Author Archives: the local dish

Cindy Horner Design & Construction

Cindy Horner Design & Construction

Transforming Houses into Dream Homes

Cindy Horner Design & ConstructionNestled in the heart of San Clemente, Cindy Horner Designs & Construction is a family-owned business dedicated to delivering innovative, high-quality home renovation and design solutions. A long-time resident of San Clemente, Cindy has built a strong community presence while raising her three children and growing a business rooted in craftsmanship and care.

As proud members of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), Cindy Horner Designs & Construction showcases a commitment to professionalism and industry excellence. Their skilled team of project managers, contractors, and designers takes on projects of all sizes, turning visions into reality while respecting budgets.

This February, the company will debut its new showroom on El Camino Real in downtown San Clemente, across from Sonny’s Pizza. The showroom will feature an array of cabinets to suit every style and budget, along with premium materials like Cosentino Countertops, Dekton, and Silestone to inspire your next project.

Cindy has built a reputation for creating spaces that balance style, functionality, and comfort. From kitchen makeovers to bathroom renovations, her team combines creativity and precision to deliver outstanding results. “We’re not just designing spaces; we’re creating homes where families can truly thrive,” Cindy shares.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of their approach, with an emphasis on eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs. Cindy and her team tailor every project to fit their clients’ lifestyles, ensuring homes reflect the unique needs of each family.

Whether you’re dreaming of a tranquil retreat, a creative workspace, or a family-friendly haven, Cindy Horner Designs & Construction is ready to transform your house into a home. Visit their new showroom and experience the expertise and dedication of a business deeply rooted in the San Clemente community.

 

Cindy Horner Design & Construction
430 N. El Camino Real, Ste. B
San Clemente
949-836-9363
CindyHornerDesigns.com

Cindy Horner Design & Construction

Designing Women of Orange County

Designing Women of Orange County

The Quicker Fixer-Uppers

Designing Women of Orange County

When it comes to fast, high-quality home remodels, Designing Women of Orange County is the name homeowners and contractors trust. With over 30 years of experience, founder Sabrina Phillips and her expert team have mastered the art of efficient, high-impact transformations—turning kitchens, bathrooms, and entire homes into stunning spaces in as little as four to six weeks.

Now, clients, general contractors, and designers can experience the Designing Women difference firsthand at their brand-new showroom in Laguna Niguel. No more long drives to Anaheim—the best in materials, finishes, and custom window treatments are now available locally for expert design consultations and remodel planning.

Award-Winning Designs, Maximum ROI
Sabrina isn’t just an interior designer—she’s also a licensed general contractor and real estate expert. This unique skill set allows her to guide clients on where to invest and where to save, ensuring their remodel not only looks stunning but also adds real value to their home. Many of her clients have seen their home value and sale price increase by $80,000- $450,000 after a remodel, proving that strategic design choices make a differ-ence. “I know what catches a buyer’s eye,” says Sabrina. “If a renovation won’t deliver a strong return, I’ll be the first to recom-mend a better approach.”

Fast & Fabulous Remodels— No Compromises!
One of the biggest myths about remodel-ing? That it has to take months. Designing Women of OC shatters that expectation with lightning-fast turnarounds on kitch-ens, baths, and full-home makeovers. Thanks to a streamlined process and a skilled team of tradespeople, they deliver impeccable results without the long wait. “We get in and out as quickly as possible, so you can get back to enjoying your home,” says Sabrina. “It’s all about making the process seamless, stress-free, and exciting.”

More Than Just Remodeling
Beyond home renovations, Designing Women of OC offers custom closets and a full range of custom window coverings and draperies, add-ing the perfect finishing touch to any space. Their showroom is also a collaborative space for interior designers and contractors to explore high-quality materials with their clients. Whether you’re refreshing a single space or re-vamping an entire home, Designing Women of OC makes it happen—quickly, beautifully, and with purpose.

 

Designing Women of Orange County
949-484-8888
27601 Forbes Road, Suite 31
Laguna Niguel
Info@DesigningWomenOfOC.com
DesigningWomenOfOC.com
CA License #1101952

Designing Women of Orange County

Gentle Genie Rug Care

Gentle Genie Rug Care

Eric Bollmann

Gentle Genie Rug CareGentle Genie Rug Care offers your area rugs the most thorough cleaning they’ve ever received—a process they proudly call restorative deep cleaning. Whether your rug is a cherished heirloom, a high-end designer piece, or a functional part of your home, Gentle Genie ensures it gets the care and attention it deserves.

The process begins with a meticulous rug dusting, designed to extract dry soil, gritty sand, and embedded particles from deep within the fibers and foundation of your rug. This essential first step not only protects your rug from premature wear but also prepares it for a deep and effective cleaning. Once dusting is complete, your rug moves to the wash floor for a mild yet thorough shampooing of both the front and back. During this stage, Gentle Genie also applies any necessary stain or odor treatments, ensuring your rug is fully refreshed.

