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Revitalize Your Home with the Essence of Spring: A Guide to Spring Colors and Decor

by with No Comment FAQs and Painting Basics

Spring is a time of new growth, renewal and rejuvenation, and what better way to embrace this seasonal shift than by infusing your home with the vibrant, uplifting essence of spring colors? At the heart of spring decorating is spring like, vibrant colors that breathe life into any space. These colors make it feel more inviting and energized. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the myriad ways to incorporate the freshness of spring into your home, transforming it into a sanctuary of warmth and joy.

The Palette of Renewal: Understanding Spring Colors

Spring is synonymous with renewal, and its colors reflect this beautifully. Envision the brightness of a tangerine, the cheerfulness of sunshine, the playful spirit of pink, the freshness of grass, and the calmness of blue. Well-chosen colors will not feel like pastels, but chic, full spectrum and vibrant. For those seeking a softer ambiance, consider the diluting these colors until they are just a touch of the shade of the color. They offer the same spring-like vibe but will be more timeless and classic and add a layer of sophistication to the overall aesthetic.

Elegance in Softness: Pastel Sophistication
Soft, pastel hues are quintessential to the spring palette, offering a sophisticated take on seasonal decor. If you have a room that you like to change up now and again, now is the time! Throw out yesterday’s red and imagine your living room with the tranquility of of a blue accent or the vibrancy of pink or purple accent walls, all tied together by a floral upholstered chair that serves as a visual anchor.

Making a Statement with Spring Colors
In spaces like the kitchen, which often feature neutral palettes, the introduction of a single spring color like yellow can dramatically transform the atmosphere. Or a splash of aquamarine on bar stools with a wooden island counter top or a stand mixer introduces a fresh, almost tropical vibe. This concept can be applied across various rooms, utilizing spring colors to add personality and flair.

The Harmony of Neutrals and Brights
Spring decorating doesn’t mean shying away from white or neutrals. In fact, white walls can set the stage for bold furniture can, window treatments and art to shine. By starting with a subdued palette, you can afford to be bold in your accents, from brightly patterned bedding to colorful wall art. This balance ensures your space feels grounded yet alive with the spirit of spring.

DIY Spring Touches

Incorporating spring colors needn’t be a major commitment. Simple projects, like painting the inside of a bookcase, or changing your trim color. Even painting the ceiling of your bedroom, a bright sky blue can add a burst of brightness without overwhelming. This approach is especially suitable for renters or those on a budget, proving that a touch of spring can be both impactful and easy to achieve.

Nature’s Influence: The Lure of Green
Nothing says spring like the sight of greening grass, and incorporating this shade into your decor can mimic that feeling of renewal. From grass-green velvet furniture to floral accents in crisp white settings, the freshness of green can transform any room into a springtime haven.

Striking the Right Balance
Achieving harmony in your spring decor involves balancing light and dark colors. By pairing navy furniture with lighter fabrics and warm color accents, you can create a space that feels balanced, inviting, and vibrantly alive with spring energy.

The Subtle Touch
Introducing color doesn’t have to mean bold statements. A tone-on-tone wallpaper or subtle pattern can add depth and interest without overwhelming, proving that sometimes, less is indeed more.

A Nod to Rustic and Retro and the Power of Patterns

Even in spaces filled with antiques and rich textures, spring colors can find their home. By integrating faded rugs or pillows in pastel hues, you can create a cohesive look that bridges the gap between the old and the new.

Starting your color makeover with a beloved fabric pattern is a foolproof way to introduce spring into your decor. This approach allows for a cohesive color scheme that can be carried throughout the room, from walls to accessories, creating a harmonious and visually appealing space.

Incorporating spring colors into your home decor can be a way to brighten dark spaces, change up old heavy colors or provide a backdrop for new furniture and fixtures. By embracing the principles outlined in this guide, you can transform your living spaces into vibrant reflections of spring’s rejuvenating energy. Let the season inspire you to refresh, renew, and revitalize your home with the beauty of spring colors.

Schedule A Consultation 510-567-9559


Oakland Painters
Arana Craftsman Painters
819 San Leandro Blvd
San Leandro, CA 94577
510-567-9559

Alameda bathroom painting by Arana Craftsman Painters

Transform Your Space with Paint and Color: The Ultimate Guide to Reshaping Your Home

by with No Comment FAQs and Painting Basics

Welcome to the world of paint and how it can be used to transform your home or just one room in the house! Painting is not just about color; it’s a journey of creativity, where each brushstroke can alter perceptions and redefine spaces. Whether you’re yearning for a room that embraces you warmly or a space that breathes airy vastness, our guide is your canvas to reimagine your home. Let’s dive into the transformative power of paint, where possibilities are endless and every can opens a new dimension.

