Energy Upgrade California: Helps 90048 Homeowners Save on Efficiency

Going Green can save you money.  Currently, there is a California sponsored energy upgrade rebate program: "Energy Upgrade California" offering homeowners looking to make their home more energy efficient and meet the gold standard in green homes. The label will verify your green features and can improve your property value. At the same time as qualifying, you can earn up to $4,000 in rebates in Los Angeles County.

Contractors and rates are provided to ensure you benefiting the rebate.  It is important you follow the rules in order to apply for the rebate.  By upgrading your home's efficiency, you also creates a healthier planet.  Retro-fitted homes can also mean savings on utilities, maintenance and repairs, along with conserving our natural resources.  It can even improve your home's value in the long run.

"Energy upgrade California in Los Angeles County", is a great program for any homeowner looking to be more green and eco-friendly.
 

Take the example below for the 90048 zip code area to evaluate whether or not this program is right for you.

Action Plan:  Advanced Upgrade Package

10-40%
Energy Savings

The Advanced Upgrade is customized for your home and your needs to maximize comfort and energy savings. The more energy you save, the higher your incentive. Specific measures vary, but may include:

• High efficiency furnace
• Energy efficient cooling
• Energy efficient windows

• Wall insulation
• Cool roofs

Contractors and raters can help you apply for the following rebates and incentives. Click on “Find Contractors & Raters” to get started.

Incentives for this upgrade:

• Energy Upgrade California - SCE & SoCalGas - Existing Home

  Sponsored by: Southern California Edison (SCE) and Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) Partnership
  Eligibility:
  Energy Upgrade California is a new incentive program for shared customers of Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) and Southern California Edison (SCE). Incentives of up to $4,000 are available to... (more)
  up to $4,000 back!

• Energy Upgrade California - All Electric Homes - Existing Home

  Sponsored by: Southern California Edison (SCE)
  Eligibility:
  Energy Upgrade California is a new incentive program for Southern California Edison (SCE) customers, including all-electric homes. Incentives of up to $4,000 are available to SCE customers who participate... (more)
  up to $4,000 back!

• Energy Upgrade California - Los Angeles County - Advanced Package - Existing Home

  Sponsored by: Los Angeles County
  Eligibility:
  Offered to owners of detached single family homes within Los Angeles County who participate in the Energy Upgrade California program by completing a whole house Advanced Package upgrade using a Participating... (more)
  up to $4,000 back!

• Energy Upgrade California SoCalGas - Existing Home

  Sponsored by: Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas)
  Eligibility:
  Energy Upgrade California is a new incentive program offered to SoCalGas customers with electric service provided by a local electric municipal utility. Incentives of up to $1,280 are available to SoCalGas... (more)
  up to $4,000 back!

• Energy Upgrade California in Los Angeles County Green Label Rebate for Existing Homes - Existing Home

  Sponsored by: Los Angeles County
  Eligibility:
  Offered to owners of single family homes within Los Angeles County who achieve a GreenPoint Rated Existing Home Elements or Whole House label (note: participation in Energy Upgrade California is not required... (more)
  up to $2,000 back!
  
  
  •  HOPE THIS HELPS.

Ray Kappe's Benton Residence A Contemporary Warmer

Ray Kappe, FAIA is one in a handful of contemporary architects with his philosophies deeply rooted in the mid-century modern mind-set.  His works throughout town have a grounded nature to their designs, simply due to the natural resources he chooses to use and accentuate through design. Kappe's residential architecture is often referred to and characterized as "the apotheosis of the California House."

Benton Residence, Ray Kappe, FAIA Architect

You can catch a conversation between Ray Kappe and former student, Shigeru Ban presented by the Hammer Museum during it's 2008 'Hammer Conversations', an on-going series which pairs thinkers from various discipline for engaging provocative discussion on culture, science and the arts.

Ray Kappe, FAIA - LivingHomes.net

As his homes are popular with buyers, we find them even being featured as characters on TV, as with The Benton Residence, in an episode of 'Californication'.

The beautiful design consists of a 5000 square foot steel column and glue-laminated beam construction, originally designed as a large addition to the existing home on the upper portion of the gently sloping dell it rests.  This Brentwood site is very quiet and private with absolute seclusion where a design integrates interior and exterior spaces with the use of large glass panels.

Benton Residence, Ray Kappe, FAIA - Architect

The position the home rests on the lot taking into consideration the surrounding landscape and existing major trees, while incorporating vertical grain Douglas fir, stone pavers, glass and steel staircase along with the metal fireplace showcasing the dynamic materials throughout this design. 

Ray Kappe modular RK1 design - Elevation A, LivingHomes.net

Kappe's modular home designs are currently being built.  As affordability is always an emphasis on Kappe's work, his approach with his modular designs for LivingHomes takes into account his passion for sustainability, affordability and environment. You will even find a reminiscent Benton Residence modular design with Kappe's RK1 eco-friendly design plans.

I should note I happen to live in a Ray Kappe, FAIA 1962 amazing design.  Even though there has been major alterations to the original vision by a previous owner, elements of his philosophy of sustainability can still be seen throughout my home.

