Luxury Renovations in Los Angeles | Aluna Construction Founders Daniel & Winston Vlessing

How Daniel & Winston Vlessing Are Shaping the Future of Luxury Renovations in Los Angeles

Introduction

On a sunlit morning in Brentwood, Daniel Vlessing steps through a marble-clad foyer, inspecting the meticulous woodwork of a newly remodeled estate kitchen. Across town on the Wilshire Corridor, his cousin Winston Vlessing scrolls through design plans with a client, envisioning how Italian Calacatta gold marble will transform a high-rise condo bathroom into a spa-like retreat. These everyday scenes capture the essence of Aluna Construction – the Los Angeles-based firm co-founded by the Vlessing cousins – and its outsized role in redefining luxury renovations Los Angeles homeowners can count on.

In a city celebrated for its extravagant real estate, from Beverly Hills mansions to sleek Westwood penthouses, Aluna Construction has quickly risen as a leader in high-end remodeling. With a professional, narrative-driven approach reminiscent of an Architectural Digest feature, Daniel and Winston have built their company’s reputation on uncompromising quality and visionary design. Each project is more than a renovation; it’s a statement of lifestyle and aspiration. As Los Angeles’ luxury renovation market continues to heat up, Aluna’s hands-on craftsmanship and forward-thinking style position it at the forefront. The following feature delves into the story of the Vlessing cousins and how their shared vision is shaping the future of Beverly Hills remodeling and beyond – one dream home at a time.

Founders’ Story: Family, Vision, and Mission

Aluna Construction’s origin is a story of family ties and bold ambition. Cousins Daniel and Winston Vlessing grew up sharing a passion for building and design, and that lifelong bond became the foundation for their business. What began as a small renovation venture between two relatives with big dreams has rapidly evolved into a full-service luxury remodeling firm serving neighborhoods from the Wilshire Corridor to Brentwood. Early on, the pair cut their teeth on local Westwood home remodeling jobs – modest kitchens and bathroom updates – learning the craft and earning word-of-mouth referrals. Each project completed was another lesson in what discerning homeowners expect and another showcase of the cousins’ complementary strengths.

Daniel Vlessing is the detail-oriented builder, a licensed general contractor who brings structural know-how and technical precision. He can often be found on-site supervising crews and ensuring every beam, tile, and fixture is flawlessly installed. Winston Vlessing, by contrast, is the design visionary and client liaison. With a background steeped in real estate and aesthetics, he has an intuitive grasp of space and style – from layout flow to the latest in high-end finishes. Winston’s gift lies in translating a client’s wish list into a cohesive design plan that Aluna’s team can bring to life. Together, their skills form a perfect balance: construction rigor meets artistic flair.

The Vlessings also attribute their success to a shared ethos instilled by family: work hard, stay honest, and treat every home as if it were your own. “We’re cousins first and business partners second,” Daniel likes to say, emphasizing the trust at the core of their collaboration. This trust enables frank communication and unified decision-making on every job. If one cousin spots a potential issue – say, an original 1920s Beverly Hills estate detail that needs preservation during a modernization – the other will strategize a solution in real time. That seamless teamwork sets Aluna apart in an industry where coordination is key.

From day one, Daniel and Winston set out on a mission to raise the standard for luxury construction in Los Angeles. They committed to delivering high-quality results with honesty, efficiency, and care. “Our goal is simple,” Winston explains, “bring our clients’ visions to life while making the process smooth, transparent, and stress-free from start to finish.” This client-first philosophy is deeply embedded in Aluna’s culture. Whether it’s a minor Brentwood renovations project or a ground-up overhaul of a historic Westwood property, the cousins insist on clear communication, detailed budgeting with no hidden costs, and a personal touch that makes the renovation process exciting – not overwhelming. In their words, “We want every client to actually enjoy watching their dream take shape, knowing they have a reliable partner at the helm.”

Today, Aluna Construction’s name has become synonymous with luxury renovations in Los Angeles. The company prides itself on being more than just contractors; Daniel and Winston see themselves as visionary builders helping to craft the next chapter of LA’s architectural legacy. As we dive into Aluna’s signature services – from showpiece kitchens to full estate transformations – and hear directly from the Vlessings in an exclusive interview, one thing becomes clear: this family-founded firm isn’t just renovating homes, it’s elevating the art of living well in Los Angeles.

Kitchen Remodeling in Los Angeles – Heart of the High-End Home

In Los Angeles luxury homes, the kitchen has evolved from a back-of-house utility space to the glamorous heart of the home. It’s where personal chefs cater soirées in Beverly Hills mansions, families gather for casual Sunday brunches in Brentwood, and health-conscious homeowners blend morning smoothies with ocean views in Santa Monica. Aluna Construction’s approach to kitchen remodeling Los Angeles style reflects this central importance. Daniel and Winston believe a kitchen should marry high performance with high design – a place where chef-grade function meets stunning aesthetics worthy of a magazine spread.

Renovating a luxury kitchen in LA starts with understanding the client’s lifestyle. “Do you entertain frequently? Are you a serious cook, or is takeout more your speed? Kids, pets – all these factors influence layout and materials,” Winston notes. In practice, Aluna’s designs often feature open-concept layouts that seamlessly connect to living areas or outdoor patios, perfect for the Southern California ethos of indoor-outdoor living. Imagine a sprawling marble-topped island doubling as a gathering bar during a Hollywood Hills cocktail party, or a La Cornue range anchoring a French-inspired kitchen in a Bel Air estate for an avid home chef. Every element is tailored to how the homeowner will actually use the space.

Key trends in upscale LA kitchens include an emphasis on clean lines and smart organization. Clutter is banished behind custom cabinetry – think floor-to-ceiling cabinets with sleek, handle-less fronts that keep sightlines clean. Aluna often works with local artisans to build bespoke cabinets fitted precisely to the client’s needs, from climate-controlled wine storage to pull-out shelving for specialty appliances. Storage solutions are not just abundant but intelligent, ensuring even the grandest kitchen maintains an uncluttered elegance.