Create the Illusion of Space
Ever looked around your cozy corner and wished for a touch of grandeur? The secret lies in the simplicity of color. If you have a special corner that can be isolated, use a pop of color to highlight it. Put in a window seat and add a splash of color with pillows. To make a space feel larger a soft white or a delicate pastel can do wonders, especially walls, trim, and ceiling are painted in the same color. The continuity of color blurs boundaries, making the room seem boundless and especially when you have nice large windows you can invite them in. Complement this airy ambiance with light-toned rugs, transforming your snug nook into a serene expanse.

Elevate Your Ceiling
Yearning for a room that stretches endlessly towards the skies? A clever play of contrasts can give your space the lift it desires. Pair a pristine white for the ceiling with a deep, embracing hue for the walls. This contrast draws the eye upward, creating a sense of elevation. The darker tones encourage the walls to visually recede, lending a lofty air to even the most compact of rooms.

Cozy Up with Color
Large, echoing spaces can feel impersonal, but paint can sculpt a snug retreat. Create an intimate ambiance by painting your ceiling and a shorter wall in crisp white, enveloping the remaining space in darker tones. This technique pulls the room closer, crafting a cocoon of comfort and warmth. It’s like a visual hug, turning expansive areas into cozy sanctuaries.

Spotlight with Shades
Highlighting a wall is an artful reversal of the focal wall concept. Choose a lighter color for one wall and paint the remaining walls a in richer, darker shade. This solitary light wall becomes a canvas, accentuating art pieces or furniture, and directing attention precisely where you desire. It’s a masterful way to spotlight the stars of your space, ensuring they capture the gaze and admiration they deserve.

Diminish to Intensify
Large, bright spaces offer a canvas for creativity but sometimes, a more intimate atmosphere is desired. Painting walls and ceilings in deep, uniform colors creates a cozy, cave-like effect ideal for bedrooms or libraries. This method filters out excess light and focuses energy within the room, crafting a secluded oasis perfect for relaxation and contemplation.

Elongate with Ease
By painting one wall and the ceiling in a dark hue and keeping the others light, you create a visual pathway that draws the eye along the room’s length. This technique expands the space, making it appear longer and more inviting.

Broaden Your Horizons
Widen by splitting it horizontally. Paint the lower half and the ceiling in light shades and the upper half in a darker tone. This layering effect visually stretches the room, making it appear wider and more open.

Lowering the Sky
Tall rooms can feel unbalanced, but darkening the ceiling brings a sense of harmony. This technique lowers the perceived ceiling height, making the room feel cozier and more proportioned. It’s a subtle trick that adds a professional touch to your space, enhancing its overall ambiance.

Condense with Contrast
Long rooms can seem endless, but painting one of the short walls in a dark color visually shortens the space. This creates a more balanced room, focusing attention and making the space feel more inviting.

Incorporating these painting strategies into your home can dramatically alter the perception of your space. Paint is more than a medium; it’s a transformative tool that molds your environment to reflect your unique style and preferences. Whether seeking solace in a cozy nook or the freedom of an expansive retreat, the right colors can unlock the potential of your space, making it truly your own.

Oakland Painters
Arana Craftsman Painters
819 San Leandro Blvd
San Leandro, CA 94577
510-567-9559

Alameda bathroom painting

Top Oakland House Painting Tips for DIY’ers

by with No Comment FAQs and Painting Basics

Many people attempt to paint their own homes. In fact, most people in Oakland, like the rest of the US, paint their own homes. While it is a labor-intensive and time-consuming process, not knowing what you are doing can mean that you see underwhelming results at best.

While hiring a professional is always a good idea, you can improve the outcome by following these pro tips. Remember that tips can’t help compensate for good painting techniques or experience, but they can help you yield better results.

Prepare Your Oakland House For Painting

Preparation for house painting begins with evaluating your home’s exterior condition and planning what materials you will need. Remove all loose paint, sand any rough spots, it is not necessary to strip the surface of all previous coatings. Apply a coat of primer and fill any open holes in the wood or cracks in the stucco.

For interior painting, prepare each room by removing any soft furnishings. This includes window treatments and rugs. You can roll these up or cover them with plastic to protect from paint damage.

You will also want to cover and protect all upholstered furniture, drapes, and carpets. This will give you adequate room to work and minimize the risk of damage. It is also a good idea to cover furniture that can’t be moved. Clean dropcloths and painters plastic work well.

Clean Dirty Surfaces Before Painting

Dirty surfaces in the Kitchen for example may prevent the paint from forming a bond. Oil, dirt, and stains will make it hard for paint to bond with the wall, and after a few weeks, you’ll notice the paint peeling. So, use a de-glosser like TSP to clean up the grimy areas or a heavy-duty cleaner. You will also want to remove hand marks around the switches and doorknobs.

