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This article originally appeared on San Diego Community Newspaper Group.

After languishing on the market for the last two years, the old Union 76 gas station property at Ingraham Street and La Playa Avenue in Crown Point is under development. Rising from the site is The Point at Ingraham, a high-end, urban-design, mixed-use project.

At three stories, the apartments and commercial space that will add up to 35,000 square feet will house 21 apartments and 2,266 square feet of retail space, possibly with a café and drycleaners. The lot, which measures 22,500 square feet, will include 45 parking spaces behind the building, plus room for bicycles inside and out.

Brothers Russell and Scott Murfey, native San Diegans who live in Pacific Beach and who have an office kitty corner to the project, are the developers under their Veritas Urban Properties through Murfey Construction. The Murfeys bought the property from Loma La Jolla LLC for $1.2 million.

The Point will include nine two-bedroom apartments, 11 one-bedrooms and one studio. The Murfeys haven’t firmed up any deals for the commercial space, but they said there has been “quite a bit of interest.” The goal is to be finished with the project by the end of this year.

“I believe Pacific Beach needs higher-quality apartment buildings,” said Russell Murfey. “We’re excited to bring this product to the market because it’s different from anything out there.”

He said the current trend in Pacific Beach is for young people to come and enjoy the benefits of the beach for awhile and then leave, because there are not enough high-quality rentals.

“We believe there’s room for hard-working people who want to stay in PB,” said Russell Murfey.

He sees his renters as Generation Y, who are out of school with well-paying first or second jobs, maybe with children, looking for good, entry-level housing.

The brothers, who have built other mixed-use products around San Diego, currently are also building a 4,000-square-foot home on the water in La Jolla Shores.

Murfey said The Point apartment rates will be competitive with nearby complexes, including Avalon at Mission Bay next door, and the new apartments will include such luxury aspects like hard-surface countertops and European cabinetry and 18-foot ceilings in the commercial space.

Murfey said neighbors have been enthusiastic.

Joe Splendorio, bar manager at Rocky’s Crown Pub, kitty corner to the project, said he believes the project will help business “if there’s no retail.” He’s also a bit worried about parking.

Sal Yacoub, owner of the VP Racing gas station across the street, also sees advantages.

“It’s going to be better than it is now,” he said.

But he, too, worries about parking for the new businesses and traffic from the new project’ exits, even though he concedes many customers will be walking anyway. Being a businessman, Yacoub said he’s negotiating on renting a space in the complex for a food court.

Murfey said neighbors shouldn’t worry about parking issues.

“There are plenty of parking spaces; one per bedroom, three for guests and 13 for commercial,” he said. “That’s more than required by city code. We pulled the retail back from the corner with an outdoor patio and a seat-wall as a public amenity for social gatherings.”

Murfey described himself and his brother as locals who want to do the right thing.

“PB has a lot of room to grow into an incredible beach area that’s not just for college kids,” he said “… We’re part of the community and want to be cohesive with Crown Point and Pacific Beach, including our neighbors.”

This article originally appeared on La Jolla Light.

In many parts of the country, home repairs and remodeling activities are relegated to the warmer spring and summer months. But here in La Jolla, home remodel projects can take place at any time of year. As we move into the New Year, many folks will be planning enhancements to their homes – either to improve resale value, or simply to improve their own quality of life. In both cases, so-called curb appeal renovations can be a great place to start. From simple touches like fresh paint and new hardware to signature upgrades for the yard and garden, a talented contractor can take any home and give it a fresh, appealing look.

According to a recent Fox News report, curb appeal is crucial when it comes to making a first impression – on potential buyers, but also on guests and visitors to your home. The average person forms a first impression within seven to ten seconds; and that means, no matter how beautiful your home is on the inside, it’s the little things on the exterior – the landscaping, driveway, façade, front door, window boxes, shutters – that count. Of course, exterior enhancements can also be a great way to customize your home to fit your lifestyle. Thanks to our sunny year-round weather, many homeowners enjoy outdoor living, making upgrades like barbeques, outdoor fireplaces, spas or light fixtures an ideal way to expand living space and create a private getaway right in your own backyard.

