel to some of the most beautiful views in the world.

They connect us to friends and family. They can lead us to new places of discovery and take us back to the places we love to visit again and again.

Most importantly, roads bring us home.

For over 100 years, Dutra has called Northern California home, providing materials such as asphalt concrete and virgin and recycled aggregates to build roads that get you to where you want to be. Dutra has the capability to handle any sized project in all aspects of land and marine construction, from overall concept design to the slightest detail. With one call, our customers know they can have it all—delivered with reliability, pride and experience.

Call Dutra’s Marin office at (415) 258-6876 for your residential or commercial needs.

2 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

415.258.6876 | 2350 Kerner Blvd. Suite 200 San Rafael, Ca 94901 | dutragroup.com

photo: Trevor Henley

Capacity. Capability. Character.

Life remodeled begins with windows and doors that are just right. Bring the outside in. And vice versa. With expertly crafted, impeccably finished Marvin® Patio Doors. Create the ultimate combination of aesthetics and energy efficiency.

It’s all part of four generations of innovation and craftsmanship backed by an unwavering commitment to service and support from local retailers. Old Town Glass will help you choose and design windows and doors for your next project.

700 Grant Avenue Novato, CA (415) 897-0088 www.otglass.com

©201 2 Marvin Windows and Doors. All rights reserved. ®Registered trademark of Marvin Windows and Doors.

ENERGY STAR® and the ENERGY STAR certification mark are registered U.S. marks.

CONTENTS

SPRING 2014 DESIGN ISSUE

FEATURES 28 FACING THE ELEMENTS Sutton Suzuki Architects Define Sustainable Design in Marin.

By Paige Porter Fischer

38 MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SPACE

28 DEPARTMENTS

Expert Tips to Design Your Great Room.

By Kelly Berg

RESOURCES

08 EDITOR’S PAGE

46 GREEN CORNER

64 MARKETPLACE

10 CALENDAR

More Green. Less Blue. Design a Drought-Resistant Garden.

12 HE SAID SHE SAID

48 MBA BUILT

Projects from Our Members to Help You Envision Your New and Improved Abode.

Empty Nesters Rejoice in Their Newfound Space.

MBA Member Kasten Builders Collaborates with Dream Team.

14 ICONS & INNOVATORS

50 FINANCIAL WELLNESS

Remembering Catherine Munson.

16 THE NAIL DOWN

Design Your Fiscal Plan for 2014.

Local Finance, Insurance & Energy Experts Weigh In.

Must Haves and Must Dos for Spring.

56 HOME WITH HOUZZ

24 AT HOME

Norman Charles Construction.

Design Speak with Annie Lowengart.

58 MBA BULLETIN

40 MADE OF MARIN

MBA Membership Mixer at Big 4 Party. Annual MBA Crab Feed.

Marin Open Studios 2014.

42 THE SHOP

82 MEET A MEMBER John Busick of Bob Kunst Painting.

DIY Steps to Paint Your Front Door.

ON THE COVER: Custom Home in Mill Valley. Story on page 48.

Work by MBA member Kasten Builders, CCS Architecture, and Studio Green Landscape Architect. Photography by Paul Dyer www.dyerphoto.com

67 HOME RESOURCE GUIDE Licensed Marin Builders Association (MBA) Members for Your Next Home Improvement Project.

SPECIAL SECTION 62 BUILDING MARIN Executive Director Klif Knoles Retires

Need a professional?

Look for this arrow icon throughout Marin Home, and find web links to learn more about MBA members and the services they provide. www.marinba.org www.marinhomemagazine.com

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 5

LOCALLY OWNED SERVING SONOMA AND MARIN FOR OVER 30 YEARS

MARIN HOME MAGAZINE PUBLISHER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER DESIGN AND PRODUCTION CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

GUEST CONTRIBUTORS COPY EDITOR ADVERTISING PHOTOGRAPHY

EVENT PLANNING LINENS • TENTING • CHAIRS FOR EVERY OCCASION

Marin Builders Association Aimi Dutra Rick Wells Terrence Knoles Kelly Berg, Serene Buckley, Paige Porter Fischer, Kathryn Loosli Pritchett, Liz Savage Diane Borden, Richard DeRamon, Beckie Menten, Pete Pedersen Liz Savage Erin Stenvers Trevor Henley

— ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF Paula Krause, Barbara Jones, Kellie Buono — EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Jim Schalich, Tyler Doherty, Tom Barr, John Busick, Jeff Mertel — MARIN BUILDERS ASSOCIATION 2014 OFFICERS & DIRECTORS Jim Schalich, Tyler Doherty, Tom Barr, John Busick, Jeff Mertel, Oliver Dibble, Keith Dotto, Aimi Dutra, Clayton Fraser, Dave Garbarino, Dick Ghilotti, Jeff Grady, Diane Henderson, Dan McLennon, Rob Scerri, Dave Trahan, Michelle Whiteside — To subscribe, email publications@marinba.org or call 415.462.1220 For advertising information, email erin@marinba.org or call 415.246.8025 To submit a letter to the editor, email editor@marinhomemagazine.com with the subject line “letter to the editor”

Printed by Publication Printers Corp., an FSC Certified printer. Please recycle this magazine.

STOP BY OUR SHOWROOM & SEE WHAT’S NEW!

70 Galli Dr. Novato, CA 94949 www.big4party.com 415.927.9100

6 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

We like to think of Marin Home as the essential home resource for current and future homeowners in Marin County. The publication is under independent ownership, reflecting an increased focus on local needs and trends in home improvement.

The distribution of our magazine is free and supported solely by our advertising partners. We thank them for making this possible. Marin Home Magazine has included information and advertising materials supplied by persons and firms without reviewing, investigating, or evaluating the accuracy or completeness of the information supplied, or the qualifications or competency of those referenced.

Therefore, Marin Home Magazine cannot and does not recommend or endorse the services of those persons or firms referenced. Readers of this magazine must make their own evaluation of the persons or firms. Moreover, Marin Home Magazine cannot be and is not responsible for the proper use, licensure, or ownership of any of the advertising materials or content herein. While great care has been taken to compose this magazine, Marin Home Magazine is not responsible for errors or omissions. All contents © Marin Builders Association.

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EDITOR’S PAGE UNIQUE LOCAL FINDS

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Great views, fabulous food & drinks, bocce ball, and a fire pit.

Don’t miss out.

Bar Bocce, Sausalito www.barbocce.com

Design Your Style

S

pring into action with our design issue!

These pages have everything your home needs for a fresh new look.

Whether your home (or dream home) is vintage Eichler, has sweeping waterfront views, or is nestled into one of Marin’s rolling hillsides, one thing is certain: Marin’s architecture reflects our landscape—the beauty, the mystique, the simply breathtaking vistas. In this issue, we admire some of Marin’s quintessential home design styles. We also honor the iconic people who live here. Catherine Munson, our featured Icon & Innovator in this issue, recently passed away, and my picture (definitely a throwback) was taken in her Eichler home a few years ago.

Her presence and passion for the Eichler lifestyle is sure to live on.

When I think about spring, I think Color & Customization. This is the season to make a statement! My editor’s picks reflect a few fun personalized items that you can call your own.

Spring is a season of new growth, in your garden and here at Marin Home. Check out our new feature, MBA Built, in which MBA members come together, creating the ultimate dream team. The results of their collaboration are sure to impress. And I have no doubt that MBA Marketplace will soon be your go-to resource for all things home!

Now get out there, and get inspired!

Aimi Dutra Editor-in-chief

8 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

WELCOME MARIN The entry to your home is the perfect place to “make it your own.” Accent your entrance with a monogrammed or personalized doormat.

Williams-Sonoma The Village at Corte Madera www.williams-sonoma.com

COCKTAILS ANYONE? Square Lacquer Trays from West Elm in varied shades set a playful scene. Add a monogram for a personal touch.

West Elm Strawberry Village, Mill Valley www.westelm.com

CUSTOMIZE IT Create your very own Sofa Story. Customize the “just right” sofa or sectional from California Sofa. With a variety of sizes, styles, and fabrics to choose from, you are guaranteed a happy ending!

California Sofa www.calsofa.com

CLOSE TO THE HEART The sterling silver hand-stamped mother+children necklace by Red Envelope is destined to become a family keepsake.

Red Envelope www.redenvelope.com

WE’RE OLD. BUT WE’RE NEW.

We’ve just completed our renovation in celebration of our 35th year.

We’re a whole “NEW” Sunrise . . . . Please come meander.

S U N R I S E

H O M E

831 B Street, San Rafael • 456-3939 • www.sunrisehome.com

CALENDAR

APRIL

MAY

21

JUNE

26

3-4, 10-11

2

Lifehouse Great Chefs & Wineries 5:30-11:00pm @ Fireman’s Fund, Novato

21st Annual Marin Open Studios @ Locations all over Marin

Marin Builders Association Dine & Donate

26 Marin Humane Society, For the Love of Animals 6-10pm @ Mill Valley Community Center

27 Opening Day on The Bay @ San Francisco Bay

10

5pm @ Jason’s Restaurant, Larkspur

Marin Human Race 8:30am @ Marin Center Fairgrounds & Lagoon

31

25

31 & JUNE 1

25th Annual Larkspur Flower & Food Festival @ Downtown Larkspur

Marin Home & Garden Expo

27th Annual May Madness Classic Car Parade @ Downtown San Rafael

10am - 5pm @ Marin Civic Center

Marin Builders Association Scholarship Awards Reception @ Jason’s Restaurant, Larkspur

14 & 15 Marin Art Festival 10am-6pm @ Marin Civic Center

28 & 29 Italian Street Painting Marin 10am @ A Street, San Rafael

Check our calendar for more events, seminars, and updates at marinba.org

10 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

HOROSCOPES

ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

It’s in your nature to be a trendsetter, Aries. Your creativity and charisma continue to charm friends and neighbors to no end. You’ve been yearning to elevate your home with brilliance taken from your worldly travels, and you can’t seem to resist the urge to create an even more enviable environment, inside and out. But be warned: 2014 is best approached with caution. By all means start your projects posthaste, but resist the urge to overextend yourself in repairs and restoration, especially when it comes to your home’s exterior and landscapes.

Simplicity is best this year to avoid financial strain, endless timelines, and that signature, self-imposed pressure.

You’ll thank yourself for biting off what you can chew.

While you are often called out for your stubbornness, Taurus, your generosity and acts of selflessness tend to go unnoticed. 2014 is the year to recharge your proverbial batteries and show that this tension needs taming. You’ve been so focused on maintaining the happiness and well-being of others, it’s time you turned your attention to cultivating a sanctuary all your own.

Seek the beauty and creativity you crave by taking long walks in nature; traverse new neighborhoods to gain architectural inspiration. Translate that renewed perspective into an evolved space and domestic routine—seek a nook or groove to make all your own. Achieve balance and harmony with your indoor and outdoor spaces, and everything will fall into place.

Hard work has its rewards, and this year is the ultimate test for you, Gemini.

You’ll experience a renaissance in your career and be driven to long hours, and for the love of it all you won’t skip a beat. But in 2014, be wary of the chasm you may cause between this drive and your domestic life. You’ll be tempted to be buzzing at all hours of the day on your laptop or cell phone in different parts of your house, but this intertwining of energies could wear thin on your loved ones. Dedicate a separate space to continue your momentum without burdening others with your preoccupations. With a home office or den, your lucky streak won’t suffer.

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 11

Efrain’s Landscape Conststruction Tel. 415-472-2496

efrainslandscape.com

Planting & Irrigation

Gardening

HE SAID SHE SAID

Dear He & She, Now that our youngest son is grown with small kids of his own, my husband and I are officially “empty nesters” with a large spare room and attached bath. We don’t need another guest room and for the last few years, we’ve started using it as a place for knickknacks, hobby items, gift storage, etc.—stuff we don’t want cluttering the house. The room has so much potential, but we can’t seem to settle on a vision for what to do with it. What would you suggest, and how would we tackle the look and feel of the new space?

Joanne M. Tiburon, CA

Drainage Systems

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HE SAID

After

Before

Dear Joanne,

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I’d love to have your problem. I can see how the decision to move forward might be paralyzing, but think about it: every day that you don’t decide is a day less enjoyed in your own home. From what it sounds like, you have a good amount of space, and if you’re like most homeowners, you prefer a great evening in versus gallivanting about town. Now is your chance to introduce a new element to your home that will enrich your lifestyle.

If I were you, I’d take advantage of the opportunity to bring date night in with a dedicated TV/movie theater room.

With the ubiquity of on-demand technology and high-definition audio and visuals, it is so easy to bring the cinematic experience home these days, and it frees up your regular TV/living room from imposing overuse. A lot of homeowners might feel daunted by this prospect—and it does sound lofty. The truth is you only need a modest space to make it effective, and once you get the basic setup, it’s one of the most fun home improvement projects you’ll ever undertake.

Experts can help you identify equipment appropriate for your room size and even wire you up. The fun goes into the furniture, lighting, and decor to liven up the atmosphere: framed posters of favorite films, dimmer switches and spotlighting, a couple of reclining loveseats or leather loungers, and side tables for refreshments are must-haves. A theater room is also one of the few areas in a house where embracing dark, rich walls for effect is encouraged. Automated curtains for noise/light cancellation can add to the drama. Expand the room’s usage beyond film night—this can be your go-to spot for the Superbowl, Oscar night viewing, or home video screenings. If you have the space, I’d entertain the idea of dedicating a corner for a “refreshment booth”, a hub for snacks and beverages or a place for a refill from a vintage-inspired tabletop popcorn machine. Plus, your grandkids will love you for it.

—He

12 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

SHE SAID Dear Joanne,

TODD MORRIS FIRE PROTECTION

I do envy the idea of getting my hands on a whole other room to make my own! I must say it’s a bit of a struggle to suggest a great concept without knowing more about your lifestyle and loves—unlike He who nominates grand plans without a blink of an eye. In this case, I think you need to listen to what your possessions are already telling you for how the room should function. It sounds like you and your husband could use a multi-functional hobby, craft, and rec room that can serve to organize your clutter and make an accessible space without relegating yourself to the garage or kitchen countertops. To keep the room gender-neutral and multi-purpose (anything from building model airplanes to wrapping gifts), consider matching “his and her” desks.

Position them flush and facing each other, on opposite sides of the room, or try a wraparound installation that faces a window and flanks the walls. I prefer the first option and this is why: it creates a large surface format that is not easily achieved in most other rooms of the home. Plus, either side has capacity for personal storage for your preferred go-to items, so there is never confusion on where to look for things.

Couples I know that have done this love the easy access to simple tools and items that would usually clutter a junk drawer or a pantry shelf.

In terms of decor, we are seeking function over form—so your walls should be flanked with attractive shelving, cabinets, and organization cubbies—all of which can double as a showcase for beloved knickknacks and hobby achievements.

Hobby and craft rooms are also wonderful for statement furniture, like a patterned armchair or an oversized magnetic chalkboard for bills, notes, and photos. I would stick with white or light-colored furniture as well, to maintain a crisp elegance. The amount of stuff you will acquire will add all the color you need. Speaking of grandkids, they would love a new place to do a giant puzzle or color without inhibition.

Wouldn’t you? Keep us posted on what you decide!