Use a cleaner in a circular motion, with a lint-free cloth or an abrasive pad. Best to start top down so that you can control the moisture. Make sure to mask and cover before you start. Once the surface is clean, you can spot prime and fill up all the holes and nicks, sand the surface smooth, and paint. Make sure always to wear quality rubber gloves and goggles.

Generous Use of Painter’s Tape

The right type of painter’s tape is essential for successfully completing your painting project. Using the wrong kind of tape could cause damage to your floor or furniture surfaces, leave squiggly lines (professionals do not use tape to create a straight line), and glue residue on the walls.

You can also find special-purpose tape for certain coatings, such as stucco. Green or blue color tape works best for straight lines and walls, while red is better for textured surfaces.

The tape you decide to use on the outside of your home should have a solid water-based adhesive and be UV-resistant. Do not leave tape on a surface for very long. It will start to flake and be difficult to remove.

Choosing The Right Sheen

For interior you have a choice of five basic sheen levels for your paint job: flat, matte, eggshell, satin or semigloss. Flat, Matte and eggshell are for walls. Semigloss is for wood trim.

All sheens have their benefits. Eggshell has a low shine and is more durable than a flat finish. Flat and matte also hides minor flaws in walls and ceilings. Flat can be touched up. Matte, Eggshell, Satin and Semigloss cannot be. A satin finish is perhaps the best choice for a busy family home with lots of hands because it is easiest to clean and it is not as shiny as Semigloss.

Flat paint looks great in areas with a lot less use. Matte is a bit easier to clean but is as not recommended for a high traffic area or a busy home with lots of children and pets.

Preventing Color Variation

One of the tell sale signs of a DIY paint job is how the color varies from one wall to another. Though many people who undertake painting their Oakland home may not realize this at first, it soon becomes apparent after the paint has dried. Fortunately, there is a way to address this issue.

If you have an open can when painting halfway through the wall, the difference can be noticed. You can eliminate this by mixing or “boxing” all the paint you have together. Avoid running out of once can of paint and buying a whole new can. Try to buy from the same store. Estimate how much paint you’ll need for the room or a wall, and then mix it in a 5-gallon bucket.

Here are a few more things to keep in mind:

If you can’t accurately or near accurately estimate coverage, it’s better to add more than less paint if this is your first time painting interior walls. You can then pour whatever you have left back into the can.

If your room is large, use a large bucket and have a roller screen ready instead of a roller tray. It’s faster to load with a screen than using a pan.

Dunk the roller into your paint bucket and roll it on your screen until you see it has stopped dripping.

Wait For The Paint To Dry Before Cutting It Loose

The most common problem we see with DIY Oakland house painting is imperfect lines because DIYers use tape and do not “cut lines” like professionals do. Fortunately, this is easily remedied by not just pulling the paint from the wall near the trim. If you do that, you can cause the paint to peel paint off the trim. So, start by using a razor blade and making a light cut where the wall meets the trim before pulling the tape off.

You will want to wait for at least 24 hours so that the paint is completely dry. Start from an area that nobody will notice and then lightly cut it clean. You then pull off the tape at a 45-degree angle.

Start By Painting the Trim First, Then the Ceilings, and Finally The Walls

As pros, we follow an order, and this is something we learn when starting out. You will see similar results if you follow this order too. The first thing to do is paint the trim, ceiling, and walls. This approach is easier and faster because taping off the trims is faster than all the walls.

Then when you are painting the trims, you don’t have to be careful or neat. All you need is to focus on ensuring a smooth finish on the wall. If you get some paint on the walls, don’t worry, because that will be covered with a fresh coat of paint.

Once the paint is dry on the trim (usually 24 hours), you can tape it off and start painting the ceilings and the walls.

5 McSmith Kitchen For Web-3626

The 4P’s of Superior House Painting — San Francisco Bay Area

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next door, houzz and yelp

Painting is as much about the process a painter uses as the painter themselves! At Arana Craftsman Painters, we leave little to chance because we follow a tried-and-true set of steps. These crucial steps are our “secret sauce” so to speak and it has allowed us to consistently build a reputation of reliability, exceptional quality and professionalism over the last 20 years.

These are our “4P’s” of a successful project and the key to why people love working with Arana Craftsman Painters!

The steps to exceptional interior and exterior house painting include:

Planning

Pre-Job Walkthrough: Our Production Manager and Estimator will meet with you prior to the scheduled project start date to confirm the start date, scope, sequencing, and colors. Essentially, all expectations are reconfirmed to assure a smooth handoff between our Estimator and our Production Department. Proper communication is the key to exceptional quality and to you having a great painting experience. At this point, when we arrive at your project, our Crew Leader and Crew have a solid plan as to what processes will take place first, and in what areas.

Color Consultation: Arana Craftsman Painters works with top San Francisco Bay Area Color Consultants and on projects needing a consultation, the Consultation is included in our bid. Having colors chosen ahead of time will make your life so much easier. We’ll even put up swatches so you can see the colors in real life and make a final decision.