Ray Kappe, FAIA - Architect, 1962

*Some photos courtesy LivingHomes.net

Stiffle It! This Carla Ridge Mid-Century Had Me At Hello!

1575 Carla Ridge, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

From the moment I laid eyes on her, I knew we could be sitting side by side sharing the joys of one another.  This breath-taking 2-story 1961 Mid-Century Modern estate for sale in the exclusive and gated Trousdale Estates area features 4 bedrooms / 6 bath within 7,513sf of completely renovated and well-maintained living space.  1575 Carla Ridge, Beverly Hills 90210 provides the utmost in privacy and refinement in architecture .  Currently listed for $10,700,000 through listing agent James Muske.  Stay off the grid as this outstanding eco-friendly Mid-Century Modern masterpiece is ready and rarin' to be sold!

Upon entry, you are welcomed by a glass-enclosed elevator that takes you up to a gallery-like space.  Your eyes can't help but to wander immediately through the airy and spacious environment.  From floor to ceiling this home truly is a work of art.  After 44 years, this home is being offered for the first time to prospective buyers looking for the ultimate in Modern.

The step-down living space provides a comfortable and cozy setting along with the handsome stone-faced fireplace.  The beautiful hardwood floors shine throughout this Mid-Century home.   The natural light in this room is spectacular with the tilted almost-floor-to-ceiling glass windows.  Such a beautiful nuance to this Modern.

With a gourmet kitchen locked and loaded, you are ready to have some guests stop over for some cocktails and snacks, not to mention all of the formal sit-downs you are able to accommodate with the use of the expansive kitchen including a Butler's pantry.  There is plenty of gathering space with a island featuring a gas stove-top and seating area.  A Breakfast Bar may come in handy when doing brunches or having family gatherings.

Beautiful glass tiles keep this bathroom clean, open and spacious.

I love this Crow's Nest-like Master Bedroom with a seating area overlooking the beautiful outdoors.  The vaulted ceilings keep the expanse of the room prominent. With access to an outdoor terrace inviting the outdoors in and other architectural details in just this room alone, expresses the architectural philosophy we see throughout the whole home.  I think if I only posted the picture below and just wrote about this listing, people would really understand what I had to say in relation to the whole house.

The Master Bath is truly an escape from it ALL.  This room feels massive with an over-sized steam shower and separate soaking tub.  You can bath away all of your challenges away while enjoying the warmth of the radiant heated porcelain floors. 

The Master Bath comes with dual walk-in closets with plenty of organized space. 

ECO-Friendly: The Mid-Century Modern Philosophy

What is truly amazing is that most Mid-Century Modern homes designed by some truly talented architects typically were eco-friendly, even in today's standards.  With complete pride-of-ownership here, the updating of this home to allow maximum sustainability is what makes this home a MODERN.  

• Skylights providing natural sunlight.  
• The pool with solar heated water.  
• Photo voltaic panels connecting directly to the Southern California Edison grid.  
• Vent-less fireplaces fueled by eco-friendly bio-ethanol.  
• Floor-to-ceiling windows providing natural light.  
• Thermal double-pained UV windows with motorized shades providing relief from the harsh Southern California sun.  
• Bamboo, cork, natural stone and glass providing an even further sustainable approach.  

I mean, this place just doesn't stop!  She's got me and I've got 'Sucker' written all over me.

Bonus Rooms and More Features:

Along with the wonderful architectural details that are too numerous to mention them all, the home has many hide-outs and provides many different environments to enjoy indoors and out.  You can relax in the Library and catch up on some Trade publications or perhaps turn up the music and hang out in the media room with full bar set-up.  This house really is ready to rock! 

Once you step outdoors and into the pool area, you notice immediately the tranquility of this estate.  You might be throwing down some AC/DC inside the house, but once you leave, you are met with a zen-like environment uniting you with nature.

The architectural detailing with the use of flag stone stacked on the wall's facade keeps the feeling of nature as the natural stone compliments the surroundings. This listing is a brilliant display of fine architecture of the Mid-Century period.  

With plenty of outdoor space including balconies, terraces, fountain and fireplace, you are ready to take on and enjoy nature's elements.

Situated on .83 acres of land, there are many areas outdoors with intimate gathering places to relax and enjoy nature.  A beautiful fountain with cascading water sets your heart at peace.  You can also enjoy the outdoor fireplace in the evenings when the cool chill sets upon the city.

 

A price change was noted on June 22 (MLS#11-532431) from the original list price of $11,900,000 The listing will have an Open House for the public on Sunday, June 26 from 2-5pm.  If you are unable to make it and would like to schedule a private showing, feel free to give me a call, 213-305-8537.

In the meantime, have a modern day!

Steve Ward
Realtor®, SFR®
Mid-Century Modern Architecture Specialist
modernhomeslosangeles
Keller Williams Realty - Los Feliz
Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource
DRE Lic #01871422
213.305.8537 direct
steve.ward.la@gmail.com
MODCOM - LA Conservancy Modern Committee


*Square footage is as per R.E.S.T.

