MEET THE TEAM: MARI WARNER

What do you do at Allen Construction? I recently moved into the role of Client Relations & Sustainability Manager.  I’m looking forward to working more closely with our clients from initial intake to final project walkthrough, to help ensure our services are exceeding our clients’ expectations.  

Allen Construction is recognized regionally and nationally as a leader in green building practices, and one of our core values is to build homes that are healthy, comfortable, durable, and energy and water efficient.  I hope to collaborate with industry partners to continue improving our collective carbon footprint and work towards building a more sustainable future.   

Mari in the 10,000 sf grand penthouse on the 36th floor of one of the ultra-luxury, mixed-use towers in Honolulu.

How did you get started in the construction field? I recently earned my Master’s degree in Construction Management and Technology with an emphasis in sustainability from Arizona State University. Prior to starting at Allen Construction, I worked on the development of a 60-acre LEED-platinum certified, master-planned community in the heart of Honolulu.

Where do you live? I live in Carpinteria with my husband, two children (Olivia 5, & Asher, 2), and puppy, Luna.

What do you like to do outside of work? I like to explore new places. Prior to the pandemic there was a lot of international travel, but now we’ve made a lot of discoveries in our “backyard”.  Next on my list is Yellowstone National Park with my 2 and 5 year old children.

What is your proudest achievement? Breaking ground on six luxury residential towers in the master-planned community and years later seeing new homeowners and businesses moving into the buildings.

What was the last book you read? “Humans of New York” by Brandon Stanton.  It’s a coffee table book that I’ve had for the past year that I often flip through. It is a beautiful reminder of our shared and enduring humanity.

We wouldn’t know it to look at you, but…I love taking photographs – usually candids of people and interior design/architecture.  I also love being around animals – dogs and horses are my favorite.

What advice would you give someone starting out in the construction industry? Be curious, be receptive to feedback, and create opportunities for learning exposure.

A Greener Way to Demo

Earlier this year, one of our remodel clients made the decision to salvage items in their home instead of demolishing. We worked closely with The Reuse People to make it happen.  

The Reuse People started in 1993 in San Diego with a one-off project to collect building materials for donation to victims of the El Nino flooding. It was so successful that it turned into a 501c3 non-profit company whose mission is to help the environment.

Now the company is headquartered in Oakland where they have a 40,000 square foot sales floor that is open to the public, basically a thrift store for used building materials. The primary customer that they serve is the modest homeowner doing minor repairs, DIY’ers, and landlords with rental units. In California, they serve a large portion of the state primarily from the Bay Area South and West of I-5.

The ReUse People Mission Statement

The ReUse People reduces the solid waste stream and changes the way the built environment is renewed by salvaging building materials and distributing them for reuse.

By consistently focusing on its mission, TRP has diverted over 415,000 tons of used building materials from landfills, trained 71 contractors and provided full-time employment to hundreds of people.

Allen & Eagle Demolition loading large appliances.

TRP’s ReUse Solution embodies two programs. The first is environmental — keeping reusable building materials out of landfills through building deconstruction, building-materials salvage, transportation, storage and distribution. The second program is economic, and is designed to improve the standard of living in local communities. As a deconstruction practitioner, international distributor of used building materials, trainer and consultant, TRP is proud to be a driving force in the Green Building Industry.

 Why Consider Salvaging?

In many cases, 75 to 80 percent of a building can be kept out of the landfill. In additional to the environmental benefits, the tax deductible donation, plus any disposal costs that are offset, can sometimes match or outweigh the additional costs of the deconstruction.

Lumber is salvaged from a trellis.

Timing and cost considerations:

•  Deconstruction is typically double the cost vs. demo.

• Deconstruction typically takes up to 10 times longer than demo. (If it takes 1 day to demo, it would typically take 10 days to deconstruct.)

 How it works:

•  An initial survey of the inventory is done at no cost to the homeowner.

• An inventory list is taken and sent to appraisers to determine a range of value that could be achieved through salvaging (which is the estimated donation value.)

• If the homeowner decides to proceed, TRP then uses Certified Deconstruction Companies, usually getting 2-3 bids, to assure the condition of the products is preserved for resale.

Windows, doors, and bricks are some of the materials that can be salvaged for resale.

What type of projects are good candidates for salvaging?

TRP works with projects starting as small as 1,200 square feet. The typical project is a whole home remodel or a complete teardown. The items they can use include framing lumber (highest demand), doors, windows, cabinets, appliances, flooring, plumbing, and more.

By consistently focusing on its mission, TRP has diverted over 415,000 tons of used building materials from landfills and is proud to be a driving force in the Green Building Industry.  

For more information, visit www.thereusepeople.org

A Model for the Future of Sustainable Residential Construction

Beautiful ocean and sunset views aren’t the only special features of this hillside home under construction on the Ventura hillside. Thanks to the passion of the homeowners, designers, and the Allen Team, this 4,240 square foot home consists of some unique sustainable features that embody Allen’s commitment to high performance building. When completed, the project will provide a model for the future of sustainable residential construction.

This fire rebuild project has beautifully combined fire and disaster resiliency, an ultra-efficient building envelope, and the ability to completely eliminate an electric bill. This home is designed to be All-Electric/Net Positive, eliminating the need for natural gas service and producing more energy from Solar PV than the home itself will use, creating additional power for battery storage and electric vehicle charging. A separate Southern California Edison permit will allow this all-electric home to operate off-the-grid by storing the solar energy it produces in a Tesla Power Wall system that will automatically direct energy resources back into the grid if needed.

A unique element of the build includes application of a synthetic acrylic building envelope sealant that, when aerosolized, allows for filling gaps as small as a human hair, thus providing an ultra-tight building shell and yielding greater energy efficiency.

In addition to those features mentioned above, this home will also include many design and building elements that make it super sustainable as well as comfortable for the homeowners including:

Electrification

• All Electric home (no gas) with Net Positive Solar PV design (home will produce more energy that it is using to power electric vehicles

• Self generation permit to run off grid

• High efficiency electric heat pump heating and cooling system with room-by-room climate control (separate mini-splits in each room)

• High efficiency, electric heat pump water heater and dryer.