Staging: We set up a neat and organized area for our equipment, tools, and products, a home base, where we can safely and efficiently manage your project. yelp nextdoor houzz logo group PNG
Staffing: In addition to a dedicated Production Manager, every project has a dedicated Crew Leader who works closely with you, our Production Manager, and our office, to assure timely resolution to any challenges that arise, as well as quality control, and sequencing, assuring you have an amazing painting experience!

Protection

Pond Isle Before and During HDR-162530-1
Arana invests heavily in all the correct tools and materials and use quality plastic, drop cloths, paper, and tape to protect the surfaces of your home and environment that are not scheduled to be painted.

Preparation

Paint will not adhere properly without expert preparation of surfaces. Proper preparation is the cornerstone of exceptional quality.

Lead Safe Certified Firm

EPA Lead-Safe Firm
We sand, scrape, and prime as appropriate to ensure proper adhesion. We contain particulate and dust exposure per Environmental Protection Agency safety standards and Arana Craftsman Painters is an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Contractor. For the safety of everyone involved, painting contractors MUST be EPA Lead-Safe Certified!

After primer is applied, we patch, caulk and fill for aesthetic and in some cases sealing purposes or to prevent water incursion.

Painting!

Five Year Warranty
After protecting your home and environment (family, pets, surrounding surfaces, furnishings, valuables, all areas not scheduled for paint); scraping and sanding to remove old layers of paint to help ensure the integrity of your new paint at a standard that meets our 5 Year Warranty; thorough cleaning of the surfaces scheduled for work to remove any contaminants; priming, caulking, and patching; then, we paint!

This article is Part 1 of our 3-Part series on hiring a painting contractor, highlighting what makes Arana stand out among our competitors.

It is because of this detailed and thorough standard of care that Arana continues to be an award-winning top choice of discerning homeowners, interior designers, and general contractors. Contact us to learn more about our process and have an estimator visit your home!

Have a Painting Project You’d Like Us to Look at for You —
or Questions!?

Dina Bandman Decorator Showcase-3

How to Combine Textures and Colors for a Space You’ll Love!

by with No Comment FAQs and Painting Basics

Creating a unique home aesthetic that speaks to you and looks beautiful to the world isn’t just about throwing together a bunch of colors and textures and hoping for the best. Interior Design is an art form (and if you have the resources, we recommend working with an interior designer). Interior Design is part art form, part science (measuring, able to envision how a palette will come together), and good taste all rolled into one. Today, we are diving deep into the world of texture and color to give you some guidance on how to mixing textures and colors in a way that adds depth, interest, and personality to your space. So, grab your color wheels and fabric samples, and let’s get started on this exciting journey to transform your home into a masterpiece of design.

Color and Color Theory
The first place to start is with color and color theory. Color theory is not just for fine artists, it is a crucial tool in your toolkit. The right color combinations can evoke mood, drama and comfort (or discomfort if you choose the wrong thing!). Color can create the illusion of space, and tie disparate elements of your room together for a more cohesive look. If you understand how to layer, you can make a masterpiece of new and old furniture pieces and then paint the room a color that ties it all in.

Warm vs. Cool Tones
Warm tones, think reds, oranges, and yellows, are like the life of the party in your home, bringing energy and coziness. Cool tones, on the other hand, like blues, greens, and purples, are the zen masters, offering calm and serenity. Balancing these tones is key to a harmonious space. Figuring out what you gravitate more toward is key. Pinterest and design magazines are a good place to start.

The Color Wheel Is Your Friend
The color wheel isn’t just a pretty circle; it’s a roadmap to successful color combinations. Complementary colors (opposite each other on the wheel) offer vibrant contrasts, while analogous colors (next to each other) provide a more harmonious feel.

Texture: The Secret Ingredient
Texture is the secret ingredient that can elevate your home from “meh” to “wow.” It’s all about how things feel, adding depth and interest to what might otherwise be a flat and lifeless space. Texture comes in the form of pattern, material (wood, metal, stone). You can use limewash paints, faux, accent walls or accent pieces of furniture to provide visual texture.

Mix and Match with Purpose
Combine rough with smooth, matte with shiny, and hard with soft. Think a plush velvet sofa against a rough brick wall, or a sleek marble countertop paired with a textured wood cabinet. These contrasts create a sensory experience that brings your interior to life.

Layering Textures for Depth
Layering is not just for fashion; it’s a texture game-changer in interior design. Rugs on rugs, throws on sofas, and multiple pillow textures invite the eye to explore and the body to relax, adding coziness and depth to any room.

Strategic Color and Texture Combinations
Here’s where the magic happens. Combining colors and textures strategically can transform your space into a dynamic and inviting home.

