Home Improvement Resources | Arc Design Build
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Cost guides, material comparisons, ADU laws, and how-to articles — everything you need to make informed decisions about your home.

ADU Laws
ADU Guides
California ADU Laws in 2026: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know
AB 68, SB 9, setback rules, owner-occupancy requirements, and utility fees — a plain-English breakdown of what you can build and where.
February 20266 min
Bathroom Tile Guide
Material Guides
How to Choose Bathroom Tile: Size, Finish, and Layout Explained
Large format or mosaic? Matte or polished? Straight lay or herringbone? Each decision affects both aesthetics and maintenance.
January 20267 min
Hire a Contractor
How-To
How to Hire a General Contractor in Los Angeles (Without Getting Burned)
CSLB license verification, lien releases, draw schedules, and red flags to watch for. A homeowner's guide to hiring a contractor you can trust.
December 20259 min
Kitchen ROI
Cost Guides
Kitchen Remodel ROI: What Actually Adds Value to Your LA Home?
Not all kitchen upgrades return equal value. Which investments increase resale value, which are purely lifestyle upgrades, and where to draw the line.
November 20256 min
ADU Rental Income
ADU Guides
ADU Rental Income: What to Expect in the San Fernando Valley
Real rental data from Sherman Oaks, Encino, Tarzana, and Studio City. Calculate your ADU ROI and break-even timeline at current construction costs.
October 20257 min
Second Story Cost Guide
Cost Guides
Second Story Addition Cost Guide: What It Really Takes in Los Angeles
Structural engineering, permits, foundation assessment, and construction — a clear breakdown of what a second story actually costs in LA.
September 20258 min
Flooring Comparison
Material Guides
Hardwood vs. Luxury Vinyl Plank vs. Tile: The Honest Comparison
We install all three every week. A straight comparison of durability, cost, maintenance, resale impact, and when each type actually makes sense.
August 20255 min