Of course, no luxury kitchen is complete without top-tier materials and appliances. Aluna spares no expense specifying premium finishes that make a statement. Countertops might be book-matched Italian marble with dramatic veining, or nearly indestructible quartzite in a honed finish for a contemporary vibe. Backsplashes become art installations, whether clad in handcrafted Moroccan zellige tiles or a single sheet of backlit onyx for a wow-factor. Underfoot, clients often choose wide-plank European white oak flooring for warmth or large-format porcelain tiles for a sleek, easy-to-clean surface – both options that Aluna has installed in numerous Beverly Hills remodeling projects.

High-performance appliances are another hallmark of an Aluna kitchen remodel. It’s not uncommon for a project to include a suite of chef-caliber appliances: Sub-Zero refrigerators, Wolf or La Cornue ranges, Miele steam ovens, and built-in espresso makers that can be controlled via smartphone. Home automation is seamlessly integrated; imagine receiving an alert on your phone if the wine fridge door is left ajar, or using voice command to preheat the oven while driving home down the 405. These smart kitchen features are increasingly standard in Los Angeles luxury renovations, and the Vlessings are careful to incorporate the latest technology in a way that enhances convenience without compromising style. As Daniel quips, “The best tech is the kind you don’t see – you just feel the benefits.”

In terms of style, Los Angeles is a melting pot, and Aluna has mastered blending influences to create kitchens that are both timeless and of-the-moment. In a recent project for a contemporary home overlooking the city, the team crafted a minimalist kitchen with glossy white cabinetry, a waterfall-edge quartz island, and integrated LED strip lighting for a soft glow. Conversely, for a client in a classic Spanish Revival house in Westwood, they designed a warm, Mediterranean-inspired kitchen featuring custom walnut cabinets, a decorative tile backsplash in earthy tones, and wrought-iron light fixtures hand-forged by a local artist. Both kitchens are very different aesthetically, but each fulfills the homeowners’ vision of luxury and comfort.

Aluna’s kitchen remodels also emphasize flow and connectivity. Often, older homes in areas like Brentwood or the Hollywood Hills have compartmentalized layouts. Aluna will remove walls (ensuring structural integrity with steel beams where needed) to create sightlines from the kitchen to the dining or family room, so the person cooking isn’t cut off from guests. Where possible, they enlarge openings to outdoor spaces – installing folding NanaWall glass doors that lead to a patio, for instance – effectively turning a kitchen into an open-air pavilion during LA’s many temperate days. This kind of resort-like amenity is highly sought after in luxury renovations.

Perhaps the best way to illustrate Aluna’s kitchen expertise is through a snapshot of a typical client experience. Imagine a tech executive in Brentwood who loves to host dinner parties and wine tastings. His 1980s-built home came with a cramped, dated kitchen tucked away from the main living area. He engaged Aluna Construction to create the “ultimate entertaining kitchen.” Daniel and Winston’s team knocked down a wall to merge the kitchen with the great room, doubled the size of the island (topping it with a single stunning slab of Calacatta marble), and installed dual everything – dual fridges, dual dishwashers, dual sinks – to facilitate catering. A custom wine cellar was built into a former pantry space, complete with LED-lit display racks for 500 bottles. The end result was a show-stopping, functional kitchen that not only delighted the client but became a conversation piece among his guests. The property’s value and allure were significantly elevated, proving that in Los Angeles, a well-executed kitchen remodel is both a lifestyle upgrade and a savvy investment.

Luxury Bathroom Renovations – Beverly Hills Spa Living

If kitchens are the heart of the home, bathrooms are its sanctuaries – especially in the realm of Beverly Hills remodeling, where bathrooms are expected to rival five-star hotel spas. Aluna Construction has become expert in transforming ordinary bathrooms into luxurious retreats that pamper all the senses. High-end homeowners in Beverly Hills, as well as nearby enclaves like Holmby Hills and Bel Air, seek bathrooms that are more than functional spaces; they are statements of personal luxury and wellness.

When Daniel and Winston approach a luxury bathroom renovation, their guiding principle is to create a space where a client can truly escape and rejuvenate. This means blending opulent materials, state-of-the-art fixtures, and thoughtful design to evoke a spa-like atmosphere. A typical Aluna bathroom upgrade might start with expanding the footprint – for example, borrowing a little closet space or an adjacent bedroom nook – to allow for a spacious spa layout. In many older Beverly Hills homes, master bathrooms were relatively small by today’s standards. Aluna often reconfigures these floor plans to accommodate modern amenities like dual vanities, oversized walk-in showers, and separate soaking tubs, ensuring that no aspect of indulgence is sacrificed.

One signature feature of Aluna’s bathroom remodels is the walk-in wet room: a glass-enclosed area that contains both a soaking tub and a shower, sometimes even multiple shower heads and a built-in bench. This European-inspired concept keeps water confined and looks incredibly sleek. For instance, in a recent project off Sunset Boulevard, they designed a wet room with floor-to-ceiling Starphire glass panels, a freestanding hammered copper tub as the focal point, and a ceiling-mounted rainfall shower that pours water like a tropical downpour. Every shower at home feels like a getaway to a luxury resort.

Material selection in these bathrooms leans toward the lavish and timeless. Aluna sources fine natural stones that instantly convey elegance – book-matched Carrara and Calacatta marbles, creamy travertine, or even rare granites and onyx for accent walls. In a Beverly Hills master bath remodel they completed last year, the team installed continuous-grain Italian marble slabs across the floor and up the walls behind a vanity, creating a seamless and dramatic envelope of stone. The vanity itself was custom-built from rift-cut white oak, giving a warm contrast to the cool marble and tying in with the home’s mid-century roots. Polished nickel fixtures and wall-mounted faucets added a jewellike sparkle without being ostentatious.