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—She

Submit your home improvement questions to Marin Home editor@marinhomemagazine.com

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 13

ICONS & INNOVATORS

CATHERINE MUNSON

R

ealtor Catherine Munson was a true believer in the design vision of iconic real estate developer Joseph Eichler, having lived in several of his homes and sold more than three thousand to other modern home enthusiasts. text by Kathryn Loosli Pritchett/ photography by Trevor Henley

Sadly, Eichler’s biggest booster passed away in early March, leaving behind a legacy of generosity and dedication that will long be remembered throughout Marin County. A few weeks before her death, she opened the cheery turquoise door to her home off Lucas Valley Road and with a welcoming sweep of her arm said, “Owning an Eichler is a lifestyle, though not everyone understands that.”

Munson was only too happy to educate the uninitiated. The last living employee of Joseph Eichler, she was well-versed in both the man’s life and his design philosophy.

Walking through the beautiful light-filled rooms of her home, she discussed the key principles of Eichler’s design philosophy: a spare, street-front side with few windows; an entry atrium that provides an interior light source to the living room and bedroom wings; exposed post-and-beam construction; and walls of windows on the back of the house that promote the overarching principle of seamless indoor/outdoor living.

14 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

“Every morning I wake up and look out these windows, and I can’t help but go outside,” said Munson. “The architecture compels you to step outside your door.”

She went on to explain that Eichler did not design the Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired homes himself but hired a range of outstanding architects to execute his vision.

The Los Angeles-based A. Quincy Jones, one of the most highly regarded of the Eichler architects, designed Munson’s most recent home, but it was not her first Eichler.

Munson and her first husband purchased their first Eichler, designed by San Francisco-headquartered Anshen & Allen, after moving to the Bay Area in 1948. Munson, who grew up in Nebraska and earned her master’s degree in microbiology at the University of Nebraska, loved the way the home made the most of the ideal California climate.

She met Joseph Eichler while touring his celebrated model homes. “We all loved to visit the model homes to see how he’d furnished them with beautiful furniture from Knoll and Herman Miller,” said Munson. “At one point Mr. Eichler said to me, ‘You like the homes so much, why don’t you come work for me?’” And so Munson did.

Starting with just a few days a week in order to be with her young children, Munson eventually developed a very successful career selling Eichler homes around the Bay Area but specifically in Marin County. “I’ve been in every one of the 720 homes in the Upper Lucas Valley development,” said

“OWNING AN EICHLER IS A LIFESTYLE” Munson. “It’s so interesting to see how each owner makes them their own.”

Munson saw the gallery-like design of an Eichler home as one of its biggest attractions. “The homes were made for display,” she said. “Whether you collected art or fine crafts, the twenty original floor plans allowed people to be very individual in the way they furnished their homes.”

Though some might say that the designs are rigid and prescribe a modern aesthetic, Munson said she’s seen people use color and antiques beautifully in Eichler homes.

“Because they are so plain and simple you can mold them to be any way you like.”

Munson noted that though Eichler had a strong vision for his designs, he was also open to suggestions from clients and brokers. “In response to criticisms, he’d say ‘Let’s get the architects back in here and change things.’”

Later on in her career Munson developed commercial properties herself and incorporated some of Eichler’s design

principles like having a calm, quiet profile and single-level rooms. “And I always remembered that the form needed to follow the function,” she recalled.

She also made use of her early microbiology training through her extensive work—including board chair—with the Buck Institute for Research on Aging. “They do such good work there trying to discover the basic causes of diseases associated with aging,” said Munson. “I’m lucky to have been able to pursue both of my main interests in life.”

Sitting in her lovely living room filled with a mix of contemporary and antique furnishings, including her own Herman Miller furniture, Munson continued to be a wellspoken advocate for Joseph Eichler’s vision.

“I wouldn’t live in anything else,” she said.

To learn more about Catherine Munson’s business visit www.lvpmarin.com

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 15

THE NAIL DOW N

Must Haves & Must Dos

for Spring Embrace the spirit of your home with these fabulous finds and ideas!

MUST HAVE

MUST DO TAKE THE PLUNGE Looking to build a custom pool in your backyard or renovate an existing one? Whether the desire is recreational, therapeutic, or a design statement, Apache Pools can create the pool of your dreams.

Apache Pools 415.492.3351 www.apachepools.com

16 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

PHOTOGRAPHY: TOP COURTESY OF POTTERY BARN AND BOTTOM BY TREVOR HENLEY

STORE IT IN STYLE Perfect for storing outdoor essentials, the Chatham Storage Bench protects pillows, towels, and other patio items from the elements.

With a watertight top and a classic slatted design, this mahogany and eucalyptus chest will keep your outdoor space free of clutter.

Pottery Barn The Village at Corte Madera 415.924.1392 www.potterybarn.com $699

AWARD WINNING POOLS BUILT BY CRAFTSMEN www.ApachePools.com

Marin: (415)492-3351 Sonoma/Napa: (707)206-9867

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 17

THE NAIL DOW N

MUST HAVE

MUST DO GOT CURB APPEAL? Be the envy of the block and boost your home’s aesthetic appeal with a garage door makeover.

Northgate Garage Doors is your go-to team when considering this transformation. With a variety of doors and decorative hardware to choose from, you are sure to find the right fit.

Northgate Garage Doors San Rafael 415.472.6004 www.northgategaragedoor.com

18 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

PHOTOGRAPHY: TOP ©2014 California Closet Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Franchises independently owned and operated. BOTTOM: NORTHGATE GARAGE DOORS

NOT JUST FOR STORAGE Looking for garage storage solutions? California Closets is the answer! Make your garage an extension of your home. Think functional and stylish—with space for hobbies, crafts, a workshop, or even a home office. Make the garage your favorite room to be in.

California Closets Larkspur 415.461.1129 www.californiaclosets.com

Come explore how you can create a beautiful outdoor space with quality decking products.

Spring Has Arrived .

We carry a variety of options for you to choose from softwood, hardwood, and composite decking choices: 1100 Andersen Drive • TREX • Humbolt Redwood San Rafael, CA • Azek • Cedar • Timbertech • Ipe (415)454-2532 • Cable Railing Systems • Ipe Deck Tiles www.goldenstatelumber.com • Cumaru

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MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 19

THE NAIL DOW N

MUST HAVE

MUST DO WORSHIP THE SUN Sun First Solar’s Seamless Solar Integration. Customize your solar system based on your home’s architecture and your electrical needs.

No modifications or new appliances are needed. Once the installation is complete, sit back, relax, and enjoy the savings!

Sun First Solar 415.458.5870 www.sunfirstsolar.com

20 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

PHOTOGRAPHY: TOP BY TREVOR HENLEY AND BOTTOM COURTESY OF SUN FIRST SOLAR

LIGHT THE WAY Solar landscape lighting is a stylish and durable way to light up (or brighten up) your pathways or garden. No electrical outlets to install; just find the perfect spot, push them into the ground, and let the power of the sun do the rest!

Lamps Plus San Rafael 415.453.6912 www.lampsplus.com $44.99

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MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 21

THE NAIL DOW N

MUST HAVE

MUST DO BRING THE INSIDE OUT It’s that time of year to dust off the patio furniture, fill your planters, and set up to spend spring outdoors. A well-designed outdoor living space by Polsky Perlstein Architects is the perfect place to start. Make your outdoor space the most utilized family area, and memorable moments are sure to follow.

Polsky Perlstein Architects Larkspur 415.927.1156 www.polskyarchitects.com

22 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

PHOTOGRAPHY: TOP COURTESY OF PAT LEPÉ DESIGN AND BOTTOM BY JARED POLSKY

CUSTOMIZE IT Custom-made drapery for your outdoor living area is sure to bring personality and purpose to your gathering place. Whether you fancy a formal feeling or a more casual and playful ambiance, Pat Lepé Design will bring your vision to life.

Pat Lepé Design Fine Custom Sewing Workroom Novato 415.883.8200 www.patlepedesign.com

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Modern Home Master Builders

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 23

AT HOME

Design Speak with Interior Designer Annie Lowengart interview by Kathryn Loosli Pritchett photography courtesy of Ann Lowengart Interiors

S

an Anselmo-based designer Annie Lowengart says she fell into design when she and her husband bought a three-unit building in San Francisco and remodeled it to sell.

At the urging of a friend who saw how much fun she had working on the units, Lowengart printed up business cards that listed her services as a remodel consultant and put them out at the first open house. Prospective buyers took her cards and started calling. One thing led to another, and now she designs interiors for luxury homes throughout the Bay Area.

Lowengart says that helping her clients realize their design vision also helps them realize their life vision. “Many of the important components of the life one builds for oneself and one’s family play out against the backdrop of a home’s design,” she explains.

So how does Lowengart help her clients define and execute their visions? As you can see from our conversation, with grace and conviction in her own capabilities.

How do you determine your clients’ style?

Before we even meet I ask them to put together a Pinterest board or Houzz idea book of things they like. The images don’t need to be design projects necessarily. They can be photos of a beautiful >>

24 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

415.460.1575 plathco.com #395458

SUTTON SUZUKI Architects 4 1 5

3 8 3

3 1 3 9

•

s u t t o n s u z u k i a r c h i t e c t s . c o m

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 25

AT HOME

sunset or of their family, but it helps me get inside their head and see what they’re drawn to. For some of my older clients who aren’t as comfortable with collecting online media, I ask them to bring me those files of clippings they’ve been saving for years. Then I can come back to them with ideas from my own resources about how to achieve the look they’re after.

Do clients ever have a hard time knowing what it is they like?

Yes. People don’t know what they don’t know. So sometimes I just have to start with their life circumstances—how many kids do they have, where have they traveled, etc. And then I can show them things that will turn their homes into places that are beautiful, functional, and reflect who they are. After we’ve gone over images together, I produce a floor plan, we settle on a budget, and then I present several schemes for them to finalize before we go shopping.

How do you help clients select a color palette for a design?

One of the best ways is to figure out what colors are flattering to them. For example, I recently met with a new client and realized from what he was wearing that blue was his best color. We decided to use a lot of it in his home, and he looks fabulous there. You want your clients to look great in their homes.

26 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

“GOOD DESIGN DOESN’T JUST FALL OUT OF THE SKY” What if a couple has conflicting style preferences?

That’s when I turn into the family therapist. I try to determine what’s the most important thing to each person and then work on meeting everyone’s needs.

For example, the husband might want a comfortable place to watch the Giants game but doesn’t really care about the color of the space, while his wife likes living in Marin because the landscape is so lush and wants to make sure the room reflects that. So I’ll design a green media room that meets his comfort requirements and her design aesthetic, and then everyone is happy.

What if the clients prefer a style that doesn’t seem suited to the architecture of the home?

That’s really not a problem today when placing contemporary pieces in traditional homes is very current. I think it’s more essential to match the formality of the architecture. You wouldn’t fill a traditional Craftsman home with Ikea furniture—you might use some pieces, but for the most part you’d use items that are the same quality level as the house.

When it comes to hammering out a budget, how do you help clients prioritize projects?

I present everything as though it were an à la carte menu and let people pick and choose, preferably working on one room at a time. I advise starting with comfortable seating and then appropriate tables and good lighting— lighting can transform a room—but each client needs to decide what’s important.

That said, you need to trust your own instincts. Be gracious with clients and let them know they’ve been heard but help them remember that they’re paying you for your taste and expertise.

Stay true to that.

Do you have an ideal client?

Someone who appreciates quality and attention to detail. Also, someone with business experience who can understand that there’s a structure and a process to creating a good quality product— good design doesn’t just fall out of the sky.

To find out more about designer Annie Lowengart visit www.annlowengart.com

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MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 27

FACING

28 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

the

ELEMENTS story and interview by Paige Porter Fischer

Welcome to Marin. Consistently named one of the country’s most desirable places to live, it boasts some of nature’s best designs—from the redwood groves of Mill Valley and the wooded hillsides of Sausalito to the lagoons of Belvedere. And carved into the varied topographies of Marin County are homes as diverse as the county’s landscape. Here architects must face—and conquer— the elements of nature, which often

change drastically within a single square mile. The geography of this place informs the architecture of every new home built here.

Ron Sutton of Sutton Suzuki Architects has mastered the Marin landscape. We asked the expert about three of his recent projects— homes that presented particular architec tural challenges—and delivered great design rewards in the end. >>

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 29

H I LL S I D E

“WE WERE DOING GREEN BEFORE IT WAS EVEN CALLED GREEN—WE WERE TRAINED THAT WAY” MHM: Your firm has designed houses all over Marin. Tell me a little bit about the challenges of working with such varied topographies. How much time goes into really studying and knowing the landscape before designing a structure specific to a certain site?

RS: Well, as you said, it’s a very diverse place, geographically speaking. The most important aspect for me to understand is why people bought the property in the first place. What attracted them to it? You don’t want to miss that. Was it the view? Was it for privacy? Was it because of a particular landscape? That’s a big part of the process for us. Then, we take that information and spend some time on the site, gathering every little detail we can about it—from the weather to the soil to the sunshine. The sites, as you said, vary greatly, but as much as

30 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

anything, microclimates are huge here. They change from street to street sometimes. It depends on whether you’re west-facing or eastfacing, where the wind comes from, if there’s fog, storm conditions—all of those things play a role in how you site the house, and how best to take advantage of the views. The landscape, it’s the foundation of the house. So it’s of utmost importance.

MHM: You’re known for incorporating sustainable design into your work— what energy-saving practices do you find to be natural fits for homes in Marin?

RS: It’s funny, we were doing green before it was even called green. Both Elizabeth [Suzuki] and I come from the Midwest, and we were trained that way—to always consider the environment. How you situate the house itself in relation to wind,

sun, etcetera, and how you design overhangs, for example, all play a part in the efficiency of your house.

We’ve gotten more detailed about specific green-friendly materials that we use, but it’s been a part of our work for quite some time.

MHM: Let’s talk about some of your projects specifically. We fell for your hillside project in Tiburon. The views are stunning, but the lot must have been such a challenge, as it’s such a steep slope.

RS: It’s interesting that you say that because the original house took no advantage of the views. It was a teardown that sat on the market forever because people came to look at it and determined the house had no view. But it was the way it was oriented and designed that was at fault. The property had all this promise, and I had to convince the

client that the view was there and we could take advantage of it.

MHM: How did you go about doing that?

RS: Well, formerly the garage was in the back of the house, which was quite boxy, and they both completely obstructed the water view. We dug beneath the house and put the garage underneath, which gave us 700 more square feet of living space with access to water views. It was costly, obviously, but it was worth it.

That was one advantage to being on a hill—we were able to do that and utilize the landscape.

MHM: Once you were able to access the view, how did you address the hillside location, in terms of the home’s design?

RS: Well, every site is different, but this house happened to be built on

bedrock. In Marin, you never know what you’re going to get. You may have 20 feet of sand before you get to bedrock. But we were quite fortunate here.

MHM: The house is quite contemporary, and yet you have all these rustic, almost French farmhouse touches, like the stone walls. Tell me how that interplay of materials came about.

RS: The client is from France, and he knew he wanted a contemporarydesigned house. Yet he wanted to use traditional materials and feel grounded to the site itself.

He also wanted the materials to give it resonance and a sense of time, if you will. So we brought in stone—Texas limestone—which is of course a timeless material. The property itself was very long and narrow, so we designed a house that

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 31

“WE PULLED THE HOUSE APART A LITTLE BIT, STRETCHED IT TO MAXIMIZE THE SITE” stretched across the property and was comprised of two buildings, one for public spaces and one for private, connected by this stone wall and a glass hallway. We pulled the house apart a little bit, stretched it to maximize the site.

MHM: I love the indoor-outdoor connections in this house. They are so well designed.