Neutral Foundations with Colorful Accents
Start with a neutral palette for walls and large furniture pieces. Think whites, beiges, and greys. These shades provide a canvas for you to layer colors and textures through accents like pillows, artwork, and decorative items.

Bold Color, Subtle Textures; Subtle Color, Bold Textures
If you go bold with color, keep your textures subtle to avoid sensory overload. Conversely, if your color palette is understated, amp up the texture for visual interest. It’s all about balance although we have seen plenty of designers layer in ways we never thought possible!

Natural Materials for an Earthy Vibe
Incorporating natural materials like wood, stone, and metals can add both texture and color that resonate with an earthy, organic vibe. These elements bring a sense of the outdoors inside, creating a grounding and calming environment. They are excellent accents that ground a space and provide a transition for color and texture.

Personalizing Your Space
What colors bring your comfort and happiness? The ultimate goal in combining textures and colors is to create a space that reflects you and what makes you feel happy when you come home. Your home should tell your story, showcasing your personality, interests, and the things you love. And some people love minimalism and a non-consumptive lifestyle. Show that off too!

Artwork as a Color and Texture Catalyst
Use artwork to introduce new colors and textures or to tie together the elements in a room. A great wall color can bring out one color in a piece of artwork and make it pop. Art can be the inspiration for your entire space, guiding your choices in furniture, textiles, and decorative pieces. Check out local art dealer Slate Contemporary Gallery in Oakland https://slatecontemporary.com/ for a great source of local artists works.

Memories and Moments in Decor
Incorporate items that have personal meaning, like souvenirs from travels or family heirlooms. These pieces add unique textures and colors that are exclusive to your life and story. Frame theatre tickets from the days you lived in New York. Layout family pictures on both walls in a hallway to give it dimension and to memorialize your most treasured moments.

Experiment and Evolve
Your taste and style will evolve, and so should your space. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new color and texture combinations. The beauty of interior design is in its flexibility and the endless possibilities for personal expression.

Creating Harmony in Diversity
Combining textures and colors in your home interior is an exciting adventure in creativity and personal expression. By understanding the basics of color theory, appreciating the depth that texture brings, and strategically mixing these elements, you can create a space that is uniquely yours. Remember, the key to a stunning interior is not just in the bold moves but in the subtle touches that add depth and character to your home. Embrace the diversity of textures and the spectrum of colors to create a living space that is harmonious, inviting, and unmistakably you.

Oakland Painters
Arana Craftsman Painters
819 San Leandro Blvd
San Leandro, CA 94577
510-567-9559

Brown Sugar Kitchen-7

Leading Oakland Painters, Arana Craftsman Painters’ New Website Goes Live

by with No Comment FAQs and Painting Basics

Oakland, California – Arana Craftsman Painters, one of Oakland’s leading painting services, had been talking about their new website design for months, hinting at a slicker, more easy-to-use, mobile-friendly design. The company’s spokesperson was quoted as saying that “…as leading Oakland painters, we need to make a great first impression, especially with people who have not used our service before, and the latest design, currently under development is geared to do just that.”

After months of development, the new website design goes live with a brand-new interface, making it significantly easier for home and business owners to request a quote and browse through the company’s portfolio. Unlike the previous design, the new iteration is now mobile-friendly, allowing prospects to contact the company for more information or request a quote via their mobile device quickly. The newly redesigned website also features the latest testimonials and photographs of the company’s latest work, allowing prospects to quickly browse through to find what they like.

Readers can experience the new design and request a quote from one of the leading Oakland painters by vising Arana Craftsman Painters’ official website https://www.craftsmanpainters.com.

When talking about the thought process behind the new design, the spokesperson for the company said that “We wanted to bring our website into the mobile-friendly age, so to speak. Our old website was admittedly slow and didn’t perform as it should have on all screen sizes. It didn’t scale well and, in our opinion, left an awful impression on people who weren’t aware of the quality service we offered.”

She added, “The new design incorporates everything we want. It visually communicates our service’s quality and makes it very easy for anyone to request a quote. It might have taken a while to get the design right, but now that it is, we think it’s going to help prospective clients a lot, especially when it comes to finding out more about our company.”

About Arana Craftsman Painters

The company has provided excellent quality work to home and business owners in Oakland for a very long time. The company has a reputation for unsurpassed quality backed by a 5-year warranty, annual customer check-ins, and warranty repairs (if needed). The company prides itself on providing excellent customer service from initial contact to requesting subsequent warranty repairs.

kitchen painting in Oakland

Interior Painting by Arana Craftsman Painters

by with No Comment FAQs and Painting Basics

In the world of home design, where every detail matters, Arana Craftsman Painters stands out as a beacon of excellence when it comes to interior painting. Renowned for their unparalleled artistry and commitment to quality craftsmanship, Arana Craftsman Painters transforms houses into homes, one stroke at a time.

