Nestled along the stunning California coastline, Santa Barbara exudes a captivating blend of natural beauty, Spanish architecture, and a laid-back coastal lifestyle. Known as the “American Riviera,” this enchanting city offers residents a perfect combination of sun-drenched beaches, picturesque mountains, and a thriving arts and culture scene. With its warm Mediterranean climate and breathtaking views, Santa Barbara has become a sought-after destination for those seeking an idyllic place to call home.
If you want to transform your existing home into a personalized haven in Santa Barbara, the list below features the best home remodelers to consider. Our team handpicked these firms after evaluating their expertise, track record, client testimonials, and industry reputation. These remodelers are renowned for their meticulous attention to detail, creative design solutions, and commitment to delivering exceptional results.
Allen Construction
201 N. Milpas St., Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Allen Construction, founded in 1983 by chairman of the board, Dennis Allen, has been at the forefront of building quality, sustainable homes in Santa Barbara for 40 years. Clients choose Allen Construction for its reputation of quality and dependability and stay with the studio for expert guidance even after project completion.
The firm’s commitment to excellence has been recognized through the Silver Level Cigna Healthy Workforce Designation and the Excellence in Residential Remodel Construction Award from the Santa Barbara Contractors Association. It is also affiliated with esteemed organizations, including the Santa Barbara Contractors Association, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, the American Institute of Architects, the U.S. Green Building Council, and GuildQuality.
Leading the team is Aaron Pick, who has played a pivotal role in aligning our strategic direction and fostering a mission-oriented culture. With a background in corporate social responsibility, Aaron has helped position Allen Construction as the ESOP Company of the Year for the Western States region and one of the top ten remodelers in the nation. Dennis Allen, the chairman, is a nationally recognized authority on environmentally friendly building practices. He has championed green building issues through speaking engagements and community involvement.
Giffin & Crane General Contractors, LLC
800 N. Milpas St., Suite A, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Giffin & Crane General Contractors, LLC constructs remarkable structures. Each project presents its own unique set of challenges and opportunities, making the firm’s work both diverse and engaging. Giffin & Crane finds immense satisfaction in delivering services that span from bathroom remodeling, general contracting, additions, extensions, restorations, to new home construction for its loyal clients in the Santa Barbara area..
Notable recognition includes the 2022 Residential Excellence in Design Regional Award for Best Exterior Architecture in the Los Angeles/SoCal area, bestowed upon the company by Luxe Magazine. Its dedication to quality has also led the studio to forge affiliations with esteemed organizations such as the American Institute of Architects, the Home Builders Association of Northern California, the Santa Barbara Contractors Association, the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation, the Santa Barbara County Federal Credit Union, and GuildQuality.
The firm’s leadership team consists of Geoff Crane, co-founder and president; Eric Carlstedt, principal and partner; and Derek Shue, principal and partner. Together, the entire team provides exceptional construction services and turns its clients’ visions into enduring realities.
DD Ford Construction
303 Palm Ave., Santa Barbara, CA 93101
DD Ford Construction is a reputable firm in Santa Barbara specializing in building, remodeling, and maintaining custom homes of all shapes and sizes. With four specialized departments—new homes and major renovations, remodels, maintenance, and finish carpentry—DD Ford Construction offers a comprehensive range of services from concept to finish.
The company’s collaborative approach allows for the seamless integration of rigorous attention to detail and creative design solutions. DD Ford Construction’s dedication to developing trusted long-term relationships extends beyond the homes it builds as it strives to be the go-to choice for its clients, time and time again.
Recognized for its excellence in the industry, DD Ford Construction has received awards such as the National Award for Whole House Remodel, over $1 Million, and the Regional Award for Residential Interior, over $500,000. It is also affiliated with reputable organizations such as the American Institute of Architects, Santa Barbara Contractors Association, Built Green Santa Barbara, National Association of Home Builders, and GuildQuality.