Luxury bathroom renovations also focus heavily on advanced fixtures and technology. The Vlessings are quick to point out that today’s high-end client wants more than just pretty tiles – they want innovation that enhances comfort. Heated floors are a must, especially on cool Pacific coastal mornings; Aluna routinely installs electric radiant heat mats under marble or porcelain flooring so toes stay warm. Towel warmers are another common request, as are fog-free smart mirrors that can display the morning news or your calendar as you brush your teeth. One popular item in Los Angeles is the Japanese-style bidet toilet with integrated seat warming, automatic lid, and built-in night lights – features that seemed futuristic a decade ago but are now de rigueur in the luxury market.

Then there are the showpiece elements that truly set these bathrooms apart. Consider the steam shower, virtually a personal steam room installed at home. Aluna often outfits master showers with steam units, aromatherapy infusion systems, and even chromotherapy lighting (soft LED lights that can change color to promote relaxation or energy). Coupled with seating and niches for candles or oils, the steam shower becomes a haven for wellness. In one Beverly Hills renovation, they went a step further and incorporated a private dry sauna adjacent to the master bath, complete with Canadian hemlock wood and a Himalayan salt wall for a holistic spa vibe. It’s all about delivering a full sensory experience.

Lighting in these upscale bathrooms is meticulously designed as well. Recessed LED lights provide soft, even illumination, often on dimmers to transition from bright morning prep to calming evening soak. Decorative lighting adds character – perhaps a crystal chandelier over a bathtub for a touch of old Hollywood glamour, or sleek pendant lights flanking mirrors in a modern high-rise condo renovation on Wilshire Corridor. Aluna’s design team understands that in a luxury bathroom, lighting isn’t just practical, it’s atmospheric. A carefully placed skylight or a picture window (with motorized shades for privacy) can even flood the room with natural light, highlighting the textures of stone and water.

To illustrate Aluna’s prowess in bathroom transformations, imagine a typical scenario: A power couple in Beverly Hills approaches Daniel and Winston to overhaul their primary bathroom, which hasn’t seen an update in 20 years. The original space had basic tile floors, a cramped shower, and an uninspired vanity. The clients dream of a tranquil haven where they can unwind after long days – essentially bringing the Beverly Wilshire spa experience into their home. Aluna’s plan involves borrowing a small adjoining closet to expand the bath, enabling space for a freestanding sculptural bathtub by the window. They create a generous steam shower with bench seating and install body sprays for a therapeutic massage effect. The design palette is serene: creamy white Dolomite marble with subtle gold veining blankets the room, accented by fixtures in brushed champagne bronze. A soft cove lighting detail around the perimeter ceiling gives off a gentle glow reminiscent of candlelight. The finishing touches? Scented eucalyptus in the steam shower and a discreet sound system to play soothing music. The couple’s once-dated bathroom is reborn as a personal wellness retreat – one that likely increases their home’s market appeal as much as it enhances their daily life.

Luxury bathroom renovations in Beverly Hills and similar enclaves demand an obsessive attention to detail, something Aluna’s crew is known for. Every corner must align perfectly, every piece of tile symmetrically laid. There is no room for “good enough” – each bathroom is essentially custom-fabricated on site. It’s this commitment to perfection, along with imaginative design, that has made Aluna Construction a go-to choice for clients who want the very best in their private spaces. After all, if a home is a reflection of one’s lifestyle, then an Aluna-renovated bathroom tells the story of someone who values comfort, quality, and a bit of daily indulgence – the very essence of Los Angeles luxury living.

Full Estate Renovations in Beverly Hills, Brentwood & Westwood

Transforming a single room is one thing; transforming an entire estate is another level of ambition – and one that Aluna Construction eagerly embraces. Full estate renovations involve reimagining every facet of a home, often from the studs outwards, to create a cohesive masterpiece that marries modern luxury with the property’s inherent character. In areas like Beverly Hills and Brentwood, many homes that hit the market are decades old, with grand proportions and great “bones” but in need of updates to meet contemporary tastes. Likewise, in Westwood and surrounding neighborhoods on LA’s Westside, charming historic houses may require expansion or significant upgrades for today’s lifestyle. Daniel and Winston Vlessing approach these large-scale projects as storytellers and problem-solvers, crafting homes that honor the past while embracing the future.

A full estate renovation typically begins with a holistic vision. The Vlessings walk the entire property – from the landscaping and exterior architecture to every interior room – to identify opportunities for improvement. They ask big-picture questions: How can we improve flow and function throughout the home? Which original features should be preserved as a nod to history, and which elements need replacing or expanding? Is there potential to add new amenities that luxury buyers expect, like a home theater, gym, or wine cellar? Essentially, Daniel and Winston form a masterplan that will guide months (sometimes over a year) of work, ensuring that when all the individual projects are done, the estate feels unified and utterly transformed.

One key aspect of estate renovations in areas like Beverly Hills is maintaining architectural integrity. Many homes here have classic styles – be it a 1920s Spanish Colonial with its red tile roof and stucco walls, a Mid-Century Modern gem by a noted architect, or a Georgian mansion exuding East Coast elegance. Aluna’s team does their homework on a home’s design heritage and works to enhance it. For instance, when renovating a historic 1930s Tudor Revival in Westwood, they preserved the half-timber façade and leaded glass windows that gave the home its storybook charm, focusing updates on the interior layout and systems. In a Brentwood ranch-style estate, they kept the single-level, horizontal profile that blended with the landscape, but refreshed the exterior with smooth plaster and black steel-framed windows for a transitional look that mixes traditional and modern. The goal is often to refresh, not erase – bringing homes up to today’s luxury standards without losing the unique touches that make them beloved in the first place.