For those considering selling their homes in 2013, the key to curb appeal is simple: repair, refresh, refine. Make a checklist and run through the areas of your home’s exterior likely to come under initial scrutiny. Is the yard neatly trimmed and edged? Do you have some degree of landscaping, and is it in good condition? Are the driveway and front walk in good repair? And of course, look at the façade of the house and consider whether or not new paint is in order, or if fresh trim, shutters or window boxes might give your home a “facelift.” Painting the door and replacing the hardware can work wonders, and a bright color that really pops can add character and interest to an otherwise neutral exterior.

Of course, if you’re looking to settle into your home as opposed to selling it, then these curb appeal renovations can lean a little more heavily towards your own personal taste – and also, towards your practical needs. Perhaps its time to make less glamorous repairs to gutters and downspouts; or perhaps you’ve decided to finally spring for that new barbeque and patio remodel you’ve always wanted. Consider the backyard an extension of your home, and put the same care and attention to detail into your plans as you would for any other room in the house. From fireplaces and spas to bars and televisions, the sky’s the limit. Get started by brainstorming your ideas with an experienced custom builder, and get ready to start living your best life in your home.

For more information about custom remodels in La Jolla, or to discuss any type of home improvement project with a La Jolla general contractor, contact us at Murfey Construction today. For details, visit www.murfeyconstruction.com

This article originally appeared on La Jolla Light.

With a new year on it’s way, now is the perfect time to get inspired ideas for healthier, happier, more vibrant living. Bring serenity and beauty into your life by taking time to relax from the pressures of daily life – and consider incorporating that same serenity into your home through custom bathroom remodel designs. Turn the master bath into a sanctuary, a retreat from the world distinguished with health-boosting amenities, streamlined appliances, open spaces, cozy accents and elements from nature. From little luxuries like towel warmers and heated toilet seats for the winter months to architectural innovations like steam rooms, European frameless showers and radiant heated floors, today’s bathroom remodeling trends are all about optimal aesthetics, added comfort and a refreshing escape from the mundane.

Full-scale remodeling: transform your space for a spa-like experience

Think of the health benefits we reap every time we get away for a much-deserved vacation: the slower pace of life, soothing sounds of running water, sunshine, warmth, spas and saunas…all wrapped up with the trappings of a elegant resort. Now imagine bringing that same elegance, relaxation, light and warmth into your own master bathroom. With help from a talented and experienced contractor, you can create the ideal environment – one in which heat radiates from the floors for an all-around cozy feeling, while multiple windows and frameless glass showers create a sense of openness and make room for multiple shower valves. Add a specialty stand-alone bathtub for a sophisticated touch, or a steam room for ultimate relaxation and health after a long day at work. No matter which fixtures you choose, you can create a customized spa feel to suite your needs and tastes – and enjoy a mini-vacation any time you choose.

Small tweaks and finishing touches: elevate your style with color and texture

Whether you go for a full-scale remodel or a simple design spruce, there are plenty of ways to add custom style to your space. Homeowners looking for a distinctive textures and materials might consider concrete or marble countertops, teak or tile flooring and wall tile crafted from reclaimed glass or even subway tiles – a chic trend that lends the perfect backdrop for vintage fixtures. Add a furniture-inspired touch to bathroom walls with framed mirrors, or take advantage of the comfort-driven innovations with heated toilet seats and tankless water heaters. Finally, play with color: determine whether your personal spa bathroom looks best in white and chrome, earth tones and neutrals or shocks of bright color.

To learn more about bathroom remodeling ideas, or to discuss your plans with an experienced contractor, get in touch with us here at Murfey Construction today. Our construction company in La Jolla specializes in all stages of residential remodeling, from interior design consulting to full project execution. Learn more online, at www.murfeyconstruction.com.

This article originally appeared on La Jolla Light.

Financial analysts have high hopes for the home improvement industry moving into 2013, according to a recent report from the Wall Street Journal. Notable growth in remodeling and construction spending over the last few months has led to the anticipation of still greater profits moving into the New Year. In addition, the National Association of Home Builders released a report in late October showing a five-point increase in the third quarter Remodeling Market Index – evidence of rising demand among consumers for remodeling and construction jobs.

