Last updated on May 21st, 2024 at 07:03 am

Considered to be the crown jewel of Orange County, Laguna Beach is known for its Mediterranean climate and its scenic coves. That beauty is why many bungalows and cottages from the late 1800s to the early 1900s are still in existence. These types of houses, including ones with decks and patios that overlook the view of the city, are the go-to for Laguna residents as they build and remodel their homes.

The topography of Laguna Beach is unique compared to other California coastal cities: it is isolated due to the landscape, and almost six miles of its coastline you’ll find a state marine reserve. Beyond the beach, the city is home to more than 20,000 beautiful acres of protected wilderness, making it an optimal location for adventurous exploration. All of these are the reasons why the preservation of the environment has become a priority in Laguna Beach.

As we looked for the top general contractors in Laguna Beach, we considered their experience in building residences that suit the climate of the city. We also studied the sustainable efforts they implement in their construction process. Founders’ reputation, firms’ partnerships, range of services, publications, and the amount and quality of press these firms have received are some of the other factors we reviewed before completing the list.

If you are thinking about doing a construction project, we recommend checking each builder’s license with the local licensing board, speaking to past clients, and using our bidding system to get competitive quotes from at least 3 contractors. Getting multiple bids is the best way to ensure you get a fair price and that bids include the complete scope of work.

Bourke Construction

816 Manzanita Dr., Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Ed Bourke worked in construction for 15 years in London before founding Bourke Construction in 1996. Presently, Bourke Construction is a fully bonded and licensed member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). The firm serves Orange County with a wide range of services, including interior and exterior remodeling, additions, roofing, painting, and more. 

Bourke Construction has a construction team with multinational experience that offers inspiration and preliminary design ideas within the range of clients’ budgets. They treat each client with respect through open, continuous communication and complete transparency.

After the acceptance of the estimate, the team will schedule a pre-construction meeting and will be presenting an approved contract by the California State License Board (CSLB) that includes a complete scope of work. The team then begins the work and provides a professional process.

One project that embodies their work is a deck remodel in Laguna Beach. This project was featured in a trade article from Professional Deck Builder. The feature highlighted the process and abilities of Bourke Construction in overcoming logistical challenges that may be essential to the home and its neighborhood. This project also appeared in one of Azek’s national ads and TimberTech’s 2019 SuperBowl ad.

Corbin Reeves Construction

245 Fischer Ave, Suite A1, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

For 30 years, Michael Reeves has been a top name in the field of custom home building. After graduating in 1989 from Cal Poly Pomona with a degree in Business Administration with a minor in Finance, Real Estate, and Law, Reeves co-founded a successful custom home building company that became known worldwide. In 2012, Michael launched Corbin Reeves Construction, which works with the most esteemed architects, designers, and traders to create homes of timeless charm and enduring quality. Many publications, such as Veranda, California Homes, and Elle Decor, were captivated by the firm’s work. 

Corbin Reeves Construction has built some of the finest estates and private residences in Orange County. The firm works on traditional, transitional, and contemporary projects ranging in size from 5,000-square-feet to over 50,000. Many of these projects present complex construction challenges and require strict adherence to completion schedules. 

The featured waterfront residence located at Laguna Beach is one great example. This home is transitional in style with neat, contemporary lines, an open floor plan, and an ocean view from nearly every room. The setting on the beach calls for seamless indoor and outdoor flow, and terraces and patio spaces are perfect for large-scale entertaining.

Willhoit Construction

1278 Glenneyre St #213, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Founded in 2004, Willhoit Construction, Inc. provides general contracting services for highly custom, design-driven construction projects. The firm specializes in building custom homes on hillsides that require well-thought foundation plans. Their experienced team of builders assists in executing all aspects of the construction process, from estimation and pre-construction to project management and building.

During the estimate phase the team provides a complete construction cost breakdown and personalized scope of work. The team also grants options for alternative and advanced building methods and material selection to enhance the overall design. The project manager oversees the daily progress of the home and is onsite every day to ensure that they give careful attention to every detail of the project. Communication between homeowners and professionals is a priority as it permits the project to go forward without problems. Willhoit Construction provides a comprehensive warranty and quarterly inspections after completion.

To achieve their overall goal of a smooth project process, they provide sound problem solving and highly organized, responsive project management. This well-oiled process has led to an impressive list of completed projects. Clientele Luxury, Luxe Magazine, Home Bunch, and M have featured some of the successful results.