At the heart of Arana’s success is their dedication to understanding and capturing the unique essence of each client’s vision. The journey begins with a consultation where the skilled team takes the time to listen, ensuring that every nuance of the client’s style, preferences, and personality is considered. This personalized approach sets the stage for a painting experience that goes beyond mere color application—it’s an artistic collaboration.

One of the hallmarks of Arana’s interior painting services is their meticulous attention to detail. From surface preparation to the final brushstroke, each step is executed with precision and care. The team at Arana understands that a flawless finish is not just aesthetically pleasing but also a testament to their commitment to delivering lasting quality.

Color is a language, and Arana Craftsman Painters are fluent speakers. With an extensive palette of premium paints, they bring spaces to life, infusing them with warmth, depth, and character. Whether it’s a vibrant accent wall, a soothing neutral palette, or a bold statement ceiling, Arana’s experts have the expertise to make your vision a vivid reality.

Arana Craftsman Painters also takes pride in staying at the forefront of industry trends and techniques. They continually invest in their team’s training and embrace environmentally friendly practices, ensuring that their clients not only enjoy stunning interiors but also contribute to a sustainable future.

The testimonials from satisfied clients speak volumes about the transformative power of Arana’s interior painting services. Homeowners rave about the professionalism, reliability, and, above all, the artistry that elevates their living spaces to new heights. Each project is a testament to Arana’s commitment to turning houses into personalized, welcoming sanctuaries.

A Low Stress and Peace of Mind Interior Painting Experience
Experience a painting process that ensures low stress and peace of mind with Arana Craftsman Painters. We provide a seamless solution for homeowners looking to rejuvenate their living spaces and safeguard their homes through an unparalleled painting experience.

What we proudly offer:

  • A Five (5) Year Written Guarantee on all work
  • Prioritizing clear and effective communication
  • Thoroughness in every phase of your project
  • Utilization of top-quality, long-lasting products
  • Deep respect for your home, family, and neighbors
  • Craftsmanship that exceeds expectations and brings daily admiration
  • Elevate your space with Arana Craftsman Painters—where interior painting becomes an art form.

Best Painters in Oakland
819 San Leandro Blvd.
San Leandro, CA 94577
510-567-9559

Sue Fisher King Book Selection-1

Beautiful Books for Cozy Reading Nooks

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A Holiday Gift Guide
There is something about a book; a real book that you hold in your hands: the texture of the edges of the pages, the way the words and the spaces between the words comprise a visual pattern as well as communicating ideas. And when included, the beautiful images. Books intended to be appreciated for their beauty, often featuring travel, fashion, art, food…

And then there is the art of displaying books. Interior designers know this intimately. Rare is the room that does not host a stack of books, or a single book, possibly propped up against a sturdy object. Whether on a coffee table or a sofa table, or in a bookcase, or on a shelf, or tucked next to ceramic flour and sugar jars on the kitchen counter, the presence of beautiful books feeds the eyes, heart, and mind. We love to see them, pick them up and hold them, page through them, settle into a cozy chair and escape into them for a while.

So, with the holidays coming, we thought we would ask some of our favorite interior designer colleagues for their current favorite “coffee table” books, that they or you might enjoy actually reading in cozy nooks — and create a gift guide for you, dear readers, this holiday season. In the process, we also collected from them their favorite independent sources for this type of book. Plus, for this article, we are including a few images from their portfolios of beautiful spaces that are the perfect setups for settling in and enjoying books.

Book nook designed by LMB Interiors; built by McCutcheon Construction; painted by Arana

Laura Martin Bovard (lmbinteriors.com):

Sumo unedited
“For coffee table books, I adore shopping at Sue Fisher King. I’m not sure if she carries it, but I’m loving SUMO, by Annie Liebovitz.”

Recently released in an XXL edition, SUMO draws on 40 years of the photographer’s work, including photojournalism for Rolling Stone magazine in the 1970s and her trademark, simultaneously quirky and moving conceptual portraits of celebrities for Vanity Fair and Vogue.

Sue Fisher King: 3067 Sacramento St. San Francisco

French-inspired window-seat area in Atherton primary suite, designed by Robineve & Co. Interiors.

Katie Cole (robineveinteriors.com):

“Assouline is my go-to for coffee table books. Each one is special, particularly the oversized editions like this one about Coco Chanel, Chanel: The Impossible Collection, which we’re ordering for a client right now.”

Each book in Assouline’s “The Impossible Collection” series is hand-bound, hand-printed on art-quality paper, and comes in a linen clamshell presentation case. Chanel: The Impossible Collection, by Alexander Fury.

