Labra Design+Build
Labra Design+Build

Labra Design+Build

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Introduction
My understanding of both construction and design provide for a more informed design process and a construction process that most accurately reflects the design intent. Improving the way people live through bettering the spaces they occupy.
Overview

License verified

6 employees

14 years in business

Payment methods

This pro accepts payments via Cash.

Social media

Facebook, Instagram

Projects and media

31 photos

Projects and media

31 photos

Reviews
Exceptional 5.0

7 reviews

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pro avatar
Jeannie B.
Aug 18, 2014
We had our main deck completely demolished and rebuilt; we had a second-story deck demolished, a door removed and replaced with drywall; we had a smaller lower level deck rebuilt; we had the slope of a curved bridge modified and refinished. I highly recommend working with Rufino Labra and Labra Design + Build. The most important aspect of our project was demolishing our aging cedar deck overlooking a ravine, adding 120 square feet to it, and adding deck lighting which we had never had. We also needed an unused (except by the raccoons) smaller deck area demolished, the door removed and replaced with drywall. Additionally, we had a curved bridge over a gully leading to our entrance on which we wanted the slope modified to make the tie-in to the landing gentler. Initially we were looking at Trex or Azec (both "faux" wood) for the deck but after some investigation discovered cumaru, a Brazilian hardwood similar to ipe. Rufino was the only contractor we contacted to investigate this possibility, and offered to do the deck in the cumaru for the price of Azec, and included the lighting package at no additional charge. We were also initially considering glass railing panels, but knowing that we live in a wooded area and feed the local birds, Rufino mentioned that the birds might fly into the glass and get hurt or killed, so he gave us the option of stainless steel cable, and we are so glad we opted for that! The finished deck is spectacular! The woodworking detail is amazing. Rufino also offered to install soffit lights at no charge because he knew we would love them. We do! Rufino and his crew showed up every day on time, they worked efficiently and with enormous attention to detail. He has a degree in architecture from Lawrence Tech, so in addition to being an incredibly skilled craftsman he is also artistic and talented. He was in constant communication on any changes or issues (they found carpenter ants had chewed up a lot of the old deck and advised us to call an exterminator -- we did!). They all really went above and beyond, they finished within the time Rufino had estimated despite some rainy days, and we are enormously pleased with the results. We will definitely work with Labra Design + Build in the future.
pro avatar
T. B.
Sep 30, 2014
I found Mr. Labra online quite a few years ago while searching for someone to build a bookcase / wall unit. I reviewed his website and was extremely impressed with the creativity of his designs. Back then, I was just in the idea stage and Mr. Labra was very helpful (even though some of my ideas were out there) and not pushy at all. Due to my inability to decide on what I really wanted, I essentially ignored the project for quite some time. Cut to a few years down the road, I finally made up my mind. I emailed Mr. Labra once again. Right off the bat, he was a consummate professional. He quickly gave me an estimate for my "plans" which was on par with other contractors. What set him apart from the other guys was how he made me a part of the process. Other contractors I contacted listened to my plans and gave me a quote. He worked with me every step of the way (i.e. he listed the different types of wood that he could use, the pros and cons of each and why he felt one was the best fit for me) to give me the best outcome. He also voiced his own opinion when he felt it was warranted. When some of my ideas went against what he felt create a quality product, he let me know how he could tweak things to get it back on track. But, at the same time, he let me know that it was my decision and didn't force me to follow his path. It did take a while for it to get done. But, once the bookshelf was completed, it was impeccable. You can see the pride he takes in his craftsmanship (while installing the piece, he spent ten minutes fidgeting with a door to make sure it was not a millimeter out of place). There are so many little details I could go into that I've noticed on the unit that make it stand out. Needless to say, I am beyond impressed with Mr. Labra's skills (both in design and build) and character. I would recommend him wholeheartedly.
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Kate B.
Nov 5, 2014
We were so pleased with the project that Labra Design did for our Mid Century Modern house. I saw a project he did (found it through Houzz) and Rufino was very quick to respond to my request, and he was able to squeeze our smaller project in quickly. We had a huge hole in our main room, and we needed a stair rail, needed it quickly because we have a two year old and the house just wasn't safe as it was. He was quick to draw up sketches and seemed to understand our aesthetic and what we wanted without ever seeing the project in person. He was also very willing to research different price options to keep within our budget. I was impressed with his effort and commitment to making sure the stair rail was as safe as possible. The install went smoothly and was right on time. We can't wait to use Labra Design again when we redo our master bathroom and kitchen!
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Lori Z.
Dec 3, 2014
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Mary C.
May 31, 2015
Credentials
License

License Type: Residential Builder – Company (MI)

License verified on 4/1/2022

FAQs

  • What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?

    Yes.

  • How did you get started doing this type of work?

    I grew up building houses in my father's construction business, I saw so many opportunities for improvement in the design of buildings that would just take a few extra hours of thought before construction began. So I went to architecture school and started my own company.

  • What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?

    The more time spent designing, the better the design gets resulting in better spaces.