Let's Build with Armada

Why did we decide that the traditional remodeling model wasn’t good enough?

In this special episode, I sit down with Alex Shikhanov, Founder and CEO of Armada Design & Build, to tell the story behind Armada and explain why we built the company around a different approach to remodeling.

Alex shares his journey from arriving in the U.S. and learning tile installation to building a full-service design-build company in the Greater Seattle Area. We talk about the turning points along the way, why Armada adopted the design-build model, and how people, systems, planning, and transparency became central to the way we work.

We also get into the realities homeowners care about most: budgets, pricing, change orders, our showroom model, and why bringing design and construction together can make a complex renovation more predictable.

This is the story of where Armada came from, but more importantly, why we operate the way we do today and what that means for our clients.

🎥 You can also watch the full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel - Let’s Build with Armada.

👉 Planning a kitchen, bathroom, addition, ADU, or whole-home renovation? Learn more about our process and start a conversation with our team: https://armadabuild.com/?utm_source=podcast

What’s happening underground could completely change what you’re allowed to do with your home.

In this episode, I sit down with David Jensen, licensed Professional Engineer and owner of Jensen Engineering LLC, who has been working with septic systems since 1983, to explain what every homeowner should understand about septic.

We break down how septic tanks and drain fields actually work, why soil conditions matter, and why bedrooms - not bathrooms - can be a critical factor when remodeling. We also cover pumping and maintenance, advanced treatment systems, warning signs of failure, inspections, costs, and what you should know before buying or renovating a home with septic.

If you own a septic system or are considering a remodel, addition, or home purchase in Western Washington, understanding your system now could help you avoid expensive surprises later.

🎥 You can also watch the full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel - Let’s Build with Armada.

👉 Planning a remodel or addition? Make sure you understand what your property can support before you start. Talk with our team:
https://armadabuild.com/?utm_source=podcast

What if the bathroom features everyone says you “need” are actually making your remodel less functional?

In this episode, I sit down with Aya Hirunuma, Director of Design at Armada Design & Build, to break down the bathroom trends we’re seeing right now, what’s going out of style, and which upgrades are actually worth the investment.

We talk about bigger showers, wet rooms, heated floors, curbless showers, floating vanities, smarter storage, lighting, and large-format tile. We also tackle questions like whether you really need a bathtub for resale, when one sink can be better than two, and how to create a spa-like bathroom without sacrificing function or easy maintenance.

The biggest takeaway? Great bathroom design should fit the way you actually live, not a checklist of features you think you’re supposed to have.

🎥 You can also watch the full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel - Let’s Build with Armada.

👉 Planning a bathroom remodel? Let’s create a space that works beautifully for you today and for years to come:
https://armadabuild.com/?utm_source=podcast

What turns a backyard into a space you actually want to use every day?

In this episode, I sit down with Jim Reynolds, founder of Reynolds Landscaping, who brings more than 35 years of experience designing and building outdoor spaces throughout the Seattle area.

We talk about the biggest outdoor living trends homeowners are asking for, from patios, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and lighting to artificial turf, irrigation, and low-maintenance landscaping. Jim also explains the less glamorous details that can make or break a project, including drainage, grading, retaining walls, soil conditions, and why landscaping often costs more than homeowners initially expect.

If you’re planning a backyard renovation in Seattle, Bellevue, or the Pacific Northwest, this conversation will help you understand where to invest and how to create an outdoor space that works for the way you actually live.

🎥 You can also watch the full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel - Armada Design & Build.

👉 Thinking about transforming your home or outdoor living space? Start the conversation with our team here:
https://armadabuild.com/?utm_source=podcast

Thinking about home integration, home automation, or a smart home? At Armada Design & Build, we help homeowners plan remodeling and renovation projects that are ready for today’s technology and tomorrow’s innovations.

I’m Charlie Carter, Principal Project Consultant at Armada Design & Build and host of the Let’s Build with Armada Podcast.

In this episode, I sit down with Daniel Peterson from Integrity Home Integration ( https://ihi-nw.com/ ) to talk about what a smart home really is, how home integration goes far beyond DIY technology, and why planning for technology early can completely change the way your home functions.

From lighting and motorized shades to whole-home audio, security, networking, automation, AI, and luxury home technology, we explore what’s possible today and where the industry is headed next.

✨ In this episode you’ll learn:
• Smart Home vs Home Integration
• Why networking is the foundation of every smart home
• Crestron and professional automation systems
• How technology fits into remodeling and new construction
• Lighting, audio, security and whole-home control
• Where AI is taking home automation next

👉 Thinking about remodeling or building a home that’s ready for the future? Learn more and connect with our team here:
https://armadabuild.com/?utm_source=podcast
Call us: (425) 558-9400

💬 What’s the first smart home feature you’d add to your house if budget wasn’t a factor?

👍 Like, subscribe, and follow the Let’s Build with Armada Podcast for more expert conversations about remodeling, renovation, design, and building better homes.

🎥 You can also watch the full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel - Armada Design & Build

What if the best time to prepare your home for the future is before you ever need to?

