Student housing. For those of us that have been there, it involved anything from brutalist style two bedrooms to bare bones amenities. But the evolving needs and expectations of Generation Z (those born in the mid-1990s to the early 2000s) are dramatically changing the design of university housing here in San Luis Obispo, and across the nation. This new generation of students values technology, privacy, sustainability and inclusivity, and expect these values to be reflected in their living situations on and off campus.

Curious to learn more? Our Central Coast builders and housing developers are sharing six ways the progressive needs of Gen Z is influencing student housing design in 2019.

1. Unit Variety

One bedroom bunk beds are a thing of the past. Gen Z expects options. The blueprints for today’s residence halls include diverse unit types to satisfy different living styles. Blending a variety one to four bedroom units within a building lets students live on their own terms, while also fostering a sense of community.

2. Coed Housing

Coed housing is here to stay and Gen Z is all about it. Exclusively male and female halls are becoming more and more scarce as students and universities embrace gender inclusivity. Coed residential floors, units, and sometimes even bathrooms are increasingly incorporated into student housing design plans.

3. Luxury Amenities

Gen Z wants the most bang for their buck, and this means luxury amenities. Outdoor pools, in-suite laundry, TVs, spa-style bathrooms and hip coffee shops, just to name a few. Modern spaces for entertainment and study will soon be musts in all masterplans. Our Central Coast builders recently completed an amenity-filled student residence here in San Luis Obispo. Check out The Academy at Chorro for total luxury living inspiration.

4. Innovative Common Spaces

A generation born with smartphones, Gen Z values connection and closeness more than you’d think. That’s why common spaces at today’s universities not only encourage academic success, but also support social engagement and relationship building. Spaces within residence halls must be desirable, that means comfortable furniture, lightening fast WiFi, and fun additions like ping pong tables, makers spaces, and study cubicles.

5. Green Features

LEED doesn’t cut it with Gen Z. Growing up in an era where climate change makes for small talk, they expect their university experience to have a minimal environmental impact and maximum green features like solar panels, smart lighting, and efficient appliances. This also includes eco-centric design choices like natural woods and open outdoor green spaces. And of course, hanging plants.

6. Community and Residential Assistants

The transition from living at home to living on their own is a tough one for Gen Z. On and off campus residences alike are adopting an old practice: residential assistants. These paraprofessionals are key in fostering healthy student living, as well as academic success.

At Abbott | Reed, pushing the boundaries of creative execution is our passion. Our housing developers thrive when it comes to building better communities that meet the needs and changing values of end-users across generations. For more information about our student and community housing projects, reach out to our housing developers today at (805)-543-7277.

New multi-family properties are on the rise here in San Luis Obispo, and it’s hard not to notice. In the past, the realtor’s adage was: “location, location, location”. But with bike paths, short commutes, and commercial developments like coffee shops and restaurants spread throughout town, homebuyers and renters alike are setting their standards higher. Our commercial contractors are here to break down the latest it-factor in multi-family properties: amenities.

In the past, tenants would be excited over a swimming pool and high speed WiFi—these factors simply don’t cut it anymore. With more millennials starting families and investing in their own space, demands are high. 

Tech Upgrades

Smart home-features that can be controlled through an app are the latest craze in modern multi-family units. Thermostats, doorbell cameras, door locks and mood lighting are all features that residents want to control through their phone. Furthermore, sonic sound systems, big-screen TVS, and built in apps like Netflix are becoming standard practice for unit media systems. 

Community Focused Spaces

Long gone are the days of cold neighbors and isolated units. Both baby boomers and millennials alike are seeking community where they live. This includes updated common areas for socializing like coffee shops, outdoor kitchens, and open work spaces. Remember when barebones apartment complex gyms where a thing? Now wellness centers are the new normal, with yoga and pilates classes offered daily. 

Convenient Features

A millenial ideal that is here to stay: convenience. Commercial contractors are appealing to this by including bike storage and repair facilities, along with smart lockers for package deliveries. Baby boomers seek concierges that can cater to their whims, from arranging taxis to facilitating in-house repairs. 

Pet-friendly provisions

According to a recent survey from apartments.com, pet owners can account for anywhere from 20% to 70% of tenants in a multi-family property. While pets used to be a no go for many building owners, modern residences are starting to capitalize on them. Dog wash and hydration stations, pet gardens, and special community events for pet owners are just a few of the many features that attract pet owners. Concierges that schedule inhouse pet grooming and dog walks are an added plus. 