RS: Thank you. Well, it can get very windy and cold up there, so we faced the challenge of giving the client outdoor space that could actually be used year-round. We utilized

32 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

the stone walls as wind shields, protecting these courtyards. The property was so steeply sloped that we created stone retaining walls to create various spaces—courtyards, patios, and room for gardens. And we brought in olive trees to add a little bit of old-world character.

MHM: Well, once you found the view, you clearly took advantage of it. The house has so much glass, it made me wonder if there are challenges you face in Marin, using so much of it?

RS: Thankfully, no. We’re probably in one of the few places in the country

where it’s easy to use so much of it, because of the climate. Glazing becomes a real issue if you have to air-condition your house. We don’t really need air-conditioning in homes here, at least not in Tiburon. But it’s essential to get good quality windows that meet energy standards, so that the glass works for you and not against you, energywise.

MHM: Do you have a favorite design moment in this house?

RS: Well, I would say I’m proud that we fulfilled our promise to our client to do two things: capture the views

PROJECT CREDITS Location: Tiburon Architect: Sutton Suzuki Architects General Contractor: Plath & Co Interior Design: C Wright Design Lighting Design: Anna Kondolf Lighting Design Photography: David Duncan Livingston

he didn’t believe were there and create these outdoor spaces that he can enjoy no matter what the weather looks like.

MHM: Let’s talk about another one of your projects, up in Novato. This one is a ranch house overlooking a river.

RS: It’s actually my own house, and I’ll be honest, it was quite the design challenge. This was a new build on a vacant property, overlooking the Petaluma River. It’s not a steep

property, but it slopes down toward acres of marsh. It’s a protected wildlife area, and you can’t imagine all the approvals we needed to get anything built there, so we didn’t affect the marsh or the wildlife. We even had to meet the approval of the Audubon Society.

MHM: So did all of these restrictions inform the style of house you could build?

RS: The point of the ranch was that it could be done on a budget, and that

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 33

R AN CH

it was a simple design, indigenous to that area. I drove around and studied the buildings there and took cues from old barns and simple structures.

With a smaller house—at 2,200 square feet—we were able to save the beautiful oak trees too. We didn’t have to intrude on nature.

pleasant in there just about every day of the year. It’s a green concept we’d been practicing long before green was trendy. We did radiant heating, installed good, quality windows and doors, and planned smart cross ventilation, all things that help at night to cool it down.

MHM: Did the land itself dictate the position of the house?

RS: The main view was looking east, and the hill sloped that way, so the site somewhat dictated that.

In Novato, it gets quite warm, and many homes need to have airconditioning up there. But I faced the glass wall east, so we’d have less heat gain. I built the home into the hillside, which cost a little more, but digging in insulated the backside, so the house stays nice and cool in summer and warm in winter. It’s very

MHM: Do the concrete walls aid in that efficiency?

RS: Yes, the concrete walls themselves help insulate and absorb heat so that it doesn’t go directly into the house.

They absorb heat during the day when the sun hits them and give it off at night. For cooling in the summer, the temperature of the ground four or five feet down is about 60 degrees, and the floors absorb that, so it helps keep the house cooler.

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MHM: The glass wall slides and opens the entire house onto that totally private nature space. Do you use that yard as part of your house?

RS: We are out there all the time. We love the indoor-outdoor connection.

MHM: I love the juxtaposition of rustic and modern in this house.

How did you arrive at that marriage of materials?

RS: I like a lot of styles of architecture— contemporary, historic, rustic. I wanted to design a space where I could just let the materials be what they were. I like having 200-yearold beams in a contemporary house alongside an exposed steel beam.

I put exposed concrete alongside plaster. All those things matter to me as an architect, and since I was the client too in this space, I could do it just the way I’d always wanted.

“I WANTED TO DESIGN A SPACE WHERE I COULD JUST LET THE MATERIALS BE WHAT THEY WERE”

PROJECT CREDITS Location: Novato Architect: Sutton Suzuki Architects General Contractor: Huts and Castles Interior Design: C Wright Design Landscape: Ron Sutton Photography: Claudio Santini

MHM: Would you call that your proudest design moment here?

RS: Yes, I think so—exposing the materials for what they are. And the fact that I designed it so that we don’t need air-conditioning.

MHM: Let’s move on to the third project that intrigued us so much— the lagoon house in Belvedere. This house appears to almost sit on the water. How challenging is that landscape to an architect?

RS: The lagoons in Belvedere, well, those come with their own set of

issues and guidelines. All that land on the lagoon was mud drudged up and put on the ground to create the land for structures. So most of the land is unstable. You start with that and try to stabilize. This house was an addition and remodel. Lucky for our client, they bought a place that had been in the hands of a good architect.

It had a great foundation, and a great structure to it. Chances of that on the lagoon are almost nothing. Most of them are very cheap houses built terribly, and they tilt and are in poor shape. But in this case, my client

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 35

L AG OO N

got great bones and a good piece of property. We just had to stabilize the front with a sea wall, but that’s allowed because the property goes into the lagoon—they allow you to go out a certain distance and build your wall and build back from that.

MHM: This house has a great water view, but it also came with lovely gardens. You basically have beautiful views wherever you look.

How did you orient the house to take it all in?

RS: It’s a double lot, so that’s why they were able to have some space on their property for a garden. The

key design element was created to protect their young children from the water—as you said, it’s just outside the house. So we built a stone wall that runs through the house and acts as a barrier in the side yard, so the kids could be playing out there in the yard but have no chance of getting close to the water. The wall was a key design feature that served a major function for the family.

RS: The clients really wanted a contemporary home, but on the lagoon, that’s just not as acceptable.

Most of the homes are more Cape Cod in style. And you have neighbors on either side of you with an opinion, and neighbors across the lagoon with opinions. So they compromised, and they left the exterior more traditional-looking but made the inside contemporary.

MHM: The house, from the outside, appears quite traditional, and yet the inside has a more modern feel.

How did you arrive there with your design plans?

MHM: The inside seems to have so much openness. The lofty ceilings help too.

RS: Their main request was a floor plan that was open—no closed-off

“CREATING AREAS WITH TOTALLY DIFFERENT ORIENTATIONS, VIEWS, AND PURPOSES WAS KEY”

36 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

PROJECT CREDITS

rooms off of hallways, just rooms opening one onto the next. The old house was so dark, and I knew this house needed more light. We added a little square footage, but mostly we raised the roof and added dormers up above to expose the house to as much light as possible. We were able to take advantage of cross ventilation with the high windows that are operable. The hot air rises up, and a chimney effect happens.

The warm air goes out the clerestory windows, and it’s natural ventilation.

We couldn’t dig into a hill, obviously,

to cool this house. So this was our way of addressing a totally different landscape with green solutions.

MHM: Do you have a favorite design moment in this house?

RS: I think being able to create two functional indoor-outdoor spaces for the family was key. We had the house facing a lagoon, and a backyard, too.

Creating areas with totally different orientations, views, and purposes was key—and letting the house be the mediator between them was great.

Location: Belvedere Architect: Sutton Suzuki Architects General Contractor: Ireland, Robinson & Hadley, Inc. Interior Designer: C Wright Design Landscape: Don Wihlborg Photography: Mark Schwartz

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 37

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR S P A C E

story by Kelly Berg, Story & Space

A MORE FORMAL, TRADITIONAL ARRANGEMENT. Work is kept out of the space, and the main seating area is focused around the fireplace, as opposed to the TV. • TV can be viewed by all seating areas.

• Media cabinet is placed underneath TV for storage of components.

• Swivel wall mount creates more space and maximizes visibility.

The wide width of the room is de-emphasized with a long rectangular farm table, which easily accommodates eight or more. Could also add bench seating at one or both sides.

• An additional, more intimate seating area takes advantage of the outdoor view and is somewhat removed for privacy.

• Swivel chairs improve versatility, allowing seating to be oriented as needed.

Area rugs ground and define the seating areas.

• Upholstered ottoman for extra seating and storage.

• Low bench does not obstruct view of TV, and allows extra seating.

• Smaller width armless chairs more easily fit sideby-side in a narrow seating area.

• Seating arrangement b e co m e s f l exib l e by using smaller pieces of furniture that can easily be rearranged for different looks.

38 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

Defining and decorating a big, open space in any home can be a challenge. But with a little bit of introspection and planning your Great Room can truly live up to its name.

The great thing about Great Rooms is that they provide a lot of open floor space.

The design possibilities are endless without all those silly walls. And then you get to the part where you actually need to furnish the space.

Without all those “silly walls” it can be a struggle to know how to best lay out your furniture and exactly what pieces to buy.

So before you start shopping, ask yourself “How do I want to use my space?”

Do you picture yourself having big family dinners? Intimate conversations over a glass of wine? Super Bowl parties with all your friends?

Working at your desk while still keeping a close eye on your kids?

A great room, by nature, should be able to meet all of those needs. Asking yourself how you want to use your space will take you on an exploration of your lifestyle and your unique needs. Your answers will not only help you create a flexible, functional floor plan but will also make your home feel more authentically you.

6

SMART SPACE-PLANNING SOLUTIONS 1. Plan for Plugs Install floor outlets so you’ll have a place to plug in table lamps with floating furniture arrangements. (Garvin Stainless Steel Pop Up Floor Box)

PHOTOGRAPHY: PROVIDED BY KELLY BERG STORY & SPACE

2. Swivel It Swivel chairs, because they aren’t fixed in place, make for flexible seating.

(Sunrise Home swivel chair)

3. Double-Duty Seating Benches and ottomans that provide both seating and storage are excellent space saving pieces.

(The Tyler Bench from Room and Board)

4. Frame Your Space A custom-sized area rug will anchor oddly shaped furniture arrangements.

Have one made or try FLOR carpet tiles.

5. Just Add Wheels Convertible dining table on wheels can be moved as needed. Perfect for a quick transition from homework to a housewarming party.

(Restoration Hardware Flatiron Dining Table)

6. Rule of Thirds Arranging your overall floor plan into thirds (in this case, kitchen, dining, and family areas) keeps balance to the space and helps to clearly define separate functions of the room .

A MORE CASUAL, INTERACTIVE ARRANGEMENT. A workspace is incorporated into the social area, and the seating emphasis is equally arranged around both the TV and fireplace.

• Workspace allows for social interaction, but is set back enough to provide some privacy. Good use of a small area, with views of outside and dining/family area.

• Extra bench with storage.

Movable seating and a place to stash blankets, pillows, etc.

• A small area rug grounds and defines the space.

• TV moved to fireplace wall (still on swivel) is now easily viewed from the dining table.

• The addition of a sectional provides room to stretch out and lie down.

• Swivel chair in main seating area allows easy viewing of TV.

• Although slightly less flexible than Option 1, it has its own advantages, like creating the perfect spot for taking a nap or watching movies.

• Plenty of room for a round table which can often create a space challenge in more confined dining rooms. The round shape creates a soft contrast to the many harder edged angles in the room.

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 39

MADE OF MARIN

Marin Open Studios is a vibrant, community-wide event that celebrates Marin’s rich culture of art. This annual, free, self-guided art tour in Marin County marks its 21st year the first two weekends in May 2014. Art patrons, admirers, and collectors can venture out on a self-guided tour to see artists and their artworks and glimpse into the life of the working artist. Read on and enjoy some of the Marin Home Team’s favorite picks!

RODNEY OATS Rodney Oats has been working with wood since 1969 when he became hooked in a junior high shop class. He recently retired from a 40-year career as a meat cutter and now has time to spend on his “hobby” and small business, Rod’s Woodshop, creating unique pieces of utility art. Rod uses mostly recycled and reclaimed hardwoods from sources around Marin County. “I think Marin Open Studios is a great way to promote local artists and their work.”

LINDA OLIVE

GREG SLICK

Linda’s passion for nature finds its place on the canvas, often inspiring intense feelings. Using pure color combinations, her work reads like an intensified color photograph with great movement and aliveness. She combines impressionism with realism in a very direct, straightforward manner.

“For many years Marin Open Studios has been an excellent marketing venue and exposure for my paintings.”

Greg Slick’s photography collection is composed of stunning images over six continents and countless countries. His work connects with multiple cultures, always retaining the human element and producing truthful images of compassion, beauty and the joy of humanity around the world.

“I am participating in Marin Open Studios to release my new show of work that is all cast in resin. Through my images, I hope to help bring a worldly view to Marin, encourage travel, inspire awareness, and encourage peace in the world.” gregslickweddings.com

• MADE — of — MARIN •

40 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

ROSARIO SAPIENZA Rosario’s passion for photography was born when he received his first camera at age 10. He has traveled to 49 states, Italy, the Caribbean, Mexico, and Canada. Everywhere he traveled he brought his cameras and captured scenes and subjects from each area. These images can be seen on his website and at Marin Open Studios. His limited-edition fine-art photography has taken many awards in local, regional, and national competitions. “2014 will be my first participation in Marin Open Studios, and I look forward to sharing my work with fine-art patrons and aficionados.”

MATTHEW CARDEN Matthew Carden is widely known as a pioneer in miniature and toy photography. Growing up in LA in the 70s and 80s, Matthew was fed a hearty diet of toys, theme parks, museums, TV and movies, and his work is often themed around popular American culture of that era. “MOS is the best way to keep my local collectors up to date with my new work. I enjoy sharing the backstory behind the pictures.”

rosariosapienza.com

matthewcarden.com

TIMOTHY HORN After studying graphic design and pursuing a career in that field in New York, Timothy discovered his second calling as a painter after moving to San Francisco in the late 90s. His work often has a remarkable sense of light, capturing everyday scenes from California to Maine, where he paints every summer.

“Open Studios allows me to present a large body of work, including small studies, while also building relationships with local collectors.” horndesign.com

DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF ART AT MARIN OPEN STUDIOS The best way to plan a tour is to visit the Preview Gallery Exhibition in the Bon Air Center in Greenbrae. Each of the participating artists has one of their works on display, and artist docents are on hand to answer questions.

www.marinopenstudios.org

April

May

May

26

3

10

Preview Gala at Bon Air Center. Free and open to the public

May 3 & 4 Studios open 11-6 in Northern and Western Marin

May 10 & 11 Studios open 11-6 in Southern and Central Marin

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 41

THE SHOP

text by Mark Fogelman, Tamalpais Paint & Color

How To Paint Your Front Door Experience the Dutch Door tradition with this step-by-step guide from experts Tamalpais Paint & Color

T

he doors of Holland are among the most beautiful and welcoming in the world. Whether opening into an Amsterdam townhouse or a country cottage, Dutch doors greet all those who pass through them with a cheerful, brilliant finish resulting from high-quality enamel paint.

You can experience the Dutch door tradition and discover for yourself the classic elegance, unparalleled depth of color, and exceptional durability of Fine Paints of Europe’s unique coatings. Painting a front door is a simple weekend project, and we’ll help guide you through it.

Previously painted doors should be washed with a mild powdered detergent and water or a liquid TSP substitute. If washing an unpainted wooden door, take special care to make certain exposed wood has not retained any moisture. Exposed wood will normally dry sufficiently in 72 hours. >>

42 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

illustrations by Conor Buckley

MATERIALS NEEDED Sandpaper – 2 sheets medium grit (150) and 2 sheets fine grit (220) Primer – one Euroquart of the correct primer for wooden, steel, or fiberglass door. (Please specify when purchasing your supplies.)

Solvent – one quart of low-odor mineral spirits. This will allow you to slightly thin the primer and paint if necessary and to clean your brush. (Option: you may use water for waterborne primers or paints.)