The magic continues as Gentle Genie’s state-of-the-art river of water flushes and rinses fresh water through your rug until it runs completely clean. This process removes all remaining dirt and residue, leaving your rug as fresh as the day it was made. A final conditioning rinse enhances the softness and vibrancy of your rug’s fibers, followed by water extraction and placement in a high-powered centrifuge to remove excess moisture. The finishing steps include careful drying and grooming to ensure your rug is returned looking its absolute best.

Pricing for this comprehensive cleaning is $5.50 per square foot, with optional pick-up and delivery services available at $75 each way. Gentle Genie provides convenience and peace of mind, especially for large or delicate rugs.

Eric, along with his business partners Livingston and Larry, proudly operates Gentle Genie Rug Care in Orange County and the Inland Empire. As a lifelong resident of San Juan Capistrano, Eric personally oversees rug jobs in South Orange County, ensuring a customized experience and the neighborly care you’d expect.

Gentle Genie Rug Care is committed to treating every rug with expert precision and a personal touch. Visit their website at GentleGenieRugCare.com to learn more about their process or schedule a cleaning for your treasured rugs today.

 

Gentle Genie Rug Care
3605 W. MacArthur Blvd, Santa Ana
Servicing ALL of OC
949-484-8888
GentleGenieRugCare.com

Gentle Genie Rug Care

Outdoor Lighting Perspectives

Outdoor Lighting Perspectives

Laura Bradburn

Outdoor Lighting Perspectives

Outdoor lighting now plays a central role in how homeowners design and use their backyards. With the right lighting plan, patios, outdoor kitchens and garden spaces remain practical and inviting long after daylight fades. Beyond simple visibility, well-designed lighting adds atmosphere, enhances safety and helps outdoor areas feel like a natural continuation of the home.

Orange County–based outdoor lighting designer and licensed C7 low-voltage electrician Laura Bradburn approaches each project with the belief that lighting sets the tone for how a space functions after dark. Collaborating with builders and landscape designers, she creates lighting plans that allow homeowners to enjoy their outdoor spaces with confidence and comfort in the evening hours.

Bradburn evaluates every project through three key priorities: safety, usability and visual appeal. Proper illumination of walkways, steps and pool areas helps reduce hazards, while perimeter lighting contributes to a greater sense of security. Task lighting ensures outdoor kitchens, dining areas and gathering spaces remain functional at night. Thoughtful accent lighting completes the picture, highlighting landscaping and architectural features so the yard looks just as appealing from inside the home as it does outdoors.

Homeowners are also rethinking how lighting supports the way they entertain and relax. Bistro-style lighting adds warmth to seating areas, while specialized lighting allows recreational spaces to be used well into the evening. Permanent roofline lighting has also grown in popularity, offering customizable color options for holidays and special occasions.

In her designs, Bradburn prioritizes long-lasting materials, often selecting brass fixtures with lifetime warranties. She relies on layered lighting techniques and warm color temperatures to avoid harsh glare and create a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere.

Whether enhancing everyday enjoyment, increasing property value or improving rental appeal, a carefully planned lighting design can turn a backyard into a true living space that works just as well at night as it does during the day.

 

Outdoor Lighting Perspectives
Laura Bradburn
San Juan Capistrano
949-523-3936
OutdoorLights.com
License #1106783

Outdoor Lighting Perspectives

Screenmobile

Screenmobile

Matt Rudar

ScreenmobileIn South Orange County, Screenmobile has built a strong reputation for delivering reliable and custom screen solutions, thanks to Matt Rudar, who has been leading the company in the region for over 29 years. Based out of San Clemente, Matt and his team of expert technicians specialize in repairing and installing window, door, and porch screens for both homes and businesses throughout the coastal communities. With their fleet of mobile service vehicles, Screenmobile brings their services directly to customers’ doorsteps, saving them time and eliminating the hassle of bringing screens in for repairs or installations.

Matt’s journey in the screen business began at an early age when he worked alongside his parents, who owned a screen company in Huntington Beach. In 1996, he made the move to South Orange County to open his own Screenmobile franchise. Matt grew his business while also building a family. “I love being able to pair the wants and needs of my customers with the perfect screening solution,” says Matt. “My years of experience allow me to solve their issues on a daily basis, and it brings me great pride and satisfaction.”

Over the years, Screenmobile has expanded its offerings beyond standard window and door screens to include a variety of specialty products. Whether it’s solar screens for increased energy efficiency, security screens for added protection, retractable door screens for seamless design, or pet-friendly options for animal lovers, Screenmobile is committed to providing solutions for every need. Whether repairing a torn screen or designing a custom enclosure, their team ensures top-quality results that elevate both the functionality and aesthetic of any space.

