Est. 1984
Newport Beach Custom
Home Builder
A family built on craftsmanship
In 1973, Gaetano La Placa arrived in the United States from Italy, carrying with him the craftsmanship traditions and work ethic of his homeland. He spent the next decade building expertise in Southern California's construction industry — learning every aspect of custom home building from the inside out.
In 1984, Gaetano founded La Placa Development, a company built on the simple principle that a builder's name should mean something. His commitment to quality over volume, to doing things right rather than fast, quickly earned the firm a reputation for excellence throughout Orange County.
By 1999, the company incorporated and expanded its operations — investing in new capabilities while maintaining its selective approach. La Placa Development deliberately limits the number of projects it takes on each year, ensuring that every client receives the full attention of the La Placa family.
Today, Gaetano's sons Giovanni and Francis lead daily operations alongside Sheri, Gabe, and Jen — a true family enterprise with 40+ years of luxury home building experience. Their name is on every home they build. It always has been.
La Placa Development is part of Real Estate Development services in Southern California that also includes Sell Your Orange County House, a full-service real estate brokerage operating throughout Orange County.
40+
Years Experience
1984
Year Founded
2nd
Generation
OC
Orange County
The Team
The people behind every project
Gaetano La Placa
Founder & Chairman
Gaetano immigrated from Italy in 1973 and founded La Placa Development in 1984 after a decade of honing his craft in Southern California. His Italian-trained eye for detail and commitment to quality became the foundation of everything the company stands for.
Giovanni La Placa
Operations Director
Giovanni leads day-to-day operations and client relationships at La Placa Development. Raised in the industry alongside his father, he brings both the family's values and a modern approach to project management and client advocacy.
Francis La Placa
Construction Director
Francis oversees all field operations and construction management, ensuring that every project meets the La Placa standard of craftsmanship from foundation to final finish.
Sheri La Placa
Principal
Sheri has been integral to La Placa Development from its earliest years, contributing to business development, client relations, and the operational excellence that defines the company.
Gabe La Placa
Vice President
Gabe serves as VP and is a licensed real estate broker through La Placa Properties, bridging the firm's construction expertise with real estate strategy and investment services.
Jen La Placa
Director of Communications
Jen manages communications, marketing, and client experience — ensuring that La Placa Development's reputation for excellence is reflected at every touchpoint.
What we believe
Quality over volume
We deliberately limit the number of projects we accept each year. Your home deserves our full attention — not a fraction of it.
Transparency always
We communicate openly about timelines, costs, and challenges. There are no surprises with La Placa Development — only honest conversations.
A legacy to uphold
Gaetano built this company on his name. Every home we build carries that legacy forward — a responsibility we take seriously in every decision we make.
Start building your legacy.
We work with a select number of clients each year. Let's discuss your vision.