• Electric induction cooktop

Energy & Water Efficiency

• Passive solar design: High efficiency windows located on the South side of the home, minimal windows on the East and West sides, and no windows on the north side. In addition, extended overhangs will provide shading in summer months and warming sun exposure in Winter months

• 2x6, 24” on center advanced framing (vs. 16” on center), this eliminates the amount of thermal bridging on the exterior shell and creates additional efficiency

• Beyond code insulation R-values at exterior walls (R-28) and roof (R-38)

• Two layers of drywall for additional thermal mass, temperature control

Resiliency

• Fire resistant building materials, all-stucco shell with no exposed exterior wood

• No open venting to attic or crawl areas

• 36” wide doorways for wheelchair clearance and ADA compliant elevator allows for aging in place

Indoor Environmental Quality

• Mechanical ventilation. Filtered fresh air is pulled in from outside

• Electric non-combustion appliances eliminate carbon monoxide off gassing in home

• Ductless heating and cooling eliminates additional dust and alergens

CELEBRATING TEN YEARS AT ALLEN

Congratulations to MATT CALIGIURE, Production Manager for our remodel division, for his 10 year anniversary with Allen! We caught up with Matt to ask him some questions about his time with Allen and what he sees in the future.

What was your first job with Allen?

A wonderful project out in Hollister Ranch for the Turpin family.  It was a complete gut remodel of an existing ranch house and a new barn structure with living space.  It was a fantastic property, with an interesting design, working with a lovely owner family.  I was way out there and out of cell service, and totally over my head!  The project came out great and it was a fantastic first project for me.  It’s really special that we’ve been able to perform two additional projects with this family since then. 

Matt’s first project with Allen.

 Do you have a favorite project that you have worked on?

Hard to choose this, but probably the trio of Rodney Walker homes out in Ojai about 4-5 years back.  It certainly wasn’t an easy assignment, but memorable because of the unique challenges with the original, historical structures and design intent.  There were hoops to jump through around every turn, which really hardened me up and helped me evolve as a project leader.  Was able to form strong and trusting relationships with owners as well, which was a treat. 

 What’s the best thing about working at Allen?

It’s a solid group of people that are talented and really care.    

Pics of Matt with his wife, Beth, and son, Pete.

  What are you looking forward to in the next 10 years?

Doing my best to help my young sons grow up into good men

Matt with new baby, Nico.

Matt’s dog, Poppy, is also celebrating 10 years with Allen! The photo above was taken on Poppy’s first day on the job.

What advice would you give yourself 10 years ago when you started?

Get a really good pillow.

Get good at differentiating between what I can and can’t control….and let that help me shape my responses to situations and people each day. 

How has the company changed since you have been here?

I was hired coming out of an economic recession, I think something like the 50th employee.  We were still operating as Allen Associates then and things were a bit more free wheelin’ than they are now.  Over time we’ve developed a clearer identity, with an organized structure that lends itself to longer-term stability and success.  The quality of the core team members has remained intact though, which has helped us navigate organizational change in an admirable way. 

DESIGN TRENDS FOR 2022

The near year is just around the corner and we wanted to catch up on some of the design trends that will make their way into 2022. Here are a few of our favorites from our recent builds.

RECREATIVE AND MULTI-FUNCTIONAL SPACES

Your dining room doubles as a library or the den becomes an office. Take full advantage of every space in our home.

GREEN

Green is the new “IT” color for kitchen cabinets and more!

GRANDMILLENNIAL STYLE

What’s old will surely be new again—hence grandmillennial style. It’s a slightly updated version of the classically feminine style of our mothers and grandmothers. Think vintage finds, feminine florals, and classic prints and patterns.

ROUNDED SHAPES

Rounded shapes in furniture and even your walls!

COLORFUL PAINTED DOORS

Don’t be afraid to add a bold pop of color. Paint an exterior door to greet your guests and add curbside appeal. And it works just as well on interior doors!

WALLPAPER

Make a statement, add a little fun, or complete your tranquil space. Wallpaper is easier than ever and comes in so many patterns, textures, and prints.

2022 COLOR OF THE YEAR

It’s only the beginning of Fall, but we are already seeing some color trends for 2022. Here are two “Color of the Year” picks that were just announced.

Photo: BEHR

Behr Paint Company recently announced its 2022 Color of the Year, Breezeway (MQ3-21), an approachable but noticeable color. The silvery green shade with cool undertones, part of the BEHR® 2022 Color Trends Palette, is inspired by the earth’s beauty and mimics naturally stunning sea glass found on the shore of salty beaches.

Photo: BEHR

Photo: BEHR

Breezeway evokes feelings of coolness and peace while representing a desire to move forward and discover newfound passions. Leading you from one place to the next, the color catches your attention and is an open invitation to experience the world with a fresh perspective, both within the home and beyond your front door.

Photo: BEHR

"A new year brings the opportunity to embrace a sense of renewal and pursue untapped passions," says Erika Woelfel, vice president of color and creative services at Behr Paint Company. “Whether it’s lacing up our hiking boots, or breaking out the gardening tools, Breezeway inspires us to fully embrace the hobbies or adventures, both near and far, that excite us. We look forward to a color that welcomes a hopeful sense of renewal, restoration and healing.”

PPG also introduced its 2022 Color of the Year: Olive Sprig (PPG1125-4) – an elegant, grounded, versatile and highly-adaptable grey-green, this color represents regrowth in a post-pandemic world, mimicking nature’s resiliency.

Photo: PPG

Olive Sprig is a relaxed, but enticing green that emulates the feeling of soothing aloe vera or a fragrant plant – brightening any space with organic liveliness. A versatile color that lives well inside or outside, Olive Sprig blends in with nearly any environment.

Photo: PPG

“As many of us know following a year of lockdown, the easiest way to shift your mindset is to change your environment. While we begin to trade sweatpants for strappy shoes, recipes for reservations, and a night in for a night out, our paint color preferences are shifting too, in both residential and commercial spaces,” said Amy Donato, senior color marketing manager, PPG paint. “DIYers, property managers, designers and architects are shifting away from the stark, neutral palettes of yesterday and opting for color in all forms. Call it rebellion, but we are certainly here for the resurgence of optimistic colors to guide us into a new era of home design.”