Laguna Crest Enterprise

410 Broadway, Suite 230, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

This new contemporary residence on the sand in Laguna Beach has been making headlines since it broke ground. On track to receive LEED Gold Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, the home is at one with its seafront environment on every level. From its high-quality, environmentally sustainable construction to its natural finishes of stone and glass, its artful design keeps it open to its toes-in-the-sand setting. This is a home that has no equal.

Laguna Crest Enterprise has repeatedly proven that its team is committed to turning visions into reality. They completed the Mozambique Veranda in 2013, which is now visited by hundreds of residents and visitors as a nightly destination to enjoy company, great food, and spectacular music.

Laguna Beach is the home, community, and inspiration of Laguna Crest Enterprise. They are pleased to be a part of defining the landscape and homes along the coast. Laguna Crest Enterprise’s founder is Kenneth Fischbeck, a leading builder and developer in the Orange County area for over 40 years. A general contractor for most of his professional life, Ken has been at the helm at several successful construction corporations. He oversees all aspects of construction and development for the richly-textured, historically significant communities his firms build in.

Laguna Construction & Builder

1186 Glenneyre Street, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Laguna Construction & Builder (LCB) is a full-service construction management and general contracting firm dedicated to delivering high-quality residential, retail, hospitality, corporate and commercial construction. Publications like Builder and Architect Magazine and media like “Fox Studio” and “AM 870 The Answer” have recognized and featured LCB for its work. The firm serves its community in other ways through its involvement with organizations like the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

The firm’s 20-year old reputation continues to build thanks to the successful completion of each project. Their goal at LCB is to provide the staff, supervision, and service essential for superior quality craftsmanship, and to provide it on time.  

Steve Suer, leader of the firm, was born in Orange County, California. At age 19, Steve moved to Alaska, where he began working on the trans-Alaskan pipeline for a sub-contractor of Arco at Prudhoe bay. After eight years of working in Alaska, Steve moved back to Southern California, where he continued working in the construction industry. He built the first house in Laguna Beach, rebuilding a home that was destroyed by the fires of 1993. Steve has since built 13 other destroyed homes from the ground up. In 2000, Steve decided to open his own company: Laguna Construction & Builder. 

J Kramer Corp

2811 Ridge Drive, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Drive along North Coast Highway in Laguna Beach and you will see a residence named Beachitos. This home is known to be the first BONE Structure residence in Orange County. Built with sustainability in mind, Beachitos operates on solar and battery charging power and is lit by large windows and skylights. The intermix of stucco, wood, glass, and concrete creates a zen-like tableau for its gorgeous coastal setting.

Architecture by Anders Lasater. Photo by Chad Mellon.

This residence is a Winner of the 2020 American Institute of Architects (AIA) OC People’s Choice Award. It is just one demonstration of how J. Kramer Corp. is an expert in making things happen. Since 1995, J. Kramer Corp. has already been building and remodeling modern, classic contemporary, and traditional-style homes in South Orange County. This experience has provided the firm a strong foundation for different types of property, including original home designs, existing slopes, difficult grades, and more. 

The firm’s previous clients have voiced their satisfaction with J. Kramer Corp’s competitive bids, their agile building, and the quality results. The firm has been able to provide this level of consistent quality despite the challenges they often encounter in the narrow streets of Laguna Beach. They also have experienced building through winters with snow as high as 12 feet, as well as moving old homes by 20 feet to become part of new structures. 

Steven Foster Construction

26939 Camino De Estrella, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624

With over 30 years of experience in Orange County, Steven Foster Construction is a kitchen and bathroom remodel specialist. Though its focus is on quality home remodeling, they also have an extensive list of commercial contracts that includes work in California, Hawaii, Oregon, Illinois, and New Mexico. The firm has completed projects for many restaurants at LAX, as well as retail projects for national brands, including The Limited, Victoria’s Secret, Bath & Bodyworks, Express, Abercrombie & Fitch, Gap, Banana Republic, and Disney.

Founder Steven Foster moved to California in the mid-’70s. He started out working with a concrete contractor and learned the basics of foundation forming and concrete work. After his stint in the world of concrete, he decided to get into carpentry. It was a fulfilling task for Steven. When he finishes framing a house from the ground to the roofline, he can walk away and see the fruits of his labor.

Staying with carpentry for several years, Steven became a journeyman carpenter, learning how to do it fast. In 1981, with a substantial number of years in different trades, Steven took and passed his California State Contractors license test and began his quest to build a successful construction business. Today Steven Foster Construction is a licensed and bonded full-service general contractor.

Oligino Laux Construction

377 Holly Street, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Since 1979, Michael Laux has been building and renovating homes throughout the coastal communities of LA and Orange County. From his early years developing his skills as a master framer to his current management expertise, Michael has proven to have a keen eye for detail, expert skills, and the ability to create dynamic solutions.

