This article originally appeared on La Jolla Light.

Recent numbers show construction jobs on the rise after a long drought for the industry; and according to Bloomberg Buisnessweek, the boost is due to both discretionary remodeling on the part of homeowners and increased in “fix-up” work solicited by new buyers eager to customize their homes. With existing home sales up by 4.3% as of January 2012, the latter group is growing in size – leading to a renewed interest in solar power savings as one of the best renovation ideas on the horizon. While there are plenty of exciting options out there for individuals with an eye on home improvement, industry experts agree that solar power is the wave of the future. With incredible potential for environmental and economic savings alike, solar panels are a sure bet for budget and eco-friendly renovation this spring.

San Diego homeowners enjoy the rare benefit of (almost) year-around sunshine – and subsequently, a prime opportunity to reap the benefits of solar power. Thanks to high electricity costs and increasing environmental sensitivity, alternative energy sources are more important than ever before. With solar panels, homeowners can make a safe investment in sustainable energy that will eventually pay for itself while simultaneously reducing their carbon footprints and contributing to a more environmentally conscious society. In addition, Federal tax deductions offsetting up to 30% of solar panel system costs combined with customer rebates have made solar a truly affordable reality for conscientious San Diegans.

Sustainable initiatives and top-quality results for San Diego homeowners

Bloomberg projects a significant bounce-back for the home improvement industry this year – perhaps the best since 2006. And whether homeowners are looking to enhance their property for the sake of market appeal or to simply add comfort and convenience for themselves and their loved ones, solar power is a forward-thinking choice that will only continue to grow in both popularity and demand in the years to come.

At Murfey Construction, we believe that solar power is a responsible and economically sound way in which to reduce our dependence on conventional energy and help protect the environment while accruing significant financial savings over time; and thanks to our expertise in San Diego home renovations and remodeling, we can ensure efficient, effective and high-quality solar panel installation services and other sustainable upgrades for all our valued clients. To learn more or schedule a consultation to discuss solar power installation and cost savings, contact us today: www.murfeyconstruction.com.

This article originally appeared on La Jolla Light.

After decades of defining high-end real estate in terms of size and scale, today’s affluent homeowners are becoming increasingly attracted to the lure of so-called “sensibly sized” housing, according to a report published in Forbes magazine. By trading in sprawling estates for smaller spaces, individuals can enjoy not only a more sociable living environment and increased energy and utilities savings, but a boost in discretionary income for custom renovations, remodels and interior design elements as well. This trend, known as luxury downsizing, is especially popular among empty nesters who find themselves ready to shake off the responsibilities of maintaining a large home without compromising their current standard of living; and it opens up a new realm of creative possibility for those who have always dreamed of expressing their unique style and taste or indulging their desire for technological efficiency through the amenities and design elements of their home.

When it comes to defining the little luxuries that make a house feel like a dream home, everyone has a different vision. For some, it means saving as much money as possible for travel – and therefore remodeling their home to be as cost-conscious and energy-efficient as possible with features like solar panels and Energy Star certified appliances. For others, it means achieving a high-style design aesthetic to create an oasis of color, light and individual character. And then there are those for whom luxury is all about the latest technology: sleek designs, high-quality entertainment and sound systems, and even a “Smart Home” application that allows homeowners to automate and control every mechanical and electrical system in their home remotely. From turning on the Jacuzzi and dimming the lights with a touch of a smart phone to monitoring streaming live security camera footage of the driveway from a tablet, automation technology is a reality for today’s homeowners – and just one of the countless options available in the realm of remodeling ideas and visions for the future.

Blending high-end style, technological savvy and proven experience for excellence in consulting and project management

Baby boomers in the process of downsizing may revel in designing a home made to suit their own needs and tastes, as opposed to those of their adult children; but at the same time, they may also wish to keep up with the technological times and enjoy the advantages of home automation features, remote-control lighting and blinds, streaming surveillance videos and other contemporary conveniences of the digital age.

At Murfey Construction, our breadth of experience ensures the smooth incorporation of such features into design plans in conjunction with key aesthetic considerations throughout the home. With expertise that runs the gamut from consulting to design to full project management and construction, as well as a background in high-end commercial and residential projects fitted with the latest technology, our team can guarantee a flexible, streamlined and top-quality process for outstanding custom results.

To learn more and begin giving shape to your remodeling visions, contact our skilled team of La Jolla contractors today: www.murfeyconstruction.com.

This article originally appeared on La Jolla Light.

Business is looking up for the residential construction sector, according to recent data from the Wall Street Journal; and with spending up by 1.8% as of November 2011, there would appear to be new momentum behind residential building projects moving into the New Year. With an eye to the hottest design and home remodeling trends of 2012, the timing couldn’t be better – and this year, homeowners looking to make a change for greater sustainability, energy efficiency, cost savings or personal luxury will have plenty of exciting options and inspirations to choose from.

Regardless of your motivation – whether it stems primarily from a desire to save money, preserve the environment, or simply keep up with one of the most popular homeowner trends of the year – going green is a great way to refresh your home and stay ahead of the curve when it comes to crafting a desirable, modern and energy-efficient space. From upgrading to Energy Star rated appliances, adding insulation and replacing old single-pane windows with dual panes for added utilities savings, to revamping a kitchen or bathroom with reclaimed or recycled wood, tile and fixtures, switching over to sustainable products presents countless remodeling options for the conscientious consumer. And while you’re at it, why not incorporate some of the year’s top aesthetic considerations into your design plan? Kitchen remodels are one of the most consistently popular projects from year to year; and according to industry sources, the ultimate 2012 kitchen makeover will included features such as:

• Concealed appliances (such as steam ovens or built-in coffee centers)
• Maple cabinetry in either natural wood or colorful painted finishes
• Appliances in trendy colors like black, beige, gray or cream
• Custom countertops in renewable materials
• Accent lighting to illuminate sleek designs and subtle colors

If your remodeling dreams extend beyond the kitchen, consider incorporating the green-living trend in the form of fresh flooring, such as bamboo or reclaimed wood or tile. Backyard and pool remodels will also add greatly to quality of life in your home year-around, thanks to San Diego’s signature sunny weather; and for a permanent vacation destination only steps away from your living room, consider making this the year that you finally add that long-desired deck, outdoor kitchen or sun room – and create a home that truly represents and complements your unique taste and lifestyle.

Customized contracting and experienced consulting with seasoned San Diego construction experts

Home remodeling trends are a great resource when it comes to getting ideas to refresh and renew your living environment. But at Murfey Construction, we understand that ultimately, your home is about you – and that any and all design, construction and remodeling projects should be customized to suit your individual vision, regardless of the current trends or status quo. Our La Jolla construction experts offer specialized residential construction and remodeling services to fit each client project: no idea is too big or too small, and our team can provide as much or as little guidance and hands-on work as is required to get the job done right. Whether you’re looking for someone to simply help you select and install energy-saving appliances, or are on the hunt for a talented consultant to help you plan and execute the construction of your dream home, Murfey Construction offers the unparalleled work quality and individual attention you deserve. To learn more or get in touch, visit us online today: www.murfeyconstruction.com.