Photo: PPG

MEET THE TEAM: ALEX BROTMAN

Get to know ALEX BROTMAN, Project Developer at Allen, with a Q&A.

What do you do at Allen Construction?   Currently, I serve on Allen Construction’s Sales Team as a Project Developer and have been in the role for a little over a year. I got my start here as a Preconstruction Coordinator in the same department, before moving into Production as a Project Manager for a few years. My time in Production was invaluable in that it taught me a lot about the way our teams build and remodel homes. That experience has helped me to become a better estimator and budget builder.

How did you get started in the construction field? My earliest experience in the construction industry came at a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) in the accounts payable department. There, I worked with subcontractors to verify work and pay invoices. Then, shortly after grad school, I worked at a solar power startup here in Santa Barbara as their Solar Operations Manager, overseeing the construction of medium-scale solar installations at numerous sites across the country. From there, the logical next step was to expand from a single trade into general contracting, and my tenure with Allen Construction began.

 Where do you live? I’m currently living on the upper east side of downtown Santa Barbara, just blocks from the Mission. I live with my partner, Marly, and our two cats, Atticus and Archer. Things can sometimes feel cramped in our 700sf apartment, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Alex and Marly on a recent trip to Mexico.

 What do you like to do outside of work? Outside of work I enjoy playing golf, fishing, and attending concerts. You can also find me at the beach or on State Street with Marly and some friends, sipping lagers and enjoying our beautiful environment.

What is your proudest achievement? I’ve got to say that winning the 2018 Allen Construction Hot Dog Eating Contest (6 dogs in 3 minutes) ranks pretty high on both my personal and professional achievement lists. Does anyone want to challenge the Champ?

 What was the last book you read? The last book I read was the classic sci-fi novel Dune, which was said to have inspired one of my favorite movie series of all time: Star Wars. There is also a movie-adaptation of Dune scheduled to come out later this year, and I’m excited to see how it stacks up to the book version.

 We wouldn’t know it to look at you, but… I love to learn complex rap music lyrics. I used to travel a lot between Santa Barbara and my hometown of Agoura Hills and, on those hour-long drives, I’d often listen to Eminem and Kanye West on repeat until I knew all the lyrics, word for word. If you’re lucky enough to ride in the car with me some time, you might get to catch one of my personal performances.

 What advice would you give someone starting out in the construction industry? The most important thing I’ve found for a newcomer to the industry is to find a mentor that will allow you to fail, improve, and try again, over and over. The construction industry is vast, complex, and always changing, so there are constantly new things to learn and new skills to develop. I’ve been very fortunate with my time at Allen Construction to be brought under the wing of some exceptional mentors who have allowed me to try new things, learn from my mistakes, and celebrate my successes. Thank you all!

OFFSHORE WIND PROPOSED ALONG THE CENTRAL COAST

OFFSHORE WIND PROPOSED ALONG THE CENTRAL COAST
Environmental Defense Center, originally published in EDC’s Spring 2021 Newsletter

From its founding, the Environmental Defense Center has been a stalwart leader in statewide efforts to rid our coastline of offshore oil. We have championed laws, policies, and grassroots efforts to ensure that the Santa Barbara Channel and beyond is protected from the devastating impacts of oil spills. We do this work to protect a livable climate and to stand for the health of our communities. To complement this effort, EDC has also worked to support renewable energy to help our communities transition from fossil fuels to clean energy, such as the Lompoc Wind and Cuyama Solar projects. We see this as a vital part of our fight for the protection of threatened plants and animals on and off our shores, and to ensure that future generations will be able to enjoy this beautiful place we treasure.

We must both stop fossil fuel extraction along our coast to protect the marine environment and respond to our current climate crisis, as well as support a just transition to renewable energy. So, for the past five years, EDC has led our region’s efforts to develop responsible offshore renewable energy.

The time for developing wind power off our coast has come. To make a difference for our climate and people living on the Central Coast, we must move floating offshore wind projects forward. But, as we do so, we need to protect migrating blue whales, brown pelicans, Pacific leatherback sea turtles, and other marine life. EDC has been a leading nonprofit voice in highlighting the importance of identifying how offshore renewable energy projects may interact with and affect marine life and habitat, and how to avoid or mitigate those potential impacts. Any project developed should be sited in federal waters (preferably 20 or more miles offshore). EDC is working closely with state and federal agencies, nonprofits, and the wind industry itself to advance progress. Wind power projects developed off the Central Coast will require new technology for floating turbines, and we need all these voices around the table to move projects forward responsibly. EDC’s priority is to ensure project proposals are considered using the best available science, are sited in locations with the least impacts on the marine environment and conflict to other ocean users, and that energy is produced in a way that does least harm to impacted species and habitat.

In April, EDC hosted an informational webinar during which its Marine Conservation Program Director, Kristen Hislop, discussed the basic functionality of floating offshore wind turbines, impacts to marine life and other ocean users, and EDC’s ongoing work to ensure projects are sited and designed to minimize impacts.  A recording of the webinar is available on EDC’s Youtube page: https://youtu.be/WhMw_shNEpA.

Selecting the Perfect Art for Your Home

Working with an Artist Representative - Spotlight on EDNA Contemporary

Written by Jordan Chesnut

Coordinating pieces by Daniel Phill

Many homeowners and designers don’t realize that the role of an artist representative is to connect and build relationships between the client, artists, and the artwork itself. Since purchasing a piece of art for a home is a deeply personal process, these connections are essential. “I am not a salesperson,” says Founding Director/Owner of EDNA Contemporary, Sheryl Daane Chesnut, “My goal is to introduce designers and collectors to artwork and artists that I feel will resonate with their personality and design aesthetics. There is never an obligation to purchase anything and I don't charge for time spent; I truly enjoy the process of researching and introducing artwork that both elevates the space and speaks to the designer and homeowners.”