These latest figures come after a report released earlier last month from Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies suggesting the potential for double-digit home improvement spending increases over the first half of 2013. Based on the center’s LIRA (Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity) projections, homeowners are expected to boost spending for an annual rate increase from $115.1 billion to $134.2 billion. The LIRA data is derived from analysis of combined indicators including “housing starts, pending home sales, residential remodeling employment figures” and other consumer trends – and spells good news for those in the home construction and remodeling industry.

But what do these numbers mean for homeowners?

Stay current and spruce up your space with home improvements for the New Year

Rising consumer interest in home remodeling and construction projects carries a number of possible implications for homeowners. For some, remodeling is an alternative to move-up real estate purchases; for others, it is a means of preparing a current home for sale. But on both ends of the spectrum, increased home improvement spending signals rising optimism among homeowners nationwide – optimism that stands to benefit the economy, reinvigorate the home building industry and add value to local real estate markets.

Whether you fall into the settled homeowner category or plan to make 2013 the year you finally spring for a new home, now is the perfect time to start planning your remodeling agenda. Seize the opportunity to finish a quick spruce-up job before the holidays, or start preparing now for bigger jobs that can be completed without interruption after the New Year.

From bathrooms and kitchens to add-ons, backyards and technological upgrades, Murfey Construction is the ideal choice for home remodeling in La Jolla. We offer a range of services customized to suit your needs, all while providing exceptional quality, experience and customer service to San Diego homeowners. To learn more, or to schedule a consultation to discuss your next remodeling project, contact us online today. Visit www.murfeyconstruction.com.

This article originally appeared on La Jolla Light.

Last month, we discussed the many ways in which San Diego homeowners can combine custom goods and services for a successful kitchen remodel. Now, the latest remodeling trends suggest that 2012 may be a big year for luxury remodeling projects across the board. From new kitchens to full-scale renovations, homeowners polled in the Fall 2012 Remodeling Sentiment Report from RemodelOrMove.com indicated an interest in more expensive products and projects of significantly greater scope than in years past. As the housing market continues to improve, buoyed by stronger stock market numbers and historically low interest rates, homeowners appear ready to tackle long-deferred home improvements. And while high-quality products are always a smart investment, it is important to remember that an experienced contractor is every homeowner’s best insurance for a successful remodeling experience.

Recent coverage of the Fall 2012 Remodeling Sentiment Report indicates a number of highlights from the survey, with homeowners’ apparent preference for more luxurious home products leading the way among this year’s “noteworthy” trends. Evidence of this consumer shift appears in a variety of sectors, including the number of homeowners who claim to be using “expensive” products (at its highest rate since 2008), projected costs for remodeling ventures (coming in at an average estimate of $100,000), the scale of these ventures (encompassing an average of at least three rooms) and the number of respondents planning to hire a contractor (coming to 73%, the highest rate since 2006).

Other factors indicating the consumer shift toward luxury remodeling projects include a focus on kitchen remodeling — considered by most to be an inessential project as compared to necessary bathroom remodels or additions – and also a simple increase in the number of wealthy homeowners planning home improvements in the coming months. Considered together, these factors suggest that, for some homeowners, a high-end remodel may serve as an alternative to purchasing a new home. For those who love their current home or neighborhood, but still want to add a personal touch or additional space to the property, remodeling is an ideal choice. All it takes is some smart planning and the help of an experienced contractor to offer advice and assistance transforming a homeowner’s vision into reality.

At Murfey Construction, we pride ourselves on providing top quality construction and contracting services to help our San Diego clients create the homes of their dreams. From basic consulting to design/plan work to full-scale execution and construction, our experienced team is your one-stop source for remodeling projects of every size and scope. To find out more about top trending home products and services, or to discuss a project with our team, get in touch today: visit www.murfeyconstruction.com.

This article originally appeared on La Jolla Light.

With fall in the air and the kids back in school, now is the ideal time to begin planning your 2013 kitchen remodel. Kitchen design trends can range from elegant to artistic to downright space-age: but above all, a good remodel should be about functional space planning and organization combined with the styles and textures that express your individual aesthetic. With so many ideas and options to choose from, redesigning the kitchen may seem overwhelming. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you get started – and to give you an idea of how to prioritize for a kitchen that is at once beautiful, comfortable, functional and built to last.

