Major Home Renovations & Remodeling in Arboles, CO
Full-scale home renovations near Navajo Lake. From gut remodels to structural additions, we transform aging Arboles properties into modern, high-performance homes built for lakefront living.
Comprehensive Home Remodeling in Arboles
Many homes in the Arboles area were built decades ago — solid structures with good bones, but interiors and systems that haven't kept pace with how owners live today. As an Arboles remodeling contractor, we specialize in full-scale structural renovations that bring these properties into the present while respecting the mountain character that makes them worth keeping.
Kitchen and bath remodels are often the centerpiece of a major renovation near Navajo Lake. We design these spaces for lakefront living aesthetics — open sightlines toward the water, durable finishes that handle the traffic of a vacation home, and layouts that work for both everyday use and entertaining. Our design-build approach means the architect and builder work as one team, ensuring structural integrity during gut remodels where walls come down and floor plans open up.
Older homes in the Navajo Lake area frequently need modernized plumbing and electrical systems. Original copper lines, undersized electrical panels, and aging septic connections aren't just inconvenient — they limit what a renovation can achieve. We address these hidden systems first, so the finished kitchen, bath, and living spaces perform flawlessly for decades. Explore our Arboles design-build services to see how we integrate planning and construction into a single process.
Full-Scale Structural Renovations
Complete gut remodels for aging Arboles properties — from foundation reinforcement to roof replacement, we handle the structural work that makes everything else possible.
Kitchen & Bath Remodels
Specialized kitchen and bath updates designed for lakefront living near Navajo Lake — open layouts, durable finishes, and views that connect interior spaces to the landscape.
Integrated Design-Build
One team handling design and construction ensures structural integrity during complex gut remodels — no miscommunication between architect and builder.
System Modernization
Upgraded plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems for older Navajo Lake area homes — the foundation that makes a renovation perform long-term.
Site Assessment & Feasibility
We evaluate structural conditions, zoning requirements, and site-specific challenges before drafting plans — catching issues that could blow budgets if discovered mid-construction.
Architectural Planning
Detailed plans that maximize your existing square footage and Navajo Lake views — reconfiguring layouts, adding natural light, and engineering solutions for your specific property.
Phase-by-Phase Construction
Structured project management that sequences demolition, structural work, systems, and finishes — minimizing disruption whether you're living in the home or managing remotely.
Climate-Appropriate Materials
Moisture-resistant and durable materials selected for Arboles' high-altitude climate — from exterior cladding rated for UV and snow loads to interior finishes that handle temperature swings.
The Positive Design Build Renovation Process
Every whole house renovation in Arboles starts with understanding what's there — the structural reality of the existing building, the zoning requirements for your parcel, and the vision you have for the finished home. Our process is built to surface problems early and keep the project on track from first assessment through final walkthrough.
During the planning phase, we create detailed architectural drawings that maximize your home's square footage and take full advantage of Navajo Lake views. This isn't cosmetic planning — it's structural engineering that determines where walls can move, where beams need to carry new loads, and how the updated floor plan flows for daily living and entertaining.
Construction follows a phase-by-phase schedule that keeps trades sequenced efficiently and minimizes disruption to your living space. Material selection is deliberate — we specify moisture-resistant and durable products suited to Arboles' mountain climate, from exterior cladding that handles heavy snow and intense UV to interior finishes that perform through the temperature swings of a four-season lake community. Considering a new build instead? Compare with our Arboles custom home building services.
Ready to Transform Your Arboles Home?
From lakefront cabins to full-size mountain homes, we handle renovations of every scope near Navajo Lake. Start with a free site assessment to understand what's possible with your property.
Why Arboles Homeowners Choose Major Renovation
Arboles properties near Navajo Lake sit on some of Southwest Colorado's most desirable land. A major renovation lets you keep the lot, the views, and the established neighborhood while building the home you actually want to live in.