Commissioned artwork by Sarah Winkler

Chesnut recently worked with Allen Construction and designer, Michelle Pelech Interiors on a large remodel project for homeowners that were from Colorado. The location was already replete with stunning, 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean visible through the bank of west-facing windows and double glass doors. “When I heard the homeowners were Colorado, I knew I had to introduce them to artist Sarah Winkler.” Winkler is known for her reconstructions of natural environments through a combination of poetic rendering and geological narrative. Chesnut arranged a visit for the homeowners at the artist’s studio in Colorado. “They had the opportunity to look through all of her preliminary collages, and commission a piece with the perfect dimensions and colors for their home office. Furthermore, the final piece combined regional elements of the Rocky Mountains and the Central Coast, which is very unifying for them.”

Colorful artwork by Gioi Tran brightens up the kitchen

Both pieces by local artist, Sheryl Daane

 There is art for every budget, and artist representatives and galleries provide options. It is a misconception that representatives only promote the artists they carry. “Even when I’m not working, I am working. Of course, I would rather sell the artwork of my own artists, but I have relationships with hundreds of other artists,” says Chesnut. She explains that earlier is better when selecting artwork for a home so the final pieces are ready upon move-in. “I create digital renderings that virtually map-out options for artwork inside a home or business. This allows the client to consider the scale and pairings of art and decor, as well as the subtle factors like lighting and the overall presence of a piece of art. There is always a perfect match.”

Stunning photography artwork by Thea Schrack

Chesnut highlights that a piece of art is more than a visual and the relationship between the artist and client is equally as important. It is not solely artwork that is hanging on the wall, it is also the person who creates it and their story. In many ways, the  home is a fresh slate, but it already tells the stories of place. A sense of belonging is reflected in the abstract landscape paintings of Sarah Winkler, and glassy, ethereal photography of Thea Schrack, among others that are now part of the remodeled oceanfront home.. Embedded in each of these pieces is the deep familiarity and interwovenness that transforms a house into a home.

Sheryl Daane Chesnut is the Owner and Founding Director of EDNA Contemporary Gallery. She earned a BFA in Fine Art from UC Santa Barbara and is a seasoned professional artist and designer. Represented artists and additional installation images can be found at EDNAContemporary.com.

A NEW PARTNERSHIP

We couldn’t do what we do without great partners. We recently broke ground on an iconic project that is a new collaboration with S.E.A.: Studio of Environmental Architecture. The team at S.E.A. shares our values around sustainable building and we’re excited to work with them to bring this client’s vision to life.

The new 6,000 square foot home, a one story, contemporary design surrounding a central courtyard, will consist of three levels that gradually step down the hill. All of the rooms will face south, and be staggered, so each will have an ocean view.

Street View

Birdseye View

Sunset View

About S.E.A.: Studio of Environmental Architecture

S.E.A. is dedicated to the design and construction of sustainable and restorative places. By designing with nature, we create architecture of enduring value for people and the planet. Each project is a unique architectural expression that responds to client needs, site specificities, local climate, and new ideas. The interplay of architecture’s fundamental elements – light and shadow, form and material, proportion and scale- realize spaces that simultaneously feel timeless and contemporary.

The S.E.A. Team

PROJECT TEAM - Click on photo for Bio

David Hertz, FAIA, LEED AP - S.E.A. Principal Design Architect

Ed Millan, AIA - S.E.A. Project Architect

Austin Pollard - S.E.A. Project Manager / Designer

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Allen Construction for this project and hope our initial collaboration will lead to many more down the road. Their expertise, organization, and familiarity with the area has been immensely helpful to us as we move into the construction phase of the project.”

— S.E.A.: Studio for Environmental Architecture

Click here to see more about S.E.A.: Studio of Environmental Architecture

CELEBRATING THE WOMEN OF ALLEN

March is definitely a month to celebrate our Allen women with International Women’s Day on March 8, and Women in Construction Week, March 7-13. At Allen, we are proud that our team is 21% women, which is way above the average in the industry. We have women in key leadership roles in the company with 40% of our management team made of up women. We also have women represented in all areas of the company from production to the executive team. We wanted to take a moment to honor the wonderful women of Allen Construction who contribute so much to the organization, our partners, and our clients.

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Jenny Cushnie - Founder / Board of Directors

38 years in Construction

Hobbies: Listening to NPR, observing the habits of our garden birds, and being an audience for our 9 year old granddaughter's nascent "rock star" singing and dancing performances in her living room!

“As the first woman in Allen, I feel so proud to see how we have flourished in the Company! Over the years, women were always encouraged, especially in the field, but it was Lynn Hurley that made that goal a reality.”

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Lindsay at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro

Lindsay Helmick - CFO

7 years in Construction

Hobbies: Hiking and reading. Big Patriots and Star Wars fan.

“I am proud that in an industry that is predominantly male, Allen Construction has many women leaders in departments across the company from production to accounting to management. We have a diverse and inclusive group of employee owners.”  

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Vicki Godlewski – Accounts Payable

22 years in Construction

Hobbies: Dogs, listening to all types of music, long walks, exploring new locations, visiting art galleries

“Women have always been an integral part of Allen Construction, going back to Day One when Jenny Cushnie (Dennis Allen’s wife) ran the office. She was lovingly referred to as “the big boss” by everyone, including Dennis! I feel blessed to be part of this team.”

Vicki and Snoopy at the beach in Cayucos

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Jennifer at Lake Sabrina

Jennifer Strachan - Project Accountant

18 years in Construction

Hobbies: Stand Up Paddling, skiing, hiking, camping and reading

“Allen is a breath of fresh air for women in construction.  We are all integral and important to the Allen family.”

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Nancy Yu - Business Operations Administrator

3 years in Construction

Hobbies: Hiking, baking and skating

“Allen is a wonderful place to work, and I appreciate all of the opportunities.”

Nancy and her friends in the Eastern Sierras.

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Anwanur Gielow - Director, People and Culture

5 years in Construction

Hobbies: I am a vintage enthusiast who loves old cars, roller skating, cooking, reading (a lot), traveling and spending lots of time with family and friends

“I love working in construction because it is an industry that values hard work and quality craftmanship.”

