Interest Rates and the Decision to Build or Renovate: What Offers Better Value?

In the ever-evolving real estate landscape, homeowners often grapple with the question: should they build a new home or renovate their existing one? While personal preferences, sentimental attachments, and specific needs play a role, current interest rates, especially for new home builds and construction loans, can be a determining factor. Interest rates for new home builds and construction loans have … Read More

The Importance of Relationship-building in Architectural Design + Build

In the intricate world of architectural design,  construction documents might be the tangible foundation of a project but it’s the intangible relationships—with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers—that truly build bridges from vision to reality. A Tale of Two Projects Consider two projects: one where the architect and client barely communicate beyond the initial meetings, and another where they hold regular brainstorming … Read More

Finding the Right Builder for Your New Home

There are a lot of home builders out there. Many of them have the word “custom” in their name. In truth, many of them are semi-custom (at best). They will typically start you off with one of their stock plans and allow you to “customize” certain areas and aspects of the home. These “custom” home builders limit you to a … Read More

How to Save Construction Costs on a New Custom Home Project 

(without Compromising Quality) Construction costs are at an all-time high, but it’s still possible to build your dream home within your budget. The key is understanding the cost-driving factors and how you can avoid unnecessary expenditures. We’re here to explain what you can do to keep your costs under control without sacrificing quality, including some Do’s and Don’ts to achieve … Read More

Home Building in the Winter Pros and Cons

Did you know there are many common misconceptions about architecture and home building? We love breaking down these common misconceptions! Here is one we often hear… “I can’t start a construction project during the winter.” In Northeast Ohio, construction happens year-round. While there may be extra measures taken during the cold months, there are seasonal obstacles that can occur no … Read More

Know Your Alternatives to Vinyl or Hardie Siding

Did you know there are many common misconceptions about architecture and home building? We love breaking down these common misconceptions! Here is one we often hear… “I don’t like vinyl siding, so Hardie (cement board) is the only other alternative.” If vinyl siding doesn’t bring you joy, there are other options that are higher quality and deliver a richer look. … Read More

Building an Eco-Friendly Home

When building a home, there are several options when it comes to the materials you choose. Of course, the typical materials and methods will do, but there are also some options that can really enhance how environmentally friendly your home is. Some options that are readily available include: Insulated, pre-cast  or ICF foundation walls Insulated sheathing (such as ZIP panels) … Read More

Why Choose Precast Concrete Wall Panels

Did you know you can choose to have Precast Concrete walls for your home’s foundation instead of on-site poured concrete walls? Below you’ll see the benefits of why this is a great choice. But first, what is a Precast Concrete Wall Panel (PCWP)? They are walls constructed by casting concrete in a reusable wall mold or form, which is then … Read More

Sustainability in Architecture

What is sustainability and what does this look like in architecture?  Sustainability is meeting our own needs without compromising the needs of future generations, natural, social, or economic resources. It is a well-known fact that buildings use a wide range of resources that create tons of waste every year, as well as release various emissions that release into the atmosphere.  … Read More

Quick Tips on Budgeting to Build Your New Home

Building your own custom home is exciting. One of the first important steps to take when planning to build your home is to make a budget. Having a budget in place before building your home will allow you the freedom to make changes and to know what you have enough money to do. 1. Budget Early Plan for expenses early … Read More