Such extensive renovations nearly always involve structural work and system upgrades. Aluna coordinates everything from seismic retrofitting (critical in California) to replacing old galvanized plumbing with copper or PEX, upgrading electrical wiring to support high-tech automation, and installing efficient HVAC and insulation to meet new codes. In Westwood’s older homes or Beverly Hills estates built before current energy regulations, bringing a home to code might mean adding sheer walls for earthquake safety, insulating walls that were never insulated, or integrating a whole-house water filtration and backup power generator. These “behind-the-walls” improvements are largely invisible in the final reveal, but they ensure the renovated estate isn’t just beautiful – it’s also safer, more comfortable, and built to perform well for decades to come.

The cosmetic and layout changes, of course, are the most visible and often the most dramatic. Floor plan optimization is a common theme. Luxury buyers today generally prefer an open, flowing layout with a connection between kitchen, dining, and family spaces, even if the home’s style is traditional. Aluna often takes down or widens walls in compartmentalized older homes to achieve this. They might create sightlines from a grand foyer straight through to a backyard garden, or enlarge doorways and add graceful arches to let light pass between rooms while maintaining a sense of delineation. In Brentwood’s larger properties, they’ve been known to add completely new spaces – converting an underused attic into an artist’s studio, or building out a lower level to house a state-of-the-art home theater and bar for entertaining.

Outdoor areas are also within scope. Full estate renovations frequently extend to the landscape and outdoor amenities. In sunny Los Angeles, the exterior is as important as the interior. Aluna partners with top landscape designers to reimagine grounds: maybe a new driveway with stone pavers, a fountain at the entry, or a resort-style pool and cabana in back. For one Beverly Hills project, the renovation included redesigning the entire backyard to include a zero-edge infinity pool, a modern fire pit lounge, and an outdoor kitchen – turning what was once a bland lawn into a private luxury resort. This integration of indoor and outdoor living is crucial, especially in Brentwood and Beverly Hills where large lots allow for incredible alfresco spaces and homeowners expect to enjoy the California climate year-round in style.

Every full-home renovation is different, but they all require intense project management and vision – areas where Daniel Vlessing truly shines. He acts as the maestro of construction, coordinating architects, engineers, city permits, and an army of skilled tradespeople. It’s not unusual for a project to involve custom everything: tailor-made millwork in the library, imported chandeliers for the formal dining room, specialty tiles flown in from Morocco for a courtyard. Keeping all those moving parts on schedule and on budget is a Herculean task, but Daniel’s on-time, on-budget track record is one reason clients entrust Aluna with such massive undertakings. Meanwhile, Winston works closely with clients (and often their interior designers) to ensure the final aesthetic touches align with the vision – from paint colors and wallpaper down to doorknob styles. His eye for detail and constant communication with the homeowners means there are no surprises, just delighted reactions when the “reveal” day arrives.

Consider a hypothetical full estate renovation to illustrate scope: A family purchases a classic 8,000 sq. ft. Colonial-style home in Beverly Hills. They adore the location and the stately facade but want the interiors to fit a modern family with young children. They hire Aluna Construction for a stem-to-stern renovation. Daniel and Winston’s team gut the outdated 1980s interiors, remove some non-load-bearing walls to open up the kitchen and living areas, and add pocket doors to a new playroom so the kids’ space can be closed off when entertaining. They build a new luxury kitchen from scratch, all new bathrooms, and a lavish primary suite with dual closets and a marble bathroom that didn’t exist before. The home gets fully rewired with smart-home tech – controlled lighting, motorized blinds, security cameras, integrated audio – all manageable from the parents’ smartphones. They refinish or replace every surface: new French oak hardwood floors, custom wainscoting in the formal rooms to match the home’s era, coffered ceilings with discreet LED uplighting for drama. Outside, a dated kidney-shaped pool is transformed into a rectangular infinity pool with a spa, surrounded by elegant limestone decking and shaded by olive trees for a Mediterranean touch. By the end, the house retains its Colonial charm from the curb, but stepping inside is like entering a brand-new luxury residence tailored precisely to the family’s needs and tastes. It’s essentially a new home wrapped in a cherished old shell – the best of both worlds.

For homes in Westwood and similar areas, which might not be estates on several acres but still sizable single-family homes, full renovations can involve strategic additions. Aluna has, for example, added a second-story principal suite to a one-story Westwood bungalow (maintaining the charming facade by setting the addition back from the street view). They’ve also opened up rear walls to install floor-to-ceiling glass that connects interior spaces to newly built decks or patios, injecting a bit of that modern indoor-outdoor ethos into older structures. In each case, the Vlessings ensure that the modifications feel natural, as if they were always part of the home. This sensitivity to context, combined with a relentless push for modern luxury, is what makes their full renovation projects so successful.

Ultimately, full estate renovations are about unlocking the full potential of a property. Los Angeles’ prime neighborhoods offer some incredible real estate canvases; Daniel and Winston love nothing more than to take a grand old canvas and repaint it in vibrant new colors – figuratively and literally. The demand for such comprehensive makeovers is rising, too, as many buyers opt to invest in renovation rather than attempt ground-up new construction (which in certain historic or fully developed areas of Beverly Hills and Brentwood can be very challenging to get approved). Aluna’s proven ability to handle these large-scale projects positions the firm as a true leader in this realm. They don’t just renovate houses; they reinvigorate them, blending the dignity of the past with the luxuries of the present to create future-proof homes.

In Conversation: Q&A with Daniel & Winston Vlessing

To gain deeper insight into Aluna Construction’s philosophy and the minds of its co-founders, we sat down with Daniel and Winston Vlessing for an exclusive interview. They discussed everything from working together as family to the future of luxury renovations in Los Angeles.

Q: What inspired you both to start Aluna Construction, and how did it all begin?
Daniel Vlessing: It really started with us working on small projects together right out of college. We did a kitchen for a family friend, then a bathroom for a neighbor – just the two of us and a couple of handymen. We realized we made a great team. I loved the building aspect, Winston had the eye for design and dealing with clients. Those early successes and happy customers gave us the confidence to officially start Aluna Construction. We saw an opportunity in Los Angeles’ market for a renovation firm that could deliver high-end quality with personalized service. Honestly, we were also inspired by our family’s entrepreneurial spirit – we come from a family of go-getters. We wanted to build something of our own, and we both had a passion for creating beautiful spaces, so it felt natural.