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Karen Feeney - Business Development

16 years in Construction

Hobbies: Hiking, biking, stand-up paddling, golfing, reading, and enjoying friends & family

“There are so many ways that a woman can be involved in the construction industry these days, and not just in traditional roles. Here at Allen Construction, we have women in Accounting and Finance, including a woman CFO. Our HR Director is a woman, as is our Marketing Director; Business Development Manager, and Office Manager. And we have women out on our project sites, as Project Engineers and Project Managers. And that’s just here at our company.”

Karen with her Women in Construction Award

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Colleen Davis-Heining - Office Administrator

13 years in Construction

Hobbies: Yoga, hiking, meditating, watching college and NFL football, being with horses and dogs.

“I love working for a company whose values mirror my own - humble, confident, always learning, accountable and relationships first. For me to have a purposeful life, honoring my values at work is very important. I am also proud that we are community driven and are willing to help during difficult times.”

Colleen happened to run into another Allen Gal, Mary Rischar, at Disneyland Paris (pre-COVID.)

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Barb in the office

Barb Merriett - Project Administrator

8 years in Construction

Hobbies: Travel, golf, tennis, walking, reading

“A favorite memory of mine is of Ian [Cronshaw] after the mudslide. Caring so much about the loss and grief people were experiencing, he spent all his time and energy for months helping them dig out of the mud. It wasn’t all about business, it was about compassion for the community. Building with heart.”

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Sharon James - Director of Marketing

2.5 years in Construction

Hobbies: Wine tasting, spending time with family and friends, live music (not lately ☹)

“I feel so fortunate to be working alongside very smart, hard working, and dedicated women at Allen Construction. It’s great to see women represented and making a difference at all levels and departments in the company.” 

Sharon wine tasting with friends in Los Olivos

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Alexx with her family at Disneyland right before COVID changed the world.

Alexx Robathan - Project Engineer

In Construction since high school

Hobbies: Crafting, sewing, woodworking, outdoor activities (hiking, swimming, camping, etc.), sports (basketball & golf mostly), working/customizing my vehicles, running, travel

“In a world that tries to squeeze you into glass slippers, rock the steel toe boots.”

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Dina Meisel - Payroll/Benefits Administrator

26 years in Construction

Hobbies: Travel, snow skiing, camping (in our 5th wheel), hiking, playing sudoku, and being with family and friends

“The changes I have seen over 26 years has been incredible. When I first began, women in construction were few and far between. Joining Allen where 21% of us are women, is empowering. I’ve never worked with so many diverse women who are all striving for the same goal for our clients and our team.”

Dina at Vernal Falls in Yosemite

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Erica and Kora at Hendry’s

Erica Zurawski - Project Accountant Supervisor

6.5 years in Construction

Hobbies: Traveling, woofies, crossword puzzles, all kinds of games

“I am lucky to work with women who possess a diverse range of knowledge and skills – all from whom I learn and find inspiration to be better at my job.”

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Mary Rischar - Project Accountant

15 years in Construction

Hobbies: Traveling and exploring new places, hiking, sailing, reading and hanging out with family - especially the grandkids

“Working at Allen Construction has been the best work experience in my life. The camaraderie, creativity, continuous evolution, and professionalism exceeded my expectations of an ideal workplace.”

Mary with Colleen at Disneyland Paris. “What a lucky coincidence that our vacations overlapped at the same location in Europe (pre-pandemic).”

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Anna Lehr-Unden - Project Manager

5.5 years at Allen

Anna does a great job of juggling her work and her most important job as a Mom of her new baby and young daughter. When those two roles overlap, the boss baby comes to the jobsite!

Anna and Baby Soren on the job site.

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OUR FAVORITE KITCHEN TRENDS

LOOKING FOR SOME INSPIRATION FOR YOUR NEXT KITCHEN REMODEL? WE ARE SHARING SOME OF OUR FAVORITE KITCHEN TRENDS FOR 2021 AND SOME OF OUR GREAT PROJECTS!

Craftsmanship - It’s all in the Details

Terra Cotta Tile

Tile, Tile, Everywhere

Cabinets in Color

Open Shelving

The Fifth Wall - Don’t forget the ceiling!

The Return of the Second Kitchen

Black Countertops

Outdoor Kitchens

Appliances in Color

Two-toned Cabinets

Colorful Accents

Outdoor Kitchens

Two-toned Cabinets

Double Islands

Energy Efficient and Environmentally Friendly

Colorful Islands

Pops of Personality

Click here to see more of our kitchen projects.

MEET THE TEAM: KAREN FEENEY

Meet KAREN FEENEY, a long-time Allen team member who works on Business Development and on our Sustainability Team.

What do you do at Allen Construction? 

I started working at Allen Construction, then Allen Associates, a little over 15 years ago. Over the years, I have managed our marketing – now in Sharon’s very capable hands – and business development efforts. I work on building and maintaining relationships with our past clients and architect partners. I also submit award applications for our projects, write our internal monthly (ESOP) newsletter, and manage our Sustainability efforts. Most recently, I drove the effort to have our Santa Barbara office certified as an “Innovator” Green Business and wrote our Company Sustainability Plan. As a part of that plan, we are developing a list of Preferred Green Building Standards we want to see implemented on all of our projects, as well as working to build All-Electric homes for our clients.

How did you get started in the construction field?

Dennis Allen and I first met when I was a land use planner at Santa Barbara County and helped him process a variance to build his passive solar home in Mission Canyon. Dennis and I reconnected when I worked at the Community Environmental Council, where Dennis had built our passive solar office building on the Mesa. I later hired him to build the Watershed Resource Center at Arroyo Burro Beach, an educational space focusing on reducing creek and ocean pollution. We wanted it to be a green building and worked with Blackbird Architects to design it. Dennis inspired me to have the Center on a green building tour, so we had that connection as well. When I was ready to leave CEC, I came to Dennis and asked him how I could get involved with the green building industry. He offered me a job and I signed up!

Where do you live?  