When it comes time to renovating your multi-family property, know that our San Luis Obispo Builders and commercial contractors will be by your side every step, from planning and design to building and beyond. Get in touch with our Abbott | Reed Builders online or by calling 805-543-7277 today.

Curious about The Vintage at SLO? Our team over at Abbott | Reed Communities have some exciting updates to share!

Our Abbott | Reed Builders officially have created an award winning luxury RV Park here on the Central Coast. That’s right, the stunning vacation spot was awarded the 2018 Beautification of the Year award from the Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce. Cava Robles offers visitors 310 spacious trailer sites and 22 comfy cottages, all with access to a recreation center, a gorgeous pool and even a playground. With hiking and biking trails nearby, it is no wonder that this resort won an award during its very first year.

Congrats to the folks at Cava Robles, and everyone involved.

If you’re curious to learn more about the best Central Coast Builders, look no further! Reach out to us online, or give us a call at (805) 316-1440.

Have you scoped out all the apartment renovations happening in SLO? Our Communities blog wraps up all things trending in multifamily properties around town.

Around here, our San Luis Obispo builders want to know…have you noticed? Mixed-use developments are quickly gaining momentum, not only along the Central Coast, but also across the United States.

So, what’s the deal?

Both developers and investors are increasingly looking for opportunities to integrate product types in order to design destinations that attract residents and business tenants. Not to mention visitors, diners, and patrons.

Last year, U.S. construction spending reached an all-time high of $1.26 trillion. Know what made up a significant amount of that number? Mixed-use developments. Here are four key reasons why they’re seriously on the rise:

1. Mixed-use design makes for more effective land use, especially in coastal communities like ours.

2. Increasingly, people (Millennials in particular) want walkable communities to fit their active lifestyle, and that means providing a blend of work and play with open-air retail and housing all in one engaging space.

3. It’s true what they say – consumers are all about convenience. It’s nice to not need to hop in the car to hit the grocery store, take a spin class, or brunch with friends.

4. Mixed-use developments provide valuable diversification for investor portfolios while offering downside protection. Think of it this way, mixed-use projects are made up of many uses and tenants, so vacancies hurt less than single-use buildings.

Now that you’ve got the lowdown on why mixed-use building is on the rise, here’s what needs to happen to make this type of development a success:

• Architectural design respects the neighborhood’s heritage
• Exceptional building amenities and finishes
• Housing is filling an unmet need
• In-demand commercial tenants move-in
• Public transportation is accessible nearby

Know that Abbott | Reed Builders is the ideal commercial construction company positioned to bring your mixed-use project to life. Contact us today makeitright@abbottreedinc.com or (805) 316-1440.

Abbott | Reed Builders is stoked to announce that Cava Robles RV Resort is officially open! The stunning luxury vacation spot is located in the heart of Paso Robles wine country at 3800 Golden Hill Road.

Cava Robles offers visitors 310 spacious, full-service RV and trailer sites, along with 22 inviting cottages with one and two bedrooms, many with scenic rooftop decks.

The newly opened resort features seriously awesome amenities from a gorgeous pool and rec center complete with pizza ovens and outdoors BBQs, to game areas and a bistro offering outstanding local wines and craft beers. Cava Robles RV Resort is also home to a fitness center and contemporary playground designed with families in mind…plus, a pet park! Close to a number of hiking a biking trails, it’s truly the perfect place to unwind.

Cava Robles RV Resort is offering grand opening special packages to guests who visit through October. Call 866-835-1677 to learn more.

Now, if you’re curious to learn more about the best builders in San Luis Obispo, contact (805) 316-1440 or visit robbinsreedbuilders.com now.

Want to know what’s new with our latest San Luis Obispo community? Building is well underway and much more at Noveno. Interested homebuyers are invited to view a property tour and note key dates here.

Paso Robles is the place to play and Cava Robles RV Resort is the place to stay.

The Abbott | Reed commercial builders team expects to complete the full buildout of all 300 sites and cottage rentals on this 80-acre luxury destination this July.

Inspired by nature and designed by local architectural firm Ten Over Studio this signature vacation hot spot is located amidst rolling grapevines, interconnected trails, and in close proximity to over two-hundred wineries.