His partner, Al Oligino, has nearly 50 years of building experience. Al started Oligino Laux Construction (OLC) more than two decades ago on a foundation of trust. He is actively involved with each project, getting to know every client and their dreams. He encourages clients to ask questions regarding the budget, focuses on meeting the timeline for project completion, and maintains goodwill with neighbors during construction. 

OLC believes that its assets are its employees, the people who interact with the client in making the project real. The team knows that the key is to have a personal connection with the client’s plans and objectives. That vision has enabled them to build an impressive portfolio, which includes this contemporary home that highlights a mid-century influence and great coastal views. Other projects the firm has completed have been featured in the likes of dwell, Interior Design, Coast, Los Angeles Times, Orange Coast Magazine, and California Homes. Learn more about their work at http://oligino.com/.

Design Intervention Inc.

1590 South Coast Highway Suite 11, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Design Intervention & IA Construction (DI/IA) was born out of a desire to design and customize distinctive homes for each client. The firm achieves that distinct approach through an eye for aesthetically pleasing designs. That eye is combined with an insistence on observing the most sustainable building standards. The result reflects the needs and desires of each client.

Clients have the option to be provided with both design and construction from DI/IA. The team examines each design and considers the building materials required to ensure that they have completed the structure as planned. That level of hands-on supervision comes with protection provided by the fully insured and bonded IA Construction. When the preference of the client is to have a general contractor other than IA is, DI/IA can function as a liaison ranging from full construction management to prearranged limited oversight. The firm’s services include site visits with the General Contractor, preparation of site meetings, and follow-ups that include a report for the client following each visit. 

30 years of industry experience allows Design Intervention to use each space efficiently.​ That experience and the capability that comes with it have led to many repeat clients. One of the projects they completed is this sleek, feminine LA mid-century modern beach house completed in contemporary style with a muted soft grey/taupe palette. 

McKeehan Construction

2094 Pacific Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Brothers Don and Dick McKeehan founded their business partnership over 40 years ago. They have built a fine reputation as craftsmen and hands-on builders, providing sensitivity to the client’s needs, desires, and budget, while maintaining attention to precision and detail. Focused primarily on the South Orange County area, they have forged long-lasting relationships with many noted architects, landscape architects, and interior design professionals in the area.

The firm strives to build trust, provide quality service, and increase understanding with clients. The McKeehan team believes that outstanding craftsmanship is the approach to creating a project. McKeehan Construction fosters an atmosphere of creative teamwork with the homeowners and professionals to bring about refined finishes. One of their projects is this modern private residence from Laguna Beach with a textured stone exterior and a panoramic view of the sea. 

The firm’s process helps guide their clients through many of their choices and decisions during the evolution of the project, providing a positive building experience and bringing about the creation of a distinctively beautiful home. These homes have been in the pages of a number of publications, including Coast Magazine, California Homes, Design OC, H Magazine, Robb Report Home & Style, Luxe, Trends, OC Home, Orange Coast, and South Coast.

Robinson Builders Inc.

1100 S. Coast Hwy. Ste. 206a, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Bill Robinson founded Robinson Builders in 1988 with the idea that there was a better way to do homebuilding. He makes it a priority to listen to his clients and pay strict attention to the small details that go into every customized project. 

Honesty, integrity, and loyalty are the core tenets of the firm that have led the firm to become one of the top luxury home builders in Southern California. The firm guarantees fair bidding and cost control. Robinson Builders builds relationships with its clients, design partners, and subcontractors. Collectively they have the expertise and workforce to complete large or small projects promptly while providing the quality that every home deserves. 

Some of the homes they built have landed on the pages of Atomic Ranch, Luxe, and Orange Coast. Over the past 25 years, any number of clients have made it clear they are pleased with the firm’s construction process through their positive reviews. And they have shown their appreciation of the firm’s completion of the project on the date and under the planned budget. From pre-construction to project maintenance,  Robinson Builders makes it an enjoyable journey for homeowners.

Harpco Construction Inc.

406 Orchid Avenue #1072, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625

Aside from residential buildings, Harpco Construction Inc. offers tenant improvements, multifamily construction, commercial construction, and consulting services as well. The firm has built strong subcontractor relationships and integrated local market knowledge through its experience in the California construction and development market. The firm is certified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to offer seismic roof lifting. 

