Professional Documents
Culture Documents
c e n t r a l c o a s t
fall 10 - summer 11
Pismo Design Source
519 Five Cities Drive • Scolari’s Shopping Center • Pismo Beach
• Amber Design & ReDécor (805) 440-4302 DesigningWithAmber.com
• Mission Kitchens & Construction (805) 295-6226 MissionKitchens.com
• Macie’s Floor Covering (805) 773-5932
Central Coast HOME DESIGN | 1
Quality ReQuiRes a PeRsonal touch
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ow
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Wi
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Featuring Quality Milgard Products
New Colors • New Possibilities • More Design Flexibility
Milgard introduces Premium Exterior Vinyl Finishes
805.772.2288
1560 Main Street
Morro Bay, CA 93442
www.EsteroGlass.com
Central Coast HOME DESIGN |
License # 5470883
Custom Swimming Pools • Water Features
Inground and Portable Spas • Outdoor Kitchens
Family Owned Since 1979
(805) 544-7773
www.carefreeslo.com
Visit Our Website to View Dozens of Pool Projects
CHANGE OF ADDRESS:
Notices should be sent promptly to:
Circulation Dept. at PO Box 3225, San Luis Obispo, CA 93403
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS:
Must be accompanied by stamped return envelopes and will be handled with reasonable
care. However, the publisher assumes no responsibility to the safety of artwork, photographs,
or manuscripts. Every precaution is taken to ensure accuracy, but the publisher cannot accept
responsibility for the correctness or accuracy of information supplied herein or for any opinion
expressed. Editorial closing date is the first day of the month preceeding date of issue.
Custom
Design &
Manufacturing
right here
in San Luis
Obispo!
J. A. Hunter
Cabinetmakers & Woodworkers
3138 McMillan Avenue San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
(805) 543-4209 www.huntercabinetry.com
Central Coast License # 635392
HOME DESIGN | 7
Passionate Design Sparked by Creative Thinking Forged in Metal
30% to 70% OFF EVERYDAY!
TILE
GRANITE
OUTLET
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
www.ArtisanTileOutlet.com
coNstructioN
tile & stone 21
cabinets & closets 22
plumbing l windows & doors 23
19
flooring 24
solar l pools 25
craftsman l overhead doors 26
stair elevator l kitchen & bath 26
fireplace l plastering l painting 27
28
ornamental metal 27
iNtEriors
furnishings 29
interior design l upholstery 31
artistic detail l home entertainment 32
electrical 32
moulding l fireplace l rugs 33
billiards l draperies 33
ExtEriors
landscaping 35
awnings 36
hot tubs l ponds l roofing l gutters 37
34
Spring Show
l Over 130 Local Home and Garden Exhibitors
l Admission is Free
l Educational & Informational Seminars
Focusing on Water Efficiency and Use
s l o h o m e i m p r ove m e n t . c o m 805.772.4600
A p ro d u c t i o n o f S i m p l y
C l e a r M a r k e t i n g, I n c.
Central Coast HOME DESIGN | 11
Innovative Architecture
Creates Lasting Value
5 0 OwFateFr
$2 hybrid em
any ng syst
i
heat
805.541.2444
www.plumbpower.com
1069 E.
14 | Grand
Central Ave, Arroyo
Coast HOME Grande · www.DonnasInteriors.com · (805) 489-8533 · Mon-Sat 10-6pm, Sun 12-5pm
DESIGN
Your NEW HoME
directory ArticLeS
Architects, Architectual engineers Building Permits
page 17 our own local expert, robert adames, walks us
General contractors, Land Survey, through the maze of obtaining a building permit and
sheds light on how the process really works. this is a
Architectual illustrations must-read for anyone who wants to understand what
page 18 happens once the plans are submitted.
page 16
PA R AGON D ESI G N S
custom residential • green building • small commercial • esoteric principles • multi-family
When applying for a building permit have you ever wondered why you need to submit three or four
sets of plans instead of just one? After all, aren’t you just applying for a building permit?