Preserve Your Lakefront Position
Navajo Lake lots with established access, utilities, and views are increasingly rare. Renovating lets you keep a location that would be difficult or impossible to replicate with a new purchase.
Modernize for Efficiency
Older Arboles homes were built before modern insulation standards and energy codes. A major renovation brings the envelope, windows, and mechanical systems up to current performance levels — cutting heating costs significantly.
Open Floor Plans
Closed-off rooms with small windows don't take advantage of Navajo Lake views. We open walls, add glazing, and reconfigure layouts to create the connected, light-filled spaces today's homeowners want.
Updated Systems
Aging plumbing, undersized electrical panels, and outdated septic systems limit what your home can do. Modernized systems support the appliances, technology, and comfort features you expect.
Vacation Home Readiness
Many Arboles properties serve as vacation homes or future retirement residences. A major renovation now means the home is ready when you need it — no scrambling for contractors during peak season.
Property Value
A well-executed whole house renovation in Arboles significantly increases property value while keeping you in a location you already know and love near Navajo Lake.
For new construction on undeveloped Arboles lots, explore our Arboles custom home building services. Homeowners in the Pagosa Springs area can also view our Pagosa Springs custom home building page.
Home Renovations Near Navajo Lake
Browse completed renovation projects in Arboles and the surrounding Navajo Lake area. Each project was planned and built for its specific property, owner, and lifestyle.
Our Recent Work
Small Residential Home Before Major Renovations
Modern Interior Design with Custom Staircase
Small Residential Home Before Major Renovations
Modern Blue Exterior Home Renovation Project
Modern Rustic Kitchen with Custom Island
Modern Rustic Kitchen with Custom Island
Modern Bathroom Renovation with Subway Tile
Custom Curved Glass Block Shower Wall
Custom Dark Wood Walk-In Closet Design
What Arboles Homeowners Say
Hear from property owners who renovated their homes with Positive Design Build in Arboles and the Navajo Lake area.
What Our Customers Say
"Louis Garday, Sr Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 Re: Positive Design - Mark Positiviata December 23, 2025 What I immediately learned when we first started renovating my 4,000 sf log home was that above and beyond everything else, MARK IS A CRAFTSMAN AND PROFESSIONAL in the truest meaning of those words. His work for the planned 10 months was all completed in several diverse areas, on time, on budget, adding a professional flair whenever possible, such that I can easily claim that his skill and craftsman like work on every aspect of the engagement, including concrete and tile work, fine detailed carpentry, building a new 30’ by 20’ TREX deck, electrical work, safety grab bars and plumbing, repairs of metal roof, painting and drywall, landscaping, and a complete home Code evaluation and corrective action. His professional work easily yielded an increase of my home's value at double what I spent on the project. That ROI clearly will show up if/when I sell the house in 2026 or beyond. In a highly confident and in an unqualified manner I strongly recommend Positive Design and Mark to anyone needing all manner of home construction from a true professional and frankly a nice guy. Louis J Garday Sr. More Background information: Sometimes you get lucky. I was introduced to Mark at a dinner in late 2024 and the conversation turned to the details of the multi-faceted work I needed need to renovate and upgrade my 4,000 sf home on ten acres preparatory to selling it in the Spring of 2026 (my best estimate at the time for the optimum timing to sell based on the political/economic chaos brought on by Fed, the then current administration and pending tax law changes during the four years ending in January 2025). I have a lifetime and some 50 years' experience in the construction and real property development businesses, know the trades and have built or developed multiple commercial properties and was impressed with his knowledge during our dinner. The following Monday I received a call from Mark asking if he could walk my property with me and organize my thoughts on what I characterized as extensive work. What followed was a long and detailed survey he compiled of what was needed to remodel and reposition a 30-year-old valuable and custom log home and natural 10-acre landscape of some 200 Ponderosa Pine Trees, surrounded by the San Juan National Forest. Mark made extensive notes and revisited me a few days later, with a detailed proposal, cost estimates, a few new ideas to maximize what I had in place, a time and materials schedule, work timing and scheduling (what us old time real estate guys call a PERT Chart). This being a new relationship and having just met Mark, I agreed to bite off the first phase immediately and Mark began the (bring it up to Code phase) the following Monday in December 2024. Work began immediately and he moved his equipment into my carport and began working. I need not have worried about Mark and the process. He did a great job from Day through the completion. Louis J Garday Sr. Pagosa Springs, CO 81147"