In this episode, I explore one of the most important  and most overlooked topics in home remodeling: aging in place. Whether you’re planning for retirement, helping an aging parent, or simply want a home that adapts with you over time, thoughtful design today can prevent expensive renovations and difficult decisions later.

We talk about the difference between aging in place, ADA, and Universal Design, along with practical upgrades that improve comfort, safety, and accessibility. From bathrooms and kitchens to home elevators, smart home technology, wider doorways, and better lighting, I share the remodeling strategies that help homeowners stay independent while protecting the value of their homes.

If you’re thinking about remodeling your home with the future in mind, this episode will help you understand where to invest, what to prioritize, and how to create a space that supports your lifestyle for years to come.

🎥 You can also watch the full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel — Let’s Build with Armada.

👉 Thinking about future-proofing your home? We’d love to help you create a space that works for today and tomorrow. Learn more here: https://armadabuild.com/?utm_source=podcast

What separates a smooth remodeling project from one that turns into an expensive nightmare?

In this episode, I sit down with Derek Abbott, Senior Project Manager at Armada Design & Build, to talk about the warning signs homeowners should recognize before hiring a contractor and what really happens behind the scenes once construction begins.

We discuss contractor red flags, project schedules, permits, inspections, communication, change orders, and the unexpected issues that can impact both your budget and timeline. Derek also shares why experienced project management matters, how construction teams solve problems on-site, and why upgrades like electrical panels and plumbing often become necessary during a remodel.

Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel, bathroom renovation, home addition, or a custom home, this conversation will help you ask the right questions, avoid common mistakes, and choose a contractor with confidence.

🎥 You can also watch the full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel — Let’s Build with Armada.

👉 Planning a remodel? Start with a team that believes great projects begin with great planning:
https://armadabuild.com/?utm_source=podcast

Thinking about remodeling your home? Before you hire a contractor, sign a contract, or start tearing down walls, there are a few things you should know.

I’m Charlie Carter, Principal Project Consultant at Armada Design & Build, and host of Let’s Build with Armada. After helping homeowners navigate kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations, additions, and whole-home transformations, I’ve seen what makes projects succeed—and what causes them to become expensive nightmares.

In this episode, I sit down with Robin Briggs, one of our Senior Project Consultants, to pull back the curtain on what really happens during a remodeling project. We talk about budgeting, contractor red flags, hidden construction surprises, project planning, change orders, permits, contingency budgets, and the mistakes homeowners make before construction even begins.

Robin shares real stories from the field, including hidden plumbing, dry rot, unrealistic bids, contractors asking for full payment upfront, and the warning signs homeowners should never ignore.

We discuss:

🏠 How to prepare for a remodel
💰 Creating a realistic remodeling budget
🚩 Contractor red flags to watch for
🔨 What happens during demolition
📋 Why planning matters more than most people realize
⚡ Hidden electrical and plumbing surprises
🛠 How to handle change orders and unexpected costs
📅 Construction schedules and project timelines
✅ Questions every homeowner should ask before hiring a contractor

Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel, bathroom renovation, home addition, or major renovation, this episode will help you avoid common mistakes and make smarter decisions before construction begins.

🌐 https://armadabuild.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=y052
📍 Armada Design & Build — Bellevue, Washington

What is your biggest concern about remodeling: budget, contractor trust, timeline, dust, or surprise costs? Let me know in the comments.

#armadadesignbuild #remodeling #contractor

Can a beautiful kitchen actually make your life harder?

In this episode, I sit down with Aya Hirunuma, Director of Design at Armada Design & Build, to talk about one of the biggest remodeling mistakes homeowners make: prioritizing aesthetics over functionality.

We explore how great kitchen design goes far beyond colors and finishes. From storage and workflow to lighting, appliances, pantry space, and family routines, every decision affects how your kitchen performs every day. Aya also shares why some popular design trends aren’t always practical, how AI and 3D visualization are changing the design process, and what homeowners should consider before investing in a remodel.

If you’re planning a kitchen renovation, building a new home, or simply dreaming about your future kitchen, this conversation will help you avoid costly mistakes and create a space that looks beautiful and works beautifully.

🎥 You can also watch the full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel — Let’s Build with Armada.

👉 Thinking about remodeling your kitchen? Start with a team that designs around how you actually live:
https://armadabuild.com/?utm_source=podcast

Why does your house still feel uncomfortable — no matter how much you adjust the thermostat?

In this episode, I sit down with Karl Christensen from Legacy 1 Heating and Cooling to break down what actually affects comfort, efficiency, and long-term value when it comes to HVAC systems.

We talk about the real difference between heat pumps and furnaces, when mini-splits make sense, and why ductwork is often just as important as the equipment itself. We also cover what causes hot and cold spots, how to think about HVAC during remodels and additions, and the biggest mistakes homeowners make when replacing their system.

If you’re building, remodeling, or just trying to fix comfort issues in your home, this conversation will help you understand what actually matters — before you spend money in the wrong place.

🎥 You can also watch the full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel — Let’s Build with Armada.

👉 Thinking about upgrading your home comfort or planning a remodel? Start here:
https://armadabuild.com/?utm_source=podcast