If RV camping is your jam (or you’ve ever been curious to give it a whirl) Cava Robles is as good as it gets. It’s the gold standard in our golden state.

Signature amenities include pools, spas, fire pits, a wellness center, and dog parks. From wine tasting to outdoor movies, there’s something for every member of the family. Kids will definitely want to stay longer at the Splash Zone, while parents can unwind with a massage before enjoying the outdoor pizza ovens. If you prefer other people to cook on your vacation, visit the Cava Robles Farmhouse Bistro & Bar for tempting California cuisine.

There’s more than one way to stay as a guest of this 11,200 square foot resort. Abbott | Reed’s commercial developers encourage you to scope out all your options:

RV Options

• 30/50-amp
• Deluxe/Premium/Elite sites
• Concrete patio
• Full hookups
• Picnic table included
• Pull-thru sites

Vacation Rentals

• Choose from three styles of stand-alone units. All enjoy access to complete resort amenities. If sprawling views are for you, the Tuscany Villa features an upper deck overlooking the hills.
• Chalet (studio, 1 bath, sleeps 2)
• Chateau (two bedroom, 1 bath, sleeps 2-4)
• Tuscany Villa (one bedroom loft, 1 bath, sleeps 2)

We encourage locals to get in on this too. Cava Robles is happy to host celebrations from weddings to reunions and company retreats. With plenty of outdoor patio space and on-site catering services, they’ve got you covered from A to Z.

Here at Abbott | Reed, better building isn’t just what we do—it’s what we’re built of. Find out what Cava Robles is like for yourself by booking a reservation this summer, and be sure to contact Abbott | Reed Builders when you need a trusted team you can count on.

Modern and inviting – Karen and Lee Bren’s 2,400 sq. ft. Garden Green condominium in downtown San Luis Obispo is one of five homes that will be featured May 20th on the American Institute of Architects California Central Coast Home Tour.

Our home team here at Abbott | Reed is proud of the work we did for Karen and Lee Bren and stoked for visitors to explore their remarkable space.

The warm and welcoming San Luis Obispo home is “California modern” to echo the Central Coast’s relaxing lifestyle.

Abbott | Reed built the luxurious three-story condominiums in 2013. The 6,383 sq.ft. building neighbors a 1941 fire station and the condominiums’ exterior mirrors the look and feel of that time. Historical details include: a brick fascia, corbels, concrete window surrounds and a belly band that runs around the building’s midsection.

Each of the homeowners in the building chose their own finish materials. Together Abbott | Reed and Casagrande Woodworks ensured this complex challenge was expertly met. Reclaimed oak flooring is the one material all three units have in common. Known for its distinctive tight grain, the wood was sourced from Germany.

Special features:

• A sophisticated stainless inset in every wall gives the illusion of “floating” above the floor.
• Generous open shelving in the kitchen provides ample storage and makes the space appear larger.
• The dining room is traditional with intricate inlays.
• Stylish ceilings unique to every room elevate this space, including a ceiling window cupola in the living room.
• Bi-folding doors to the outdoor deck connect interior and exterior spaces.

This project is the result of teamwork. The Brens not only worked with our talented crew they also collaborated with architect Thom Brajkovich of Paragon Designs to achieve their vision.

2018 AIACCC Home Tour

You’re invited to meet the professional builders and designers for each local home throughout the American Institute of Architects California Central Coast Home Tour! The event takes place Sunday, May 20th, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Tickets are available in advance for $30 or $50 for two tickets.

The day of, tickets will $40 and can be purchased at aiacentralcoast.org.

All proceeds will benefits architecture education programs here on the Central Coast.

*Photo courtesy of The Academy Chorro

New Project Announcement

Our San Luis Obispo commercial builders are stoked to announce a new commercial construction project, The Academy Chorro.

Conveniently located at 22 Chorro Street in San Luis Obispo, The Academy features upscale amenities for modern student living.

The luxurious student housing community is steps away from the Cal Poly campus and hosts a bus stop directly outside the building. It’s also close to retail, coffee shops and restaurants along with hiking trails and Santa Rosa Park.

Each individually leased fully furnished apartment comes complete with a 50” HDTV in each living room and an in-unit washer and dryer. Not to mention being home to a luxurious rooftop deck complete with comfortable outdoor seating.