Louis
2025-12-23
"Mark remolded our home when we bought it to perfection!!! He built a corner fireplace; a new kitchen with built in cabinet with glass doors and lights for displays. We have the most amazing master bath as he built a round shower stall, walkin with 5 shower heads, a seat and all done in glass bricks. The window is all glass bricks to let the light in with an open small window at the top to let steam out and fresh air in if wanted. A beautiful tile inlaid floor rhat is heated as wanted that he designed. Many people have come to look at it and he built several more!! He comes to fix anything or make something better when ever he is needed. He builds remarkable original things which he designs to fit the space and to last for ever! He is an artist and a very talented guy!!! I would not have anyone else do the kind of work Mark does!! Leslie Hawkinson"
Leslie
2025-12-12
"Mark of Positive Design Build did a total remodel on a rental property I own. The property was rented for over 13 yrs to the former tenant and it was sorely in need of repairs & overall updating. He did a fabulous job & it looked like a new home!! All new kitchen, new wiring, a lot of new plumbing, new bathroom tub surround, new vanity & lighting , all new paint, floors refinished & new door locks & some new doors for closets & exterior doors. I was very pleased with his hard work & the finished project."
Kelly
2025-12-16
"Mark did a great job!!! He brought creativity and imagination to a job , where I did not see the possibilities. His experience added great skill and forethought in to designing my mudroom and bathroom. I highly recommend Mark Posiviata for whatever you need to do...."
Bill
2025-12-28
"4.5 stars - Mark Posiviata at Positive Design Build LLC did a beautiful job designing and building my laundry/mudroom. The cabinets, bench, and countertop are absolutely stunning, and the craftsmanship is truly top-notch. The quality of work and attention to detail really show — the space is both functional and gorgeous. Design-wise, Mark was excellent to work with. He listened carefully, offered great ideas/suggestions, and delivered a final result that exceeded my expectations. I’m thrilled with how the room turned out and receive compliments on it all the time. The only area for slight improvement would be communication and coordination with contractors during the process, which could have been smoother at times. That said, the end result was well worth it. I would absolutely recommend Mark and Positive Design Build LLC for anyone looking for high-quality custom work and thoughtful design."
Jules
2025-12-05
Arboles Home Renovation FAQ
Answers to the questions we hear most from homeowners planning major renovations in Arboles and the Navajo Lake area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical renovation costs in Arboles?
Major home renovations in Arboles typically range from $150,000 for a comprehensive gut remodel to $750,000 or more for projects involving structural additions and full system upgrades. The wide range reflects differences in scope — a kitchen and bath overhaul costs significantly less than adding square footage or reconfiguring load-bearing walls. Material selection matters too: locally sourced stone and reclaimed timber carry different price points than standard finishes. Navajo Lake area logistics also factor in, since material delivery to Arboles requires planning around rural access roads and seasonal availability. We provide detailed line-item estimates during our feasibility phase so there are no surprises once demolition begins.
Do I need a permit for a home addition in Arboles?
Yes — most structural changes in Arboles require permits through either Archuleta County or La Plata County, depending on your property's jurisdiction. This covers additions, load-bearing wall removals, electrical panel upgrades, plumbing reroutes, and any work that changes the building's footprint or structural system. The permitting process includes plan review, site inspections at key milestones, and final sign-off before occupancy. We manage the entire permit application and site plan process as part of our design-build service, coordinating directly with county offices so you don't have to navigate the paperwork yourself.
How long does a whole-house renovation take?