First, determine the major appliances you want in your new kitchen, and use these as the basis for the rest of your design plans. Ranges, cook tops and ovens come in all different shapes, sizes and brands, and can be sourced from a wide variety of different countries, many of which have a signature style all their own. If you are considering a splurge on anything in your kitchen, make it the stove: as something you use every day, the stove should be top-quality and designed to suit your ideal specifications. From there, look into other appliances – everything from built-in dishwashers, refrigerators and freezers to wine coolers, warming drawers, fridge and freezer draws and espresso makers for a unique touch. Adding wood cabinetry panels to your refrigerator, freezer, and dishwasher can help larger appliances fit in with custom woodwork if you choose custom cabinetry, while any number of options for the sink – single bowl, double bowl, stainless steel, porcelain, copper, farm style – can compliment these choices and tie the whole space together.

Next, consider organizational touches to suit your lifestyle. Today’s modern pullout Lazy Susans provide much more accessibility to tight corners, while appliance garages are a clever solution for storing small appliances out of sight. Pullout shelving is a smart idea for the pantry, making it easier to access stored goods and maximize storage in tight spaces.

Finally, have fun with aesthetics. Wood, granite and marble countertops can be blended together for a beautiful custom look. For example, consider a neat butcher block for the island and a stunning marble or soapstone countertop for contrast. European hoods provide a distinctive look above the stove, while an exotic backsplash below is the perfect vehicle for expressing your creativity and adding a visual centerpiece to the space. Top it off with versatile pendant lighting for added flair, and consider LED under-cabinet lighting for a lifetime of cool temperature lit workspace.

If you’re working with a limited budget, keep in mind that it is easy to re-skin existing cabinet boxes for an updated look, and to find good deals on wooden countertops at popular retailers like Ikea. And whatever your price range, remember to maintain a triangle between the refrigerator, sink and range for good feng shui.

Make your vision a reality with help from the experts at Murfey Construction

Grab some home design magazines and create a binder of looks and styles you like. And once you get the design figured out, put your vision to work with help from an experienced builder and get the job done! For more information about San Diego kitchen remodeling resources, contact us at Murfey Construction today. Visit www.murfeyconstruction.com.

This article originally appeared on La Jolla Light.

Scott Murfey began learning the construction business as a young boy while building the treehouses and forts of his dreams. Later, his passion to build evolved smoothly into his career after he earned a degree in construction management at California Polytechnic San Luis Obispo.

Murfey said he learned the trade on his own, but along the way he found mentors. “I looked up to the masters,” Murfey said. “They were always willing to share their knowledge, and in construction, you’re always learning new things.”

Before opening Murfey Construction in 2009, Murfey worked for eight general construction firms where he learned the various facets of construction. Since then, he’s built a wide range of commercial and residential projects, including cathedrals, golf courses, hotels, condominiums and apartment buildings.

Now partnered with his brother, Russell Murfey, who has a strong financial background, Murfey is working on multiple projects, including a custom 4,000-square-foot, two-story Cape Cod home in La Jolla Shores and a mixed-use residential/commercial development project in San Diego.

According to Murfey, project building is a long process, so it’s wise to have a designer or architect on the team. “It’s good to have someone who does space planning and layout to figure out how things are going to function,” Murfey said. “I always tell my clients that it’s also good to have photos or magazine clips to show a builder what your intent is.”

Building a home is a collaborative team effort involving client, builder and designer, so Murfey finds that weekly meetings help keep his clients involved and the project running smoothly.

While the majority of Murfey’s work is residential, his other projects include the W Hotel in downtown San Diego, Four Seasons Aviara in La Costa, the Park Laurel condominiums near Balboa Park, and a renovation of San Diego’s St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Murfey said that “Transitional Style” is the current trend in residential construction.“It has a classic look, but with modern, clean, crisp lines and a contemporary edge that’s very popular,” he said. “It’s a simple, more European style that people seem to appreciate. We’re an old-fashioned company, in terms of customer service, and we like to make our clients feel important and treat them special, but we’re very modern with our use of technology.”