I live in “No-leta” (between Goleta and Santa Barbara) with my boyfriend, an “old” high school sweetheart. We reconnected, discovered we were both divorced, and the rest is history. I have two grown children from my first marriage: Erin, who is an architect in San Francisco designing affordable housing projects, and Ryan, who lives in San Diego with his wife, Sara. Ryan is in “business intelligence,” helping his company track and analyze information to help make financial decisions. He tells me, “Mom, I am NOT in IT!” Ryan was married last summer. We would have traveled to Australia for the wedding if it wasn’t for COVID. I feel grandchildren in my future!

Karen and her friends having a socially distanced Housewarming Party / Happy Hour.

What do you like to do outside of work?

My love for exercise and being outdoors is what has gotten me through the pandemic. I try to walk about five miles every day. There are great paths in my neighborhood near More Mesa. Or you can find me walking along the Waterfront, around Deveraux Slough, up and over the Riviera, or on Mountain Drive (to name a few of my routes). Sometimes I have to do my walking in the dark, just to get it in these days. I also stand-up paddle every Sunday, ride my bike, and play golf. These are all activities I can do with friends, masks on of course, which allows me to satisfy my need for social interaction.

Karen and her family at the Truckee Train Tunnels

Your proudest achievement:

In addition to being a mom to two beautiful and successful young adults, my biggest professional accomplishment was bringing Earth Day back to Santa Barbara in 1990. (Santa Barbara was the site of the first Earth Day in 1970, after the Oil Spill in 1969.) As a staff member at the Community Environmental Council (CEC). I attended a conference at Asilomar (near Monterey) and heard Dennis Hayes, the founder of the Solar Energy Resource Institute and a former energy advisor to President Carter, make a dire presentation about the state of the environment. He basically said, since it was in such bad shape, there was a good chance it, and humankind, would not survive long past the next millennium in 2000. He encouraged everyone to go back to their hometowns and hold an Earth Day, to raise community awareness and inspire actions in support of the environment. I returned to Santa Barbara and asked my boss, Paul Relis (founder of CEC), if he would let me organize an Earth Day event. He said if I could get the people to help me and the funding to do it, he would support me. The end result was an Earth Day, held at Santa Barbara City College in April 1990 where over 30,000 people came to visit informational booths promoting the environment and listen to a concert with Jackson Brown, Christopher Cross, and Loggins & Messina. Earth Day has continued in Santa Barbara every April since then.

ANOTHER NOTEABLE ACHIEVEMENT: As a result of the support Karen has provided over the years, as a Board member and organizing ArchitecTours, AIA Santa Barbara recently made her an Honorary AIA Member for life.

What was the last book you read?

I have been in the same book group with friends for over 35 years. We read eight to ten books every year. A recent book I enjoyed is “The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennet. It’s rated 4.3 (out of a maximum 5 points) on Good Reads, for all you book lovers out there. (FYI - that’s a high rating.) It is the story of twin, mixed race girls, one who passes for white and the other as black, and the lives they live as a result. “The Vanishing Half considers the lasting influence of the past as it shapes a person's decisions, desires, and expectations, and explores some of the multiple reasons (why) people sometimes feel pulled to live as something other than their origins.” Our book group had a great discussion after reading it.

Karen on the Fall Colors Bike Tour

We wouldn’t know it to look at you, but…. 

I love to sing, primarily in the shower or when I am driving, with the radio on and when others aren’t listening.

What advice would you give someone starting out in the construction industry?

I would have never thought before I joined Allen Construction, that construction is such an extremely interesting and complex industry. In order to be a builder, not only do you need to know how to use tools and be able to actually construct something, you need to manage budgets, schedules, AND people. You have to be a problem solver every day. In fact, you almost need to be a marriage and family counselor in order to resolve issues that might come up between your clients, between you and your clients, or with trade contractors, and suppliers. And, finally, if you want to be a great builder, you need to be an artisan, in order to build beautiful homes for your clients. I am so amazed when I visit a project we have completed. They are so gorgeous!

MEET THE TEAM: MARCUS HOERBERG

Get to know Marcus Hoerberg who works as a Project Developer for Allen’s Care & Repair Division.

Marcus and his new baby girl, Margo.

What do you do at Allen Construction?  I’ve been working at Allen Construction for almost four years. My current role is Project Developer for the Care & Repair Division. I manage leads, meet with potential clients, estimate projects, host job walks for trade contractors, and transition projects to the production team. Sometimes I work on projects that have plans, other times I help clients turn their ideas into reality by coming up with the necessary steps and scope of work.

What kinds of projects do you work on? Our Care & Repair Division mainly works on projects ranging from very small ones up to larger ones, with $300,000 budgets. And the scope varies. It could be anything from energy upgrades, such as installing heat pumps, to smaller remodels and additions. Kitchens and bathrooms are also common projects that we see.

How did you get started in the construction field? I went to a vocational high school program back home in Stockholm, Sweden when I was 16 years old. Four weeks before I graduated I was offered an apprenticeship with a large commercial builder, where I spent two years as an apprentice and then became a “certified,” fully-paid carpenter at the age of 20.

Where do you live? I live in Goleta with my wife, Destiny, my seven year old son, Miles, and my ten month old daughter, Margo. We love how close we are to the beach at Devereaux Sands, and the Ellwood Mesa!

The Press Room Soccer Team. Marcus is in the top row, second from the right.

 What do you like to do outside of work? Most of my time outside of work is spent with my family. We love to go to the beach, camping, and have movie nights. I also love to watch and play soccer. Having played more or less my entire life, I play local pickup games and in a Sunday league at Elings Park for The Press Room Team. Prior to the pandemic, we would meet up at the pub for a pint or two and catch up on the European leagues and World Cup.

What is your proudest achievement? I can’t pin down one single achievement, but I’m proud of myself for making the big move from Sweden to the US. and trying construction on a different continent. It involved using a different language and switching from commercial to residential. I’m also proud of my personal growth, moving up the ladder from laborer to framing carpenter, then project coordinator, project manager, and now, project developer.

What was the last book you read? The last book I read was green eggs and ham about 15 minutes ago while putting the kids to sleep! Jokes aside, sadly I don’t get enough time to read, but I think the last book was an autobiography of the Swedish soccer hero, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, called “I am Zlatan.”