Winston Vlessing: I remember we sat down at a cafe in Westwood, scribbling ideas on a napkin about what our “dream company” would look like. From day one, our mission was about raising the bar in construction. We were frustrated hearing stories of contractors who weren’t transparent or reliable. We knew we could do better. So Aluna started with the goal of combining old-school craftsmanship with a fresh, client-centric approach. We’ve grown since then, but those early days and ideals still guide us.

Q: You’re cousins as well as business partners. How does that family dynamic influence the way you run the company?
Winston: The family dynamic is huge for us. Being cousins means we have a shorthand with each other – I always know what Daniel is thinking, and vice versa. That trust factor is through the roof. We can have heated disagreements one minute and be grabbing lunch together the next, no hard feelings, because at the end of the day we’re family. That allows us to be very honest with each other when making decisions.

Daniel: Exactly. There’s an underlying respect and loyalty that might be harder to achieve in a typical business partnership. We divvy up responsibilities largely based on our strengths without ego getting in the way. Another big thing: our employees and clients see that strong family bond. It creates a kind of warm, unified culture at Aluna. We often say we treat our team and clients like family too – maybe it sounds cliché, but we mean it. We’ve built a lot of long-term relationships simply by extending that trust and care outward from the two of us.

Q: Aluna specializes in high-end renovations. What philosophy guides your approach to luxury projects?
Daniel: Our philosophy is that luxury is in the details. Whether it’s a tiny powder room or a full estate, we approach it with the same meticulous attention. In practical terms, that means no cutting corners, ever. The materials, the craftsmanship, the service – everything has to meet a higher standard. We’re both perfectionists (sometimes to a fault, the crew might say!). If a grout line is slightly off or a cabinet door isn’t aligning perfectly, it’s redone. In luxury homes, those “little” details are a big part of what you’re delivering.

Winston: I’d add that our approach is very client-driven. True luxury is also about personalization. We don’t walk in with a cookie-cutter plan. Instead, we really listen to what the homeowner envisions – how they live, what inspires them. Then we apply our expertise to elevate that vision even further. The result should feel like their dream home, not our portfolio piece. For example, if a client loves to collect wine, we’ll find a way to incorporate a stunning wine cellar or tasting room in the design. If they have mobility concerns, we’ll ensure the luxury design is also aging-in-place friendly, with an elevator or curbless showers, etc., all integrated beautifully. Our guiding philosophy is blend form and function seamlessly, and make it personal. Lastly, transparency and trust are key to our luxury projects – we believe the process itself should feel luxurious for our clients. No stress about “will the contractor show up” or “will this be done right.” We handle all the headaches in the background so clients actually enjoy watching their home transform.

Q: What unique challenges do clients in places like Beverly Hills or Brentwood face when remodeling, and how do you help them navigate those?
Winston: High-end neighborhoods in LA definitely come with their own set of challenges. For one, these areas often have strict building codes and permit processes. Beverly Hills, for example, scrutinizes everything – you can’t even change a driveway gate without proper permits. Brentwood has the HOA and community guidelines in certain upscale developments. So one challenge for homeowners is the red tape. We tackle that by taking care of it all – we do the plans, pull the permits, coordinate any necessary hearings or approvals. We’ve been through it enough times that we know the drill and have relationships at city offices. That saves our clients a ton of headaches.

Daniel: Another challenge is logistical: many of these homes are in established, busy neighborhoods. Think narrow winding roads in the hills or limited street parking in Westwood. Bringing a construction crew and heavy materials to a Bel Air hillside or a century-old Beverly Hills street can upset neighbors if not handled well. We mitigate that by being very mindful – we schedule material deliveries strategically, we keep sites tidy, and communicate with neighbors if needed so they know we’re keeping disruption minimal. Our clients often have high-profile neighbors (or are high-profile themselves), so discretion and professionalism are paramount.

Winston: Also, clients in these areas have high expectations, as they should. They’re investing a lot in their homes and they demand top-tier work and service. We embrace that but it’s a challenge in the sense that there’s zero margin for error. It pushes us to be at the top of our game always. One more thing – older luxury homes often have hidden surprises. Maybe a Beverly Hills estate has structural quirks or needs a major electrical upgrade not evident at first. We always do thorough inspections up front, and we also prepare our clients that with old houses, you have to be ready for unexpected issues. Then we swiftly problem-solve when those arise. I think our experience and cool-headed approach in these moments sets us apart. Clients see that and feel confident that no challenge will throw us off completing their dream.

Q: Design is a big part of renovations. How do you ensure a renovation honors a home’s original character while updating it with modern luxury?
Daniel: It starts with respect for the original home. Before swinging a hammer, we study the architecture. If it’s a 1940s Spanish Revival in Westwood, we note the arches, the textured plaster, the traditional tile roof – elements that define its character. As builders, we try to preserve or echo those details even as we update systems or reconfigure spaces. For instance, we might salvage original hardwood flooring or vintage light fixtures and reincorporate them after restoring. Or if we add square footage, we match the existing style so it looks seamless.

Winston: When it comes to marrying old and new, I love that challenge. We aim for a timeless result. In practice, that could mean we keep a classic layout for formal areas but modernize the kitchen/family room for open concept living. Or we retain something like a fabulous retro stone fireplace, but surround it with a fresh, lighter color palette and contemporary furnishings. It’s really about balance. One guiding question I always ask is: “If the original architect or builder were here today, how might they update the house for modern living?” That way we act as collaborators with the home’s history rather than working against it. We also often collaborate with interior designers who specialize in specific styles – they help ensure the finishes and decor in the renovation align with the home’s character. Ultimately, when you walk into a renovated home of ours, it should feel harmonious. The soul of the house is still there, just enhanced with 21st-century comfort and luxury. We love hearing someone say, “Wow, it feels like this is how the house was always meant to be.” That’s when we know we got it right.

