Advice for building your dream home
Building a custom home is an exciting prospect – no detail is overlooked, and each decision is very personal. But the process is not for everyone. A custom build can easily take two years from start to finish and the cost per square foot can be significantly higher than a standard home. For those who are ready to make the time and financial investment in this project of a lifetime, we offer three key considerations.
Design for your life.
Custom homes are a blank slate, and there are so many options when it comes to features, finishes, and floorplans. Some clients have a very good idea of what they want while others shift into a state of overwhelm.
If you fall in the second camp, a good starting point is to think about your lifestyle and long-term plans for your home. A young family may opt for more durable materials while older clients may choose a design with very few stairs to navigate. Art collectors might ask for space to feature specific pieces and outdoor lovers could desire multiple balconies or decks.
Creating a home that reflects and supports how you live also means being clear with your builder about your likes and dislikes. This applies to everything from architectural styles to flooring materials to light fixtures. Home magazines and sites like Pinterest and Houzz are great idea sources.
Some of our clients prefer to have us make the majority of these decisions on their behalf, and we are happy to do so. But, understanding specific preferences will ensure you are presented with options that align with your vision.
Build a solid home team.
The phrase “it takes a village” definitely applies to building a custom home. Your team will likely include an architect, general contractor, interior designer, and landscape architect. Each has a specific role and all of them will work together to turn your empty lot into the home of your dreams. A reputable custom home builder will provide you with a single point of contact to manage these relationships and streamline communication. Arrowood often works with clients who currently live out of the area, serving as their eyes and ears every step of the way. Your contact person will also monitor and troubleshoot important details like the project’s timeline and budget. Change orders and unpredictable weather are just a couple examples of potential issues that can impact workflow which can, in turn, impact the budget. Talk with your team to ensure a contingency plan is in place so things move forward as anticipated.
examples of architect John Muir’s work