Depending upon the local jurisdiction, your plans will be reviewed by
multiple departments and thus the need for multiple sets of plans. While
the building department will review the plans for conformance to building
code requirements, the planning department will review the plans for
architectural and zoning requirements and the engineering department
will review the plans for infrastructure requirements.
Most people are aware of the building department and the service that
department provides, but few are aware of what service the planning and
engineering departments provide. What this means for most homeowners
is a big surprise when it comes to the cost of a building permit or the
length of time it takes to gain approval of the plans that were submitted.
In order to take the surprise out of your next building project remember
there are three primary departments that will review your plans for three
different areas of concern. Each department has their own predetermined
fee structure for the service they provide. The building department reviews
plans for Life Safety requirements as they relate to fire safety, building
Robert Adames code compliance, materials and proper assembly methods.
Adames Design Group
1600 Wilson Street The planning department reviews plans for zoning requirements and
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 conformance to locally established municipal code guidelines such as
(805) 801-2332 proximity to property lines, setbacks, overall size of the lot and how
much area of the lot is being covered by your project, building height and
www.adamesdesigngroup.com
viewshed requirements. Proximity to high noise areas such as railroad
tracks, freeways, overhead aircraft easements or primary arterials and
whether or not the proper decibel levels (acoustics) will be met. Given
that we live in a beautiful coastal area, the planning department is also
concerned with proximity to wetlands and riparian (creeks and rivers)
areas.
RK BuildeRs, inc.
With over 20 years of experience in the construction industry, RK Builders Inc. is
appropriately qualified to handle all of your construction needs. As a locally owned
design-build general contractor we pride our company in achieving a consistent
balance between exceptional performance and budget throughout the completion
of a project. Our services include construction management, commercial and
residential construction, tenant improvements, renovations, site evaluations, and
preliminary budgets. Servicing all of California, RK Builders Inc. guarantees your
expectations throughout the construction process will be far exceeded.
1124 Nipomo Street, Suite C, San Luis Obispo
(805) 541-2060 • www.RKBuildersInc.com
land survey
MBS Land SurveyS
Serving the central coast since 1987, MBS Land Surveys specializes in
providing surveying related services for custom homes. We can provide
all of the surveying services needed for your project, including the initial
topographic survey or as-built floor plan, boundary survey of the parcel,
construction staking, and final certifications for the governing agency. We also
work in a collaborative effort with local architects, civil engineers, structural
engineers, geologists and contractors to make your project as effortless as
possible. A quality survey is the first step in creating your dream home!
2146 Parker Street, Suite A-1, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
(805) 594-1960 • www.mbslandsurveys.com
architectual illustrations
Megan KuzMa IllustratIons
Does your remodel project require an illustration, drawing, or diagram? Do
you have a vision for your remodel or new construction project and want to
get it down on paper? I am a third year Cal Poly Architecture student looking
to take on some side projects that will allow me to use my artistic skills to
help you design a successful remodel or new construction. I can do just about
anything from hard-line architectural drawings to freehand-style drawings.
My work has been published in high-end magazines and I have extensive
samples to share with you. Please email me for more information.
mskuzma@calpoly.edu
OpenDoorDirectories.com
18 | Central Coast HOME DESIGN
ConstruCtion
ConstruCtion
Find the products and services you are looking for to add value, style, and personality to your home.
directory article
tile & Stone the Boiling Point
page 21 Local expert, Bobby ryan, helps us choose a
cabinets & closets water heater. While it may seem like a simple task,
there is a whole lot to know in order to maximize
page 22 water savings and minimize energy use. Lower
cabinets & closets, Plumbing, Windows your carbon footprint and your utility bills with this
& doors important knowledge.
page 23 page 20
Flooring
page 24
Flooring, Solar, Pools
page 25
craftsman, overhead doors, Stair
elevator, Kitchen & Bath
page 26
Fireplace, Plastering, Painting,
ornamental Metal,
page 27
Not so long ago replacing a hot water heater was a no-brainer. Just remove the old tank and install a new tank, like for like.
