Kitchen Remodeling in Encino | Case Study | Oria Builders
| Project Type | Kitchen Remodeling |
|---|---|
| Location | Encino, CA (Amestoy Estates) |
| Investment | $75,000 - $95,000 |
| Duration | 10 weeks |
| Completed | 2023-08-15 |
The Challenge
The homeowners in Encino’s Amestoy Estates reached out to us with a dream: to turn their outdated 1980s-style kitchen into a modern, functional space where they could cook, entertain, and spend time as a family. Their current kitchen had cramped counters, inefficient storage, and worn-out finishes that clashed with the rest of their beautifully updated home. They wanted clean lines, premium materials, and a design that felt bright and welcoming — without losing the timeless charm of their neighborhood. The challenge was clear: Encino homes often have specific architectural styles that homeowners want to preserve, even when updating interiors. Additionally, we needed to navigate city permitting processes, which can be intricate when structural changes are involved. The homeowners also emphasized the importance of sticking to their budget while achieving a high-end look and ensuring the project was completed before their annual holiday gathering, a firm deadline.
Our Approach
To kick things off, we hosted a design consultation at the home. This allowed us to see the space firsthand and understand how the family used their kitchen daily. We brought our design team to the table to brainstorm solutions, sketch layouts, and present a selection of premium materials that balanced style and durability. We recommended quartz countertops for their timeless beauty and resilience, paired with custom cabinets featuring soft-close hardware for a sleek, functional finish. Next, we tackled the logistics. Since the homeowners wanted to open up their kitchen to create a more seamless flow into their dining area, we worked closely with Encino’s permit office to ensure all structural changes complied with local regulations. Through careful planning, we were able to minimize disruptions for the homeowners, allowing them to stay in their home throughout the remodel. We also scheduled material deliveries strategically to avoid delays, knowing that lead times for certain finishes can stretch in busy seasons. Every detail was thoughtfully considered to ensure the final design checked all their boxes: modern, functional, and perfectly suited to their family’s lifestyle.
Build Process
The build began with a full demo of the existing kitchen. We carefully removed old cabinets, countertops, and flooring while ensuring adjacent areas remained untouched. Once the space was cleared, our team reinforced the structural integrity of a load-bearing wall before opening up the layout for better flow. One of the key phases was installing the custom cabinetry. These were designed to maximize storage while maintaining clean, modern lines. The soft-close hardware added a touch of luxury and practicality, perfect for a family with young children. Next came the quartz countertops, which were templated early in the process to ensure fabrication timelines aligned with construction. Flooring installation was another crucial step. The homeowners selected porcelain tiles in a large 24x24 format to create a seamless, spacious feel. Throughout the build, we maintained strict adherence to the timeline, coordinating with subcontractors daily to ensure no phase lagged behind. Weekly check-ins with the homeowners kept them informed and allowed us to adjust minor details to their preferences. The result? A stunning kitchen completed on time and on budget — ready for their holiday gathering.
Scope of Work
- Demo and removal of existing cabinetry, countertops, and flooring
- Structural reinforcement of load-bearing wall and layout modification
- Custom cabinet installation with soft-close hardware
- Quartz countertop selection, templating, and installation
- Porcelain tile flooring installation in 24x24 format
- Upgraded appliances and plumbing fixtures installation
Materials & Features
- Quartz countertops (Calacatta Gold)
- Porcelain tile flooring (24x24 format, matte finish)
- Custom cabinets with soft-close hardware and built-in organizational solutions
- Under-cabinet LED lighting for task visibility
- Brushed nickel plumbing fixtures
- Premium stainless steel appliances
Results
- 40% more counter space for food prep and entertaining
- Energy costs reduced by 15% due to upgraded LED lighting and efficient appliances
- Added an estimated $85,000 in home value based on neighborhood comparables
- Improved storage capacity with custom cabinets tailored to the homeowner’s needs
Project Highlights
- Completed 2 weeks ahead of schedule
- Zero change orders throughout the project
- Premium quartz countertops installed seamlessly
- Exceeded homeowner expectations with design and functionality
Client Testimonial
"Oria Builders turned our cramped, outdated kitchen into a space we love spending time in. The team was professional, efficient, and guided us every step of the way. Highly recommend!"
— Sarah M., Homeowner in Encino
Frequently Asked Questions
How long did this kitchen remodeling project take?
The project was completed in 10 weeks, including the permitting process, demo, and full build. We finished two weeks ahead of the homeowner’s holiday deadline.
What was the total investment for this project?
The investment range was $75,000 to $95,000, depending on the materials and features selected. The homeowners were thrilled with the value added to their property.
Did the homeowner need to move out during construction?
No, the homeowners stayed in their home throughout the remodel. We planned the work phases strategically to minimize disruption and maintain access to essential areas.
What permits were required for this project in Encino?
We secured permits for structural modifications and electrical upgrades through Encino’s local building department. The process took about 3 weeks before construction began.