333 WILTON - 12-unit ECO-Friendly Lofts Arrive, Again

333 S Wilton Pl, Los Angeles 90020

333 WILTON is a newly built eco-friendly 12-unit 4-story loft-style condominium project developed by L3 Properties, LLC.  The site is centrally located at 333 S. Wilton Pl, 90020 between Hancock Park and Korea Town.   Units range in price from $449,000 to $599,000.  The HOAs are in the ballpark of $335/mo.

It had been awhile since modernhomeslosangeles has posted a blog with a new condominium complex as it's subject.  To tell you the truth, there really aren't that many new developments worth mentioning.  But I am happy to report that 333 WILTON  is something worth your while.

333 S Wilton Pl - Units Floor Plan with Large Corner Units Anchoring Design

Each unit is it's own separate tower of four stories of loft living with a deconstructed open floor plan with plenty of floor to ceiling double glazed, low-E Milgard windows allowing natural light to spill into your modern, eco-friendly living environment.  These spacious lofts range between 1,392sf - 1,724sf of interior living space, not including several balcony areas throughout each level.

When you walk in, you can't help notice the 16ft to 20ft ceilings as well as the exposed deconstructed elements like the staircase with it's steel railings and floors with polished cement. With the gas fireplace centrally located in the living room and the other modern amenities including stainless steel appliances and bamboo flooring sets you up for a very comfortable lifestyle here.

With it's  live + work option area located on the second floor, who needs to go into the office?  Why not have it convert into a guest suite for those weekend visitors?  

A clean and modern kitchen with all the amenities needed to entertain.  The custom island in the kitchen is clad with EcoTop (a bamboo and FSC wood fiber product).  These features plus EnergyStar appliances create a statement that is modern and environmentally friendly. 

 The 2nd bath with WaterSense water-saving faucets.

 Master Bedroom with the bamboo floors and floor to ceiling windows.  No VOC paints are used.

 The deconstructed elements of the project are demonstrated here with the exposed staircase.

Master Bath with double sink and large shower area and a balcony outside your toilet.   Air it out people!

Steel, cement, bamboo, stainless and glass are all resources combined to create a modern environment.

Here is the Office / Den / 2nd Bedroom area of Unit 8.  Very spacious and clean.

Who is the Architect?

333 WILTON was designed by Davis Studio A + D, a Los Angeles based architecture and design studio located in Venice.  Davis Studio A + D consists of a creative duo.  Jonathan David, an architect with three and a half years background at Frank Gehry & Associates working on projects such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall partners with designer, Mary Jo [Kovarik] Davis who collaborates on each project.  Recognized nationally for their mission of bringing together sustainable design, green technologies and environmentally sound materials, while in consideration of the environmental specifics of each site and the health of each client, Davis Studio A + D developed a home run with this project.  Additionally, Davis Studio A + D offers pieceHomes™; a new line of green, modern, modular homes you might want to check out.  Modular is here to stay and we will be hearing more and more about it as it is much more time and energy efficient.  

What Makes 333 WILTON Truly Unique?

If not the first, than one of the first environmentally sustainable residences in the area.  That says a lot as there really is not much in the area of Hancock Park or Korea Town offering as much sustainability as 333 WILTON.  While using less energy and natural resources than traditional buildings, this eco-friendly designed loft does not disappoint with it's modern amenities and aesthetic.  From increased Urban density to foundations made from fly-ash concrete, solar hot water and sustainable materials used for interiors, when conceived, this place was keeping pace to other projects back in 2008 and the approach to sustainable living.

What Makes 333 WILTON Eco-friendly?

• solar panels for domestic hot water & heating
• recycled-content materials
• low-emitting paints & finishes
• Formaldehyde-free insulation
• energy efficient lighting, appliances, cooling & heating systems
• showers, toilets & fixtures with low flow designs that conserve water
• tall windows placed for optimal natural lighting efficiency
• double glazed, low-E Milgard windows
• woven strand bamboo & polished concrete slab flooring
• site preparation for future installation of photovoltaic solar panels
• live/work floor plans can equate to zero commute
• Drought-resistant landscaping
• in-fill lot: reduces urban sprawl

Floor Plans for Unit #8:

333 S Wilton Pl -Unit 8 First Floor

333 S Wilton Pl -Unit 8, Second Floor

333 S Wilton Pl -Unit 8, Third Floor

333 S Wilton Pl -Unit 8, Fourth Floor

Other features include a secured subterranean garage with tandem parking & controlled gated entry and an outdoor entertainment area. 

If this project inspires you and you would like to see it first-hand, please give me a call, 213-305-8537, to set up a showing.

In the meantime, have a modern day!

Steve Ward
Realtor®, SFR®
Mid-Century Modern Architecture Specialist
modernhomeslosangeles
Keller Williams Realty - Los Feliz
Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource
DRE Lic #01871422
213.305.8537 direct
steve.ward.la@gmail.com
MODCOM - LA Conservancy Modern Committee