Today plumbers and plumbing contractors can offer current customers a full menu of replacement options from a basic
gas or electric storage tank unit through a growing list of “hybrid” heaters. What is happening right now is the beginning
of an explosion of new options in water heating for each homeowner. One of the most important attributes of plumbing
contractors is “Doing the right thing for their customers”. Progressive plumbing contractors expose their customers to
the options available and to the possible energy saving, water saving, and long term money saving available to them.
Options include standard minimum efficiency storage tank heaters, Energy Star storage tank
gas water heaters, high-efficiency gas and electric heaters, different type of tankless water
heaters, Hybrid on-demand water heaters, products which move into the “condensing”
space, and the re-emerging technologies of electric heat pump and solar water heater. A
water heater is one of the longest-lasting appliances in the home with warranties available
on some of the tankless and hybrids that far exceed other appliances. Since it is a long-
term investment, investing in super high-efficiency water heaters can make sense. For
instance hybrids, properly installed tankless units, and solar water heating systems offer
rapid paybacks. This in part due to lower operating costs, but when combined with federal
tax credits and other state and local rebates, it’s an even more attractive investment. While
the homeowner will pocket hundreds of dollars in energy savings the first year, the savings
will increase in years to come as energy cost continues to climb.
A hybrid water heater combines the flow capacity of traditional tanks with the continuity
of modern tankless to supply consistent endless hot water with good consistent pressure.
For example: The Eternal hybrid’s burner is dual activated by both a thermostat (similar to a
tank) and flow sensing (similar to a tankless). This intelligent control means Eternal has no
start up lag, to waste water and is compatible to all water saving devices and Water Sense
shower heads.
The “Hybrid” description is sometimes expanded beyond just one product to incorporate
various components into combination systems. For example, you can combine solar panels,
Bobby Ryan, President storage tank, radiant floor heating and one Eternal Hybrid water heater to give endless hot
water and space heating to a home. Combinations like this greatly enhance annual energy
Power Plumbing, Inc.
savings.
(805) 541-2444
www.plumbpower.com Hybrid is simply the best characteristics of both tank and tankless. A condensing model
with higher efficiency ratings that will perform like a tankless in the long-draw scenario and
like a tank in the simultaneous/multiple fixture draw scenario with a built in buffer tank. You
don’t need the increased BTU’s that the larger tankless units need to provide hot water on-
the-fly. This is where Hybrids perform at higher efficiency ratings, on the lower burn cycles,
which is where most residential applications cycle most. Some Hybrids have stainless steel
construction for longer warranties (up to twenty years). Also no pressure loss with multiple
fixtures running and there’s no wasting water. Hybrids can perform two or more functions,
with special connections and controls you can operate radiant heating, solar back up water
heating, and easily adapt to thermal, geothermal, or other renewable energy sources. One
drawback to both Tankless and Hybrid are that they both need to have electricity to run the
[ local expert ] control panel. Although minimal power is used, if there is a power outage there is no hot
water (unlike previous generation gas tank water heaters).
I can go on and on about positives and negetives about each type of water heater system
on the market today, but the bottom line is each home is different - not just in size or how
the pipes run but also what the habits are from the people who live there. So when the
time comes to consider changing out the water heater in your home or business, consider
all of your options because after all this is a decision that can improve your carbon footprint
(energy usage) and help sustain our community.
Design images
Design Images Marble and Granite is a well-established company specializing
in all phases of stonework. Our combined knowledge, experience and
dedication has served us well for over 30 years in construction. We are a
full service fabrication facility with state of the art machinery, specializing
in granite and quartz kitchen countertops. We invite you to visit our beautiful
showroom and extensive slab yard. Whether you are remodeling a kitchen,
bathroom or fireplace, Design Images is here to serve all of your stone
needs.
1825 Riverside Avenue, Paso Robles
(805) 239-8909 • www.designimagespr.com
WOODMAN’S CABINETS
We at Woodman’s Cabinets make a personnel commitment to you as a client
by building to your exact specifications. Providing the finest in craftsmanship
and quality at an affordable price. We carry a complete line of convenience
hardware and cabinet accessories to meet your specific needs.... Kitchens,
Baths, Home Offices to Specialty Cabinets, come in and talk to the custom
company who listens... Woodman’s Cabinets fine cabinetry designed and
built especially for you. Family owned operated, and serving SLO county since
1977.