Marcus with his wife, Destiny, son, Miles, and baby girl, Margo.

We wouldn’t know it to look at you, but… I love music and I play the drums. Drumming is something that I picked back up as an adult, having dabbled a bit in school. Last year, a couple of the guys from my soccer team and I started jamming together on a weekly basis. We play mostly covers, but we also have a couple of original songs. It’s a nice way to clear your mind and it’s so much fun pretending to be a rock star for a couple of hours every week.

What advice would you give someone starting out in the construction industry? Don’t be afraid to try new things. There’s always room to grow in the industry. Whether it is learning to use a new tool, hanging a door, how to read your speed square, reading plans, or using Excel, it will benefit you and open up new doors.

Download Marcus’ Holiday Recipe Here

Color Forecast 2021

It’s so fun to see the color forecasts each year from our paint partners. This year, the trends are about relaxing, comfort, serenity, and nature. Take a look at these color forecasts for some inspiration and ideas for your next project.

Sherwin-Williams announced its 2021 Color of the Year:  Urbane Bronze SW 7048. A warm, sophisticated bronze, the color inspires all of us to find sanctuary in any space. Urbane Bronze is a rich anchor that grounds the mind in calm and stability with its ties to the natural world.

“The home is now the ultimate retreat from the world, and color is an easy and effective way to create a personal haven,” said Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams. “Urbane Bronze encourages you to create a sanctuary space for mindful reflection and renewal.”

Now more than ever, our homes have become the backdrop to our lives, reminding us that the moments worth cherishing have always been right in front of us. As we're looking to create the ultimate retreat for reflection and renewal, we're turning to a hue whose natural simplicity and nature-inspired energy cultivate a sense of calm from the ground up.

Photo from Benjamin Moore: Aegean Teal

Benjamin Moore has revealed its Color of the Year 2021 as Aegean Teal 2136-40 – an intriguing blue-green that creates natural harmony and invites us to reflect and reset. Rooted in the elegant, handspun textures of the home, the Color Trends 2021 palette comforts as it uplifts.

In an intimate look at the home, Color Trends 2021 begins in the kitchen, exploring how this intersection of craft, nourishment and community breathes color and design inspiration into the rest of the living space. The Color Trends 2021 palette and the Color of the Year reflect this grounded sensibility with warm, sunbaked hues that play to the senses.

“Amid uncertainty, people yearn for stability. The colors we surround ourselves with can have a powerful impact on our emotions and wellbeing,” said Andrea Magno, Benjamin Moore Director of Color Marketing & Development. “Aegean Teal 2136-40 and the corresponding Color Trends 2021 palette express a welcoming, lived-in quality that celebrates the connections and real moments that take place within the home.”

For 2021, BEHR chose a color palette of 21 unique hues divided into six color themes, but they can all work together. “A new, ‘elevated’ articulation of ‘comfort’ goes beyond traditional beige, gray and green hues, and embraces color in a way that can redefine and enhance any type of space inside or outside the home.”

Photo from BEHR

CASUAL COMFORT - These light warm neutrals and whites create an inviting feeling in entryways, kitchens and open living spaces.

CALM ZONE - Soothing blues and greens create a restorative escape offering ease and solace.

SUBTLE FOCUS - Light hues feel sophisticated and inviting, creating and atmosphere that is effortlessly serene.

QUIET HAVEN - Deep hues have a reassuringly sublime and dependable nature, delivering the effect of a peaceful oasis in your home.

 OPTIMISTIC VIEW - A pop of bright color lifts the mood in any space, making it great for kitchens, playrooms and anywhere you want to feel energized.

 OUTDOOR ESCAPE - Curbside appeal has never been easier with exterior house colors and eye-catching accents for front doors, shutters and furniture pieces for outdoor living.

Photo from Valspar: Garden Flower

Valspar 2021 Colors of the Year

Industry leading paint and coatings brand, Valspar, announced its 2021 Colors of the Year with 12 livable shades that evoke calm, serenity and simplicity. With this palette, Valspar seeks to empower consumers to take control of their environments and create spaces that will expand their worlds, calm their minds and enrich their lives. ″Our homes have become offices, entertainment centers, and classrooms, which means the colors, sights, and sounds in our rooms have an even bigger impact on our daily lives,″ said Valspar color marketing manager Sue Kim in a press release. As more stress and time at home in 2020 coincided with a surge in DIY projects and an increased interest in meditation, this year's selection aims to ″turn home improvement into self-improvement."

Photo from Valspar: Granite Dust

Valspar has curated these 12 Colors of the Year to include a range of shades that provide flexibility and can be incorporated into existing design elements of the home. The list of Valspar 2021 colors features neutrals, including Gallery Grey, Granite Dust, Maple Leaf, Soft Candlelight, and Unforgettable.

Organic colors, such as Arizona Dust, Cherry Taupe, and Dusty Lavender, and cooler colors like Academy Gray, Blissful Blue, Garden Flower, and Lucy Blue.

Photo from PPG

PPG 2021 Paint Color Palette Of The Year

In an era where normal is no longer and mental and physical well-being have become more important than ever, consumers are craving simple comforts and a slowed-down lifestyle. Emulating both the optimism felt in nature and soothing nostalgia, the PPG 2021 Palette of the Year “Be Well” consisting of hues Transcend, Big Cypress and Misty Aqua. “With the world sheltering in place for the better half of the year, we have begun to crave human connection and embrace simple activities, including walking, hiking, baking and gardening,” said Dee Schlotter, PPG senior color marketing manager, architectural and industrial coatings. “This organic and hopeful palette represents what we have been longing for after decades of overstimulation and overconsumption – simplicity and restfulness.”

MEET THE ESTATES TEAM

What defines an Estates-level project is the size, scale, and location of the property as well as the level of finishes contained within. The projects are often complex and long-term undertakings. Our team of five, with over 100 years of combined construction experience, strives to bring together a dream team of subcontractors and specialty trades to provide a service and product as unique as each client.

