Manufacturer: Showplace EVO Cabinetry Style: Maple Pierce w/ Slab Drawer Fronts Finish: Paint - Gunsmoke Wood Island & Floating Shelves: Customer's Own Countertop: Calacatta Venice Quartz (Lakeside Surfaces) Sink: Kohler Farm Sink (Customer's Own) Faucet: Customer's Own Backsplash Tile: Customer’s Own Hardware: TK795 (Top Knobs) Designer: Andrea Yeip Interior Designer: J Raine Design (Julie Arnold) Contractor: Customer's Own

This light-filled living space illustrates the successful "Great Room" transformation by Better Builders. The room features a vaulted ceiling with recessed LED lighting and high-set windows that maximize natural light. Architectural interest is added through classic picture frame wall molding and a crisp white chair rail, which contrasts beautifully with the natural wood flooring. A large sliding glass door leads to the outdoor deck, while the minimalist media console and wall-mounted TV maintain a streamlined look, ensuring the space feels open and connected to the adjacent dining and kitchen areas.

This sophisticated wet bar area serves as a stylish and functional transition between the kitchen and living room. Custom navy shaker cabinetry is accented by elegant polished brass cup pulls, creating a classic yet modern look. The setup includes a high-end dual-zone wine fridge integrated seamlessly into the lower cabinets, providing easy access to beverages while hosting. With its clean lines and rich color palette, this dedicated social hub by Better Builders perfectly complements the open-concept flow of the home

Photography by Natalie Marotta Bungalows are lovable homes, but how can they be better? Along with many of our clients, we find that older (early 20th c.) homes have a lot of character and a comfortable scale, but are leaky, damp (especially in the basement), have fair to poor air quality, and use unconscionable amounts of fossil fuels to heat. The owners of this bungalow were ready to change that, and wanted to do so with minimal upfront carbon emissions as well. The gut renovation included replacing the basement slab and providing capillary breaks and insulation continuously below grade. The brick structure was treated with a fluid-applied air and water barrier from the interior and insulated entirely with cellulose, a carbon-storing insulation. The roof used HFO-blown spray foam to provide sufficient insulation while allowing headroom for bedrooms, bathrooms, and laundry. One great benefit of a full renovation is the possibility of reconfiguring spaces to suit the family’s lifestyle, and to make the best of indoor-outdoor connections. We opened up the main rooms on the first floor, creating a family gathering spot with a view to the back yard, and a spacious kitchen that supports the family’s commitment to cooking for healthy eating. The stair uses a north-facing skylight to bring light from above into the middle of the home, where it was previously dark. As a decarbonization retrofit, the inefficient furnace was replaced with two small ducted heat pump systems, water heating and clothes drying are powered by air-source heat pumps, and cooking uses an induction cooktop plus electric ovens. Energy recovery ventilation provides filtered fresh air continuous exhaust from the kitchen, baths, and laundry, and supplies fresh, highly filtered air to bedrooms and living spaces. The Better Bungalow now makes sense for the 21st century–it now fits the owners’ life-patterns, is super comfortable, has great air quality, and uses a fraction of the energy it did before, greatly lowering the demand on the utility grid. In the near future, when solar PV is installed, it can achieve net zero or near net zero emissions, and with battery backup, can provide great resilience in the event of power outages.

This detailed view highlights the rich textures and thoughtful material transitions of a Better Builders kitchen. Custom navy shaker cabinets are paired with warm wood butcher block countertops, creating an inviting, organic feel. The upper storage features a mix of solid doors and glass-front cabinetry with integrated lighting, perfect for displaying glassware against the textured white subway tile backsplash. A sleek stainless steel range hood and minimalist hardware complete this modern farmhouse aesthetic, blending professional-grade utility with timeless residential style.

This modern transitional kitchen in Arbor Heights, Seattle, combines timeless aesthetic with practical design. Navy blue shaker cabinets contrast beautifully with white quartz countertops, while a bold Moroccan star and cross tile backsplash adds personality. A large kitchen island with open shelving provides storage and prep space, perfect for cooking and entertaining. Skylights, hardwood floors, and stainless steel appliances complete this light-filled, functional layout, ideal for family living.