Shop online at: assouline.com

Cozy fireplace for reading beside; living room designed by Laura Eichel

Laura Eichel (lauraeichel.com):

“One of my favorite coffee table books is Ken Fulk’s The Movie in My Mind — available directly from the publisher, Assouline (assouline.com). Ken Fulk is a well-known interior designer based in San Francisco who creates incredible interiors for homes and hotels. He is notorious for his wit, effortless style, and sense of fun, and he brings this energy to every project. This book is a testament to his exquisite taste and prolific creativity.” Eichel’s favorite local spots for in-person browsing: The Gardener and Builders Booksource, both on 4th Street.

The Gardener: 1836 Fourth St, Berkeley

Builders Booksource: 1817 Fourth St, Berkeley

A perfect reading corner for cuddling up with a book; design by Mead Quin

Mead Quin (meadquin.com):

“World’s Finest Homes (from Beta-Plus Publishing) is a beautiful book full of architecture and interior design from all around the world. Each project, elegant, subtle, and inspiring, comes with a brief description and introduction to the responsible firm. The book itself is rather large, making it a fantastic addition to a large coffee table.”

For in-person book perusal and acquisition, Quin recommends: William Stout Architectural Books in Jackson Square, located at 804 Montgomery Street, San Francisco.

Featured image at top, photo credit: Laura Martin Bovard. Pictured: selection of books on shelf at Sue Fisher King

9 Arana Hillside Piedmont + LMB Interiors--6

What to Expect at Your Painting Estimate – San Francisco Bay Area

by with No Comment Blog

There’s a level of trust placed in any home service provider as they work in and around your home. Building this trust starts from the moment you contact Arana Craftsman Painters to come to your home or business and provide you with an Estimate.

This article helps you understand what to expect at an Arana Craftsman Painters Estimating Consultation.
This is Part 3 in our series sharing the Arana Craftsman Painters’ philosophy which we fondly call The Craftsman Way.

At Arana Craftsman Painters, we leave little to chance because we follow a tried-and-true set of steps. The philosophy behind the crucial process steps we take on every project is our “secret sauce” so to speak and it has allowed us to consistently build a reputation of reliability, exceptional quality and professionalism over the last 20 years.

next door, houzz and yelp

The steps to exceptional painting include:

  • A thorough and professional Estimating Consultation, more on that below!
  • The “3C’s” of Consistency, Clean Up, and Communication
  • Protecting your home and environment (family, pets, surrounding surfaces, furnishings, valuables, all areas not scheduled for paint)
  • Scraping/sanding to remove old layers of paint that will negatively impact the integrity of your new paint at a standard that meets our 5 Year Warranty
  • Thorough cleaning of the surfaces scheduled for work to remove any contaminants
  • Priming, Caulking and Patching
  • Exceptional Painting

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Overview
Please allow about an hour to an hour and a half for our appointment. Before our Estimator starts, they’ll give a brief overview as to what will happen while we are on the property and address any concerns you may have regarding our process, scheduling needs, budget, and special considerations.

Project Audit
An audit will be conducted to determine the present condition of your home, and we’ll take measurements and photos. We’ll will note surface conditions and use this information to create a ‘written recommendations’ document for you to review. We’ll can also provide alternatives and suggestions to achieve the outcome you are looking for.

Presentation of Recommendations
When you receive our proposal, it will thoroughly explain the scope of work required to achieve your desired outcome. We typically check in within a day of sending, and can answer any additional questions you may have.

Determine Next Steps
After reviewing our proposal and signing the contract, we will schedule a job walk with our production manager and put your project into the production calendar.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Have You Been In Business?
“Arana Craftsman Painters has been proudly serving the San Francisco Bay area for 20 years because not only do our past customers continue to come back but also refer us to their friends and neighbors.”

How Do You Hire and Evaluate Your Painters?
“We are very selective in hiring our painters and administer a criminal background check for every painter. Most of our painters, especially our crew leaders, have been with us for years. We trust them in the homes of our own friends and relatives.”

What Process Do You Use to Prepare Surfaces to Make Sure the Paints Adheres Properly?
Arana is an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Contractor. Following EPA Lead-Safe Certified procedures we completely remove all failed loose and flaking material from surfaces and substrates to a standard that will meet our 5 Year Warranty.

Lead Safe Certified Firm

EPA Lead-Safe Firm

Often, this is done by manually scraping followed by pressure washing. It’s standard for surfaces to be abraded, thoroughly sanded, profiled, and primed to guarantee adhesion. That’s why we take our time where it counts – especially in the preparation.

For the safety of everyone involved, are all the painting contractors you have bidding on your project EPA Lead-Safe Certified?

“YES! For more information on our process see: The 3C’s of a Superior House Painting Process – San Francisco”

What Type of Guarantee do You Offer?
“We offer a 5 year warranty on all projects, the strongest guarantee in the Bay Area! So, if you notice an issue – small or large – please call our office. We strive to create “customers for life” and do annual warranty check ins. The bottom line is that you can call us any time after your project has been completed!”