Paint – one Euroquart of Brilliant or Satin Hollandlac enamel. (Option: you may choose to use a waterborne finish coat like Eco.) Brush – a high-quality paintbrush, for perfect application of primer and paint

THE SHOP

STEP 1 Wooden and steel doors should be sanded smooth with medium grit sandpaper (150) wrapped around a household sponge or rubber sanding block—never sand without a backing.

Fiberglass doors should be lightly sanded with fine sandpaper (220).

STEP 2 Doors should be primed with the appropriate primer. We recommend, whenever possible, that the top and bottom of your door be primed as well to prevent moisture intrusion and extend the life of your finish.

STEP 3 After allowing the primer to dry overnight, doors should be sanded smooth with fine sandpaper (220).

STEP 4 The doors should then be wiped clean with a cotton rag containing a splash of low-odor mineral spirits.

STEP 5 Apply the first coat of Hollandlac enamel or Eco paint in a thin, even fashion.

Allow the first coat to dry overnight.

STEP 6 Lightly sand the door again to remove any imperfections and provide “tooth” for the final coat. Once again, “tack” the door to remove dust with a clean cotton cloth.

STEP 7 Apply final coat of the Hollandlac enamel or Eco. Work quickly, and do not go back on your work in an attempt to eliminate brush strokes, as they will normally level out within 15 minutes of application. The second coat should provide total opacity.

STEP 8 For additional durability and extended life, apply a third coat to the door’s exterior (optional).

44 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

By following these simple instructions, even a “first-time painter” can expect beautiful, professional-quality results and a finish that will look newly painted for several years.

Learn more about MBA member Tamalpais Paint & Color at marinba.org/directory

CrystalCabinets.com

Trained, Certified Experienced Professionals Representing the Finest Product Lines Custom Cabinetry, Design Services, Windows & Doors, Plumbing Fixtures, Window Coverings, Pre-Hung Doors, Hardware, & More

3773 Redwood Highway in San Rafael 415.924.8300 Showrooms also in Healdsburg & Napa!

www.HLC-Inc.com

GREEN CORNER

MORE GREEN, LESS BLUE

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PLANTS we love

Design a drought-resistant garden text by Pete Pedersen, Pedersen Associates

B

etween Marin’s varied ecosystems and San Francisco’s foggy summers, it’s easy to forget that here in the Bay Area we live in a Mediterranean climate, which is typically characterized by short, mild winters and long, dry summers. That means the region is prone to water-sodden winters and landslides but also drought and wildfires; this year finds us in the latter category.

So what can we do in our gardens this spring to decrease our water needs? Here are some of our favorite water-saving tips:

1|

Create unwatered garden space Garden design is a mix of watered and unwatered space. Unwatered spaced can be elaborate hardscape—think fire pits, a barbecue, lounge seating—or something on a much smaller scale like a corner hammock or a bistro table tucked near a shady tree.

Lavender

Thyme

Reed Grasses

Sedge/ Carex

Succulents

Ceanothus

Santolina

California fuchsia

2|

Design with hydrozones Don’t plant the succulents near the roses. When planning your spring garden, make sure to group plants according to water needs so that you can effectively manage the irrigation.

3|

Familiarize yourself with natives and low-water plants There are many resources available to research plants that are droughttolerant. Many nurseries now have native sections and offer a wide array of plants that are adapted to the Mediterranean climate. The California Native Plant Society is also a great resource: www.cnps.org

4|

Lose the lawn If you have small children and are making great use of your lawn, it’s understandable to have one. Everyone else should rethink the lawn. They require unbelievable volumes of water to maintain. There are some wonderful low-water lawn alternatives (particularly in the carex, fescue, and sedge families) that can handle traffic and are soft underfoot.

5|

Maintain the mulch Most people mulch and compost in the winter, but mulch is equally important in the spring. Not only does it help retain soil moisture, but it also deters weed growth and will eventually decompose to improve the soil structure. Just make sure to keep the mulch away from the base of the plant, a common mistake that many homeowners make.

California fescue 46 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

Learn more about MBA member Pedersen Associates at marinba.org/ directory

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 47

MBA BUILT

MBA BUILT MBA members come together to form a dream team for your next home improvement project Marin Builders Association (MBA) members are known for their craftsmanship, attention to detail, and stylish and innovative designs. So when MBA members team up on a project, the results are nothing short of stunning.

Our new department, MBA Built, will feature our favorite of these collaborations and will share the behind-the-scenes stories of how the MBA builds. Whether they are building your dream home, a greencertified office, or community spirit, MBA members tackle the project with professionalism and expertise.

MBA Built will showcase the diverse talents and creativity of the men and women who are proud to call themselves MBA members.

PROJECT SUMMARY MBA member Kasten Builders led the development of this new 6,000-square-foot residence completed in September 2011. The project was extremely challenging due to site, constraints and a complex foundation and site plan.

The driveway had to be widened in order for concrete trucks to access the site, and the foundation sub is credited for what he called “the most difficult foundation plan yet”. Exposed panelized formed concrete makes up the first level, with the second floor in copper siding and the third in integral color smooth stucco. No expense was spared on this the clients fourth and final custom residence.

48 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

PROJECT CREDITS

General Contractor Kasten Builders kastenbuilders.com

Architect CCS Architecture ccs-architecture.com

Landscape Architect Studio Green studiogreen.com

Photography Paul Dyer dyerphoto.com

THE CREW MARIN BUILDERS ASSOCIATION MEMBERS

Golden State Lumber www.goldenstatelumber.com

Mill Valley Refuse www.millvalleyrefuse.com

Sun Iron Works www.sunironworksinc.com

CTW www.ctwdesigns.com

Herb’s Pool Service www.herbspoolservice.com

Mission Wood Products www.missionwood.com

Tamalpais Paint & Color www.tamalpaispaint.com

DeMello Roofing www.demelloroofing.com

Jacksons Hardware www.jacksonshardware.com

Northgate Garage Doors www.northgategaragedoor.com

Van Midde & Son www.vanmiddeconcrete.com

Fire Technologies (415) 457-6805

Marin Color Service www.marincolor.com

Powerhouse Building (415) 446-0188

Water Components www.watercomponents.com

Glass & Sash www.glassandsash.com

Marin Tree Service www.marintrees.com

Shamrock Materials www.shamrockmaterials.com

Weir/Andrewson Associates www.waassoc.com

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 49

FINANCIAL WELLNESS

Richard DeRamon Redwood Credit Union

Protecting Your Finances

P

rotecting yourself from identity theft and fraud has been top of mind lately as news reports of major retailer data breaches and other financial scams continue to proliferate. There have always been and will always be thieves looking for opportunity, but there are simple steps you can take to protect your financial information.

Monitor your accounts.

Actively monitoring your accounts is the most effective way to identify and prevent fraud. Online and mobile banking allow you to monitor activity in real time, so you can notify your financial institution immediately if you notice any suspicious transactions. At minimum, you should review your monthly checking and credit card statements and check your credit report annually, which you can do for free at www.annualcreditreport.com.

Set alerts.

Many online banking systems allow you to set up alerts that notify you by text or email of certain account activity, such as ATM withdrawals, overseas fees, and daily or weekly balance updates to help you identify potential fraud.

Protect your online activity.

Use hard-to-guess passwords and change them frequently.

Keep your computer operating system, browser, and antivirus software up to date. Check for SSL protection before conducting online transactions: look for “https” and the padlock symbol in the URL bar.

Protect your offline activity.

Shred any mail or documents that contain personal financial information. Sign up for automatic payments, online bill pay, and electronic statements to reduce the amount of paper that needs shredding.

Be cautious.

Don’t share your personal, confidential information (such as account numbers, Social Security number, or passwords) with anyone.

Be wary of incoming phone calls, texts, or emails that ask you to provide confidential information—a trusted financial institution will never request this information through these channels. Beware of lottery winnings or prizes for contests you didn’t enter, work-at-home offers, and other promises of easy money.

Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

If you notice any suspicious activity on your accounts, notify your financial institution right away.

Redwood Credit Union offers additional tips on our website, and you can also learn more ways to protect yourself from fraud at www. stopfraud.gov and consumer.ftc.gov.

Education is always the best defense in protecting yourself from frauds and scams.

Learn more about MBA member Redwood Credit Union at marinba.org/directory

50 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

Bank From Almost Anywhere “RCU’s online & mobile services and tools make banking convenient for me and for my business.”

- Brooks Member since 2008

Full Service for All Your Financial Needs Switch today to experience the credit union difference and discover why over 230,000 of your North Bay neighbors choose Redwood Credit Union.

For people, not profit.

1 (800) 479-7928 redwoodcu.org Free Checking | Home, Business & Auto Loans | Credit Cards | Mobile & Online Banking 19 Locations to serve you in addition to 30,000 fee-free ATMs If you own a business, live or work in the 7 North Bay counties or San Francisco, you can switch & benefit from Redwood Credit Union! 19 locations throughout the North Bay & SF to serve you + 30,000 fee-free ATMS and extended hours Monday through Saturday! Deposits federally insured by NCUA, a U.S. government agency. We look forward to serving you!

FINANCIAL WELLNESS

Diane Borden Woodruff-Sawyer & Co

Does Your Personal Insurance Coverage Need Some Spring Cleaning?

S

pring, it brings to mind fresh air, beautiful blooming flowers, and sun-filled days.

It is also one of the best times to begin spring-cleaning your home.

Whether it is a deep cleaning of the interior and exterior, upgrading your landscaping, revamping how you use your garage, or redecorating, these tasks can be daunting.

Ultimately, the end result will be well worth the effort. By reorganizing and ridding your home of excess clutter, you’ll have a fresh start for the spring and summer.

Shouldn’t you take the same fresh approach to understanding your personal insurance coverage?

You’ve worked hard to obtain your home and personal property, and these assets should be protected to meet the needs of your family.

Unfortunately, this insurance review is often not thought about until after there is a loss and coverage is no longer available.

When was the last time you spoke to your agent about your personal insurance program or asked for a second opinion of your coverage and pricing? Has your

52 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

insurance continued to renew as is, without any discussion on your home upgrades, lifestyle, or liability risks? Does your agent partner with multiple carriers so you are sure your program is competitive and has the coverage you need? If you are like most people, this hasn’t been done for some time. I urge you not to wait any longer. Take the time to go through this review so there are no surprises at the time of a loss.

Ask yourself, are the limits shown on your home and personal property still adequate today? Have you taken pictures or a video of the interior contents of your home? At the time of a loss your insurance carrier will want to have proof you possessed the property you lost.

Receipts and credit card statements are good to have, but very few keep this information in the long term. Taking pictures or a video of personal property in each room will help immensely when settling any loss. It will also help you remember what you had if there was a fire and all was lost.

Is your jewelry, fine art, wine, or memorabilia covered properly?

There are limitations in coverage on most standard home policies if they are not scheduled separately.

Depending on the value of your property, this endorsement is a nominal cost in comparison to the cost of not having comprehensive coverage.

If you’d like to get a second opinion of your personal insurance portfolio, it would be my pleasure to help you. Woodruff-Sawyer partners with several insurance carriers and appraisal resources to make the review process effortless. Like a good spring-cleaning, ensuring your home and personal property have the highest quality coverage will provide peace of mind and a fresh start. This year, make reviewing your insurance a priority for you and your family. Your home is worth the time!

Marin Home Magazine also shares several resource companies that can provide assistance with your spring-cleaning tasks.

Learn more about MBA member Woodruff -Sawyer & Co at marinba.org/directory

However you define value, we will help protect it.

Private Client Advisors: Securing Your Success For those of us with more to protect, premium insurance isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.

Woodruff-Sawyer’s Private Client Advisors group helps you assess your risks and create a custom program that keeps your life simple while protecting your family, preserving your assets, maintaining your lifestyle and safeguarding the possessions you cherish most.

Whether you need automobile, home, watercraft, special collections or umbrella liability insurance, we work diligently to find the company and products that best suit your specific needs. We proudly represent our clients by delivering outstanding service, highly rated products and program flexibility.

For more information, please contact Diane Borden at 415.878.2484 or dborden@wsandco.com.

Personal Insurance Services, Risk Management, Life Insurance Woodruff-Sawyer & Co. 50 California Street, Floor 12 San Francisco, CA 94111 Additional office locations in Novato, Irvine, Sacramento and Portland, OR. CA License 0329598 OR License 0100167994 AN ASSUREX GLOBAL & IBN PARTNER

www.wsandco.com/pca

FINANCIAL WELLNESS

Beckie Menten Marin Clean Energy

Take Your Home from Yesterday to Tomorrow Switch on savings with home energy upgrades and low monthly payments.

T

he value of real estate in the Bay Area is finally on the rise again. So whether you’re planning to sell or simply looking forward to many more years in a more comfortable, more affordable, more valuable home, now is the perfect time to invest in energy upgrades—with a little help from this uniquely affordable home loan and some generous California energy rebates.

Marin Clean Energy and First Community Bank have teamed up to create an innovative Green Home Loan program for projects up to $30,000, available to homeowners in Marin and Richmond.

Qualifications for homeowners are easy, and the loan is both lowinterest and unsecured. Repayment goes directly through your PG&E bill, so it’s quick and easy to remember.

And California is offering rebates up to $4,500 for qualifying projects.

Home Energy Assessments A home assessment is the first step toward knowing the best ways to raise your home’s comfort and lower your energy costs. An energy professional will work with you to determine how much energy you use month to month, and to identify home saving and rebate opportunities. After receiving a full report from your energy

54 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

professional, you’ll be able to use this information to take action, and you can earn rebates up to $300 to cover the cost of the energy assessment.

To find a contractor and schedule your energy assessment today, call a home upgrade advisor at (866) 878-6008 or visit www.bayareaenergyupgrade.org.

Choose Your Home Upgrade Projects Select the energy upgrade projects that are the most valuable and desirable to you. You can even use 30% of your Green Home Loan for non-energy projects on your wish list, like new counters or flooring.

Get Loan-Qualified Qualification for the loan is quick and easy. If you’re a homeowner in Marin or Richmond with a FICO score of 640 or higher, with property taxes up-to-date and without liens or defaults, you’re definitely in the running.* The application process is easy, interest is low (varying from 6.931% to 7.871%), and the loan is unsecured.

Once the loan is finalized and work begins, you repay the loan on your PG&E bill every month—so there’s no separate paperwork to keep track of.

A Host of Benefits Making home energy improvements is easier and more affordable than ever with Marin Clean Energy’s Green Home Loans and California energy rebates. Get free, expert energy advice, personalized customer support, and access to qualified contractors.

Best of all, your home is more efficient. It’s more comfortable.

It’s more valuable. It’s a place for your family to enjoy and treasure for years to come. Or to profit by, if selling is in your future.

One thing is certain: there will never be a better—or more financially advantageous—time to upgrade your home’s energy systems.

Discover more about Marin Clean Energy at marincleanenergy.org

*Loan requirements: minimum FICO score of 640; proof of homeownership; property taxes current; no liens, judgments, notice of default, or other notices filed against the property being improved.

Upgrade your Home and Add Value

“Energy rebates AND a low-interest loan? I even got new counters!�

Wish your home was more comfortable, valuable, affordable and efficient? It can be with our easy Green Home Loan and California energy rebates.

For loans up to $30,000 and rebates up to $4,500, simply: n Get an in-home assessment from an energy expert n Pick your favorite projects n Qualify for your loan with a 640+ credit score*, then repay on your PG&E bill n Use up to 30% of your loan for other home projects of your choice Homeowners, get started today by calling your Home Upgrade Advisor.