This homeowner’s story resonates with many who are considering aging in place. She loved her Normandy Park home but found that her bathroom no longer met her needs. While soaking in her jacuzzi tub had been a cherished routine, the high ledge made it increasingly difficult—and unsafe—to use. After experiencing a few falls, she knew it was time for a change. Initially, she contacted a national company specializing in ADA-compliant tubs, but they couldn’t retrofit her space. That’s when she called Better Builders. Together, we transformed her bathroom into a safe, functional, and beautifully designed retreat where she could relax without worry. By thoughtfully integrating accessible features without compromising aesthetics, we gave this homeowner a bathroom that meets her current needs and supports her ability to live independently for years to come.

Photography by Natalie Marotta Bungalows are lovable homes, but how can they be better? Along with many of our clients, we find that older (early 20th c.) homes have a lot of character and a comfortable scale, but are leaky, damp (especially in the basement), have fair to poor air quality, and use unconscionable amounts of fossil fuels to heat. The owners of this bungalow were ready to change that, and wanted to do so with minimal upfront carbon emissions as well. The gut renovation included replacing the basement slab and providing capillary breaks and insulation continuously below grade. The brick structure was treated with a fluid-applied air and water barrier from the interior and insulated entirely with cellulose, a carbon-storing insulation. The roof used HFO-blown spray foam to provide sufficient insulation while allowing headroom for bedrooms, bathrooms, and laundry. One great benefit of a full renovation is the possibility of reconfiguring spaces to suit the family’s lifestyle, and to make the best of indoor-outdoor connections. We opened up the main rooms on the first floor, creating a family gathering spot with a view to the back yard, and a spacious kitchen that supports the family’s commitment to cooking for healthy eating. The stair uses a north-facing skylight to bring light from above into the middle of the home, where it was previously dark. As a decarbonization retrofit, the inefficient furnace was replaced with two small ducted heat pump systems, water heating and clothes drying are powered by air-source heat pumps, and cooking uses an induction cooktop plus electric ovens. Energy recovery ventilation provides filtered fresh air continuous exhaust from the kitchen, baths, and laundry, and supplies fresh, highly filtered air to bedrooms and living spaces. The Better Bungalow now makes sense for the 21st century–it now fits the owners’ life-patterns, is super comfortable, has great air quality, and uses a fraction of the energy it did before, greatly lowering the demand on the utility grid. In the near future, when solar PV is installed, it can achieve net zero or near net zero emissions, and with battery backup, can provide great resilience in the event of power outages.

This homeowner’s story resonates with many who are considering aging in place. She loved her Normandy Park home but found that her bathroom no longer met her needs. While soaking in her jacuzzi tub had been a cherished routine, the high ledge made it increasingly difficult—and unsafe—to use. After experiencing a few falls, she knew it was time for a change. Initially, she contacted a national company specializing in ADA-compliant tubs, but they couldn’t retrofit her space. That’s when she called Better Builders. Together, we transformed her bathroom into a safe, functional, and beautifully designed retreat where she could relax without worry. By thoughtfully integrating accessible features without compromising aesthetics, we gave this homeowner a bathroom that meets her current needs and supports her ability to live independently for years to come.

Showplace Framed Pendleton 275 Kitchen in Simpli White Cabinetry: Showplace Framed Style: Pendleton 275 w/FPH Finish: Simpli White Countertop: Solid Surfaces Unlimited Kilimanjaro Sink: IPT Fireclay Farm Sink Plumbing: Hansgrohe Locarno Semi-Pro Faucet in Brushed Optic Gold | Air Switch in Satin Gold Hardware: Top Knobs Hopewell Bar Pull in Honey Bronze Tile: Beaver Tile Oceani White 2 ½” x 10” | White Grout | White Schluter Contractor: Greg Meehan Tile Installer: The Bradley Tile Co. Designer: Cabinetry by Better Bilt Team

Completed in 2015, the Othello House was designed by PRDG Architecture + Design and built by Better Builders as a striking example of modern living in West Seattle. Though the homeowners chose not to pursue formal certification, the project was built to meet the rigorous standards of a Five-Star Built Green™ home. From the ground up, sustainability and style were equally prioritized. The build preserved native vegetation, retained mature trees on-site, exceeded Washington State Energy Code requirements, and recycled over 70% of construction waste by weight. Recycled-content materials were thoughtfully incorporated throughout, reinforcing the home’s eco-conscious foundation. Large windows on all sides flood the interiors with natural light, while the surrounding landscaping is designed to highlight lush greenery and native plantings. The result is a home that combines premium modern design with environmental responsibility—proving that sustainable construction can also deliver the ultimate in comfort and function.