The company is led by a team of experienced partners, including Doug Ford, who bring extensive expertise in fine woodworking and general contracting. Ryan Prahm has a strong background in custom residential homes and project development, while Blair Edwards has a blend of construction and finance experience.
Projects General Construction, Inc.
21 E. Carrillo St., Suite 190, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Projects General Construction is a distinct entity in the construction industry as a women-owned and operated company. With a highly experienced team, it excels in all facets of construction, prioritizing client communication and collaboration.
Projects General Construction ensures that clients are well-informed and continuously advised throughout the construction process, from the initial meet-and-greet to the final walk-through. With a commitment to transparency, the firm strives to deliver results that exceed its clients’ expectations.
Recognized for its excellence, Projects General Construction has received the prestigious 2022 Women of Construction Award. It is affiliated with the Santa Barbara Contractors Association, further showcasing its dedication to professionalism and industry standards.
Highlighted in various press features such as Food and Home Magazine, AM 1290, and Girls Inc., Projects General Construction has established a reputation for its quality work and commitment to customer satisfaction.
Dovetail Projects
103 N. Nopal St., Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Together, Ryan and Cate Schmidt have transformed Schmidt Construction into Dovetail Projects, a company that reflects their collaborative approach to construction. The firm believes in the power of collaboration among clients, designers, and contractors. This is why every project it undertakes is infused with meticulous attention to detail, including budgeting, scheduling, and estimating.
Throughout the years since its inception, the firm has been recognized with accolades, such as the 2016 Residential Remodel under $500,000 from Santa Barbara Contractors Association. Some of its works have also piqued the press’s interest and appeared in Santa Barbara News-Press and Santa Barbara Real Estate.
Litchfield Builders
1187 Coast Village Rd., #757, Santa Barbara, CA 93108
Litchfield Builders has established itself as a trusted name with 30 years of building experience in the California residential industry. It offers comprehensive building services for projects of any scale, ensuring the same level of dedication and professionalism, whether a small addition or a brand-new home.
Litchfield Builders is affiliated with the Santa Barbara Contractors Association, a testament to their commitment to upholding industry standards. The company has also received recognition from reputable sources such as Remodeling Magazine and CNN, demonstrating its expertise and success in the field.
Owner Steve Litchfield brings 20 years of experience in building and remodeling homes, having studied at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo’s School of Architecture and Environmental Design, where he earned a BS in Construction Management.
Ho’okipa Design and Construction, LLC
6 Harbor Wy., Suite 193, Santa Barbara, CA 93109
With 33 years of experience in the industry, Ho’okipa Design and Construction brings an artistic perspective and thoughtful functionality to residential design and construction projects. Led by Isabel Larriba and J Scott Quittner, the team at Ho’okipa is highly skilled and provides exceptional service, competitive pricing, professional management, and top-quality products.
The firm’s commitment to excellence is evident in its affiliations with esteemed organizations such as the Santa Barbara Contractors Association, the Better Business Bureau, the Interior Design Society, and the American Institute of Architects.
The Ho’okipa team consists of open-minded, energetic, and inclusive individuals who consistently excel and amaze. Isabel Larriba, the principal designer, holds a master’s degree in interior design, graduating with top honors, while Quittner, the head of construction, has three decades of experience in the field. Their combined expertise ensures that every project is executed with skill and finesse.
Barton Construction, Inc
1346 San Rafael Ave., Santa Barbara, CA 93109
Barton Construction Inc. in Santa Barbara is a licensed, full-service construction company with extensive expertise in various building projects, including new home constructions, remodels, room additions, kitchen and bath remodeling, and commercial work. Founded by Brett Barton in 1998, after he transitioned from a career in computer programming, the company delivers exceptional client service.
As a licensed general contractor since 2006, Brett Barton leads a skilled and fully insured crew of professionals. Its reputation is built on reliability, trust, and unwavering commitment to quality craftsmanship. Barton Construction Inc. has various affiliations, notably as a certified DIRTT installer. Additionally, Brett Barton is an alumnus of UC Santa Barbara, bringing extensive knowledge and experience to each project.