1 (866) 878-6008 | mceCleanEnergy.org/home-loans

* Minimum FICO score of 640 plus: proof of homeownership; property taxes current; no liens, judgments, notice of default, or other notices filed against property being improved

home with Norman Charles Construction

www.normancharlesconstruction.com

For over 30 years, Norman Charles Construction has been dedicated to building some of the finest homes in Marin County and the San Francisco Bay Area. With the principle working directly on your project, NCC provides a personal service unmatched by larger, crowded firms.

Custom Cabinetry

Bathroom Sanctuary

56  S P R I N G 2 0 1 4   MARIN HOME

Open & Airy

Stunning Stairway

Well-Lit Well Lit Kitchen Kitchen

Architectural Details • Cabinetry • Fine Furniture Houzz is the leading online 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.

Best of houzz 2014 - Client Satisfaction

TheLastInch.org

Wine Library

Get inspired. Find Marin Home on Houzz at houzz.com/pro/marinhome and Norman Charles Construction at houzz.com/pro/normancharles

photography provided by Norman Charles Construction

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 57

MBA BULLETIN

MBA MEMBER MIXER At Big 4 Party Mixing it up with fellow MBA members and guests. Don’t miss the next opportunity. Visit marinba.org to learn more about our members, and check out the calendar for the next Marin Builders Association mixer.

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Clare Michael, Cari Pace Chuck Bradley, Suzie Weir, Linda Bradley Nicholas, Kevin Kearney Barbara Jones, Paula Krause Emily Wallace, Suzie Weir, Connie Slykas, Kim Roberts, Vanesa Beck, Rob Roberts Cody Hampton, Dan Walters, Stephen Craford J.C. Krause, Rena Barnett, Sam Barnett, Sean Maloney

photography by Trevor Henley

DESIGN/BUILD

ADDITIONS

REMODELS

NEW CONSTRUCTION

World-Class Craftsmanship since 1983.

For 30 years we have brought together clients and superior craftsmen to turn vision into reality. We are platinum award winning green certified.

Kerr Construction firmly believes proper planning prevents poor performance.

Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation.

Lic.# 615587

San Rafael | 15 Woodland Ave, Ste F | 415.456.5300 | kerr-construction.com

Whether you own a single family home, condominium, townhome or apartment complex, you can turn to PRANDI Property Management, Inc., CRMC® for over 30 years of experience. Consistently offering

Quality Craftsmanship and Superior Finishes CSLB #619941 B, C33

professional residential leasing and full-time property management services.

1321 Third Street, San Rafael, CA 94901 • (415) 482-9988 CalBRE# 00980159

415-892-8989 www.anellopainting.com 701 Delong Avenue, Ste. I, Novato, CA 94945

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 59

MBA BULLETIN

MBA ANNUAL CRAB FEED At Margaret Todd Senior Center MBA members and local community leaders enjoyed a fun-filled evening while raising funds for the scholarship program. MBA has awarded over $1 million in scholarships since its inception. photography by Trevor Henley

60 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

THANK YOU! HUGE THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! Allied Administrators Bob Kunst Painting Cal West Rentals Ceramic Tile Design Dan Young Construction Golden State Lumber Heffernan Insurance Marin Color Service

Marin Roto-Rooter Marin Sanitary Service Mertel Carpets RPM Mortgage Schalich Bros. Construction Supervisor Steve Kinsey W.R. Forde

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 61

SPECIAL SECTION LEFT: 1962 - Don Presco, MBA Founding President; Doug Roberts, Manager; John McInnis, Mayor of San Rafael; Walter Castro, Chairman Marin County Supervisors; Felix Warburg, Architect; Walt Meinberger, Contractor; Clyde Jones, Rafael Floors.

RIGHT: Klif Knoles, former Executive Director of Marin Builders Association

BUILDING MARIN Marin Builders Association’s Executive Director Klif Knoles retires

I

n January 2014, after 16 years of service with the Marin Builders Association (MBA), 8 years as a board member and 8 years serving as Executive Director, building industry veteran Klif Knoles announced his retirement. The MBA’s recent history can be closely aligned with Klif’s participation in the organization.

62 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

The MBA began on May 1, 1958, when the North Coast Board of Directors approved the Marin Membership’s request to form its own association. The keys to the original office at 35 Jordan Street in San Rafael were turned over, and the bylaws for the new organization were soon developed.

The first Annual Meeting was held on June 11, 1958, with beer and pretzels on the house. Klif’s father was one of the charter members of the MBA, and Klif joined the MBA while working in the family construction business at the age of 18.

In 2004, while serving as Board President Klif lead the MBA in the decision and purchase of a new building at 660 Las Gallinas Avenue, San Rafael. The building was extensively remodeled into a state-of-the-art headquarters for the MBA, which includes an online planroom, training facility, Wi-Fi, and private offices for members.

In August 2005, after more than 30 years in Marin County construction, Klif was

appointed Executive Director of the MBA. As Executive Director, Klif contributed to the development and implementation of the BERST collaborative, a Green Building Ordinance of Marin County, which raised the standard for sustainable construction.

He also forged direct partnerships with the California Contractors State License Board and the Marin County District Attorney to curb unlicensed operators in an effort to protect Marin residents and their construction projects.

Additionally, through collaborations with the Marin County Office of Education and the MBA’s own high school scholarship program Klif and the MBA invested in the future of our youth by awarding scholarships and encouraging apprenticeships with MBA members.

Klif leaves behind a legacy of service to the MBA members and the Marin County community. The MBA’s future is bright as a result of its strong foundation.

Dreaming of a new deck?

Take advantage of our fast approvals and competitive rates for Home Equity Lines of Credit. Now may be just the time to tap into the equity of your

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bankofmarin.com

MARKETPLACE

welcome to

MBA Marketplace

The Go-to Resource for the Home and Garden

Now it is even easier to find the right MBA member for your next home-improvement project. The MBA Marketplace highlights favorite projects from our members to help you envision your new and improved abode.

It’s your go-to resource for all things home!

SPOOR MASONRY

415.457.3321 www.spoorstone.com 3095 Kerner Blvd., Ste W, San Rafael

REMPE CONSTRUCTION

415.897.9126 www.rempe.com 1020 Railroad Ave, Suite E, Novato

LANDMARK BUILDERS

NATAL MODICA CONSTRUCTION, INC.

FLOYD CONSTRUCTION, INC.

SPECIAL SECTION 64 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

415.883.5410 www.lmbuilders.com 42 Digital Dr. Ste 11, Novato

415.382.6554 www.nmodicaconstruction.com 25 Commercial Blvd. Suite J, Novato

415.485.0645 www.floydconstructioninc.com 714 C Street #207, San Rafael

ROSS PAINTING

BOUCHE PAINTING

WILKINSON DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

415.455.0766 www.rosspainting.com 4316 Redwood Hwy 200, San Rafael

415.933.2677 www.bouchepainting.com

415.785.7961 www.wilkinsondesign.net 72 Clayton St., San Rafael

MICHAEL REX ASSOCIATES

DAN YOUNG CONSTRUCTION, INC.

415.331.1400 www.michaelrexassociates.com 1750 Bridgeway, Suite B211 Sausalito

415.457.6797 www.dycmarin.com 1945 E. Francisco Blvd. #40, San Rafael

LAMPERTI CONTRACTING & DESIGN

415.454.1623 www.lampertikitchens.com 1241 Andersen Dr., San Rafael

SPECIAL SECTION MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 65

Your Local Plumbing Contractor For All Your Plumbing Needs Serving Marin County & Beyond for Three Generations

Service & Repair Drain Cleaning Line Locating New Construction/ Remodels Leak Inspection Sewer Video Inspection Backflow Testing

Free Estimate Available

(415) 479-0110

mba member | www.miketestaplumbing.com | lic. #519618

MLC MCLENNON LAW CORPORATION Counsel to the Construction Industry

– OVER 70 YEARS’ COMBINED EXPERIENCE – > CONSTRUCTION > INSURANCE > EMPLOYMENT Call

415.394.6688

> REAL ESTATE > CONTRACTS > MEDIATION > ARBITRATION > LITIGATION

275 Battery Street, Suite 1300 San Francisco, CA 94111

WWW.MCLENNONLAW.COM

66 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

HOME RESOURCE GUIDE

The Marin Builders Association is proud of our publication Marin Home magazine — the essential home resource.

For more detailed information and member profiles go to: marinba.org/directory OR scan code.

We thank our members and business associates for advertising in our magazine and making this an informative tool for you and our community.

Each issue includes qualified contractors, materials suppliers and service providers who are MBA members. This home resource guide is a useful tool to help with your home and professional needs. Look for it in each edition of Marin Home!

California Contractors State License Board License Classifications & Descriptions A General Engineering Contractor B General Building Contractor C Specialty Contractor (“C” Categories of C Classifications) C-2 - Insulation and Acoustical Contractor C-4 - Boiler, Hot Water Heating and Steam Fitting Contractor C-5 - Framing and Rough Carpentry Contractor C-6 - Cabinet, Millwork and Finish Carpentry Contractor C-7 - Low Voltage Systems Contractor C-8 - Concrete Contractor C-9 - Drywall Contractor C10 - Electrical Contractor C11 - Elevator Contractor C12 - Earthwork and Paving Contractors C13 - Fencing Contractor C15 - Flooring and Floor Covering Contractors C16 - Fire Protection Contractor C17 - Glazing Contractor C20 - Warm-Air Heating, Ventilating and Air-Conditioning Contractor C21 - Building Moving/Demolition Contractor C23 - Ornamental Metal Contractor C27 - Landscaping Contractor C28 - Lock and Security Equipment Contractor C29 - Masonry Contractor C31 - Construction Zone Traffic Control Contractor

marinba.org/directory

C32 - Parking and Highway Improvement Contractor C33 - Painting and Decorating Contractor C34 - Pipeline Contractor C35 - Lathing and Plastering Contractor C36 - Plumbing Contractor C38 - Refrigeration Contractor C39 - Roofing Contractor C42 - Sanitation System Contractor C43 - Sheet Metal Contractor C45 - Sign Contractor C46 - Solar Contractor C47 - General Manufactured Housing Contractor C50 - Reinforcing Steel Contractor C51 - Structural Steel Contractor C53 - Swimming Pool Contractor C54 - Ceramic and Mosaic Tile Contractor C55 - Water Conditioning Contractor C57 - Water Well Drilling Contractor C60 - Welding Contractor C61 - Limited Specialty ASB - Asbestos Certification HAZ - Hazardous Substance Removal Certification

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 67

HOME RESOURCE GUIDE

Licensed Contractors, Materials Suppliers & Associated Services ACCOUNTING

ARCHITECTS & DESIGNERS

Account Works 415.472.3946

Petersen Design Associates, LLC 415.883.3816

April 1st Design

BANKS & FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

petersendesign.net Bank of Marin

510.502.4164

Art Wasserman & Company

Bilgart Design

Polsky Perlstein Architects

707.778.1320

415.847.3585

415.927.1156

wkcpas.com

bilgartdesign.com

polskyarchitects.com

Crossland Construction Accounting

Brock Wagstaff Architects

Spacial Design

559.281.6979

415.383.2160x102

spacialdesign.com

Eckhoff Accountancy Corp.

Studio Snaidero Bay Area Janus Design Consulting

415.332.1745

415.499.9400

415.456.1366

snaiderokitchens.com

eckhoff.com

bankofmarin.com

707.664.1900

rccabinetsandclosets.com

presidiobank.com Steinbach Cabinet Shop Redwood Credit Union

lic. 694518 C6

707.576.5276

415.453.7322

redwoodcu.org The Last Inch, Inc. Union Bank

lic. 980565 C6

415.446.1859

925.788.0806

unionbank.com

thelastinch.org

CONCRETE, ASPHALT, GRAVEL & SAND

415.956.4472

415.456.3939

415.459.1249

kenkaysf.com

sunrisehome.com

BLUEPRINTS

Kitchens By Ken Ryan

AUDIOVISUAL & LOW VOLTAGE

Northbay Reprographics

mahercpa.com

kitchensbykenryan.com

The Accounting Specialist

Lilypad Homes 415.250.9317

lic. 814767 C7

lilypadhomes.com

415.499.1400

highdefinitionhome.com

510.507.0313

Michael Rex Associates

APPLIANCES

martin-harris.com Standards of Excellence

lic. 984434

CABINETRY

707.291.4334

Aurora Cabinets & Countertops, Inc.

C.L.Y. Incorporated

lic. 288206 D12,D24

707.763.6981

lic. 690380 C8,B,A

SRS Custom Integration

415.472.4171

michaelrexassociates.com

lic. 815490 C7

auroracabinets.com

De La Montanya Trucking

415.446.4119

Neumann Sloat Blanco Architects, LLP

srscustomintegration.com

California Space Organizers, Inc.

707.765.0725

415.578.4800

SoundVision Systems

lic. 866993 D34

nsbllp.com

lic. 795575 C7

415.454.7477

Deluxe Shotcrete & Concrete Construction

415.456.7000

calspaceorganizers.com

lic. 808915 C8,A

415.453.6070

standardsofexcellence.com

Able Concrete Pumping

415.331.1400

Martin & Harris 415.454.2021

415.491.1112

northbayrepro.com High Definition Home Inc.

paychex.com

RC Cabinets & Closets

415.456.6000

Maher Accountancy

415.899.0203 X 30485

integraldesignwoodworking.com

lic. 985074 C6

Sunrise Home

415.897.3800

415.454.5025

Presidio Bank

Ken Kay Associates

Paychex

lic. 537763 C6

415.485.2265

415.457.3195

wagstaffarchitects.com

Integral Design

Pedersen Assocs.

Landscape Architects 415.456.2070

svsf.com

707.568.1200

Gaidmore Furniture

deluxeshotcrete.com

415.884.2939

pedersenassociates.com

68 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

marinba.org/directory

HOME RESOURCE GUIDE

707.546.3113

CONSTRUCTIONMANAGEMENT SCHEDULING & ESTIMATING A. Whitehill & Son

Mill Valley Refuse Service, Inc.

hannibalsinc.com

Dutra Materials 415.258.6876

415.999.1477

415.457.9760

I. Cannan Electric

millvalleyrefuse.com

lic. 736435 C10

Devincenzi Concrete Construction lic. 326998 C8

dutragroup.com

Marin Sanitary Service

Hannibal’s Inc. Electrical Construction

Royal Wholesale Electric

415.456.2601

marinsanitary.com

lic. 689576 C10

royalsr.com

415.457.4044

Dibble & Company Imbimbo Concrete, Inc.

415.488.4017

RV Stich Construction, Inc.

Pound Management Inc.

lic. 530135 A B,C21

510.653.0800

510.412.9070

lic. 638907 A,C8 650.991.3384

Marin Landscape Materials

poundmgt.com

415.897.1337

Ross Construction Services

Marelli Drywall

415.261.1590

lic. 705813 C9

cldrgravel.com

DRYWALL

Rich Readimix Concrete, Inc.

VHS Associates, Inc.

415.924.1040

415.256.2400

415.472.0967

vhsinc.com Shamrock Materials, Inc. 415.455.1575

shamrockmaterials.com

CREATIVE SERVICES, MARKETING & PR

Trush Construction Company, Inc.

And Them Design

lic. 514199 A,B

415.747.4345

415.331.0500

andthemdesign.com Paganini Enterprises

Van Midde & Son Concrete

Strom Electric, Inc. lic. 480976 C10,C36 415.453.1200

415.596.3676

Synapse Electric

icannanelectric.com

lic. 828101 C10 415.819.0668

synapseelectric.com Idex Global Services Inc. lic. 745981 C10

W. Bradley Electric, Inc.

415.482.4242

lic. 390741 C10,B,A,C46

idexglobal.com

415.898.1400

wbeinc.com Independent Electric Supply, Inc.