What Type of Paint Do You Recommend?
“We use only the premium lines with Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore because we have a strong relationship with both brands and they produce superior products. This means if there is ever a manufacturing defect, we know that these companies will stand behind our work – and your project. However, we do make exceptions when there are superior products in specific situations or if our customers have a strong product preference.”

Are you Licensed, Bonded & Insured?
“Absolutely! We make certain we protect our customers by carrying the appropriate insurance coverage for general liability and workers compensation. Additionally, we are licensed by all local authorities and continually seek out industry recognized certifications and designations to add to our customer’s peace of mind.”

Prep and Color Consult
Can You Provide References?
“Yes! References right in your neighborhood are included with all proposals! Feel free to ask for more!”

When Will I Receive My Proposal?
“We will send it no later than 5 business days after our meeting.”

When Do You Take Payment?”
We only take payment per a payment schedule upon work completed. The schedule is detailed in our Proposal/ Contract. We ask for a deposit of 10% or no greater than $1000 to hold your spot on our calendar.”

Have a Painting Project You’d Like Us to Look at For You
or Questions!?

606A1619 2-1

The 3C’s of a Superior House Painting Process – San Francisco Bay Area

by with No Comment Blog

These are our “3C’s” of a successful project process and the key to why people love working with Arana Craftsman Painters!

next door, houzz and yelp

At Arana Craftsman Painters, we leave little to chance because we follow a tried-and-true set of steps.

This is Part 2 in our series (Part 1 can be found here) and Part 3 is here) sharing the Arana Craftsman Painters’ philosophy which we fondly call The Craftsman Way. The philosophy behind the crucial process steps we take on every project is our “secret sauce” so to speak and it has allowed us to consistently build a reputation of reliability, exceptional quality and professionalism over the last 17 years.

The steps to exceptional painting include:

  • The “3C’s”, more on that below!!
  • Protecting your home and environment (family, pets, surrounding surfaces, furnishings, valuables, all areas not scheduled for paint)
  • Scraping/sanding to remove old layers of paint that will negatively impact the integrity of your new paint at a standard that meets our 5 Year Warranty
  • Five Year Warranty
Five Year Painting Warranty
  • Thorough cleaning of the surfaces scheduled for work to remove any contaminants
  • Priming, Caulking and Patching
  • Exceptional Painting

Consistency

Protection
We invest heavily in all the correct tools and materials and use quality plastic, drop cloths, paper, and tape to protect the surfaces of your home and environment that are not scheduled to be painted.

Preparation
Paint will not adhere properly without expert preparation. Proper preparation is the cornerstone of exceptional quality.

We sand, scrape, and prime as appropriate to ensure proper adhesion. We contain particulate and dust exposure per Environmental Protection Agency safety standards and Arana Craftsman Painters is an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Contractor. EPA Lead-Safe Firm

Lead Safe Certified Firm

For the safety of everyone involved, are all the painting contractors you have bidding on your project EPA

Lead-Safe Certified?

After primer is applied, we patch, caulk and fill for aesthetic and in some cases sealing purposes or to prevent water incursion.

Painting the Finish
We employ highly skilled craftsmen, use quality materials and utilize a consistent and proven method. We apply paint to uniformly and completely coat your surfaces with the appropriate amount of material and paint thickness. The results are stunning and durable.

Communication

Pre Job Walkthrough: Our Production
Manager and Estimator will meet with you prior to the scheduled project start date to confirm start date, scope, sequencing, and colors. Essentially all expectations are reconfirmed to assure smooth handoff between our Estimator and our Production Department. Proper communication is the key to exceptional quality and you having a great painting experience. At this point when we arrive at your project, our Crew Leader and Crew have a solid plan as to what processes will take place first and in what areas.

Cass Morris 66th St cropped

Color Consultation: Arana Craftsman Painters works with top San Francisco Bay Area Color Consultants. The option of a color consult is included in our bid. Having colors chosen ahead of time makes your life so much easier. We’ll put up swatches (a.k.a. “Brush outs”) so you can see the colors in real life and make an informed decision.

Scheduling & Logistics: Our dedicated Service Manager will connect with you to handle scheduling and job logistics; the Crew Leader assigned to your project can answer your questions about daily activity; Our Production Manager stops in and assists the Crew Leader in planning; Our Estimator is standing by should any questions about the work order arise and Office Coordinator will send invoices at the completion of each phase of the project. Throughout the duration of your project, we listen and address any concerns promptly and thoroughly

Daily Onsite Management: In addition to a dedicated Production Manager, every project has a dedicated Crew Leader who works closely with you, our Production Manager and our office to assure timely resolution to any challenges that arise, scope changes, quality control, sequencing and assuring you have an amazing painting experience!

Have a Painting Project You’d Like Us to Look at For You or Questions!?