111 13th Street, Cayucos
(805) 995-1900
J. A. Hunter CAbinetmAkers
Hunter Cabinets is family operated with over 30 years of customer satifaction.
Quality craftsmanship, personal service and the ability to provide the product
you desire. We will design, build and install your custom cabinets within your
budget and on time. We will increase the value of your home and give you
the satisfaction and enjoyment of a job well done! Kitchens, Baths, Media
J.A. Hunter
Cabinetmakers & Woodworkers
Centers, Librarys, Stairways, Closets, Storage, Disappearring Beds, Furniture
& More. Match your imagination with our team of skilled craftsman.
www.haywardlumber.com
(805) 543-0825 • 236 Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo
ESTERO GLASS
We are recognized for providing more than 30 years of quality and service
to Central Coast homeowners and contractors. That reputation is founded
on a commitment to offering an array of products to fit the needs of each
client, backed with expert advice and skilled installers. We offer nationally
recognized brands such as Milgard Windows and Doors, backed by the
knowledge to assist clients in making the best choice in windows, glass,
doors, bath enclosures and so much more. Estero Glass is proud to be certified
as a member of Installation Masters and a member of the BBB.
1560 Main Street, Morro Bay
(805) 772-2288 • www.esteroglass.com
Pacific Millworks
Specializing in the crafting of custom doors, architectural millwork and accents for
residential and commercial environments. With more than 40 years of experience,
we provide the custom woodworking you desire. Our services are customer-
oriented and dedicated to combining superior craftsmanship with personal
creativity. Our product line includes entryways, interior doors, bamboo doors,
gates, barn and stall doors, wall sconces, corbels, knee braces, countertops,
and unique cabinets and furniture. Pacific Millworks also offers custom CNC
(computer aided) machining. Let us design a truly custom accent for your home.
2760 El Camino Real, Atascadero
(805) 464-0286 • www.PacificMillworks.com
Ada’s
AdA’s Flooring
Ada’s Flooring in Morro Bay focuses on service and selection from start to
finish. Beginning with a wide variety of top name brand flooring styles and
Flooring
colors, continuing with expert and timely job estimates, and following up with
experienced and professional installation crews, we believe your flooring
purchase can be made with confidence. We strive to bring to our customers
the same shopping experience that we would expect for our own homes. Let
Ada’s Floor Coverings 30 years of experience be put to work for you.
Brad’s
contractors and homeowners alike. We deal with all types of jobs including
residential and industrial of all sizes. We have the experience to serve you
and the knowledge to supply you with quality materials at the competetive
price you deserve. In addition to our full-time office personnel, we also have a overhead doors inc.
7 truck fleet which includes sales, service, and installation crews to guarantee
prompt service for our customers.
2756 Concrete Court, Paso Robles
(805) 239-0202 • (800) 570-DOOR (3667) • www.bradsdoors.com
stair elevator
Mobility Masters
Stay in the Home You Love… with a full line of products to enhance your
independence and safety. We offer the following services and products: Stair
lifts - indoor/outdoor, straight/curved · Vertical platform wheelchair lifts, up
to 12 ft ht capacity · Barrier-free showers and tubs · Shower modifications
- pull ramps, inserts, and rolling shower chairs · Aids for everyday living -
a wide range of mobility products available · Free in-home assessments to
provide solutions to your needs · Licensed therapists and contractors work
together. Call us for a complimentary catalog.
358 Quintana Road, Morro Bay
(805) 772-8210, 800-464-1973 • www.mobilitymasters.com
kitchen & bath
Pacific coast Kitchen and Bath
Established in1990 by Brian Metcalf, Pacific Coast Kitchen and Bath is celebrating 20
years in business in San Luis Obispo. The gallery style showroom displays the latest
designs in plumbing fixtures, faucetry, hardware and bath accessories. See over 150
different types of faucets for the kitchen and bath, in beautiful, durable finishes like
Polished Chrome, Satin Nickel and Oil Rubbed Bronze. Also featured are water saving
toilets from Toto, offering the most efficient flushing toilets available today. Traditional,
Modern, Tuscan, Craftsman, Country we’ve got it all! The staff is knowledgeable,
friendly and excited to help you create the kitchen or bath of your dreams...