Q: How do you keep up with trends like smart home technology, sustainability, or wellness features and incorporate them into projects?
Winston: We’re pretty passionate about staying ahead of the curve. I attend design fairs, follow architectural journals, and frankly, a lot of our clients themselves are very trend-savvy and introduce ideas to us. Smart home tech is huge – things like integrated lighting and climate control, security systems, voice-activated features. We often partner with home automation specialists. So as we plan a project, we’ll coordinate, say, installing all the wiring and sensors for a fully smart home infrastructure. This includes everything from pre-wiring for motorized blinds and surround sound speakers to setting up a central control system that can be managed via smartphone or tablet. We aim to offer the latest tech that’s stable and user-friendly – no gimmicks that will be obsolete in a year.

Daniel: On the sustainability front, this is something I personally care about. In new luxury builds it’s more straightforward, but in renovations we try to incorporate green improvements where possible: high-efficiency HVAC units, LED lighting, dual-pane low-E windows, advanced insulation if walls are opened up, even things like tankless water heaters or solar panels if the project scope allows. We recently did a renovation where we added a greywater recycling system for landscape irrigation – the client was very eco-conscious and that feature is actually becoming more popular in drought-prone California. We also source sustainable or local materials when we can, and make sure to recycle demolition debris appropriately. It’s not just good for the environment; many of these upgrades also save the homeowner on utilities and increase property value.

Winston: Wellness is an emerging trend we’re excited about. Home gyms have become almost standard in high-end renos now. We’ve also done dedicated wellness rooms – like a yoga/meditation space with circadian lighting and air purifiers. We’re getting requests for things I’d call holistic luxury: infrared saunas, steam rooms, even “cold plunge” pools as part of a spa bathroom. One project we’re planning includes a zen garden atrium shower – basically an outdoor-feel shower in the center of the home with plants and a skylight. How do we keep up? We listen, we learn, and we test things. We won’t incorporate a trend just for trend’s sake; it has to make sense for the client and be something that will enhance their daily life. When it does, we figure out how to integrate it seamlessly. It’s a fun part of our job – constantly exploring new innovations and ideas, so our clients get the benefit of the latest and greatest in their homes.

Q: How would you describe the current luxury remodeling market in Los Angeles? What are clients looking for today?
Daniel: The luxury remodeling market in LA is very robust right now. Clients are investing heavily in upgrading rather than moving, partly because real estate prices are high – if you already own a home in a great area, improving it can be more cost-effective than trying to buy new. We see homeowners in Beverly Hills, Brentwood, even Malibu opting to remodel older homes to today’s standards instead of tearing down and building new, which is a shift from, say, a decade ago when the teardown trend was bigger.

Winston: As for what clients want: it’s an interesting mix of comfort, entertainment, and future-proofing. Post-2020, people definitely place more value on their homes as live-work-play spaces. So demand for home offices, as well as multipurpose spaces, is up. People want to be able to entertain at home in style – hence the big focus on gourmet kitchens, home theaters, amazing outdoor living setups. Wellness at home, as we mentioned, is big – gyms, spa bathrooms, even massage rooms or meditation gardens. Another trend: personalization. Luxury clients don’t want what everyone else has; they want something unique. So maybe it’s a custom whiskey bar lounge that reflects their favorite hotel bar, or a kids’ playroom that doubles as a learning pod with custom built-ins. We’re doing a project now for a couple who loves art, and we’re creating gallery walls with museum-grade lighting throughout the house.

Daniel: On a nuts-and-bolts level, clients also look for quality and professionalism. They want a contractor who is communicative and organized. We often hear that clients choose us because we act more like a boutique firm – giving a lot of personal attention – rather than a big corporate operation. Los Angeles is competitive; there are plenty of contractors. So we work hard to stand out by delivering not just a great end product, but a great process along the way. I will say, Los Angeles clients are savvy – they often have done renovations before or are knowledgeable about design. So our interactions are collaborative. They keep us on our toes, which we enjoy, because it means together we’re pushing the envelope of what can be done.

Winston: Also worth noting, areas like the Wilshire Corridor and Westwood are seeing more remodeling because people are downsizing from big houses to condos or smaller homes but they still want that luxury feel. So the market isn’t just mega-mansions; it’s high-end design in smaller footprints too. All in all, the market’s thriving, and I’d say clients today are looking for that combination of style, convenience, and reliability. They want their homes to look amazing and function flawlessly, and they want a team they can trust to get them there. That’s the niche we aim to fill.

Q: Where do you see Aluna Construction five years from now? What is your vision for the company’s future?
Winston: In five years, we envision Aluna growing beyond just renovations into a broader luxury real estate development role. Daniel and I have always been dreamers, and one of our dreams is to actually develop boutique luxury properties around Los Angeles. So, picture Aluna not only renovating high-end homes but also building them from the ground up – perhaps a set of ultra high-end townhomes or a bespoke condominium building on the Wilshire Corridor, or even spec homes in Beverly Hills or Brentwood that carry the Aluna signature of quality. We want to take the design-build approach we’ve honed and apply it to development projects where we have creative control from start to finish.

Daniel: That said, we’d never abandon our renovation roots – that’s our bread and butter and what we’re passionate about. But expanding into development would be a natural progression. We already understand what luxury buyers want; why not create the entire product? In five years, I see us with a portfolio of a few completed development projects – maybe a handful of modern, sustainable mini-estates or a small apartment building where every unit is crafted like a custom home. We’re also interested in potentially expanding our reach to other affluent pockets beyond LA – perhaps doing a project in Orange County or Santa Barbara. But Los Angeles will remain our base and inspiration.

