Fall 2024 By Mallory Gleich F ive years ago, Jared Amzallag and Zander Diamont were living in L.A., basking in the sunshine, battling that infamous day-to-day traffic and overseeing digital marketing companies. The pair shared an interest – and bonded over – the real estate industry and were thinking about trying their hands at remodeling. They spent time meeting with contractors, developers and investors and weighing their options. Soon after, the country came to a halt. Businesses were closing, the streets were empty and working from home became the new norm. With L.A. in lockdown, Amzallag and Diamont packed up their families, set their sights on the southwest, and headed to the Valley of the Sun. Arizona’s real estate market during 2020 hadn’t seen a slowdown. In fact, the market was thriving, and the duo started brainstorming how they could get in on the action. “Our initial idea was to build office pods for people to have separate spaces. We realized as we got into construction and development how expensive, complicated and disconnected the process was,” Diamont said. In the homebuilding process, families deal with many entities and Diamont said it’s not a packaged, cohesive or appealing experience. That’s what inspired the pair’s desire to offer a “wrapped up package” with their new business: Minimal Living Concepts (MLC). Officially debuting in 2021, MLC offers design, construction and all the other elements that come with building a new house. Whether you want a tiny home, in-law suite, guest house, pool house, man-cave or she-shed, MLC offers those options in what they call an accessory dwelling unit (ADU). MLC’s team works in phases to complete each customized build. Phase one is a site visit where they’ll analyze the property and assemble a project scope of the pre-designed unit. Phases two through four include permits, soil testing, planning and updates. Once the permit is approved, the team schedules the entire assembly process, helping you choose the right unit and overseeing materials purchased. The final phase is construction: maintaining schedules and overseeing progress until the moment you step through the front door. “We knew our marketing background was key in creating a seamless path to buying new construction online. Clear packages and pricing, and a timeline that shows what to expect,” Diamont said. They’ve sold over 100 in Arizona and 11 in the Arcadia area. MLC offers four base options ranging from 332 to 1,178 square feet. Each unit is built using traditional methods and includes one full bedroom, a kitchenette (with appliances), a bathroom, built-in soft-close cabinetry, a workspace, LED lighting, polished concrete floors, and glass windows. The units are framed with 2×6 lumber instead of the standard 2×4 4 Go tiny, live large Most clients use their guest homes for multigenerational living for aging parents and grandparents. PHOTOS COURTESY OF MINIMAL LIVING CONCEPTS Scottsdale company provides a new outlook for guest housing

for enhanced structural integrity and additional space for insulation. Energy efficiency is accomplished through the use of high-quality spray foam insulation and commercial-grade, aluminum-framed, Low-E glass windows that allow natural light to flood the space and help maintain comfortable indoor temperatures, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling. MLC’s commitment to traditional construction means each unit is fully site- built, allowing customization to fit each family’s needs. “Generally, our units are completed within six to eight months, depending on the type and permitting requirements,” Amzallag said. “Our website allows potential clients to view pre-designed units and transparent pricing to make a selection. It’s a beautiful, straightforward, easy way to buy and build a home.” Customers can choose from Flex (322 sq. ft.), Live (576 sq. ft.), Live+ (741 sq. ft.), or Dwell (1,178 sq. ft.). Two designer edition homes are offered through a partnership with a local interior design firm, Iconic by Kaitlyn Wolfe. The designer packages, Canyon and Dolomite, have upgraded flooring, light fixtures, appliances and finishes inspired by Kaitlyn’s extensive travels. Diamont and Amzallag say their most popular product is Live, a one- bedroom space designed with minimalism and utility in mind that can be used as a guest home, rental, pool house, gym or office. Many MLC clients use their guest homes for multigenerational living, primarily for aging parents and grandparents. “They appreciate the ability to have mom and dad close to home but with no shared walls, and they appreciate the significant savings compared with senior living facilities,” Diamont said. “In some cases, senior parents are selling their homes and building a guest home on their adult children’s properties as a gift,” Amzallag said. “It’s a great investment that increases the property’s value.” MLC is currently building two speculative homes in Arcadia that are scheduled for completion early next year. The company also plans to launch full size primary homes that will use the same streamlined transparent process, product info and pricing. minimallivingconcepts.com 5 Minimal Living Concepts provides four pre-designed units with modern architecture and design. Small dwelling units offer a unique canvas for creativity and thoughtful design. These spaces can radiate warmth, charm, and character when designed with care and attention to detail. Lenny Mac, founder and principal designer of Lenny Interiors, is here to provide some tips on decorating your ADU: • One key element in achieving this is the investment in high-quality, natural materials . Choosing items like stone, marble, and hardwood adds a touch of sophistication and ensures longevity. These materials bring a sense of authenticity that can enhance the overall ambiance, making your space feel elevated and inviting. • Another essential factor to consider is the color scheme . In terms of color, it’s much simpler to swap out a pillow or a piece of art than to repaint cabinetry or replace large furniture items. It’s more practical to incorporate pops of color in interchangeable or replaceable forms. This strategy enhances the natural elements in the room and provides versatility in decor. • When selecting furniture, prioritize durability and functionality , especially in spaces designed for guests. Look for pieces that balance aesthetic appeal with practical use, ensuring they can withstand wear while still adding character and charm. Decorating small dwellings is about creating an experience that feels special and refined. With thoughtful design, even the coziest casita can become an inspiring retreat, reflecting the soul and sophistication of its inhabitants. lennyinteriors.com Dwelling units AN OPPORTUNITY FOR THOUGHTFUL DESIGN 602.399.8540 debbiefrazelle.com dfrazelle@cox.net PAST ARCADIA PTO VP PAST HOPI PTA PRESIDENT ARCADIA RESIDENT FOR OVER 30 YEARS Top 1% of Coldwell Banker Agents Debbie Frazelle | CLHMS | ABR Experience luxury resort living at the exclusive 24/7 guard-gated community of Biltmore Greens! 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