3974 Short Street, San Luis Obispo
(805) 541-2786 • www.pacificcoastkb.com
ESTERO GLASS
We are recognized for providing more than 30 years of quality and service
to Central Coast homeowners and contractors. That reputation is founded
on a commitment to offering an array of products to fit the needs of each
client, backed with expert advice and skilled installers. We offer nationally
recognized brands such as Milgard Windows and Doors, backed by the
knowledge to assist clients in making the best choice in windows, glass,
doors, bath enclosures and so much more. Estero Glass is proud to be certified
as a member of Installation Masters and a member of the BBB.
1560 Main Street, Morro Bay
(805) 772-2288 • www.esteroglass.com
activities
burning and beautiful wood or gas stoves, inserts and fireplaces, we have
the right hearth product for your new home or remodel. Visit our store in the
historic railroad district of San Luis Obispo or on line. Pacific Energy Company
– because experience matters.
OpenDoorDirectories.com
Central Coast HOME DESIGN | 27
interiors interiors
it’s hard to imagine something that affects our daily lives
as much as the interior of our homes.
while it may mean bringing in a new furniture set, it may be as simple as updating
the hardware on your cabinets. Consult with the Central Coast professionals in the
pages that follow to find the perfect style for your home.
directory article
Furnishings Furnishings
page 29 this quick “how-to” checklist will help you find the
Furnishings, interior design, ideal furniture for your home. Follow the simple
Upholstery instructions for the best results possible.
page 31 page 30
artistic detail, Home entertainment,
electrical
page 32
Moulding, Wine cellars, Fireplace,
rugs, Billiards, draperies
page 33
Beautiful Furniture
Affordable Prices
Appointment Preferred
1030 Huston St #E Grover Beach
805 489 4277
3850 Ramada Dr #B3 Paso Robles
805 440 9085
modelhomefurnishings.net
THIESSEN DESIGN
Thiessen Design is an American design, build and fabricating company
encompassing an array of various creative and quality products in the areas of
furniture, public art, corporate art, commercial, residential and interior décor/
design. Our soothing styles transcend period concepts, contemporary and
post-modern designs to create timeless work of art. Thies believes blending
organic elements and warm balanced tones accomplishes this principle.
All original designs are constructed from various materials, such as steel,
stainless steel, stone, glass, leather and wood.
200 Suburban Road, Unit G, San Luis Obispo
(805) 547-1947 • www.thiessendesign.com
COUCH POTATO
Your home is your refuge, your sanctuary from the rest of the world. It
represents you – your taste, your style. Let the friendly and knowledgeable
staff at both of our locations help you get the best deals on the Central
Coast. Now offering custom furniture design for every style. We may be
Couch Potato, but we carry everything you need to make your house your
home. We provide fast, friendly, flexible delivery. Located in San Luis
Obispo and Paso Robles.
Luna Rustica
Don’t just furnish your home, define it. Established in 1996 with the ambition
of achieving a selection of high quality traditional merchandise, as well as
redefining and customizing products for our clients. From our richly detailed
furniture to our colorful decor, every Luna Rustica piece is distinctive.
All are handmade in Mexico and reflect the country’s unique materials
and craftsmanship. Whether created from reclaimed materials, antiques,
speciality woods, forged iron, hammered copper, or cut travertine, each piece
is aimed at defining your home and lifestyle.
2959 Broad Street, San Luis Obispo
(805) 546-8505 • lunarustica.com
Your home’s furniture makes up a central part of its character. While furniture should be comfortable, it should
also make a statement about your personal style. Review the guidelines below to select home furnishings that
are both appealing and functional.
Get inspiRed Browse through home decor magazines and visit home oriented web sites to form a vision for
your home. pay attention to interior design details when visiting friends’ houses and while watching television
programs.
Contemplate YouR spaCe take into consideration room layout, square footage and the overall style of your
home. also think about your lifestyle and what sort of wear and tear your furniture might endure at the hands of
guests, pets and children. this information will assist in helping you decide on upholstery fabric.
