We were lucky to catch up with Fares Azani recently and have shared our conversation below.

Fares , appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to start by getting your thoughts on what you are seeing as some the biggest trends emerging in your industry

In the ever-evolving world of general contracting, staying updated on the latest industry trends is vital for maintaining a competitive edge and delivering what today’s homeowners demand. As a seasoned general contractor, I’ve witnessed several significant trends that have shaped the industry over the years. One of the most prominent trends I’ve noticed recently is the increasing popularity of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and modern home renovations. Furthermore, a surge in bathroom remodeling to create modern, spacious retreats is another noteworthy shift. In this article, I’ll delve into these trends, sharing my insights, concerns, opportunities, and a memorable anecdote that encapsulates the rise of ADUs and modern home construction.

**ADUs: A Booming Trend**

Accessory Dwelling Units, or ADUs, are essentially secondary housing units built on a residential property. They can be detached structures, like a small cottage or converted garages or basements, designed to accommodate a separate living space for family members, renters, or guests. The appeal of ADUs lies in their flexibility and potential to address various housing needs, from multigenerational living to rental income.

**The Story of the Overwhelmed Homeowner**

A few years ago, I worked on a project for a client who was interested in building an ADU on their property. The client, Mrs. Anderson, had aging parents who needed assistance but cherished their independence. She wanted to create a space where her parents could live comfortably while maintaining their privacy. The ADU trend aligned perfectly with her needs.

While designing and constructing the ADU, I saw firsthand the benefits and challenges of this trend. ADUs offer an innovative solution for multigenerational living, aging-in-place, and extra income generation. However, navigating local zoning regulations, permit processes, and building codes can be complex and time-consuming. My team and I worked closely with Mrs. Anderson to ensure her ADU met all the necessary requirements, providing a safe and comfortable space for her parents.

Modern Homes: Aesthetic and Efficiency

The demand for modern home construction has grown significantly. People today are looking beyond traditional designs and are opting for sleek, minimalist, and energy-efficient homes. This trend reflects a desire for more comfortable, visually appealing, and eco-friendly living spaces.

Bathroom Renovations:

Bathrooms have evolved from purely functional spaces to luxurious retreats. Homeowners are increasingly investing in bathroom renovations to create spa-like environments that offer relaxation and comfort. Modern bathrooms often feature sleek designs, spacious layouts, and high-end fixtures.

The Story of the Spa-Inspired Bathroom

I recently worked on a project for a couple who wanted to transform their outdated, cramped bathroom into a spa-inspired oasis. The renovation involved expanding the space, incorporating heated floors, installing a rain shower, and adding elegant finishes. The clients were thrilled with the result, and this project highlighted the opportunities within the bathroom renovation trend.

In conclusion, the general contracting industry is continually shaped by shifting trends. The rise of ADUs, modern home construction, and bathroom renovations exemplifies the current trajectory of the industry. While these trends offer exciting opportunities, they also come with challenges, such as navigating complex regulations and satisfying diverse customer preferences. As a general contractor, staying informed about these trends and adapting to the changing landscape is essential for delivering the best service and meeting the evolving needs of homeowners.

Fares , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I began my journey in construction at the young age of 13, influenced by my father, who was a builder specializing in multi-story homes. My early exposure to the industry ignited a passion that led me to study real estate, construction management, and business in college. During my academic years, I worked full-time in a construction company, and thanks to my role as a project manager, I quickly gained proficiency in various trades.

Eventually, I made the decision to drop out of college and commit to a full-time career in construction, pursuing my dream independently. Today, I’m the proud owner of “Cali Dream Construction,” a company dedicated to building, renovating, and remodeling homes. Our services encompass a wide range of home improvement projects, including bathroom remodels, flooring, structural changes, additions, kitchen remodels, stucco, painting, deck construction, framing, and other general home improvements.

Client-Centric Approach:
One of the cornerstones of our business is our commitment to guiding clients through every step of their construction or renovation project. We believe in open and effective communication and aim to ensure our clients’ visions become reality. My background in construction management allows me to manage timelines and oversee every aspect of the project to ensure it’s executed properly.

Core Values:
At Cali Dream Construction, we hold honesty in high regard. We prioritize building strong relationships with our clients, always aiming to be transparent and provide a fair pricing structure. We understand the importance of trust in our industry and strive to uphold our commitment to integrity.

Notable Achievement:
One of the most significant projects I’ve undertaken is a new construction home in Encinitas Cardiff by the Sea. This modern masterpiece features unique elements such as cantina doors, floating stairs, a floating toilet, wall-mount faucets, European-style cabinets, and matching floors. Additionally, it includes a captivating water feature. This project showcased our team’s ability to overcome challenges and deliver a modern, high-end home that exceeded the client’s expectations.

Future Vision:
Looking ahead, my goal is to establish a system where my company isn’t solely reliant on my involvement. I plan to diversify our services to cover different trades within the construction industry. Additionally, I aim to take on more complex and unique custom home builds. After all, the name “Cali Dream Construction” embodies the idea of turning dream homes into reality.

Advice to Aspiring Contractors:
For individuals aspiring to succeed in the construction industry, networking is a key component of building a successful business. Creating a strong network of contacts and partners can open doors to valuable opportunities and collaborative relationships.

In summary, my journey from a young enthusiast learning the ropes of construction to owning “Cali Dream Construction” has been marked by a commitment to client satisfaction, integrity, and delivering high-quality projects. I look forward to the exciting path ahead and the opportunity to continue making homeowners’ dreams come true.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

explain things thoroughly, make sure people come to you for any questions, giving incentives to do good job 

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

i had to unlearn to want every project customers are people and every one is different i had to learn who i could get along with and what projects i should avoid since most important part of any project is understanding one another

Contact Info:

• Website: https://calidreamconstruction.com/
• Instagram: calidreamconstruction
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaliDreamConstruction/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fares-azani-a78722113/
• Youtube: calidreamconstruction
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/cali-dream-construction-and-remodeling-escondido-5