Discover how RT Abbott blends craftsmanship and innovative design to redefine luxury living and prioritize sustainability
Perpetually dedicated to creating the finest homes, RT Abbott Construction (RT Abbott) prides itself on its teamwork, integrity and professionalism. Operating with the belief that bringing clients’ home visions to life should be a fulfilling journey, the company works alongside them to ensure a positive experience. With uncompromising craftsmanship and a unique attention to detail that defines a custom home, RT Abbott’s success derives from its collaborative approach. This ensures continuous and effective communication between the homeowners, architects, and project consultants all while employing only the most skilled craftsmen, artisans, and technicians in the industry. President and CEO Roy Abbott talks us through RT Abbott’s history and services.
“For 13 years prior to founding RT Abbott, I worked for a company that specialized in building high-end custom homes. Feeling that I had evolved as far as I could
go with that firm, I decided to leave in 2005 to establish my own business. From the outset, we focused exclusively on the high-end custom home market, committing ourselves to this niche without venturing into commercial, spec, or tract homes. In addition, we occasionally help our clients in finding suitable lots for their projects. Generally, we are introduced through architects, after which we meet the clients and begin the collaborative process,” he opens.
Talented team
Dedicated to providing the best possible homebuilding experience for its clients, RT Abbott has developed a highly skilled and committed workforce, guided by an equally exceptional leadership team. “Anthony Garcia, our Director of Operations, has been with the company since its founding in 2005, giving him over 20 years of experience. He is responsible for visiting job sites to ensure our team is working meticulously with a keen attention to detail. Thanks to his vast amount of experience in the business, he is extremely knowledgeable about waterproofing, proper construction techniques, and maintaining cleanliness on every project. Deanna Galindo, our Director of Finance, joined us in 2012, while we were still in our early stages. Even though we had been in business for seven years at that point, I felt overwhelmed with the accounting side of things. Deanna came in and guided us onto the right path, and I find myself agreeing with her decisions most of the time because her insights are invaluable. Her role encompasses managing contracts, handling billing applications, and addressing questions from owner representatives, lawyers, and others regarding contracts, budget spreadsheets, and much more.
“Meanwhile, Jeff Mochrie, Director of Operations, has been with us for nearly 12 years, and Jackie Melendres, our Director of Operations and Estimating, has been here for approximately the same amount of time. A former military member, Jackie is exceptionally detail-oriented, and her approachable personality draws owner representatives and architects to her. Additionally, we currently have about 18 project managers in the field, supported by our office staff. I feel fortunate to have such talented people on my team and believe they are a major part of our company’s success. Without them, we would not be where we are today,” Roy enlightens.
RT Abbott has completed a myriad of high-end projects over the years, each featuring its own unique elements. “Recently, we built a 28,000-square-foot house with a 30-foot basement, the only basement of its kind we have ever done and just the second in all of Los Angeles. This tall underground space includes a full basketball court, a racquetball court, and an outdoor pool. In terms of complexity, it was an exciting project. However, the most challenging build we have undertaken was a 4500-square-foot house on Macapa Drive, hanging off the edge of a cliff overlooking the Hollywood Bowl. Its spectacular design is unlike anything we have ever created. Notably, we built a swimming pool on top of a 30-foot retaining wall, with a studio located beneath it. Overall, each home we build is complex, unusual, and truly one-of-a-kind,” Roy describes.
Interior trends
Interior trendsAlthough each project built by RT Abbott is unique, many clients look for similar trends in terms of amenities, as evidenced by previous works that include basketball and racquetball courts. “At the minute, cold plunges and spas are particularly trendy. For instance, one of the houses we are currently building features a bowling alley, a massive theater, and several spas. In fact, approximately $10 million were invested in water features alone. Car collections are also popular, often accompanied by large garages and turntables. However, bowling alleys are rare; I have only built two in my 35-year career, making them a low priority for most clients. In contrast, well-designed theaters, wine cellars, and wellness spaces are high priorities. We have found that people are increasingly focused on wellness, particularly in how lighting is used to mimic natural rhythms and daylight. Likewise, cold plunges are a significant topic of interest, and saunas are included in almost every home we build,” Roy says.
Anthony Garcia, Director of Operations, adds: “Indeed, lighting is always a topic our clients like to focus on. We have observed a growing trend towards wellness centers or wellness areas in homes. For example, we recently completed a house at the top of Kenter Canyon that features a fully equipped wellness center, including a cold plunge, a steam shower, and an infrared sauna. Additionally, it includes a massage room and a cozy waiting area in the middle. These types of spaces are becoming increasingly common in our projects.”
Beyond entertainment and wellness, sustainable features such as renewable energy, solar panels and heat pumps are becoming more popular. “A lot of clients are expressing interest in eco-friendly options, with many inquiring about backup battery systems and generators. While generators have been around for a long time, power outages in and around Los Angeles and Malibu are frequent, which makes the implementation generators and solar panels almost a must now. We often prewire roofs for solar panels, allowing clients to install their panels later if they choose. As a result, incorporating these sustainable features has become a standard practice in all our projects, especially since current building codes require every home to be wired for solar panels,” Roy ends.
Supported by an exceptional, devoted team, RT Abbott is committed to craftsmanship and client service across every single project it undertakes. This dedication has solidified its reputation as the premier builder of luxurious, one-of-a-kind homes that seamlessly blend visionary design and sustainability.