— Murfey Construction, 5580 La Jolla Blvd., Suite 55 scott@murfeyconstruction.com

(858) 405-0186. murfeyconstruction.com

This article originally appeared on La Jolla Light.

The remodeling business is set to experience solid growth in the months ahead, according to research conducted by the National Association for the Remodeling Industry (NARI).  Based on recent polling numbers, 26% of homeowners plan to remain in their homes for another 16-20 years, while 23% expect to remain for at least 6-10 years. These numbers suggest a shift in focus for the remodeling industry, as homeowners turn their attention from upgrades designed to increase property value alone to more specific improvements for their daily use. Fueled by a combination of decreased property values and increased desire for custom living arrangements, the latest remodeling trends are all about personalization. With the help of a talented contractor, homeowners don’t need to buy their dream homes; instead, they can simply build them.

When it comes to remodeling options for long-term homeowners, the sky truly is the limit. NARI reports that, beyond conventional resale upgrades like new trim or refreshed kitchen cabinetry, contemporary custom projects run the gamut and include anything from in-home spas to yoga and meditation rooms, motorcycle garages to wine cellars, built-in teppanyaki grills to “smart” kitchens and living spaces equipped with the latest digital and voice-activated technology. In addition, as noted in a previous column, many families are opting to modify their homes to accommodate aging relatives – a critical step when it comes to optimizing lifestyle conditions for the so-called “Sandwich Generation.”

In many ways, custom remodeling projects are the ideal investment: they ensure comfortable, personalized living spaces for the present (and future) while still adding value to your property. The only trick to pulling off the perfect remodel is hiring the right contractor to do the job – and to choose the best San Diego construction company to turn your vision into a brick and mortar reality.

Finding your match: custom remodeling with Murfey Construction of La Jolla

At Murfey Construction, we specialize in custom residential construction and project planning. Whether you are looking for a full-service company, a contractor to help get the job done or a consultant to aid you in a DIY remodeling project, our company provides superior service and exceptional quality coupled with years of high-end commercial and residential experience right here in San Diego. Find out more about Murfey Construction today, and get in touch to schedule a project consultation, receive a custom quote, or learn about our past work and full range of services. Visit www.murfeyconstruction.com.

This article originally appeared on La Jolla Light.

According to a recent report from the Sacramento Business Journal, California is set to impose new energy standards on construction projects beginning in 2014. The regulations will boost efficiency requirements by 25%, making the state’s energy-saving standards the strictest in the country. In light of these changes, San Diego construction companies must begin preparing now for added building costs – approximately $2,290 per home, according to data from the California Energy Commission. However, the investment will pay off handsomely in the form of impressive energy and cash savings for the long haul.

With the necessity for greater energy savings on the rise and a widespread desire among homeowners to cut back on utility costs, the state’s new regulations signal an important step forward in sustainable building. Indeed, as Bob Raymer of the California Building Industry Association tells the Journal, when it comes to energy efficiency and conservation, “if this were a mile race, we just lapped the rest of the country.” The California Energy Commission reports that the energy upgrades will yield $6,200 in energy savings over a 30-year period. And in addition to monetary savings, there are the intangible benefits of more efficient buildings to consider as well – including longer-lasting materials, greater temperature control and a reduced need for resource-sapping air conditioning and heating systems.

LED lighting serves as a clear example of this phenomenon. While the initial upfront cost of LED lights is higher than that of conventional bulbs, the products last fifty times longer than their less-efficient counterparts. They also produce less heat while in use; and by reducing added heat with the home, the LED lights subsequently help lessen demand for indoor cooling, making the entire structure more energy efficient overall.

Murfey Construction: leading the way for energy efficiency and consumer savings

At Murfey Construction, we pride ourselves on promoting the latest energy-saving technologies and efficiency systems. Our skilled contractors are well versed in the benefits of LED lighting, solar power and other sustainable innovations, and this experience ensures a smooth transition into California’s next generation of energy regulations. Whether you are planning on building a new home or looking to upgrade your current residence for long-lasting savings, our La Jolla construction company is the ideal source for everything from expert consulting to project management to complete design and building services.

To find out more about California’s new energy standards and how they stand to impact your building plans, contact us today: www.murfeyconstruction.com