What truly sets Screenmobile apart is their dedication to customer satisfaction. Every project is approached with professionalism, and each client receives a tailored solution that fits their specific needs. From the initial consultation to installation, Screenmobile’s mobile service makes it easier than ever to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about pests or the elements. With a deep commitment to solving customer problems and a foundation built on years of experience, Screenmobile continues to be the trusted choice for anyone seeking dependable, custom screen solutions.

 

Screenmobile
Servicing South Orange County
949-364-5292
ScreenMobile.com

Screenmobile

California Window

California Window

Dallas Conkle

California Window

Dallas Conkle walking a client through the details, because at California Windows details MATTER!

In an industry often driven by shortcuts and subcontracted labor, California Windows stands as a rare constant. A company defined by legacy, craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to doing things the right way. Founded in 1974, the business has grown not by chasing trends, but by honoring principles passed down through generations.

Today, California Windows is led by its newest owner and CEO, a man whose connection to the company quite literally began on day one. When asked how long he has been with the company, his answer “40 years” often draws a pause. The follow-up question comes naturally: How old are you? His response never fails to surprise. He is 40 years old. As the story goes, his father picked him up from the hospital in the company’s glass truck. From that moment on, California Windows wasn’t just a family business, it was part of his life.

Raised alongside the company, he rode shotgun with his father, learning not just how windows are installed, but how trust is built. The values instilled by his father and before him, his grandfather, still define the company today: pride in craftsmanship, respect for people, and responsibility to the community.

What truly sets California Windows apart is its commitment to employing in-house installers rather than subcontracting. This model isn’t just good business, it’s a reflection of their belief that when employees are valued, trained, and supported, excellence follows. That care trickles down into every installation, every home, and every customer experience.

Year after year, glowing reviews and referrals affirm what the company has always known: quality work begins with happy, skilled professionals who take pride in what they do. For clients, that means peace of mind and results that last.

Forty years after that first ride in the glass truck, California Windows continues to prove that legacy, when paired with integrity and leadership, doesn’t just endure, it thrives.

 

California Window
2915 Red Hill Ave, Ste B104
Costa Mesa
714.434.8650
CAWindow.com

California Window

Sofas by Design

Sofas by Design

Deborah & Tiffany Ashcroft

Sofas by DesignEstablished in 2003 by Deborah Ashcroft, Sofas by Design stands as a female-owned enterprise, serving as both a sofa manufacturer and an interior design team nestled in San Clemente. Beyond its specialization in crafting custom-made sofas and sectionals, the business has gained renown for housing an extensive array of thoughtfully curated furniture and home goods.

Sofas by Design sets itself apart from the commonplace, cookie-cutter offerings prevalent in online and big-box furniture stores. Instead, it showcases an eclectic fusion of unique treasures meticulously selected to captivate and delight both you and your guests. The company remains at the forefront of evolving trends, ensuring not only that your visions come to life but also that your purchases bring lasting pride for years to come.

Unleash your creativity! From classic traditional to contemporary/modern styles, you have the freedom to choose from a myriad of options, including diverse fabrics and brands, crafting a distinctive statement for your space. If you find yourself uncertain about the direction to take, the team stands ready to assist with a professional design consultation, guiding you through the process of customizing the perfect piece for your surroundings.

Sofas by Design invites you to explore its stellar 5-star reviews on Yelp, a testament to the high-quality merchandise and exceptional customer service that locals can’t stop praising. If you’re gearing up to furnish your space but unsure where to begin, schedule an initial consultation. The team is eager to provide accurate and realistic information regarding costs and timelines, address any inquiries you may have, and accompany you through the entire design journey. Conveniently situated on El Camino Real (next to Pizza Port), the showroom warmly welcomes visitors Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

 

Sofas by Design
309 N El Camino Real
San Clemente
949-294-2635
SofasByDesign.co

Sofas by Design

Sea Pointe Design & Remodel

Sea Pointe Design & Remodel

Lauren Mills, President

Sea Pointe Design & RemodelLauren MillsSea Pointe Design & Remodel is a distinguished family-owned home remodeling firm that was founded by Andrew Shore in 1986. Today, the organization continues its legacy within the family under the leadership of President, Lauren Mills. Over the past 40 years, this generational transition has maintained a steadfast commitment to high-quality home transformations across Orange County.

As a specialized design-build firm, Sea Pointe employs a unique “all-inclusive” remodeling philosophy that prioritizes financial transparency. Unlike traditional contractors who often provide estimates before finalizing designs, frequently leading to a 30% change order rate, Sea Pointe completes the design and material selection process before providing a quote. This rigorous pre-construction planning ensures transparent costs, eliminating the unexpected expenses typically associated with general contractors.