Winston: Another aspect of our five-year vision is growing our team and perhaps our services. We’ve talked about bringing architecture and interior design fully in-house so Aluna can be a one-stop shop from concept to interiors. We already work with amazing architects and designers, but having our own would streamline things even more. It would allow us to take on more ambitious projects efficiently.

Daniel: On a personal level, in five years I hope we’re still loving what we do – and I believe we will be. We often say we’re not just building homes, we’re building a legacy and relationships. So far most of our growth has been organic, through word of mouth. Five years from now, I’d love for Aluna to be a household name in LA – like, when someone thinks of luxury renovations Los Angeles or high-end home development, they immediately think of us. It’s a high bar, but we’re not shy about aiming high.

Winston: Ultimately, our vision is about shaping the future of LA’s luxury homes in our own way. The city is evolving, styles are evolving, and we want to be among those leading the charge – whether through spectacular renovation projects or new builds that set trends. We’re excited about the future, and every project we tackle gets us one step closer to that five-year plan of doing even bigger and bolder things.

Q: What advice would you give homeowners planning a luxury renovation in Los Angeles?
Daniel: My first piece of advice is do your homework on your contractor – make sure they’re licensed, insured, and have experience with luxury projects. The contractor sets the tone for the whole experience. A good one will make it smooth and enjoyable; a bad one can turn your dream into a nightmare. So, check references, see their past work, ensure they understand the level of detail you expect.

Winston: I’d add: be clear about your goals and budget from the start, and communicate them openly. The best projects happen when homeowners and the contractor are on the same page. If you have a particular must-have, let that be known early. Also build in a contingency in your budget – with older homes especially, surprises can happen behind walls. Having, say, 10-20% set aside for unforeseen issues or upgrades you decide on later is wise.

Daniel: Another tip: prioritize what matters to you. Luxury renovations can be complex with lots of decisions – if you know you care most about the kitchen and master suite, focus your energy (and budget) there. We often guide clients on where splurging will have the most impact. For example, high-quality cabinets and appliances in the kitchen or really good windows and insulation can make a huge difference day-to-day.

Winston: Lastly, trust the process and try to enjoy it. Renovation is disruptive, yes, but it’s also amazing to watch your home transform. We love it when clients take an active interest – visiting the site (safely) with us, getting excited as each tile goes up. Pick a team you feel comfortable with, because you’ll be working closely for months. And remember why you’re renovating – to create a better home for yourself. Keeping that end vision in mind helps when you’re, say, living through a few months of construction or making hundreds of decisions. With the right partner, it can actually be a lot of fun. We strive to make it so, because a positive journey leads to the best outcome.

The Vlessing cousins’ insights underline how Aluna Construction operates with a blend of professional rigor and personal passion. Their approach to challenges and trends shows a deep understanding of Los Angeles’ luxury market – and a commitment to pushing its boundaries in the years ahead.

Future Trends in Luxury Home Design

Peering into the crystal ball of luxury home design, it’s clear that the next few years will bring profound evolutions to how we renovate and live in our spaces. Daniel and Winston Vlessing are not only attuned to these trends – they are keen on integrating them into Aluna’s projects to ensure homes are both current and future-proof.

Five-Year Vision: From Renovations to Pioneering Luxury Developments

As Daniel and Winston shared in their interview, the horizon for Aluna Construction is broadening. In the next five years, the Vlessing cousins envision evolving from top-tier renovators into luxury real estate developers. This expansion is a natural extension of their talents and insights gained from years of transforming existing homes. By stepping into development, they aspire to apply their high standards and creative ideas to projects where they can shape the outcome from the ground up, quite literally. Here’s a closer look at what this five-year vision entails and how it could reshape the Los Angeles luxury landscape:

Boutique Residential Buildings: Picture an elegant mid-rise on a prime corner of Beverly Hills or along a fashionable stretch of West Hollywood – a building developed by Aluna Construction that houses a limited number of exclusive residences. In their plans, Daniel and Winston are drawn to the idea of boutique condo projects: structures perhaps 5 to 7 stories tall with, say, 10 to 20 units, each unit carefully designed like a custom home. Unlike massive condominium towers, these boutique projects can offer a more intimate, private living experience. The Vlessings would leverage their renovation know-how to design units with smart layouts and lavish details normally found only in standalone homes – think private elevator access, flow-through floor plans, oversized terraces or rooftop gardens, and completely bespoke interiors for each buyer. These developments might include amenities tailored to the luxury market (a wellness center, concierge, artful common spaces), but on a smaller, highly curated scale. By controlling development, Aluna could set a new bar for quality: using the best materials and construction practices from day one, rather than upgrading what’s already built. For Los Angeles, this approach offers something between a single-family home and a high-rise: a blend of privacy, luxury, and ease that many affluent downsizers or jet-setters crave.

Multi-Unit Luxury Projects: Beyond condos, Aluna’s vision likely encompasses luxury townhome enclaves or small lot subdivisions in upscale pockets of the city. Imagine a gated community of eight ultra-modern townhouses in Brentwood, each with its own rooftop deck and plunge pool, designed and built entirely by the Aluna team. Such projects can fill a niche for those who want a new home with state-of-the-art features but perhaps less maintenance than a traditional estate. Daniel’s construction expertise would ensure these multi-unit projects are executed to perfection, while Winston’s design acumen would give them an aesthetic coherence and sophistication that stands out in the marketplace. They could experiment with architectural styles and cutting-edge features, creating a signature Aluna aesthetic. Over five years, completing a handful of these multi-unit developments would establish Aluna Construction not just as a service provider, but as a brand of luxury living. It’s akin to how some interior designers launch furniture lines – the Vlessings would be putting their stamp on entire residences.

