Written by Don Logay
Whether it’s morning coffee, an afternoon barbeque or a glass of wine at sunset, enjoying it outdoors – on a beautiful deck – makes it even more relaxing and enjoyable. Add beautiful weather and a locale known for entertaining, upscale homeowners and a perpetual “quest for the best” and you’ve captured the essence of Southern California’s world-famous outdoor lifestyle.
The Sixty-Mile Zone
Being a contractor that answers the demand for ultimate artistry in outdoor living in this environment is no easy task. Especially if headquartered in West Hollywood, the epicenter of the sixty miles of homes that range from the absolutely spectacular in Thousand Oaks and Malibu to the North and Laguna Beach to the South, to the upscale homes of Pasadena just outside the city of Los Angeles.
While home values may be diverse, the demand for optimum craftsmanship in the design and construction of a beautiful deck is not. At every level, Southern California homeowners are consistent in their high expectations for the very best in luxury lifestyles and enjoyment of the great outdoors – and one such contractor has built a reputation for meeting the challenge.
Michael Maor Gabso with his wife, Melissa Gabso.
Passion Versus Agenda
MG Construction and Decks is a family-owned and operated design and build firm specializing in outdoor design and construction. Over the last decade, general contractor Michael Maor Gabso and his close-knit team have been designing and creating lavish exteriors and upscale interiors for Southern California’s most discerning customers.
Michael and his wife Melissa head a team of 26 skilled full-time employees – each with specific areas of builder expertise and over 250-years of combined experience – that take projects from concept to completion without the use of sub-contractors. Six project managers also oversee interior renovation work while Michael focuses on the design and the build aspects of outdoor projects for upscale homes.
“I’m not a sales guy,” states Michael, “I’m a contractor and designer… and customers sense that right away.” Unlike many others, he makes it a point to not have a contract on hand for the first few visits. Rather than pushing to close the sale, he instead walks the property and talks with the homeowners over three or four meetings to better understand their individual lifestyle, anticipated budget and overall expectations.
Timbertech Azek Composite Deck.
Blending Craftsmanship and Technology
With Michael’s three generations of construction background as a basis, and incorporating the latest cutting-edge design software, a project begins to take shape.
Numerous decisions are factored into the design. Will the project utilize today’s hi-tech composite decking or a premium species of natural wood? Different locations have different considerations. A host of additional design elements, options and creature comforts are also suggested and considered – such as an outdoor kitchen, a whirlpool spa, comfortable built-in seating, lighting and/or a fire pit, to name but a few.
Soon, all components are decided and come together in a beautiful computer-generated 3D walk-thru rendering that brings the project to life. Another benefit is having both the designer and builder in one. The result is a “realistic” project that can actually be built – without costly changes or revisions – and, importantly, within one’s agreed upon budget.
At this point, the MG in-house team, headed by Chief Operating Officer, Melissa, goes to work utilizing computerized project management and cost-saving budgeting expertise.
“We pride ourselves in telling customers exactly what their project will cost upfront,” she notes, “and we are passionate about being honest and keeping our customers happy… from start to finish.”
This unique blend of craftsmanship and honesty – with experienced management and in-house contracting-experts at every level – is what ultimately makes the sale. And it is why MG Construction and Decks is one of the most sought-after companies for luxury outdoor living and beautiful interior remodeling in Southern California.
Backyard beautification for House of Shoor.
Cost Versus Value
Historically, decks are one of the most popular home improvement projects nationwide for a variety of reasons.
They are a low cost-per-square foot open-air room addition that is completed faster than traditional remodeling and easily enhances one’s lifestyle with quick and attractive designs for outdoor living, dining and entertaining. A deck opens one’s home to the great outdoors and offers instant gratification.
Decks also add value and a high rate of return at time of resale. While decks are thought of as a “you can build one anywhere” type of home improvement, they gain substantially more in value as homes are located in warmer climates.
“Here in Southern California,” Michael notes, “decks are considered a must. Value-wise… depending on the geographic location and scope of a project… a homeowner can realize anywhere from a 90 to 120-percent cost return at time of resale.”
Five Star Service
MG Construction and Decks consistently garners rave reviews from satisfied customers for its highly-personalized, beautifully-designed creations for luxurious outdoor living.
“MG just completed our new deck and we love it,” states one recent customer. “We knew right away that we wanted to work with Michael because of the way he presented himself. He advised us on proper material selection and achieved all the luxury we wanted while staying on budget.”
“All throughout the project, there was always great communication with Michael’s office and project manager,” they add, “and the best part… everyone who steps onto our property is totally amazed at the way it improves our home. It is simply gorgeous.”
Customer referrals are a hallmark of MG Construction and Decks, and a host of constantly updated photos and project videos posted on social media (such as Instagram) keep the phones ringing at the busy MG offices on Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood.
“We turn dreams and ideas into reality,” Michael adds, “to design and build your perfect personal outdoor oasis.”
Call it “decks appeal.” The irresistible beauty, glamour and value of a spectacular open-air room addition.
Today and for more than a decade, countless homeowners throughout Southern California are enjoying their morning coffee, entertaining their family and friends and sipping a glass of wine at sunset… on a beautiful new deck… thanks to this close-knit family of 36 builders, managers and the talents of Michael Maor Gabso… and their collective creativity, passion and dedication to the art of luxurious outdoor living.
To learn more about MG Construction & Decks, visit www.mgcdecks.com or email them at [email protected]. Follow MG Construction & Decks on Instagram: @mgcdecks.