ENGINEERING CONSULTANTS

707.577.7900

North Bay Drywall & Plastering, Inc.

iesupply.com

lic. 292745 C9,C35,B

Johnson Electric

Arthur J. Lang Associates, Inc.

707.763.6819

lic. 899161 C10

415.883.3577

415.453.2325

Pat Trainor Drywall, Inc. lic. 795763 C9

trushconstruction.com

415.453.3570

415.456.3550

Buel Engineering MacQuarrie Electrical Services

415.491.0600

lic. 870994 C10

ILS Associates, Inc.

Sessi Drywall

707.260.4544

415.883.9200

lic. 541472 C9

macquarrieelectricalservices.com/

ilscels.com

415.472.6373

John C. Hom & Associates

415.897.7088

paganinienterprises.com

ELECTRICAL

Maltby Electric Supply Co.

DEBRIS BOXES, HAULING DEMOLITION

Artistic Lighting & Electric

415.453.8300

415.382.9500

Mike Brown Electric Company

Audac

lic. 306767 C10

510.215.0800

Grange Debris Box Service & Wrecking Co.

lic. 445578 C7

707.792.8100

vikingpavers.com

lic. 257220 C21

415.459.3095

mbelectric.com

415.456.2712

audacsystems.com

Project Management Services, LLC

Mike Mariani Electric, Inc.

415.827.1272

Decker Electric

R.W. Davis & Associates, Inc.

lic. 676584 C8 415.459.2530

vanmiddeconcrete.com

Whiteside Construction Corporation

grangebox.com

lic. 577719 A,B,D06

Industrial Carting

lic. 3779 C10

lic. 513657 C10

510.234.6681

707.585.0511

415.552.1522

415.485.0631

whitesideconstruction.com

deckerelectric.com Kies Strategies 415.209.0321

L.A. Stevens & Associates, Inc.

lic. 380928 C10

Viking Pavers, Inc. lic. 970281 D06

415.258.9027

415.382.7713

lastevensinc.com

415.883.9099

Redwood Electric Electrix

lic. 870103 C10

lic. 677633 C10

415.892.4900

rwdavis-survey.com

415.485.0777

eltrx.com

marinba.org/directory

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 69

HOME RESOURCE GUIDE Ray Wrysinski, Civil Engineer

Portico Wealth

415.892.4874

porticowealth.com

415.925.8700

GARAGE DOORS & GATES Door Pros

Alan Taylor, General Contractor

Asbestos Control Center

lic. 451856 B

415.883.7856

415.892.8475

asbestoscontrolcenter.com

lic. 590867 A,B,HAZ,ASB

Via-Engineering, Inc.

Smart Receivables

lic. 958861 D28

415.774.6776

415.388.3990

415.717.7015

Allen Enterprises

B Street Builders

via-eng.com

smartreceivables.com

marindoorpros.com

lic. 881441 B

lic. 920746 B

415.671.9767

415.485.4400

Weir/Andrewson Associates

FLOORING & FLOOR COVERINGS

FENCING, DECKING & SIDING

Allied Restoration Co Inc

bstreetbuilders.com

lic. 345502 D28

lic. 969355 B

Empire Floors

415.897.2371

415.529.4001

Ballard Inc. dba Inspired Environments

lic. 504918 C15

jonesdoor.com

floodrepairmarin.com

lic. 513959 B

Northgate Garage Door, Inc.

Alten Construction, Inc.

415.485.9797

waassoc.com

Jones Garage Door Co., Inc.

707.525.1204

415.454.8000

inspired-environments. com

Clough Construction

Eureka Valley Floor Company

lic. 627224 D28

510.234.4200

lic. 516987 B

lic. 397118 C15

415.472.6004

altenconstruction.com

415.444.5554

415.479.1676

northgategaragedoors.com

Bay Area Moisture Control, Inc.

Altius Construction

lic. 726300 B

Floortex Design

GENERAL BUILDINGRESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL, NEW & REMODEL

lic. 914976 B, C9, C35

415.884.0500

415.847.5304

altiusconstruction.com

bayareamoisturecontrol. com

Anthony Love

Bay County Builders, Inc.

lic. 970424 B

lic. 700683 B

38 Degrees North Latitude Builders, Inc.

415.686.8139

415.457.9962

lic. 838178 B

Anthony Vitale, General Contractor

Better Built Construction

lic. 515092 B

415.451.4786

415.455.9927

bbcconstruction.net

Antonis Construction Building & Painting

BG Construction

lic. 940470 B,C33

415.884.2180

cloughconstruction.com Kevin Marcinek, General Contractor

lic. 534583 B,C15

lic. 620203 B

floortexdesign.com

415.924.6545

415.898.9510

Giuliani Flooring, Inc. Marin County Sidewall

lic. 951628 C15

lic. 831184 D41

415.459.3276

707.778.8858

marincountysidewall.com

Mertel Carpets

415.459.1995

lic. 414490 C15

FINANCIAL & MERCHANT SERVICES

415.479.2180

A.E. Nelson Construction

mertelcarpets.com

lic. 364212 B,C36 707.636.1750

Pacificontract Advance Business Services

lic. 682766 C15

415.203.4247

pacificontract.com

415.258.9966

aenelsonconstruction.com Abacus Group Builders, Inc.

lic. 705713 A,B

lic. 800744 B

lic. 676193 B

707.280.5740

antonisconstruction.com

lic. 522340 B

BHM Construction, Inc. lic. 903191 B

California Mortgage Advisors, Jeff Grady

Pengelly Flooring

415.927.0667

Aquatech Consultancy, Inc.

707.643.4580

lic. 849856 C15

abacusgb.com

lic. 809853

bhmconstruction.com

415.451.4888

415.272.0585

B,C39,C15,C33, D51 415.884.2121

Bruce F. Goudie

noleak.com

lic. 498165 B

Rafael Floors

Advanced Engineering Sales, Inc. dba AES Construction

lic. 178605 C15

lic. 775170 2/28/14

Arntz Builders, Inc.

David White & Associates

415.456.3656

415.507.9373

lic. 727072 B,ASB

Build It Construction

925.277.2600

rafaelfloors.com

advengr.com

415.382.1188

lic. 720386 B

arntzbuilders.com

415.378.0793

bcpfloors.com Christopher Harney 925.979.2325

dwassociates.com

415.453.3863

Richard Tourte

Adventures In Production

James L. Arrigoni

lic. 651671 C15

lic. 943457 B

Arrington Construction

Burns Builders

415.847.3131

707.664.8137

415.602.4742

lic. 810317 B

lic. 871010 B

aipgc.com

415.460.1607

415.272.7751

70 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

marinba.org/directory

HOME RESOURCE GUIDE Cal-Custom Construction

Creatively Built, Inc.

Hayes & Associates

lic. 977600 B,C36

Diego Quality Construction

Gaetani Construction

lic. 375536 B,ASB

lic. 490550 B

lic. 817836 B

415.897.8445

707.781.9702

lic. 544509 B

415.332.2857

415.892.3464

creativelybuilt.com

707.765.6169

Caletti Jungsten Construction

Gazzoli Construction Crescent Builders

DNL Builders

lic. 922738 B

Hennessey Construction, Inc.

lic. 549463 B

lic. 822594 B

lic. 872590 B

415.847.1811

lic. 727282 B

415.381.3162

415.454.1313

707.495.2950

gazzoli.biz

415.459.6497

calettijungsten.com

buildwithcrescent.com

dnlbuilders.com German Construction

hennesseyconstruction. com

Cartwright Construction

Cypress Homes Inc./ H-Y-H Corporation

Doug Monti Construction

lic. 836405 B

lic. 626464 B

lic. 387703 B

415.937.5672

415.453.7651

lic. 974792 B

415.453.1380

info@germanconstruction. biz

415.383.1848

CDK Builders Inc.

Dreamline Builders D&H Construction

lic. 944848 B

415.497.6317

lic. 693883 B

415.320.4358

Glen Rupiper Construction

510.237.7883

dreamlinebuilders.net

lic. 432984 B

dh-construction.com

billhitchcockconstruction. com

707.849.2096

Hoffmann Construction, Inc.

Elmack

lic. 401466 B,C10,A

lic. 396116 B 415.602.8464

lic. 644649 B

CF Contracting

Hitchcock Construction Co.

415.721.7160

D&R Construction

lic. 472841 B

Global Modular

lic. 414423 B

cfcontracting.com

lic. 533707 B

415.388.1293

lic. 837357 B

415.897.7263

707.792.0818

elmackcabinetry.com

559.665.5800

Dan Young Construction, Inc.

Envision Builders, Inc. lic. 736487 B

Gordon Walker Builders

707.766.9466

lic. 760173 B

415.453.2370

lic. 562356 B

horickbuilders.com

415.457.6797

envisionbuilders.com

415.457.1184

Daniel Holleran

ESM Enterprise General Contractor

Gubbins Building Company, Inc.

lic. 351427

lic. 352891 B

lic. 788512 B

Cherokee Construction

A,B,C10,C20,C36

415.383.9698

415.457.1576

lic. 427589 B

415.897.2322

bathroomsandkitchenstoo. com

Hoytt Inspection Services Inc.

Hal-Co, Inc.

lic. 493676 B

lic. 714971 B

415.897.9517

Fairway Design & Construction, Inc.

415.254.6822

hoyttinspect.com

Chalstrom Builders Inc. lic. 602728 B 415.461.2912

Charles Melin, General Contractor

lic. 825511 B

Howard Scanlan

dycmarin.com

lic. 311858 B 415.461.2416

Horick Builders, Inc.

gdvi.net

510.222.1689

Dennis Webb Construction

lic. 402434 B 415.488.4037

Christopher Clark Contracting

lic. 821554 B

lic. 373692 B

denniswebbconstruction. com

lic. 923234 B

Hammond & Company

415.328.3272

415.455.2468

lic. 657344 B

Huts and Castles a Construction Co. Inc.

707.795.6045

lic. 703981 B,C36,A

Conroy Builders

Desmond & Wallace Inc.

Floyd Construction, Inc.

hammondfinehomes.com

415.883.9209

lic. 867185 B

lic. 782179 A,B

lic. 365653 A,B

415.577.9064

707.795.7443

415.485.0645

conroybuilders.com

desmondwallace.com

floydconstructioninc.com

415.505.3562

hutsandcastles.com Harte Building & Design, Inc.

Imperial Contracting

lic. 776625 B

lic. 830273 C33,B,ASB

415.381.6068

415.798.3911

Contra-Spect, Ltd.

Diego Brothers, Inc.

lic. 491125 B

lic. 419030 A,B

Fontana Construction Inc.

707.762.3302

415.472.5967

lic. 487928 B

Hartnett Construction

diegobrosinc.com

415.457.1290

lic. 888773 B

fontanaco.com

415.816.5046

Crabtree Construction

icppa.com J.W. Tuttle Contractor Inc.

lic. 693280 B

lic. 983150 B

415.640.8617

310.850.4139

marinba.org/directory

MARIN HOME  S P R I N G 2 0 1 4  71

HOME RESOURCE GUIDE Jack Mosher Construction, Inc.

JW Rigney Construction Inc.

Lucas Valley Designs

Meylan Construction, Inc.

Pete Niederberger & Sons

lic. 645290 B

lic. 490355 B

lic. 590486

415.225.8230

lic. 680456 B

415.924.4170

415.457.0713

415.609.0773

jwrigney.com Jamba Construction, Inc.

lic. 524069 B

415.256.1620

MW General Contracting

meylanconstruction.com

lic. 740644 B

Plath & Co. lic. 395458 B

lic. 897278

Karkabi Construction

415.383.0667

Michael L. King

415.460.1575

415.435.4481

lic. 593092 B

mwgc.com

lic. 544919 B

plathco.com

jambaconstruction.com

415.459.2401

James E. Wilson Construction

Kasten Builders

Maloney Construction, Inc.

Mill Valley Builders, Inc.

lic. 797313 B

lic. 362773 B

lic. 959104 B,A

lic. 957090 B,C17,D24

415.446.0188

lic. 449978 B,A

415.897.4500

415.277.5977

415.332.6035

415.883.2969

kastenbuilders.com

maloneyconstruction.net

millvalleybuilders.com

Precision General Commercial Contractors

James G. Lino Construction

KCK Builders, Inc.

Mariner Homes, Inc.

Mondot & Co.

lic. 790153 B

lic. 810315 A,B

lic. 905103 B

lic. 662970

415.332.8390

lic. 442777 B

415.559.9312

415.789.5846

415.279.5007

precisiongc.com

Kelly Pacific Construction

415.924.9746

Powerhouse Building, Inc.

415.663.1939

Radco & Associates Inc.

lic. 346196 B

Mariposa Contractors Inc.

Murray Building

James S. Young Construction

lic. 646709 B,A, LEED AP

lic. 410936 B,A

415.464.0900

lic. 831986 B

707.939.9001

415.924.6105

lic. 703863 B,C6

kellypacific.com

415.431.3000

415.717.6061

James W. Josephs & Company

Kerr Construction, Inc. lic. 615587 B

Massa Construction Company

415.456.5300

lic. 359012 B

kerr-construction.com Kor General Contracting

radcoandassociates.com Natal Modica Construction, Inc. lic. 844317 B

Ravano & Cooney Construction

lic. 344050 A,B

415.382.6554

lic. 689239 B

415.459.0400

nmodicaconstruction.com

415.431.3000

Max Design & Construction

New Dimension

Rempe Construction

lic. 351692 B

lic. 791439 B

lic. 453554 B

415.454.2461

lic. 720207 B

415.381.5485

415.897.9126

415.883.6291

ndmarin.com

rempe.com

McDevitt Construction Partners Inc.

Nichelini & Sons, Inc.

Rivas Building Group

415.420.3185

lic. 339365 B

lic. 699671 B

Jeffrey Novak General Contractor, Inc.

kunstbaukdb.com

lic. 969483

415.485.6791

415.999.5927

707.763.3000

nichsons.com

lic. 508578 B

Lamperti Contracting & Design

mcdevittandmcdevitt.com

lic. 600412 B

415.454.8499

jamesjosephs.com Jeff Hicks Construction lic. 345479 B 415.383.2080

Kunstbau & Kids

jeffhicks.com

lic. 896053 B

415.892.7713

John A. Young, Builder

415.454.1623

McGuire & Sons Construction

lic. 288052 B,C10

lampertikitchens.com

lic. 346397 B

415.488.4971

Land Construction John C. Hill Construction

lic. 790903 B

lic. 851479 B

415.457.2335

Robert Curry Construction O’Rielly Construction

lic. 663287 B

lic. 459037 B

415.898.2243

707.933.8131

Robert E. Randig

415.454.2719

Pagan Construction, LLC

lic. 506873 B

mcguireandsonsconstruction.com

lic. 464896 B

415.479.3163

415.457.4170

paganconstruction.com

Landmark Builders

Merritt-Nelson Custom Builders

John Pope, Inc.

lic. 474421 B

lic. 672337 B

Pennypacker/Drake Home Building Inc.

lic. 467171 B,A,ASB

415.883.5410

707.584.1813

lic. 754794 B

415.497.5948

lmbuilders.com

415.215.9188

72 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

Rodoni Construction lic. 410338 B 415.663.9223

415.488.0647

marinba.org/directory

HOME RESOURCE GUIDE Rogers Remodel, Inc.

Stroub Construction

Von Der Werth, Inc.