CReate YouR ColoR pallet decide what colors you want to bring into the home. Consider the color of your
walls, but allow large pieces of furniture to serve as a base color. then use accessories like pillows and throws
as a means to integrate an accent color.
do YouR ReseaRCh Familiarize yourself with different furniture lines, price ranges and local showrooms in
your area. also read consumer reviews to find out more about the line’s reputation in regards to durability and
sustainability.
Visit FuRnituRe stoRes Be sure to take color swatches, room dimensions and other useful information with
you. most stores offer free consultations and room planning.
StylehouSe furniShingS
Stylehouse Furnishings, a leader in fine home furnishings, offers an extensive
selection of unique furniture styles and design services. As a successful local
family owned business, Stylehouse Furnishings has helped furnish beautiful
homes on the Cental Coast offering quality lines such as Bassett, Lane, Rowe
mattresses and more. Stylehouse offers complimentary design services. Their
experienced staff will assist you to create individual designs that truly reflect
your personal style. Be sure to stop by their new location!
Fortini
The time-honored tradition of the family business is alive and well at
FORTINI. Our roots in commerce are deep, going back to Louis Fortini, a salt-
of-the-earth man who came to San Luis Obispo from Italy in 1922 and started
a successful beer distributorship. He purchased land in 1947 and built our
family store. FORTINI Home Garden Design reflects the family’s lifestyle and
appreciation for authentic products made with true artisan craftsmanship.
The showroom offers unique interior and exterior décor. FORTINI’s Design
Services include Interior, Landscape and Custom Cabinetry Design.
3021 South Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo
(805) 542-0500 • www.fortinihome.com
interior design
FIRST IMPRESSIONS IN dESIgN INc.
After 20 years as one of the leading Interior Design Firms in Fresno & the
Central Valley, FIRST IMPRESSIONS has relocated to beautiful San Luis
Obispo. Providing Design Expertise for all your interior needs, We are a
complete Interior Design Resource Center representing extensive lines
of Furniture, Fabrics, Window Coverings, Art, Accessories & Bedding.
Consultations for : New Construction, 2nd homes, Remodels. Please call or
visit our new showroom in San Luis Obispo.
Amber Design
As a professional designer, Amber Jackson specializes in remodels, makeovers,
and staging to sell. From the planning stages to the finished product Amber
interprets the uniqueness of each client’s needs and transforms their visions
into a reality beyond expectation, on time and within budget. Amber Jackson
has also opened a unique boutique called Re Décor which sells recycled
furnishings and accessories, located in the Pismo Design Source. Stop by
to see the new items, check out Amber’s previous projects or get inspired to
makeover your home!
519 Five Cities Drive, Pismo Beach, CA 93449
(805) 440-4302
upholstery
HARRY’S FINE QUALITY UPHOLSTERY
Quality Workmanship Is Our Highest Priority. Since 1953 Harry’s Upholstery
has been well known for its superior craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Specializing in custom made furniture, kitchen nooks and built in seating,
custom beds and headboards. Expert Antique Restoration, Re-Upholstery
and custom slipcovers. Visit our shop or give us a call to discuss any of your
custom Upholstery needs.
FastFrame
For over 20 years, FASTFRAME of San Luis has been proudly providing
all facets of custom picture framing. With an emphasis on personalized
customer care, outstanding craftsmanship, remarkable selection, and
innovative design, Joe Empey and Susan Warren invite you to partake of
the “FASTFRAME Experience”. Select from materials from old world to new
world, ornate to rustic, classic to chic, gold and silver leafing to fine water
gilding. Any choice will provide you an original, one of a kind design, that is
personally guaranteed.
1115 Santa Rosa Street, San Luis Obispo
(805) 541-3455
Ferromobius
Ferromobius has been practicing their craft for over 30 years on the Central
Coast. They have applied their rich aesthetic sensibilities to projects both
public and private, at sites across the nation. Specializing in the use of metals,
their work meshes seamlessly with its setting, utilizing a wide array of styles
and detail. Ferromobius has worked with many different client configurations,
from city councils, and redevelopment agencies, to designers or the private
client. They are skilled at building consensus and produce inspiring products
that consistently exceed expectations. All inquiries are welcome.