Ground-Up Custom Homes: Perhaps the most exciting (and challenging) area of expansion is ground-up luxury homes. Up until now, Aluna has primarily worked on improving existing structures, but building a custom home from scratch is the ultimate test of a builder’s vision. In five years, Daniel and Winston aim to be creating bespoke estates that rival any in Los Angeles – homes where they can incorporate all the innovative ideas and quality controls they champion. This might take the form of spec homes (built with no specific buyer, then sold on completion) or commissions for specific clients who want a dream home created end-to-end. Given their track record, an Aluna-built home would likely emphasize the features they know high-end buyers want: striking architecture fused with practical luxury (lots of glass and open spaces but also functional family areas), sustainable construction (possibly exploring LEED certification or even net-zero energy homes), and exquisite detailing throughout.

Imagine, for instance, Aluna developing a hillside property in Bel Air. Instead of another megamansion cliché, they might opt for a thoughtful modern design that terraces with the landscape, featuring a subterranean garage and wellness level, a main floor with seamless indoor-outdoor living, and an upstairs of tranquil bedroom suites – all capped by a green roof garden. The home could showcase future-forward elements like solar glass windows, a rainwater harvester, and a home AI system that runs everything. It would also, no doubt, include the artisanal touches they love: handcrafted entry doors, a show kitchen plus a catering kitchen tucked away, perhaps a statement floating staircase that becomes an architectural art piece. By building it as developers, they ensure every aspect, from foundation to finishes, meets their exacting standards with no compromises inherited from prior work. And importantly, they get to craft an overall experience, not just parts of it.

The move to development also means expanding the team and partnerships. The Vlessings will likely bring on or collaborate with top architects, land-use consultants, and financial partners to realize these ambitious projects. It’s a different world navigating land acquisition, zoning approvals, and market timing, but Daniel and Winston’s deep dive into renovation might actually give them an edge – they’ve seen first-hand what works in a home and what doesn’t, what buyers covet, and what pitfalls to avoid. Their developments could benefit from this hard-earned wisdom.

Impact on LA’s Luxury Real Estate: If Aluna’s five-year vision comes to fruition, Los Angeles can expect a handful of distinctive, high-quality new properties carrying the Aluna hallmark. These projects would contribute to the ever-evolving tapestry of LA luxury real estate. Competition is stiff – they’d be up against established luxury developers – but Aluna’s boutique philosophy could carve out a special reputation. Perhaps an Aluna condo becomes known as “the address” for discerning buyers who value design and privacy, or an Aluna-built estate fetches a record price because word has spread about the firm’s obsessive build quality and style. This trajectory mirrors how some small, high-end European car makers entered the scene dominated by giants: by focusing on craftsmanship and uniqueness.

For current and past clients of Aluna’s renovations, this development path might also be appealing. Someone who trusted Aluna to remodel their condo might consider moving into an Aluna-built townhouse later for an upgrade, confident in the brand’s promise. In essence, Aluna could start building an ecosystem of offerings – renovate your current home now, perhaps move into one of their new creations later. It’s a virtuous cycle for business and a creative one for Daniel and Winston personally.

In setting these sights, the Vlessings acknowledge it’s an expansion, not a pivot. They will continue to nurture the renovations side of the company, as that’s their foundation and also a vital pipeline for understanding client desires. But by 2030, they foresee Aluna Construction being both a top choice for luxury renovations and a name that appears on the developer line for some of LA’s most buzzworthy new luxury addresses. The dual role could even allow them to offer something unique: imagine buying an Aluna-developed condo and then having Aluna’s team customize it to your taste post-purchase – a seamless experience from base build to personalized finish.

Their five-year vision is bold, but it aligns with the entrepreneurial spark that started Aluna in the first place. The Los Angeles luxury market rewards innovation and reputation. With each successful renovation, Daniel and Winston have been quietly cementing their reputation. The coming years may well see them leveraging that into larger projects that further solidify their status as visionary leaders in the realm of Los Angeles luxury building and design.

Conclusion

From humble beginnings as two handy cousins with a dream, Daniel and Winston Vlessing have built Aluna Construction into a powerhouse shaping the future of Los Angeles luxury renovations. Their story – equal parts family legacy, hard-earned expertise, and forward-looking vision – reflects a new generation of builders who blend craft with innovation. In a city renowned for cutting-edge design and high expectations, the Vlessings have positioned Aluna as a trusted partner for those who refuse to settle for “good enough” in their homes. Whether it’s modernizing a Wilshire Corridor condo with smart-tech elegance, transforming a Brentwood property into an indoor-outdoor oasis, or meticulously restoring a Beverly Hills estate to newfound glory, Aluna’s work is defined by quality, integrity, and that unmistakable personal touch.

As we’ve journeyed through their services and insights, one thing is clear: Daniel and Winston lead not just with hammers and blueprints, but with heart and vision. They see homes as more than structures; they are the stage for life’s most cherished moments. That philosophy is evident in every nail driven and every design decision made under the Aluna banner. It’s no wonder their clients speak of smooth processes, impeccable results, and often become repeat customers or even friends.

If you’re considering a luxury renovation in Los Angeles – be it a chic kitchen overhaul, a full-home reimagining, or anything in between – Aluna Construction offers a proven track record and a passionate team ready to bring your dream to life. You’ll get the benefit of Daniel’s precision and Winston’s creative flair, all underpinned by a commitment to transparency and excellence. In a market where your choice of contractor can mean the difference between a stress-free transformation and a costly ordeal, Aluna stands out as a company that delivers on its promises.

Ready to elevate your home to its fullest potential? Get in touch with Aluna Construction to schedule a consultation. Daniel and Winston Vlessing are eager to hear your vision and show you how they can make it reality – with the care, craftsmanship, and cutting-edge know-how that have become their calling card. Join the many satisfied homeowners across Beverly Hills, Brentwood, Westwood, and the Wilshire Corridor who have entrusted their properties to Aluna and now enjoy the ultimate in luxury living. With Aluna Construction by your side, your dream home is closer than ever to being realized.

Experience the difference of a renovation partner who shares your high standards and aspirations. Contact Aluna Construction today, and take the first step toward transforming your space into a true work of art – and a place you’re proud to call home.