Wyatt Construction

Harris Environmental

lic. 839810 B

lic. 489037 B

lic. 330299 C13,B

lic. 825045 B

lic. 359130 A,B

415.328.0047

415.331.0621

415.388.7516

415.577.3999

415.868.9669

rogersremodelinc.com

stroubconstruction.com

RPB Construction, Inc.

Structural Integrity

lic. 570798 B

lic. 504423 A,B,ASB

lic. 578269 B

415.457.3706

415.331.2226

415.730.8985

shidelerskyvara.com

rpbconstruction.us

structuralintegrity.biz

S.L.M. Builders

T.H. Eller Construction

lic. 354958 B

All Terrain, Inc.

lic. 876587

lic. 718948 B

lic. 579465 B

415.435.8182

lic. 827896 A,B

A,C21,ASB,HAZ

707.795.4177

415.488.9865

415.459.1488

415.460.2100

wyattconstruction.com W.M.S. Construction

Hillside Drilling, Inc.

GENERAL ENGINEERING, GRADING, PAVING & UNDERGROUND

Weiss Company, Inc.

West Bay Builders, Inc.

slmbuilders.com

lic. 399932 B

Tembrock-Ingrassia Builders dba Bayside Builders

707.795.6595

lic. 957514 B

S.R. Allied Builders, Inc.

westbaybuilders.com

510.234.6532

hillsidedrilling.com JS Company

allterraininc.com Lee Mechanical, Inc.

lic. 626859 B,A,C17 415.456.8972

lic. 478991 A

Central Valley Environmental

lic. 571894 A 415.883.4450

lic. 913083 A,B

415.884.8078

Whitcomb Construction

707.584.1900

Sandra Bird Custom Kitchens

bayside-builders.com

lic. 690549 B

cvalleyenvironmental.com

lic. 460795 B

Tim Walsh Builders

415.927.1171

lic. 350371 B

sandrabird.com

415.381.9806

lic. 477476 A

415.382.0687

whitcombconstruction. com

Linscott Engineering Contractors Inc.

Farallon Company

415.492.1755

lic. 827633 A,B,C33

linscottinc.com

415.892.7760

timwalshbuilders.com

Wick Brothers Construction

faralloncompany.com

Schalich Bros.

Construction Inc.

Maggiora & Ghilotti, Inc.

Tom Ganley Construction

lic. 481077 B

lic. 514664 B

415.488.9581

Forster Pump & Engineering, Inc.

lic. 226767

lic. 497493 B 415.382.7733

415.444.5548

lic. 426152

415.459.8640

Wilkinson Design & Construction

A,B,C27,C55,C57

maggiora-ghilotti.com

lic. 564598 B

forsterpump.com

Michael Paul Company, Inc.

schalichbrosconstruction. com

Tom J. Collins Construction

A,B,C8,C12,C21,42,32,34

415.459.4770

Scott Kaplan

lic. 499170 B

415.786.7961

lic. 467868 B

415.925.4000

wilkinsondesign.com

Gannett Fleming Project Development Corp.

lic. 386001

Tom Redmond Construction Inc.

William G. Taylor Construction Corp.

lic. 783100 A,B

707.769.1006

lic. 434609 B

lic. 853924 B

gfnet.com

415.892.9918

415.407.1764

415.453.8582

Steere Building & Woodworking lic. 744002 B

415.384.0822

Nerviani Paving, Inc. lic. 564392 A

Ghilotti Bros., Inc.

415.388.4616

A,B,C12,C34,C42

415.454.2662

Wine Country Builders, Inc.

lic. 132128

Sterling & Company

Tomrose Construction, Inc.

lic. 763980 B

A,C8,C12,C21,C42,HAZ

Redwood Engineering

lic. 353136 B,C2,C17

lic. 605439 B

707.935.7474

415.454.7011

lic. 456790 A,HAZ

415.459.1511

707.763.4001

ghilottibros.com

415.435.0768

sissco.com

tomroseconstruction.com

Wintergreen Enterprises, Inc.

Travis Remodeling

lic. 338175 B

Ghilotti Construction Company

Robison Construction

Steve Moylan Construction

lic. 493670 B

415.435.5200

lic. 644515

707.769.4747

lic. 380100 B

415.883.8177

villadorohomes.com

A,C8,C12,C21,C42,HAZ

707.538.4676

travisremodeling.com Womack Construction lic. 478379 B

lic. 701379 A

707.585.1221

Sunshine Construction

ghilotti.com

lic. 315245 A,C21,C27 415.479.5566

415.898.3151

marinba.org/directory

MARIN HOME  S P R I N G 2 0 1 4  73

HOME RESOURCE GUIDE Team Ghilotti, Inc. lic. 895384 A,HAZ

Allen Heating & Sheet Metal

707.763.8700

lic. 211831

teamghilotti.com

C2,C20,C43,D35

Thornton Paving Inc.

Sander, Jacobs Cassayre Insurance

Irrigation Repair Service

707.254.4840

415.924.4126

lic. 328638 C27

sanderjacobs.com

415.924.2425

George Family Enterprises Inc.

allenheating.com

lic. 634157 B,C2

Wise Insurance Agency

lic. 814207 C27,A

415.884.0399 ext. 230

415.258.9912

707.588.8677

gfeinc.com

wiseinsuranceagency.net

lic. 382817 A 415.453.2324

INSULATION ACOUSTICAL

Bay City Mechanical, Inc.

Neary Landscape

Tuatagaloa Contracting

C20,C43,C36,C4

SDI Insulation

Woodruff-Sawyer & Co.

North Bay Landscape Management, Inc.

lic. 699547 A,HAZ

510.233.7000

lic. 607274 C2,D65,D34,B

415.878.2466

lic. 723370 B,C27

866.824.8077

baycitymech.com

650.685.5500

wsandco.com

707.762.3850

lic. 645126

sdi-insulation.com Turbin Design Associates 415.373.9472

Bayside HVAC Products LLC

wtdastructural.com

415.333.5099

baysidehvac.com Valentine Corporation 415.453.3732

Downing Heating & Air Conditioning

valentinecorp.com

lic. 644720 C20

lic. 229225 A,B

northbaylandscape.com

LANDSCAPING INSURANCE Bolds Insurance Brokerage

Outdoor Environments Anthony Bertotti Landscaping Inc.

lic. 707006 C27

lic. 373488 B,C27,A

outdoor-environs.com

707.795.0605

415.485.1700

707.559.7077

bolds.com

bertotti.com

415.485.1011

Craford Benefit Consultants

Bauman Landscape & Construction

415.328.4649

Fitzpatrick’s Heating & Air Conditioning

415.456.9790

lic. 372478 A,C27

The Land Collaborative

A,C12,B,C8,C21,C42

craford.com

415.447.4800

lic. 954204 C27

707.763.2407

lic. 371959 C20

baumanland.com

415.472.5500

wkmclellan.com

415.457.0607

W.K. McLellan Company lic. 240701

Salazar Cal Cities lic. 820057 C27

Don Ramatici Insurance, Inc.

Bortolussi & Watkin, Inc.

thelandcollaborative.com

LATHING & PLASTERING

W.R. Forde Associates

Kelly Company

707.782.9200

lic. 962905 C27

lic. 814744 A,B,C21

lic. 521529 C20

ramaticiins.com

415.453.4675

510.215.9338

415.258.0757

Ongaro & Sons

George Petersen Insurance Agency

Dan Fix Landscape Construction

Frey Plastering, Inc.

Westward Builders Inc. lic. 327365 B,A

lic. 215233 C36,C4,C20

707.360.4117

lic. 553804 C27

415.897.4510

415.459.2130

415.454.7400

gpins.com

415.453.1604

ongaroandsons.com Wildcat Engineering

danfixlandscape.com

lic. 951203 A

Patriot Mechanical Inc.

Heffernan Insurance Brokers

707.763.3001

lic. 774738 C20,C43

wildcateng.com

415.444.0888

lic. 324866 C9,C35

Weber Plastering, Inc. lic. 194445 C35 415.459.4707

707.789.3072

Efrain’s Landscape Construction

heffins.com

lic. 785310 C27

LEGAL

415.472.2496

HEATING, AIR CONDITIONING & SHEET METAL

Simpson Sheet Metal, Inc.

Herb Moran

lic. 416913 C20,C43

415.613.5770

707.576.1500

simpsonsheetmetal.com Aaero Heating & Sheetmetal

Trahan Bros. Inc.

lic. 278370 C20,C43

lic. 774154 C20,C43

415.897.4187

J.B. Shea Insurance Agency

efrainslandscape.com

Flynn, Riley, Bailey & Pasek, LLP

Forster & Kroeger Landscape Maintenance

415.461.1000

flynn-williams.com

lic. 748791 C27

H. Lee Evans

415.661.4777

415.456.6684

415.457.5541

John Reuscher, ChFC Foothill Securities

Frank Bidaurreta Landscape Contractor

Hanson Bridgett LLP

Verde Metals Inc.

415.892.9500

lic. 446356 C8,C27

415.925.8400

lic. 635429 C43,C20

reuscher.com

415.459.6429

hansonbridgett.com

aeroheating.com

707.996.9238

415.454.9007

74 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

marinba.org/directory

HOME RESOURCE GUIDE James D. Rohde

DHC Supplies Inc. 707.588.9406

London Chimney Services, Inc.

Pacific Gas & Electric

415.472.4140

415.264.4005

Novato Chamber of Commerce

dhcsupplies.com

lic. 500490 D34

pge.com

415.897.1164

PG&E

Redwood Empire Chapter

209.932.2518

707.765.1050

pge.com

necanet.org

415.519.2510

Ross Valley Maintenance and Supply

San Rafael Chamber of Commerce

415.939.1669

415.454.4163

MOVING & STORAGE

Sheet Metal Workers Local 104

Kate Warner; Construction Lawyer

415.380.0330

Fairfax Lumber & Hardware Company

londonchimney.com

lic. CA BAR 112167 415.457.7977

415.453.4410

Marshall Foster Masonry

katewarnerlaw.com

fairfaxlumber.com

lic. 277004 C29

Law Office of Daniel Gamer

Golden State Lumber Inc. 415.454.2532

Petty Masonry Inc.

415.472.6655

goldenstatelumber.com

lic. 416140 C29

Mark J. Rice, Esq. 415.472.3434

Goodman Building Supply

msrwlaw.com

415.388.6233

415.898.2200

McLennon Law Corporation

goodmanbuildingsupply. com

Spoor Masonry & Tile, Inc.

Farnsworth Mayflower

lic. 387721 C54

415.459.6683

415.457.3321

farnsworthmayflowermoving.com

spoorstone.com

415.394.6688

Jackson’s Hardware, Inc.

mclennonlaw.com

415.454.3740

Castaneda Iron Works

Ferguson Safety Products

415.924.7144

lic. 964236 C23

Marin Building Supply

831.458.0202

fordestorage.com

510.234.4734

415.472.1410

fergusonsafety.com

The Garber Law Firm garberlaw.com The Nelson Defense Firm

Mead Clark Lumber Co., Inc.

Post Street Occupational Medicine

707.576.3333

415.945.1304

meadclark.com

poststreetoccmed.com

415.388.4606

nelsondefense.com

Rafael Lumber Company

castanedairon.com

NEWSPAPER PUBLISHING

Onspot Welding & Design, Inc.

Marin Independent Journal

lic. 620205 C60

415.382.7297

onspotwelding.com

415.382.1091

MISCELLANEOUS

marinij.com

Energy Calc Company

ORGANIZATIONS

Sun Iron Works, Inc.

415.453.3043

LOCK & SECURITY Marin Lock and Safe lic. 550775 D16

ORNAMENTAL & STRUCTURAL STEEL

Forde’s Larkspur Self Storage

Parton/Sell/Rhoades

510.588.7550

smw104.org

MEDICAL - SAFETY

jacksonshardware.com 415.258.9700

707.763.6676

MASONRY, FIREPLACES & CHIMNEYS

415.457.0990

energycalcco.com

415.453.7562

Carpenters Local #35

sunironworksinc.com

415.453.9236

Gary Frugoli

415.456.4346

lic. 231854 C60,C51

PAINTING, DECORATING, & WATERPROOFING

415.717.1160

Redwood Security Systems, Inc.

Bay Heritage Home Improvement, Inc. dba Hearth & Home of Marin

Marin City Community Development

Indian Valley Golf Club

415.339.2837

lic. 426887 C7,C10

lic. 827357 B,C33,D34

415.897.1118

marincitycdc.org

415.388.5355

415.479.2876

ivgc.com

Anello Painting and Construction

redwoodsecurity.com

hearthandhomeofmarin. com

Marin Country Club

lic. 619941 C33, B

Lynch & Sons

415.382.6712

415.892.8989

415.459.9823

marincountryclub.com

anellopainting.com

Manuel Vasquez Landscaping

North Bay NARI

Bob Kunst Painting, Inc.

415.258.2873

lic. 346191 C33

415.499.0419

northbaynari.org

415.457.0100

LUMBER, HARDWARE, & TOOLS

Jim Nichelini Masonry lic. 302025 B,C29 415.897.7543

Adobe Lumber, Inc. 707.647.2100

Joe J. Pedroli & Son, Inc.

adobelumber.com

lic. 396345 C29

bobkunstpainting.com

415.459.6475

marinba.org/directory

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 75

HOME RESOURCE GUIDE PLAYGROUNDS

Grier Argall Plumbing, Inc.

415.479.7773

Community Playgrounds, Inc.

lic. 736901 C36

lic. 362950 A,D34

lic. 550449 C33

Perpetual Motion Painting, Inc.

415.892.8100

Hardiman Construction

415.898.3452

lic. 659640 C33

communityplaygrounds. com

lic. 611970 A

PLUMBING & FIRE PROTECTION

Harry Lee Plumbing

Boeck & Associates Painting Company

J&R Thompson, Inc.

Pallavicini Painting

lic. 736414 C33

lic. 722069 C33

lic. 531284 C33

415.892.6030

J.B. Markel Painting

415.491.1702

boeckpaint.com Bouche Painting lic. 937683 C33 415.933.2677

bouchepainting.com

415.897.8974

Jerry Thompson & Sons Painting, Inc.

perpetualmotionpainting. com

lic. 684610 C33,B

Brescia-Stone Painting, Inc.

415.457.0748

415.847.0010

lic. 430685 C36

415.454.1500

Robert Walther Painting

jtspainting.com

lic. 910245 C33

ASAP Plumbing, Inc.

415.482.6679

lic. 676623 C36

Marin Mechanical, Inc.

415.492.8769

lic. 749299

lic. 830454 C33

415.479.1854

415.898.0388

John Seidler Painting

bsptg.com

lic. 699739 C33

Ross Painting

415.328.0069

lic. 526659 C33

B&W Plumbing, LLC

415.455.0766

lic. 411936 C36

rosspainting.com

415.868.9641

707.795.4955

Sequoia Painting Inc.

Baswell Plumbing

415.479.0110

kbipaint.com

lic. 859331 C33

lic. 433698 C36

miketestaplumbing.com

415.310.1269

415.897.7977

Kelly-Moore Paint Co., Inc.

Tamalpais Paint & Color

Burkell Plumbing, Inc.

lic. 983208 B, C20, C36

415.897.5151

415.924.7321

lic. 417360

415.578.2172

DeGregory Painting and Decorating

kellymoore.com

tamalpaispaint.com

C16,C36,C4,C20

oconnellplumbing.com

lic. 576764 C33,B

Kunst Bros. Painting Contractors, Inc.