Photo: F. D. Richards, via Flickr, licensed under Creative Commons Attribution- ShareAlike 2.0 Generic American Elderberry / Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis

This Kirkland kitchen and dining addition transformed a tight 1970s galley layout into a spacious, entertainer-ready kitchen designed for modern living. To create the room the homeowners needed, the southwest exterior wall was removed, and a carefully planned addition expanded the footprint, while eliminating the partial wall between the kitchen and dining room, opening the floor plan for better flow and connection. The new space features white Bellmont shaker cabinetry, PentalQuartz® Zion countertops, and warm chestnut bamboo flooring, layered with recessed lighting, statement pendants, and under-cabinet LEDs for a bright, functional finish.

1960s Mid-Century Modern home for sale in Santa Ana from the BetterLivingSoCal team!
1960s bathroom photo in Orange County

Manufacturer: Ultracraft Style: Maple Royalton Paint w/ Glaze: Arctic White w/ Nickel Glaze Countertop: Cambria Quartz - Laneshaw Sinks & Fixtures: Blanco Diamond Under-mount ¾ sink in “Café Brown” Backsplash Tile: Genesee Tile 3” x 12” glass subway in “Sand” Designer: Devon Moore Contractor: NJB Construction Services LLC

In collaboration with architect Gustavo Penengo of PRDG Architecture & Design, Better Builders brought this bold contemporary vision to life. Built using modular construction on a steep lot once considered “unbuildable,” the home required a highly engineered foundation with H-piles driven 40 feet into the hillside. The offsite-built sections allowed for precision assembly and made possible dramatic cantilevers, expansive views of the Sound, and an energy-efficient design. The finished home showcases modern architecture at its finest—creative, sustainable, and perfectly suited to its unique site.

A Mid-Century Modern home completely renovated in Yorba Linda California. 4BR 4 BATH and a workshop and treehouse that are a must see! - BetterLivingSoCal.com

Photography by Natalie Marotta Bungalows are lovable homes, but how can they be better? Along with many of our clients, we find that older (early 20th c.) homes have a lot of character and a comfortable scale, but are leaky, damp (especially in the basement), have fair to poor air quality, and use unconscionable amounts of fossil fuels to heat. The owners of this bungalow were ready to change that, and wanted to do so with minimal upfront carbon emissions as well. The gut renovation included replacing the basement slab and providing capillary breaks and insulation continuously below grade. The brick structure was treated with a fluid-applied air and water barrier from the interior and insulated entirely with cellulose, a carbon-storing insulation. The roof used HFO-blown spray foam to provide sufficient insulation while allowing headroom for bedrooms, bathrooms, and laundry. One great benefit of a full renovation is the possibility of reconfiguring spaces to suit the family’s lifestyle, and to make the best of indoor-outdoor connections. We opened up the main rooms on the first floor, creating a family gathering spot with a view to the back yard, and a spacious kitchen that supports the family’s commitment to cooking for healthy eating. The stair uses a north-facing skylight to bring light from above into the middle of the home, where it was previously dark. As a decarbonization retrofit, the inefficient furnace was replaced with two small ducted heat pump systems, water heating and clothes drying are powered by air-source heat pumps, and cooking uses an induction cooktop plus electric ovens. Energy recovery ventilation provides filtered fresh air continuous exhaust from the kitchen, baths, and laundry, and supplies fresh, highly filtered air to bedrooms and living spaces. The Better Bungalow now makes sense for the 21st century–it now fits the owners’ life-patterns, is super comfortable, has great air quality, and uses a fraction of the energy it did before, greatly lowering the demand on the utility grid. In the near future, when solar PV is installed, it can achieve net zero or near net zero emissions, and with battery backup, can provide great resilience in the event of power outages.

Manufacturer: Grabill Cabinetry Style: Maple Olde Towne w/ E5 Edge & P19 Panel Finish: (Perimeter) Paint - Custom White w/ Nickel Glaze; (Island) Stain - Mystic Countertop: Argento Quartz (Select Solid Surfaces) Sink: Blanco Silgranite Super Single Under-Mount in “Metallic Gray” Faucet: Delta Essa in “Arctic Stainless” Backsplash Tile: Customer’s Own Hardware: Maybeck (Hardware Resources) Designer: Taylor/Moceri Andrea Yeip Contractor: Customer’s Own