Before launching Harpco Construction, Mr. Harper consulted for Bergman KPRS, LA, and Westport Construction, both multifamily and commercial construction companies in LA. He built his career working in executive positions for high-profile construction and development companies, including Avalon Bay Communities, Driver Urban/C.W. Driver, Camden Development, and Archstone Communities. While in these positions, Mr. Harper organized all aspects of the construction process, including client relations, construction management, estimating, compliance, deal structuring, pre-construction services, and risk assessment. As President and CEO of Harpco Construction, the integral business philosophy of Mr. Harper serves as his driving force. He believes in holding himself and his employees to the highest level of professionalism, leadership, and dedication in the industry. 

Mr. Harper owned and served as President/CEO of Harper Construction Inc. for 16 years building over 400 custom residential homes, commercial projects, and tenant improvements throughout Southern California. Mr. Harper’s professional, executive, and hands-on field experience has made him a highly sought-after leader in the industry. 

ARC Construction 

26522 Briarwood Lane, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

Vito Carrieri started as a craftsman in Italy. His attention to detail and love of the wood led him to his craft. That, in turn, inspired his son, Anthony, to follow in his footsteps and maintain the strict policy of Vito of never cutting corners and doing things the right way. 

The father-son duo’s decades of combined building experience has led them to success on almost every kind of home renovation project imaginable. As a family business, they are personally committed to fairness with their customers and excellence in their craftsmanship. They offer a variety of home renovation services at a competitive rate for their customers in South Orange County. They understand home renovations can be stressful. That’s why ARC Construction guarantees that it will all be worth the investment the moment one walks through his new front door.

As it believes that people are the backbones of the business, ARC Construction chooses its employees carefully, and its subcontractors are under close supervision. Whether it is a room addition, a patio, a second-story addition, a complete renovation, or simple repair work, the firm ensures that the work is done promptly and to the highest standards. 

Tupy Construction

16835 Algonquin Street Suite 434, Huntington Beach, CA 92649

Though a Laguna Beach-based firm, Tupy Construction, also has international projects, clients, and resources from Grand Cayman to New Zealand. For 20 years the firm has been providing professional design, general contracting, and project management services to architects, designers, and personal clients for custom homes, additions, and renovations.

Their comprehensive design service for their clients starts from the discussion of the project scope, design requirements, and building options. They also provide alternative designs and value engineering to help clients determine and develop final project choices, material applications, and a design fit for their budget. They then consult and coordinate the developed design drawings with all engineering documents to the appropriate governing bodies. Completed design drawings will then be ready for permit applications and project plan review.

Founder Phillip Tupy acknowledges that custom home building and design work are innately creative processes. He understands that the environments they create have a direct and positive impact on peoples’ lives each day. Philip continues to design and build with sustainable methods and materials to achieve cleaner interior spaces, energy efficiency, and reduced landfill pressure. Alternative energy solutions such as passive and active solar, natural insulation, and formaldehyde-free cabinetry are some examples of their cleaner building options. Phillip strives to bring their clients creative opportunities to save money while simultaneously maintaining exceptional quality for the project and planet.

Nine 49 Designs LLC

430 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Andres Bejarano grew up in a family steeped in the building trades. In 2005, he moved to Rancho Santa Margarita and got employment with a small general construction company. He was quickly put in charge of the woodworking subdivision. Two years later, Andres became a general manager for a larger company. He honed leadership skills managing many people in new constructions and remodels in Orange County projects. Eventually, Andres created his first company, which focuses on customized woodworking projects in both Orange and Los Angeles Counties. As a licensed General Contractor, Andres founded Nine 49 Designs LLC, a name inspired by the area code of the place he calls home. Nine 49 Designs is now a bonded, insured, Better Business Bureau (BBB) accredited and licensed firm.

Nine 49 Designs completes new construction and remodels in residential and commercial buildings as well as additions and renovations. The firm also offers fine woodwork for patio covers, decks, windows, and fences. The firm provides fabrication and installation of flooring. It also installs wall tile, and countertops, concrete and cement products. When it comes to painting, the firm can provide sprayed, rolled, and brushed. The firm is eager to take on electrical, drywall, plumbing, landscape, and metal projects as needed.

About Our Rankings

This list takes a range of ranking criteria into consideration, including but not limited to: work history, customer satisfaction, awards and recognition, geographic area of work, cost, building permits, and clientele. We spent over 40 hours researching local contractors before calculating the final ranking for this post. If there is additional information about your business that could affect these rankings, please fill out this form and we will take it into consideration.

Get Bids For Your Build

If you are thinking about doing a construction project, we recommend checking each builder’s license with the local licensing board, speaking to past clients, and using our bidding system to get competitive quotes from at least 3 contractors. Getting multiple bids is the best way to ensure you get a fair price and that bids include the complete scope of work.

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