The suburbs have long served as a symbol of opportunity in California, where families could realize the ‘American Dream’ of homeownership, expansive lawns and ample parking. But for many, suburban growth has instead been synonymous with racial and economic segregation, nightmare commutes and environmental degradation.

As California struggles to meet the rising housing demands and address the state’s policy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the Capital Region is positioned to look to the suburbs for answers. This means farewell to the bedroom communities and hello to vibrant communities on the outskirts of the urban core. 

Comstock’s chats with Cyrus Abhar, city manager of Rancho Cordova, about growth in the rapidly developing suburb.

As an appraiser, I get asked questions about the value of particular home improvements all the time: How much is a kitchen remodel worth? What about a bathroom remodel? Are solar panels a good way to boost property value? My answer is simple, and always the same: It depends. I know that’s frustrating to hear, but there’s a reason why it’s the best answer. So let’s talk about it.

HomeAid Sacramento in Roseville is addressing the age-old problem of homelessness by serving as a facilitator between the regional homebuilding industry, and homeless shelter and service providers.

Virtual reality used to be financially out-of-reach for many firms. Now, builders and architects alike are finding that implementing technology upfront prevents mistakes, and saves money, down the road. 

Hitesh Dewan, operations technology manager of Milpitas-based XL Construction in Sacramento, and Laura Knauss, principal of Lionakis, offer their insight into tech adoption in the construction industry.

In the heart of Roseville near Denio’s Farmers Market and the All American Speedway, a multi-million dollar renovation is revitalizing the Placer County Fairgrounds, recently rebranded as @the Grounds.

Sacramento is coming into its own, and tying the built environment to the regional diversity — including an agricultural backdrop and focus on sustainability — is important to local designers and architects. 

Cheryl McMurtry, business development associate for Arch Nexus in Sacramento, offers her insight into changes in the architecture industry.