For students who rely on their bikes, The Academy offers a bike lounge and repair area. Community amenities also include a clubhouse with lightening fast WIFI (and complimentary coffee) plus billiards.

Apartment amenities include:

• 50″ HDTV included in each living room
• In-unit washer and dryer
• Luxury interior finishes with gourmet kitchens
• Designer cabinetry and hardware
• Quartz counter tops with under-mount sink
• Stainless steel, energy efficient appliances
• Hardwood-style flooring
• Lavish bathrooms with a glass shower enclosure
• Custom window treatments
• Modern privacy glass room divider with customizable space and sliding lockable partition
• Keyed locks to each bedroom
• Individually leased
• Fully furnished with stylish couch, love seat, entertainment center, coffee and end tables, bar stools, full-size bed, dresser, armoire, and ergonomic chair
• Wired and wireless Internet with download and upload speeds of up to 1 gbps

Community amenities:

• Rooftop terrace
• Open air courtyard
• Fob access control system for building, amenities, and apartments
• State-of-the-art fitness center and group exercise/motion studio
• Clubroom with entertaining and gaming
• Collaborative and private study rooms
• Complimentary coffee bar
• Indoor bike lounge and repair station
• Elevator access
• Automated indoor parking garage
• 24/7 professional management
• Convenient ground floor retail
• SLO transit stop located right out front to take you to campus and downtown
• Private balconies are available in select apartment homes as well

Hardhat tours begin May 4th from 3:00pm-5:00pm. Appointments are required. Call (805) 858-3137 to reserve your space now.

*Photo courtesy of The Academy Chorro

Photos credited to Central Coast Brewing

Here at Abbott | Reed Builders, we’re fired up about our latest San Luis Obispo commercial construction project—the new location for Central Coast Brewing. This building is 12,000 square feet and combines a restaurant, brewery, and brewpub. Along with a full kitchen, the space includes 48 taps, a large outdoor patio area, and numerous games and entertainment.

This is the second location for one of San Luis Obispo’s favorite local breweries, which opened the first location back in 1998. The grand opening of the new venue took place on the 20th anniversary of Central Coast Brewing. Be sure to visit this new location at 6 Higuera Street, just south of Downtown San Luis Obispo. They’re open every single day of the week.

The new space is a huge expansion for Central Coast Brewing, and will allow them to increase their production significantly. We’re big-time fans.

See more of our commercial construction projects at robbinsreedbuilders.com/commercial-construction-projects/.

San Luis Obispo commercial developers listen up. Here’s the deal. Our commercial construction company has grown significantly over the past six months and the time has come to shine a light on those making Abbott | Reed even better than before – starting with kick-ass Project Engineer, Jeff Hadley. Read on for his candid responses to our *official* questionnaire.

What do you love about being a Project Engineer?

I love that I get to be completely emerged in the details of the project and that I get to spend a lot of time in the field working with the subcontractors directly. This allows me to be connected to the actual building process, which fulfills a certain sense of pride.

What specific types of projects really float your boat?

It’s hard to say, as this is the first project I’ve been on so far with Abbott | Reed. But I can say I’ll never look at an RV Resort the same way again. The shear amount of underground infrastructure required is outstanding.

What’s your day-to-day like at Abbott | Reed?

My day to day is constantly changing; it really is like shooting a moving target. The consistencies from day-to-day always include checking emails, site walks and coordinating on and off site subcontractors. Broadly, I work a lot on tracking progress, scheduling, ensuring we have the proper documentation for the products we’re using and quality control in the field.

What’s the best part(s) about living on the Central Coast?

What’s not to like!? We are very fortunate to live in such a beautiful place that is still holding true to it’s old-time vibes and hasn’t seen the effects of the population growth that many places in California are experiencing.

Specific things I love about the Central Coast include Lake Nacimiento, Pozo La Panza OHV area and downtown SLO. The fact that we have so many local breweries and wineries is also a plus.

Any curious hobbies or personal interests you’d like to describe?

Well, I am an avid water skier and love spending summer days at Lake Naci. In the spring I spend a lot of time riding my dirt bike, although it’s never enough.