A whole house renovation in Arboles typically takes 6 to 12 months from demolition to move-in. The timeline depends on the scope of structural work, whether you're reconfiguring the floor plan, and how extensively the mechanical systems — plumbing, electrical, HVAC — need to be updated. Material lead times also play a role, especially for custom cabinetry, specialty windows, and stone finishes. We build detailed phase-by-phase schedules at the start of every project and sequence trades to keep work moving efficiently. For Navajo Lake area homes, we also factor in seasonal weather patterns that can affect exterior and foundation work.
Can you remodel my Navajo Lake vacation home while I am away?
Absolutely. A significant portion of our Arboles renovation work is for property owners who aren't on site full-time. We provide digital project tracking with regular photo and video updates at every milestone, so you can see exactly what's happening in your home from anywhere. You'll have a dedicated project manager as your single point of contact for decisions, approvals, and progress reports. We handle material selections, contractor coordination, and inspections — sending you options and recommendations when choices need to be made. Many Navajo Lake vacation homeowners prefer this approach because the renovation is complete and ready for use by the time they return.
What is the best way to modernize an older mountain home?
The highest-impact upgrades for older Arboles homes start with the building envelope and systems. Replacing single-pane windows with high-performance glazing, adding continuous insulation, and upgrading to a modern HVAC system dramatically improve comfort and energy efficiency. From there, opening up closed-off floor plans to create connected living, dining, and kitchen spaces brings the home in line with how families actually live today. Energy-efficient systems — heat pumps, on-demand water heaters, and LED lighting throughout — reduce operating costs for years to come. We've modernized dozens of older mountain homes in the Navajo Lake area while preserving the character and views that make them worth keeping.
Is it cheaper to renovate or build new in Arboles?
Renovation is often the faster path to a finished home in Arboles, since you're working with an existing foundation, framing, and utility connections. However, costs can approach or even match new construction if the existing structure has significant issues — failing foundations, outdated septic systems, or extensive water damage from deferred maintenance. A thorough structural assessment at the start tells us whether renovation makes financial sense or whether a teardown and rebuild is the better investment. We walk through both scenarios with homeowners so the decision is based on real numbers, not guesswork. For many Navajo Lake properties with solid bones and great lot positions, renovation delivers excellent value.
Do you offer kitchen and bath remodeling as standalone services?
Our focus at Positive Design Build is on major renovations — projects that involve multiple rooms, structural changes, or whole-house system upgrades. We take this approach because kitchen and bath remodels are often most successful when planned as part of a broader renovation strategy, ensuring the plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems support the updated spaces long-term. If your Arboles home needs a comprehensive transformation that includes kitchen and bath work alongside other structural or system improvements, that's exactly the kind of project we specialize in. For smaller standalone updates, we can recommend trusted local contractors in the area.
How do you handle site planning for lakefront properties?
Lakefront properties near Navajo Lake come with specific planning requirements that standard inland projects don't face. We coordinate with local environmental boards and county zoning offices to ensure all work respects setback requirements, drainage patterns, and shoreline regulations. This includes managing survey work, environmental impact documentation, and site plans that account for seasonal water level changes. Our experience with Navajo Lake area properties means we understand the unique challenges — from soil conditions near the waterline to access considerations for equipment and materials. We handle all of this coordination as part of our design-build process so lakefront homeowners get a renovation that's both beautiful and fully compliant.
Still have questions?
We're here to help you find the answers.
Start Your Arboles Home Renovation
Free site assessments for major renovation projects in Arboles, Navajo Lake, and throughout Archuleta County. Let's walk your property and discuss what's possible.
Serving Arboles & the Navajo Lake Area
We handle major home renovations throughout Arboles, the Navajo Lake corridor, and across Archuleta County. Contact us to schedule a site assessment at your property.
Visit Our Pagosa Springs Shop
Conveniently located for Arboles customers
Hours
Monday - Friday: 9am - 6pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: Closed