MEET THE ALLEN ESTATES TEAM

LEFT:

A teaching moment with Production Manager Steve Potter, and his son, Charlie.

BELOW:

Project Manager David Connaughton and his wife, Jennifer Scholl, are recent empty nesters. Since dropping their daughter, Connie, off at college, they have been spending more time gardening in the yard to make the best of the quarantine.

RIGHT:

Superintendent David Gezzer and his girlfriend, Jammy, enjoying Las Vegas before COVID.

ABOVE: Superintendent Duncan Brown and his wife, Dorbe, enjoying some R&R.

BELOW: Project Engineer, Derek Leeds with his girlfriend, Melissa, in Heidelberg, Germany last December. Check out the 800-year-old castle in the background.

Click here to See some of the great projects this team works on.

MEET THE TEAM: STEVE POTTER

STEVE POTTER, Production Manager - Estates, and his team work on our largest projects that span anywhere from 1-3 years and have very intricate plans. Get to know Steve with our Q&A.

What do you do at Allen Construction? 

My role as the Production Manager of the Estates Division is to provide the best experience possible for the client and their architectural team. We pay attention to the smallest details – from the inception of a project all the way through to the final cleaning. I have acted in a similar capacity for the last ten years in Santa Barbara, the last two with Allen Construction.

What kind of projects do you work on?

What defines an Estates-level project is the size, scale, and location of the property, as well as the level of finishes contained within. The projects are often complex and long-term undertakings. They require a team that is patient, knowledgeable and comprehends all of the details these projects encompass. Our team of five, with over 100 years of combined construction experience, strives to bring together a dream team of subcontractors and specialty trades to provide a service and product as unique as each client

How did you get started in the construction field?

My interest in the field started as a young kid admiring construction projects each summer on the UC Irvine college campus. I was fascinated with the day-to-day progress of these seemingly humongous buildings, growing over the course of a summer, when I would tag along with my father who was a Physics professor on campus. In middle school, I spent countless after-school hours working on wood shop projects with my shop teacher, Mr. Carser. Then in my 20’s, I worked my way through all the disciplines of the residential construction industry—from sweeping floors to finish carpentry—before opening and running my own company in Portland, Oregon. Ultimately, my family and I were drawn back to Santa Barbara and we’ve been here since 2010.

Where do you live?

Our family consists of my beautiful wife, Kim, and our two sons, Charlie (13) and Evan (9). We live on the western edge of Goleta with our two crazy cats, Manny and Grey Grey. 

Steve and his sons, Charlie and Evan, enjoying a summer outing in the Eastern Sierras.

What do you like to do outside of work?

Pre-Covid, most weekends you’d find me on some sort of ball field with my boys—most likely soccer and baseball—or in the mountains on my mountain bike or snowboard. With the pandemic, our focus has shifted from the playing fields to the ocean; surfing and paddle boarding have become our outlet for exercise and family time.

What is your proudest achievement?

I wake up each day so proud of the boys Kim and I are raising and the communities (in both my personal and professional life) I’ve become a part of over the last 10 years in Santa Barbara.

What was the last book you read?

My son’s math textbook.

We wouldn’t know it to look at you, but… 

I have a bachelor’s degree in Religious Studies from UCSB; the Tibetan Buddhism class I took my sophomore year really opened my eyes to the world.  

What advice would you give someone starting out in the construction industry?

Pay attention to the details. Respect the skills of those around you. Try to do something better each time you do it.

MEET THE CUSTOM TEAM

ALLEN’S CUSTOM DIVISION IN SANTA BARBARA IS ONE OF SIX DIVISIONS IN THE COMPANY THAT SPECIALIZE IN GEOGRAPHICAL AREAS OR TYPES OF PROJECTS.

DANIEL MAULT, Production Manager - Custom Division, and his team, work on large renovations and new home builds starting with bare land or disaster rebuilds from the ground up. Get to know Daniel and his team with photos showing what they are up to when they aren’t at work.

LEFT:

Production Manager Daniel Mault and his wife, Lindsey, and sons, Kian, Cade, and Kai, vacationing in Mammoth Lakes.

RIGHT:

Project Manager Anna Lehr Unden adjusting to working from home with her two assistants, baby boy, Soren and daughter, Freya, who requested the pretty dress!

BELOW:

Superintendent Richard Doyle and his wife, Maureen, with their son, Ian, enjoying the beach.

LEFT:

Superintendent Richard McLaughlin, on a “work holiday” making and installing wood trim in an all-concrete home in Niksic, Montenegro for a family friend.

BELOW:

Snow time fun! Superintendent Jody Kurlas enjoying family time with his wife, Kate, and daughter, Brooke.

ABOVE:

Superintendent Chris Trama on his first day with Allen.

LEFT:

Words to live by? Project Manager Nelson Bruce shows off his creative side.

BELOW:

Just another day on the jobsite for Superintendent John Grear.

MEET THE REMODEL TEAM

DID YOU KNOW THAT ALLEN HAS A DIVISION IN SANTA BARBARA THAT SPECIALIZES IN REMODELS?

MATT CALIGIURE, Production Manager, and his team do everything from additions to full house remodels. Meet Matt and his team with photos of them doing what they do when they aren’t at work!

LEFT:

Production Manager Matt Caligiure, with his wife, Bethany, and son, Pete.

RIGHT:

Foreman Alain Iniguez and his wife, Rocio, with their son, Alain Jr., on a hike up East Camino Cielo.

ABOVE:

Project Manager Preston Taylor and his wife, Kailynn, celebrated their second wedding anniversary in Paris last July. This was taken on the second hottest day on record in Paris - 107 degrees!

LEFT:

When Foreman Joe Beazley isn’t at work, he’s usually building his own projects or at the gym! Here he is at a spartan race.

BELOW:

Foreman Ian Ritchie, his wife, Jasmine, their two kids, Jaiden and Strummer, and pups, Argo and Asia, take advantage of the quarantine with an impromptu family photo shoot.

RIGHT:

Foreman Sam Reitz doing what he does best on the job site!

P.S. - Sam recently won first place in the first Allen Construction talent show. He plays a mean guitar and he even makes them!