P.O. Box 288, San Luis Obispo
(805) 544-7960 • (805) 550-2942 • www.ferromobius.com
home entertainment
INTEGRITY SYSTEMS
It’s all about the details when transforming a house into YOUR home. Finding
special solutions to fulfill your technology needs with the right touches and
design for your lifestyle, can be challenging. Let Integrity Systems show you
the latest innovations in comfort and entertainment, with systems designed
and installed by professionals. We specialize in Security/Fire Alarms,
Surround Sound Systems with Full HD Flat Panel Displays, Whole House
Sound , Camera Surveillance, Home Automation and much more. Call today
for a free evaluation from one of our friendly representatives.
(805) 782-9225 • www.integritysecurity.com
electrical
EXCLUSIVE LIGHTING SOLUTIONS
Exclusive Lighting Solutions (ELS) provides energy-efficient lighting and
window systems for homes and commercial buildings throughout the Central
Coast. ELS is an Authorized Lutron® Residential Systems Provider. Lutron®
is the world’s leader in stylish, efficient lighting control. Give us a call today
to find out how we can improve your home’s efficiency and add ambience and
elegance to all of the rooms in your home. For a full listing of services, visit
us online.
directory ArticLe
Landscaping Xeriscaping
page 35 it’s a funny word that you may have not heard yet,
Landscaping, Awnings but you will! Learn how to landscape to conserve
water in your yard. it’s a simple technique that will
page 36 help you save lot of money and time… and water!
Hot tubs, Ponds,
page 36
roofing, Gutters
page 37
SOILS
& S O D FA R M
• Free Delivery with Most Orders •
Landscape Materials
• Rock • Bark • Topsoil •
• Flagstone • Boulders
Sod Types
• Cuesta Highland Dwarf Fescues •
• Bonsai 3000 • Obispo Green • Shady Mixes •
• Running Tall Fescue • No Mow Fine Fescue •
OpenDoorDirectories.com
Xeriscaping
a systematic method of promoting water conservation in landscaped areas
Although xeriscaping is mostly used in arid regions, its principles can certainly be applied here on the Central Coast to help conserve water.
The concept is based on the following principles:
PlAnning And design Provides direction and guidance, mapping your water and energy conservation strategies, both of which will be
dependent upon your regional climate and microclimate.
seleCTing And zoning PlAnTs APProPriATely Bases your plant selections and locations on those that will flourish in this region and
your particular microclimate.
limiTing Turf AreAs reduces the use of bluegrass turf, which usually requires a lot of supplemental watering.
imProving The soil enables soil to better absorb water and to encourage deeper roots.
irrigATing effiCienTly encourages using the irrigation method that waters plants in each area most efficiently.
using mulChes Keeps plant roots cool, minimizes evaporation, prevents soil from crusting, and reduces weed growth.
mAinTAining The lAndsCAPe Keeps plants healthy through weeding, pruning, fertilizing, and controlling pests.
WATering if you can determine how much water your plants actually need, then you won’t overwater them and waste water. it is important
to not only understand a plant’s particular watering requirements, but also its evapotranspiration.
evapotranspiration, or eT, is the amount of water that is evaporated from the soil and transpired through the plant’s leaves. This amount of
water needs to be replaced through watering. if you know your area’s eT rate, you can plan the amount of water to be replaced through
irrigation. Call your local water district or cooperative extension service and ask about your eT rate. however, your particular microclimate
will also affect evapotranspiration in different areas of your yard.
Also, it’s best to water or irrigate your plants in the early morning when evaporation rates are low. This also provides plants with water
before midday when the evaporation rate is the highest.
36 | Central Coast HOME DESIGN
directory exteriors
hot tubs
California Cooperage Spa & hot tubS
We are a Family Owned and Operated business serving the Central Coast in
sales and service since 1974. We are the Authorized Dealer for Jacuzzi Spas
and Maax Spas with over 30 models to choose – from a small two-person spa
to large models that accommodate eight people. Our company is known for
selling the highest quality of hydropuetic spas with service that surpasses all
the competition. Come on by our showroom and let us educate you about our
spas today. Relax, it’s by Jacuzzi!