The firm provides a single point of accountability and responsibility by maintaining an expert in-house team that includes designers, an architect, estimators, project managers, and skilled craftsmen. This allows the team to uphold a standard of service where the client’s home is respected as if it were their own.

Cleanliness and site management are hallmarks of the Sea Pointe experience, frequently earning the firm accolades from satisfied homeowners. This attention to detail ensures that the disruption to a family’s daily life is kept to an absolute minimum.

Confidence in their craftsmanship is reflected in a warranty program that significantly exceeds state requirements. While California law only mandates a one-year warranty, Sea Pointe provides a robust five-year warranty on their work. Among accolades of the Better Business Bureau Ethics Award, Best of Orange County, and Best of Houzz, this dedication to excellence is further validated by over 300 positive online reviews, cementing their reputation as a premier and trusted remodeler for four decades. Call to learn more and begin your home transformation today!

 

Sea Pointe Design & Remodel
576 Wald, Irvine
949.635.4546
SeaPointe.com

Sea Pointe Design & Remodel

Capistrano Hardwoods

Capistrano Hardwoods

Dave Smith

Capistrano HardwoodsWhen longtime carpenter Dave Smith set out to open his own supply house, he knew exactly what was missing in South County — a trusted source for quality lumber and specialty hardwoods. In 1989, he found the right home in San Juan Capistrano, saving local tradespeople and homeowners from long drives north to find custom moldings and hard-to-source materials. Capistrano Hardwoods opened its doors on Avenida Aeropuerto and has been serving the community ever since.

Today, Capistrano Hardwoods continues to be a go-to resource for homeowners, DIYers and professional tradespeople alike. The locally owned business is known for competitive pricing that often beats big box home improvement stores on moldings, windows and doors, paired with knowledgeable, hands-on customer service.

“I’m proud of the reputation we’ve built over the past 37 years,” Dave says. “Our employees truly care about helping customers find the right solution, and the loyalty of our customers says everything.”

Open six days a week, Capistrano Hardwoods is especially convenient for weekend DIY projects. The experienced team takes the time to answer questions and guide customers through options, helping ensure each project starts on the right foot.

Well known as “just down the street from The Coach House,” Capistrano Hardwoods is easy to find and even easier to work with. The expansive inventory includes hardwood lumber, moldings, custom windows, barnwood doors, cabinet hardware and a wide selection of staircase and banister options.

Rather than navigating crowded aisles or driving up the freeway, customers can stop in and work directly with Ken, Zack, Izzy and the rest of the team. From small home updates to large-scale projects, Capistrano Hardwoods delivers quality materials, expert guidance and a level of service that keeps customers coming back.

 

Capistrano Hardwoods
26131 Avenida Aeropuerto #A
San Juan Capistrano
949-661-6244
CapistranoHardwoods.com

Capistrano Hardwoods

Socal Tankless

Socal Tankless

Mike Kinder

Socal TanklessSocal TanklessAt Socal Tankless, a commitment to delivering top-tier service is ingrained in the company’s ethos. The dedicated team at Socal Tankless, comprised of certified technicians, is steadfast in providing customers with unparalleled quality, whether it’s a new installation, routine service, or a meticulous repair. Their goal is to collaboratively explore and implement the most efficient and cost-effective solutions for each individual need.

With a legacy spanning over 40 years in the plumbing industry, Socal Tankless stands as a family-owned and operated business, boasting a rich tradition of excellence. The company takes pride in its unwavering dedication to delivering the highest caliber of service and products available in the market. Accredited with certifications from prominent tankless water heater manufacturers, Socal Tankless is committed to maintaining a position of leadership within the industry.

As an Orange County-based establishment, Socal Tankless not only serves its community but actively contributes to its well-being. The company embraces a spirit of giving back by sponsoring various youth sports initiatives, including Little League, AYSO, and high school athletics programs such as football and girl’s softball teams. This engagement with the community reflects Socal Tankless’s commitment to fostering a positive impact beyond its plumbing services.

ECO-FRIENDLY OPTIONS
Tankless water heaters offer several eco-friendly benefits that make them a popular choice for homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint. First, tankless water heaters only heat water when it’s needed, which means they consume less energy overall compared to traditional water heaters that constantly heat a large tank of water. This energy-efficient design can lead to significant savings on your energy bills and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, tankless water heaters typically have a longer lifespan than traditional water heaters, which reduces the need for frequent replacements and ultimately decreases waste. Overall, the eco-friendly benefits of tankless water heaters make them a smart choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.

Socal Tankless is not merely a plumbing service provider but a cornerstone of the community, combining decades of expertise with a genuine passion for service and community support.

 

Socal Tankless
949-481-6940
SocalTankless.com