Halfway Into 2026: Builders and Architects on What's Working

"Our defining move for 2026 is growth. Client inquiries and signed contracts continue to outpace last year, driven by a demand for stability and predictability in an increasingly noisy economic environment.

In response, we are investing in both our office spaces to elevate the client experience and, most importantly, our people. These investments reinforce our clients’ confidence that we have the talent and expertise to deliver elegant solutions to complex design challenges."

"We are expanding our portfolio into smaller, more cost-conscious renovations and additions. Our clients are getting itchy to make changes as their lives evolve—kids grow up and move out, spaces no longer fit the way they once did.

We're happy to collaborate with people who have finite budgets but aspire to design intelligent, efficient, and uplifting home environments.

Our 2026 strategy is about supporting grounded, thoughtful home design through client collaborations built on kindness, and the belief that good design isn't only for big budgets."

"Our defining move for 2026 is to go deeper into what's already working: a lean core team backed by a trusted network of specialized consultants and freelancers who we deploy project by project.

In a climate where investment is advancing in careful phases, this model is our edge. It keeps us fast, focused, and able to bring exactly the right expertise to every engagement without the overhead that slows competitors down."

"As a custom architectural builder/developer, land has always been at the heart of my business, and in 2026, it continues to define my strategy.

More than ever, my clients want to live close to the land, yet within easy driving distance of the city, so I'm investing in a series of bespoke, architecture-driven properties with site-specific design that allows nature to take center stage."

"In 2026, we're doubling down on two fronts simultaneously: continued technology investment to sharpen how we build and communicate, and a deliberate push into new markets where design-forward construction is underserved.

For us, those aren't separate strategies; the operational edge we're building internally is exactly what makes expansion into new territory viable."

"For 2026 builds, our focus is being efficient in all aspects. With client bookings into 2028-2029, it’s important for us to be well organized, forward-thinking, and resourceful to maintain schedules. 

Doing this allows us to maintain a high level of customer service and exceptional quality. Staying on top of a job creates a more enjoyable environment for the crew and subs versus the feel of being under the gun. 

A happy crew is efficient and quality-focused."

"We're very keen right now on defining who we'd like to work with and seeking out those who give our office the most amount of joy.  This works very well in return to the client as well. We have direct and proactive conversations with those who we work with regarding their experience and feedback of our services.

We'd rather not be a part of peoples' built lives if the feelings of working together are not mutually valued and respected. If everyone could have open conversations like this, working relationships would improve, and the level of quality would escalate."