Los Angeles is one of the most vibrant cities in the United States, but renovating your home here requires careful planning, having the right vision, and the right team to make the transformations come to life. If you live in the city or on the outskirts, this guide sets out to walk you through every step—from planning the renovation to picking out the finishing touches—while explaining the specific remodeling services that set homes in Los Angeles apart.
1. Establish Your Goals and Vision
Having a concrete objective drives every renovation project, especially one as extensive as a home renovation. Is it more space that you are looking for because your family is growing, or are you replacing outdated finishes and improving functionality? Perhaps you’re just looking to build equity by strategic upgrades.
- Consider these priorities to help streamline your focus:
- Improving traffic flow through the space?
- Adding custom cabinetry to provide more storage?
- Creating modern, energy-efficient spaces?
Spend some time going through your home so you can outline the areas that need attention. This exercise will make it easier for you as well as your contractor to pinpoint the scope of work as well as the budget.
2. Set a Realistic Budget
Your budget shapes every aspect of renovation. In Los Angeles, these factors drive costs differently: home size and location, materials and labor. Whether you are concentrating on kitchen remodeling, bathroom upgrades, or structural changes, having a defined budget helps avoid unwanted surprises.
Include:
- Materials: cabinets, flooring, countertops, and fixtures.
- Labor: licensed trades, project management.
- Permits and inspection.
- Contingency: unexpectedly needed funds (10-20%).
With the help of a professional contractor, you can better align your goals and escape the trap of falling into unrealistic expenses.
3. Choose the Right Contractor
Finding a reputable contractor is important even in Los Angeles where building permits and code compliance can become tedious. For your peace of mind, the contractor should have a local reputation, have an extensive design-build portfolio that matches your preferences, and a proven record.
Inquire about their:
- Licensing and insurance
- Experience with full home renovations
- Familiarity with LA permit requirements
- Clear communication and project timelines
One trusted contractor that provides comprehensive remodeling services across Los Angeles is Shenon Construction.
4. Create A Detailed Design Plan
When the team is finalized, now comes the part of designing your dream house. Work alongside your contractor and design professionals to choose materials, develop aesthetic workflows, and create the necessary floor plans.
This in-home remodeling includes:
Kitchen Remodeling: Fixtures like custom cabinetry and countertops, backsplashes, layout reconfiguration, lighting.
- Bathroom Renovation: Vanities, tilework, smart storage, updated plumbing, walk-in showers.
- Living Spaces: Furnishing flooring and paint, wall removal, built-in shelving, lighting upgrades.
- Garage Conversions and ADUs: Designing guestrooms, rental units, and home offices.
- Outdoor Enhancements: Constructing decks or hardscaping for improved indoor-outdoor flow.
A well thought out design makes every square foot maximized in its utility while being visually appealing.
5. Secure Permits and Approvals
In Los Angeles, renovations often require city permits—especially when structural, electrical, or plumbing changes are involved. ADU and garage conversions in particular must meet local zoning and building codes.
Your contractor should handle:
- Drawing submittals
- Building and safety reviews
- Scheduling inspections
- Keeping the project compliant with all codes
Skipping this step can result in delays, fines, or required tear-downs. Always follow the rules—your resale value and safety depend on it.
6. Start the Renovation Work
With permits in place and materials ordered, construction begins. Most complete home renovations follow a staged process to ensure efficiency:
- Demolition: Removing outdated materials, clearing space
- Framing and Structural Work: New walls, openings, or reinforcements
- Systems Updates: Plumbing, electrical, HVAC, smart home tech
- Insulation and Drywall: Creating a clean canvas
- Finish Work: Flooring, paint, cabinetry, tile, lighting
- Final Touches: Hardware, appliances, trim, décor elements
For larger projects, you may need to temporarily relocate, especially during plumbing or kitchen phases.
7. Walkthrough and Final Inspection
Before calling your renovation complete, schedule a final walkthrough with your contractor. Review each space and confirm that all design details were executed to your satisfaction.
Check for:
- Functioning fixtures and systems
- Clean finishes and paint lines
- Proper cabinet and door alignment
- Permits closed and inspections passed
Don’t hesitate to ask for adjustments during this phase—it’s your home, and it should feel just right.
8. Enjoy Your Transformed Home
After weeks (or months) of careful work, your newly renovated home is ready to enjoy. Whether it’s a refreshed kitchen that brings the family together, a luxurious new bathroom retreat, or a converted garage that adds income potential, each improvement brings both comfort and value.
Renovating in Los Angeles doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a clear plan, trusted experts, and smart decisions, your space can reflect your lifestyle while standing the test of time.
Ready to Begin Your Renovation Journey?
One trusted name helping LA homeowners bring their visions to life is Shenon Construction—known for thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and dependable service across every phase of remodeling.
