9 Renovation Mistakes—And How to Avoid Them

As a residential design-build remodeling contractor for over 25 years, specializing in ADUs, Acton ADU has managed hundreds of remodeling projects. As Melissa Dalton said so elegantly in her article ‘8 Renovation Mistakes—And How to Avoid Them,’ “with a lot of experience comes a lot of learning.” Experience has shown Acton ADU similar renovation mistakes…

5 Problems You Might Face Remodeling Old Homes in Santa Clara County

Until now, you’ve loved everything about your older Santa Clara County home – the location, the craftsmanship, and the architectural details reminiscent of a time past. But, it’s finally time to spring for an upgrade, including the best in modern amenities.…It’s time to remodel this old house! Now that you’re ready to get started, renovating…

New ADU Zoning Helps Palo Alto Housing Crisis & Unlocks Land Value

In March, the Palo Alto City Council responded to the housing crisis with a vote to approve a series of zoning reforms that encourage the construction of accessory-dwelling units (ADUs). Most reforms were approved to comply with two recent bills (Senate Bill 1069 and Assembly Bill 2299), but the largest changes eliminate the minimum lot size requirement and allow for the construction…

Design Considerations for the Perfect ADU Suite/Guest Studio

If you own a home in Northern California, then you are likely familiar with the rising popularity of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). These functional living spaces are the perfect solution for adding extra livable space to your property. Common uses for ADUs include accommodating elderly parents or adult children fresh out of college. They also can be…

Expect the Unexpected—How to Plan Ahead for Your Home Remodel

Congratulations! You’ve made the exciting decision to remodel your home. For many people, remodeling is a new and exciting experience, but also intimidating and wrought with fear. With just a bit of preparation and pre-planning you’ll end up with a beautiful home remodel that is also enjoyable. The Design Phase Define Your Style With a…

Are You Thinking of Adding an ADU to Your Home?

Consider These Key Factors Before You Get Started. ADUs, or Accessory Dwelling Units, continue to rise in popularity across the country. Under new California state law, the term “accessory dwelling unit” describes a small, self-contained residential unit located on the same lot as an existing single-family home. An ADU is generally smaller in size while still…

Home Remodeling Projects with the Highest Return on Investment

How to Boost Your Home Value in Northern California People choose to remodel their home for a variety of reasons. Their motivation may stem from needing to keep family close—building separate but nearby living quarters for an adult child or parent; or a desire to repurpose an existing room—turn an unused bedroom into an office, art studio…

How to Define your Personal Design Style Before Starting Your Home Remodel

Photo Courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens You have wanted to renovate your home for years now and are finally ready to get started. Suddenly, you are faced with hundreds, if not thousands, of design options. How will you narrow down decisions and ensure you still love your design choice 10-20 years from now? The…

This is What Could Happen to Your Resale Value if You Add an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) to Your Silicon Valley Property

To ease the crushing housing shortage in Silicon Valley, laws have changed to encourage homeowners to build accessory dwelling units on their property—to house aging family members, help grown children find a place to live in this challenging rental market or generate extra income using the space over a garage or in the backyard. But…

7 Exciting New Kitchen Design Trends in California

Just In Time to Spice Up Your Kitchen As a full-service kitchen design+build firm servicing Santa Clara County and Silicon Valley, Acton ADU knows the value of smart kitchen design. Still the focal point of any home, modern kitchens have evolved to include advances in technology, clean and simple styles, and essential natural lighting. If…

Aging-in-Place: How to Add Comfort and Convenience to Your Home, Now and in the Future

It’s not surprising that a majority of Americans after age 55 prefer to stay in their homes. The good news is, there is a whole industry dedicated to helping people modify their homes. According to the nonprofit organization Rebuilding Together, 80% of those aged 50 and older own their own homes, and 92% of them…