In Los Angeles, Charlotte Culina stands out as one of the few female general contractors, bringing client-focused service, hands-on expertise and transparency to a field often marked by uncertainty and rebuilding.
Raised in the English countryside in the county of Kent, Charlotte learned gardening and building skills at a young age from her father, who was paraplegic.
After beginning her career in Los Angeles’ film industry, Charlotte moved toward renovation work as her family grew. “I love it. It is important work and I come to each job focused on what is best for the client,” she said.
Charlotte manages small projects as both designer and builder, partnering with engineers and architects as needed as well as larger projects with design teams already in place. Her practical parenting experience shapes her approach to design—especially in kitchens. “If you want to cook and enjoy a glass of wine while things are on the boil, that new window needs to be in just the right location so that you can see what the kids are up to at the same time.”
She stresses the importance of quality and mutual respect on every job: “The end product can only be as good as the rough. What is behind the walls affects how the finishes come together in the end. My crew understands this and we take pride in our work. We are also quite a fun bunch… My subcontractors have to be the same way because if not they do not come back, it’s just that simple.”
Committed to transparency, Charlotte explains, “I am very transparent with costs and never have a problem explaining the process and addressing concerns as they come up.” She helps clients anticipate hidden issues, especially with renovations, and is honest about costs and limitations.
Charlotte is especially motivated to help in Altadena and in Pasadena, aiming to uphold integrity in the industry and prevent bad actors from taking advantage of vulnerable residents.
“In the immediate aftermath of the fires I heard that contractors were swarming the area, vying for opportunities. This did not sit right with me. It is only now that I am reaching out to homeowners in the area, now that they are not in such a vulnerable state of mind.”
Tarte Design Build. (323) 448-3134. Email: charlotte@tartedesignbuild.com. Website: https://www.tartedesignbuild.com/