OpenDoorDirectories.com
Central Coast HOME DESIGN | 37
maintenanCe maintenanCe
it’s probably your biggest investment, so be sure to keep
your home in top shape with regular care and upkeep.
a good, preventative maintenance program is likely one of the most important aspects
of home ownership as, just like your health, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!”
directory tiP!
Plumbing Many home inspectors will tell you that one of
the most common sources of damage to a home
page 38
comes from the refrigerator. that’s right, the small
water line that goes from your refrigerator—called
a capillary line—can easily become kinked,
especially during installation. Plastic lines also
become brittle from use, which leads to leaks.
Both situations can cause extensive damage over
time to the walls, floor, and cabinets around
the refrigerator. Be sure to check yours and
periodically replace brittle lines. Also, be sure to
check metal lines for crimps or kinks.
maintenanCe directory
plumbing
Power Plumbing, inc.
We are SLO County’s 1st Licensed Green Plumber (Green Plumbers USA®).
We are committed to our customers and our community from management to
customer service reps, to Journeyman, Plumbers and HVAC Technicians. We
take pride in performing our jobs professionally and efficiently to help each
customer solve any Plumbing or Heating and Air problems fast! There is no job
to large or too small for Power Plumbing, Inc. to handle. Call us anytime, we’re
here for you.
OpenDoorDirectories.com
reaL estate
the Central Coast offers some amazing properties sure to fit any lifestyle.
it was only just a few short years ago that the real estate market was red hot. today, some incredible
deals can be found and financed with historically low interest rates. now may be a once-in-a-lifetime
opportunity to buy highly desirable Central Coast property at prices that, up until recently, would
have been only dreamed about.
directory ArticLe
realtors How to Spot a Good reALtor ®
page 39 You can learn how to choose a good reaLtor ® with
this small-but-mighty article. Don’t even think about
hiring someone until you pick up these useful tips!
page 40
21 Santa Rosa Street, Suite 100, San Luis Obispo l 805.543.2172 l www.farrellsmyth.com
OpenDoorDirectories.com
Selling or purchasing real estate can be a tricky and stressful process, and hiring the right REALTOR® to guide you can make
all the difference. This article discusses the key characteristics that every good REALTOR® possesses. Some qualities are
required in all professions, but a few are especially pertinent to real estate. Look out for these qualities to determine whether
you are in capable hands.
First and foremost, your REALTOR® should behave professionally during the time he or she is working for you. A relationship
that is too friendly or relaxed may mean that the realtor is not working as hard or taking you as seriously as possible. If the
agent works from a home office, he or she should not expect you to stumble through a maze of toys or a dirty house in order
to carry out business. Be on the lookout for casual or sloppy dress or demeanor; the agent will likely take the same care
conducting your business as they do with their personal appearance.
Your REALTOR® should also have the knowledge to help you navigate the process successfully. In addition to knowing the
state and local real estate laws and requirements, they should also have experience and in-depth knowledge of the area
you are buying or selling in. Agents who thoroughly know the area schools, hospitals, and recreation areas will make a big
difference to you, the client.
A good REALTOR® is also someone who loves to work with people - even on the bad days. You should never feel rushed or
hurried by a REALTOR®, and you should always be made to feel that he or she has your best interests at heart. A polite and
friendly realtor is a sign that you are the focus of their work. Good REALTOR® will always be straightforward and honest. And,
your agent should never leave you wondering if the promised results will be delivered.
Finally, one of the most important characteristics of a good REALTOR® is that he or she goes the extra mile. A REALTOR® who
takes care of little details like keeping you posted on your sale, or answering the phone with a smile in their voice are the
REALTOR® to keep and be grateful for. Remember that prompt and effective communication is essential to any relationship,
a REALTOR® who does everything they can to show they appreciate your business deserve to be appreciated.
40 | Central Coast HOME DESIGN
ExpEriEncE, pErformancE, profEssionalism.