Tim Kerrigan Painting

lic. 256121 C33

415.898.4911

Cap’s Painting Company lic. 430041 C33

KBI Painting, Inc.

415.243.8242

lic. 944475 C33

David Freeman Painting lic. 503987 C33 707.996.3199

davidfreemanpainting.com

415.456.9889

C36,C4,A,C46,B 415.485.4472

Mike Testa Plumbing, Inc. lic. 519618 C36,C16

O’Connell Plumbing

415.332.3091

burkell.com

lic. 715319 C33

Pace Supply 415.454.8282

City Front Plumbing

pacesupply.com

Division 7

415.456.4044

lic. 594303 B,C33

kunstbros.com

Universal Protective Coatings

415.454.6737

Pedro Femenia & Sons, Inc.

Marin Color Service, Inc.

415.457.9800

universalprotectivecoatings.com

Denny’s House of Plumbing

lic. 392227

415.453.4065

lic. 504967 C36

415.383.7473

707.769.7771

division7waterproofing.com Gaidano & Sons Painting & Decorating

marincolor.com

lic. 833585 B,C33

Mikkelsen Painting

415.482.6055

lic. 645552 C33

gaidanopainting.com

415.382.3300

Giampolini & Company

lic. 443156 C36

415.479.1655

PEST CONTROL

Ferguson 415.924.3200

North Marin Painting, Inc.

lic. 920570 B

415.673.1236

lic. 702759 C33,B

marintermite.com

lic. 650541 C33

Naturworks Pest Control

Pac West Painting Inc.

grantpainting.com

lic. 460208 C36

R.H. Hydronics lic. 951610 C4

Fire Technologies

415.250.8133

lic. 570216 C16,C36

greenheating.us

415.457.6805

Roman’s Plumbing

415.460.6900

415.458.2956

Plumbing Repair Specialists 415.453.6682

415.456.9620

415.892.0199

northmarinpainting.com

dennyshouseofplumbing. com

Marin Termite Control Co. Inc.

lic. 322282 C33,C35,C9

Grant Painting

C4,C16,C20,C36

lic. 952842 C36

lic. 848109 C33,B

Gotelli Plumbing Company

415.457.0724

lic. 254603 C36,C16

romansplumbing.net

707.971.0353

415.457.1145

gotelliplumbing.com

76 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

marinba.org/directory

HOME RESOURCE GUIDE Roto-Rooter Plumbers lic. 288461 C36,C42 415.898.2700

rotorooter.com Roy’s Sewer Service, Inc.

REAL ESTATE, PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT

Samsons Enterprises

McLeran, Inc.

Davis Sign Company, Inc.

415.883.5527

lic. 474230 C39

lic. 831319 D42

415.456.7663

415.457.4091

Seadrift Realty

dscsigns.com

415.868.1791

Morris Roofing Company lic. 259426 C39

Ares Commercial Properties

seadriftrealty.com

lic. 491815 C42 415.892.5480

415.899.1590

Vincent Sheehan / Remax Vision

morris-roofing.com

Rubenstein Supply Company

Cal Pox, Inc.

BRE 00572798

415.457.8850

415.899.9990

Northbay Roofing & Gutters, Inc.

therightbroker.com

lic. 834387 C43,C39

415.454.1174

rubensteinsupply.com

Caro Asset Management, Inc.

Todd Morris Fire Protection

415.899.1500

lic. 978422 C16

Carol Munson / Alain Pinel

415.454.7919

toddmorrisfireprotection. com

DRE 02046676 415.286.0120

SOLAR

415.454.6066

RGS Energy lic. 976876 C46, B 415.295.4950

rgsenergy.com

707.529.7774

Solarcraft

Wendy Aronson Property Management

northbayroofinggutters.com

lic. 497797 B,C10,C46,

415.730.4455

Northern Pacific Roofing

415.382.7717

lic. 812250 C39,B

solarcraft.com

RENTAL, EQUIPMENT & EVENTS

C35

415.456.3482

northernpacficroofing.com

Sun First, Inc. lic. 669250 B,C46

Steve Janney Roofing, Inc.

415.458.5870

Big 4 Party Rentals

lic. 511545 C39,C33

sunfirstsolar.com

415.258.9676

apr.com Water Components & Building Supply, Inc.

DMH Land Use Planning

415.927.9100

415.451.1780

415.457.0525

big4party.com

STAFFING & HUMAN RESOURCES

Cal-West Rentals Inc.

Wilson’s Plumbing

Hendrickson Development Inc.

Superior Roofing & Gutter Co.

707.763.5665

lic. 956499 B,C39

CLP Resources, Inc.

lic. 623217 C36

415.507.0752

calwestrentals.com

415.491.1144

415.446.7000

roofingmarin.com

clp.com

watercomponents.com

415.457.6941

wilsonsplumbing.info

Jeremy Forcier Guaranteed Rate Mortgage

ROOFING Wedge Roofing, Inc.

Larry C. Levy, Consultant

PRINTING

707.789.9023

Allied Building Products

lic. 416737 C39,C2,C43,B

415.892.1497

707.584.7599

888.763.7663

Unicorn Group

guaranteedrate.com/ jeremyforcier

alliedbuilding.com

wedgeroofing.com

employeerelationsmanagement.com

MacPhail Properties, Inc.

Brandon Riedel Roofing

SCAFFOLDING

SWIMMING POOL

415.482.1604

lic. 878480 C39

M.J. Buttler Incorporated lic. 674446 B,D39

Herb’s Pool Service & Construction, Inc.

415.457.3917

lic. 273969 D35

415.492.2222

unicornprintmail.com

PROPANE & BUTANE De Carli’s Petaluma Butane Distributor

415.320.0647

Melissa Bradley Real Estate

De Mello Roofing

415.531.3567

lic. 290726 C39,D41

bradleyrealestate.com

415.456.0741

demelloroofing.com

707.762.4511

Nancy M. Marion McPhail Fuel Co.

415.485.3760

herbspoolservice.com

TILE & STONE

Henris Roofing Company lic. 220964 C39

Bruce Enterprises

Ceramic Tile Design

Rockport Land Corp.

707.763.1535

lic. 742358 C32

415.485.5180

707.775.4554

henrisroofing.com

707.781.9686

ceramictiledesign.net

707.285.3525

mcphails.com

415.479.4040

SIGNAGE & PARKING AREA STRIPING

bruce-enterprises.com RPM Mortgage

Herb Dorzynski/Johns Manville

CTW Designs

415.381.5550

rpm-mtg.com/dpomilia

925.301.5535

ctwdesigns.com

415.883.8861

jm.com

marinba.org/directory

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 77

HOME RESOURCE GUIDE Galliani Tile Company lic. 651146 B,C54

Pat Lepe’ Custom Interior Sewing

Mueller Mirror & Glass Inc.

415.798.0388

415.883.8200

lic. 462285 C17

patlepedesign.com

415.492.0234

415.451.6150

Shades of Marin

Novato Glass, Inc.

italics-stone.com

lic. 831573 D52

lic. 371442 C17

415.453.1518

415.897.5117

Italics

London Tile

shadesofmarin.com Old Town Glass

lic. 540433 C54

WINDOWS, GLAZING, & DOORS

lic. 736844 C17

Pacific Door & Hardware

415.482.8453

Andersen Windows & Doors

miconi.com

415.613.5955

707.773.3666

andersenwindows.com

pacdoor.net

Bergy Door & Window Company

Pacific Door Products, Inc.

707.584.7200

lic. 443074 D24

bergydoor.com

707.795.7777

415.389.0408

londontileco.com

otglass.com

lic. 509661 D28,C17

MLS Tile lic. 602910 C54 707.584.5476

Radiant Way Incorporated

pacificdoorproducts.com

415.839.6470

radiantwayinc.com

lic. 225824 C17

RD Enterprises

415.479.1274

415.258.0114

lic. 551058 C54

dottoglass.com

rdenterprises.biz

Glass & Sash Inc. lic. 173807 C17

West Coast Professional Door, Inc.

415.456.2240

415.246.2034

glassandsash.com

wcprodoor.com

Hudson Street Design of Marin

Window Worx

415.472.7105

marintrees.com

415.924.8300

415.451.4856

415.382.7550

TREE SERVICE

STATE Contractors State Licence Board www.cslb.ca.gov/

COUNTY OF MARIN www.marincounty.org/

CITIES & TOWNS www.cityofbelvedere.org www.ci.corte-madera.ca.us www.town-of-fairfax.org

Marin Tree Service lic. 648230 D49

U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD

Dotto Glass

Tile West

tilewestinc.com

FEDERAL

415.897.0088

Miconi Marble & Tile lic. 604588 C54

Additional Resources

lic. 758998 C17

www.ci.larkspur.ca.us www.cityofmillvalley.org www.ci.novato.ca.us www.townofsananselmo.org www.cityofsanrafael.org

healdsburglumber.com

www.townofross.org

Marvin and Integrity Windows and Doors

www.ci.sausalito.ca.us

lic. 660226 D49 415.455.9933

925.286.0841

treemasters.com

bmdusa.com

WINDOW COVERINGS

McGovern Skylight Specialist

Treemasters Tree and Garden Care

www.ci.tiburon.ca.us

lic. 721229 B

Horizon Glass Tinting

707.292.4570

lic. 570209 C61,D52 415.457.2173

Mission Wood Products

horizontint.com

415.472.2280

missionwood.com

78 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

marinba.org/directory

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Before Hiring A Contractor

The Quick Facts

Financial Information •

Don’t pay in cash.

•

Stick to your schedule of payments and don’t let the payments get ahead of the completed work.

•

Contractors cannot ask for a deposit of more than 10% of the total cost of the job or $1,000, whichever is less.* (This goes for any home improvement project, including swimming pools.)

by CONTRACTORS STATE LICENSE BOARD Department of Consumer Affairs

A free telephone call to CSLB or a few clicks on its website can help you verify that your contractor’s license is in good standing and that he or she has the skills to complete your project.

Check Out the License By law, anyone in California who contracts for or bids on a construction project valued at $500 or more (total labor and materials) must be licensed by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). To qualify for a license, a contractor must verify four years of journey-level experience in the trade, pass both a trade and license law examination, and post a license bond.

Since 2005, all new contractors are required to pass a background investigation that includes a criminal background check. Contractors are required, by law, to put their CSLB license number in all advertisements.

Unlicensed operators are required to say they are not state-licensed in their advertisements.

•

•

•

Ask to see the contractor’s plastic pocket license and photo identification.

Verify the license and make sure it is in good standing by visiting the CSLB website: www.cslb.ca.gov or by calling CSLB’s toll-free automated line: 800.321.CSLB (2752).

Get at least three bids and ask for references on work the contractor has completed in the local area. View the contractor’s past projects in person.

Get It in Writing •

Make sure you have a written contract and don’t sign it until you fully understand the terms.

•

All changes to the contract, or “change orders,” need to be in writing and signed by both parties.

•

Keep a job file of all project papers and payments, and don’t make the final payment until you’re satisfied with the job.

•

Homeowners waive their three-day right to cancel if they sign a “service and repair contract,” which is different from a standard “home improvement contract.” (Service and repair contracts are usually for emergency repairs where the consumer initiated the contact and cannot wait.)

License History • •

If you want information about a contractor’s license history and pending or prior disciplinary actions, please call the appropriate CSLB Legal Action Disclosure telephone number: Northern Region: 916.255.4041 Southern Region: 562.345.7656

Complaint Forms If you have a complaint against a contractor, free forms are available at www.cslb.ca.gov or call 800.321.CSLB (2752) and ask for a copy of A Consumer Guide to Filing Construction Complaints and a complaint form.

* There is an exception to this rule for about two dozen contractors who have filed a blanket performance and payment bond with the Registrar. This information is noted on the contractor’s license detail page on CSLB’s website.

80 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

CONSTRUCTION PROJECT CHECKLIST 1.

Check the contractor license number at www.cslb.ca.gov to make sure it is current and in good standing.

2.

Ask to see the contractor’s pocket license and a current photo ID.

3.

Ask for a current list of contact information (telephone number and business address) for the contractor, subcontractors, and suppliers.

4.

Find out from your local building department whether your project needs a building permit, and confirm that your contractor will obtain all necessary permits.

5.

6.

Get at least three contractor bids and references, and check out, in person, recent projects by the prospective contractors that had similar specifications.

7.

Ask whether your contractor carries general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance for employees.

8.

Make sure all project materials and expectations are spelled out and signed in a written contract, including clean- up, debris removal, and site security. Ask your contractor if he or she understands exactly what you want.

9.

Have a timetable for each phase of your project and the corresponding payment schedule spelled out in the contract.

Do not let payments get ahead of the work.

10. Pay no more than 10% down or $1,000, whichever is less.* 11. Never pay in cash.

12. Keep all of your project documents, including payments, in a job file.

13. Try researching your contractor’s name online for additional reviews—but consider the source. Protect yourself from

unscrupulous or unlicensed contractors.

Protect yourself from unscrupulous or unlicensed contractors.

• •

• • •

Only hire state-licensed contractors.

Any contractor performing $500 worth of work or more (including materials and labor) must be licensed by CSLB to work in California.

Don’t rush into repairs, no matter how badly they may be needed.

Don’t hire the first contractor who comes along or be caught up in high-pressure sales tactics.

Ask to see the contractor’s “pocket license” or their representative’s “Home Improvement Salesperson” registra- tion. All contractors are issued pocket licenses that show the type of trade for which they are licensed, and the expiration date of the license. Ask to see a photo identification to confirm their identity.

MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 81

MEET A MEMBER

Painting Forward: John Busick of Bob Kunst Painting A father, philanthropist, and fifth-generation painter talks color trends and the family business. interview by Liz Savage / photography by Trevor Henley

Tell us about the biggest painting and color trends for this year.

2014 represents a “brighter” year. The largest trend in interior paint colors is in the coastal family. In fact, Benjamin Moore’s 2014 color of the year is “Breath of Fresh Air,” a light, beachy blue that they call “the new neutral.” Expect to see this color hit interior trims as well as other teals, sky blues, and seafoam greens. On the flip side, expect many exterior trims to be coated with a darker statement color—anything to bring in a dramatic contrast between the trim and the body.

Describe your home design style.

Classic contemporary meets traditional. My personal style— progressive sophistication, clean lines, and bold character— reflects who I am. That being said, my wife, Angi, has ultimate veto power on the home front! Luckily, we are usually on the same page.

Best place in Marin to take out-of-town guests?

I’m a water guy. On a clear day, ocean views from the top of Mt. Tam are a classic. And as a self-proclaimed beer connoisseur, I think Marin Brewing Company or Moylan’s for lunch are always good spots.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

Outside of being a fifth-generation painter, philanthropy runs in my blood. My grandfather, Bob Kunst, taught me at an early age to give back to the community that supports you. I am an active board member with Down Syndrome Association North Bay, where we promote self-advocacy, raise awareness, further educational pursuits, and support inclusion of individuals with Down syndrome and their families throughout the North Bay. These kids (and adults) continue to educate me in this classroom called “life,” and I am humbled.

82 S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 MARIN HOME

You completed an ironman triathlon. Was that the hardest thing you’ve ever done?

Physically, yes! The dedication it takes to prepare for a full ironman is exhausting just thinking about. However, watching my four-year-old son, Jack, battle leukemia has been the most difficult thing I’ve ever experienced, both mentally and emotionally. I am forever grateful for the tremendous support from family, BKP staff, and our amazing community.

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MARIN HOME S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 83

SPRING 2014

marinba.org

Marin Home is a quarterly publication published by Marin Builders Association

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