The one thing I do wish the Central Coast had is better access to snow skiing; as it’s a sport I grew up with but haven’t been able to partake in much since moving here. Although last winter, my Roommate and I spent 6 weeks on the road with a cab-over camper on my truck traveling the Western US and Canada skiing over 11 different resorts and covering over 10,000 miles.

I actually signed my offer letter for this job at a bar in the small town of Golden, British Columbia and emailed it back the same day from a local print shop. Good times!

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

• One of my goals for the next five years is to obtain my private pilot license and eventually I’d love to fly helicopters.
• Growing up my family would call me the walking accident because I am very clumsy and always seem to be getting hurt. In fact, I broke my first bone when I was 2, and have been to the ER on over 10 different occasions in my life. (Now thinking about it, that’s a bad fact to directly follow wanting to be a pilot. Haha!)
• I spent the summer of 2015 studying abroad in Prague and traveling parts of Europe. My favorite countries to visit are Ireland and Greece. Germany is pretty neat too.
• I hate Bloody Marys and Micheladas, but I love tomatoes.
• I haven’t had a TV in my house, regardless of where I was living, since 2012 and have never missed it!

At Abbott | Reed our vision is simple – build better. Whether you need a general contractor for your commercial construction project, or for crafting a custom home, Abbott | Reed Builders have the experience and expertise you can rely on.

Abbott | Reed Builders specializes in commercial projects in San Luis Obispo. Contact us online to get started or call (805) 543-7277 today.

Interested in restaurant design in San Luis Obispo? This is the post for you pal. Competition in the U.S. restaurant industry is fiercer than ever, with some 625,000 restaurants and more than 1 million locations generating over $800 billion in annual sales. Restaurateurs are increasingly driven to differentiate their brands and relying on design to convey compelling brand stories. Today Abbott | Reed Builders is outlining the 2018 design trends you can expect to see across the restaurant and hospitality industry.

Visible kitchens

With the multitude of chef-centered shows streaming today, customers are increasingly fascinated by how their food is made. Visible kitchens allow curious patrons to see behind the scenes. Millennials in particular value this type of transparency. Open kitchens are more likely to engage diners and encourage memorable experiences, and may even inspire a greater sense of community.

Retro touches

While chrome was all over the ‘60s and ‘70s, the splashy metal has been all but absent from the design world, until recently. Now diners can expect to see chrome across acclaimed restaurants in every major city. Chrome isn’t only on trend in the restaurant world either; high-fashion houses from Gucci to Kenzo have incorporated chrome into their modern runway collections.

Bespoke lighting

Hospitality designers understand that diners not only want to feel good, but look good too. Flattering, bespoke lighting is one way to accomplish this. New technology offers more lighting options than ever via apps, remote controls, and singular bulbs. Guests agree – ambiance is greatly affected by changing color or dimming lights. Be on the lookout for this trend in restaurant design in San Luis Obispo.

Midcentury modern style

Midcentury modern style is here to stay for the foreseeable future. From furniture to color palettes, and lighting – designers have long been inspired by this swinging era in history. Today, even wood paneling is making a comeback as natural textures add warmth to inviting environments. Reclaimed wood in particular is going to be all over the place in 2018.

Minimal designs

Clean, simple lines continue to influence design from architecture to functional furniture and beyond. Minimal design puts craftsmanship front and center, so guests can appreciate every detail.

Green design evolves

Indoor plants and ‘living walls’ are everywhere and will only continue to grow (see what we did there) in the year ahead. This green trend doesn’t only contribute to a friendly atmosphere, but there are also positive health benefits associated with being exposed to elements from the natural world. Architects and designers alike suggest that this influx of greenery has increased in popularity as a contrast to our increasingly technological machine-made world. A new facet of this trend also includes more ingredients from produce to herbs being grown on-site in gardens and greenhouses. It doesn’t get any more local than that.

“Instagrammability”

Social media bait is driving restaurant design. There’s no doubt about it. Millennials increasingly have money to spend and they want to spend it in spaces where they can snap and share visually captivating photos. Patterned tile floors, neon signs, colorful art and cheeky signage are a few of the ways designers are adding visual interest to restaurants. Unexpected vintage elements and colorful touches add whimsy diners can’t wait to capture for their Instagram stories.

Hungry for more details? Contact Abbott | Reed Builders online here, at (805) 543-7277 or email makeitright@abbottreedinc.com.