AGH Commercial builds remodels, additions and site improvements in Portola Valley, the rural town in the hills between Woodside and Palo Alto. We plan projects around the town’s design guidelines, geology and fire-safety requirements.
Call (650) 400-3600 for a free estimate. AGH Commercial, doing business as A Green Home Construction, is a licensed and insured general contractor (CA License B 934342) based at 1103 E 16th Ave in San Mateo. Hours: Monday–Friday 8am–5pm; Saturday and Sunday by appointment.
Working with the ASCC
Portola Valley’s five-member Architectural and Site Control Commission (ASCC) reviews specified projects under Chapter 18.64 of the Municipal Code, with the goal of preserving the town’s visual and rural character. The town’s design guidelines ask that homes be developed in a way that minimizes disturbance to natural terrain and vegetation.
The ASCC may ask for story poles or other ways to show a project’s bulk on site, and it often holds field meetings. We prepare plans, materials and site information with those expectations in mind.
Fault lines and hillside sites
The San Andreas Fault runs through Portola Valley, and the town’s ground movement potential map establishes required building setbacks along its active traces, with additional caution near other faults. Grading over certain thresholds needs a Site Development Permit.
We coordinate with your geotechnical engineer and the Town so foundations, siting and drainage are designed for the site.
Our services in Portola Valley
- Room additions in Portola Valley
- Kitchen remodeling in Portola Valley
- Bathroom remodeling in Portola Valley
- Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Portola Valley
- Decks, pergolas and patios in Portola Valley
- Outdoor kitchens in Portola Valley
- Water drainage solutions in Portola Valley
- Bolt and brace seismic retrofit in Portola Valley
- Window and door upgrades in Portola Valley
- Interior and exterior remodeling in Portola Valley
Portola Valley permits and resources
Portola Valley remodeling: frequently asked questions
Will my Portola Valley project go to the ASCC?
Many exterior projects do, depending on scope and location. We confirm the review path with Town staff and prepare a submittal that addresses the design guidelines.
How does the San Andreas Fault affect building in Portola Valley?
The Town maps required setbacks along active fault traces and restricts buildings for human occupancy within them. Geotechnical review may be needed depending on your site.
Do I need story poles?
The ASCC may require story poles or similar methods to show a project’s height and bulk. We coordinate their installation when required.
Home Improvement Projects
Jack and his crew did an excellent job on our addition. They walked us through every step of the job and went out of their way to make sure everything was done well. The foreman, Don, was always available to take our phone calls and answer questions. They are very pet friendly and always made sure our dog did not get out. We couldn’t be happier with our new master bedroom and bathroom. Bob D. San Mateo, CA
I have had so much work done by this company. Bathroom, electrical, redo of our bathing area with tile and new tubs, anything you need this company can pretty much do. There prices are very reasonable and you get great quality of stuff. A green home came in and got everything done in a timely manner. I will always use a green home for all 4 of our businesses. Deb W. Foster City, CA