flexiblefullpage -

Design

Clever design solutions for unique residential projects.

Become a Member

Subscribe to Custom Builder for unlimited access

Subscribe
boombox1 -

Improve Thermal Performance and Lower Costs

An optimized value engineered approach to framing kills two birds with one stone



Custom Builder

In Business: Modern Design, Compromise, and Money

Custom builder Zane Williams opens up about what it takes to maintain his architectural vision, from handling clients and staying true to his fluid style, to the importance of transparency and how a slush fund avoids awkward conversations mid-construction


Advertisement
billboard -
Custom Builder

A Historical Fix on a Modern Foursquare

The Foursquare is an American architectural staple, but modern building has removed some of its historic details. Restoration expert Brent Hull uses a hypothetical redesign to illustrate the point 

Custom Builder

In Business: Modern Design, Compromise, and Money

Custom builder Zane Williams opens up about what it takes to maintain his architectural vision, from handling clients and staying true to his fluid style, to the importance of transparency and how a slush fund avoids awkward conversations mid-construction

Projects

A Lakefront Dock That Embraces Indoor/Outdoor Living

This screened dock on Hog Pen Creek in Austin, Texas takes its design cues from the home's numerous indoor/outdoor living spaces

Design

Finding the Best Angle—a Lake Austin Dock Framed to Fit the Home’s Sight Lines

This two-tiered waterfront dock on Lake Austin was constructed on an angle to provide homeowners with the best views of the lake from every room in the house

Construction

Detailing for Dissimilar Materials

Creating adequate separation between materials is critical to mitigating cracks (and worse) along cementitious surfaces.

Construction

Small-Duct, High-Velocity HVAC: What It Is and Why It Pairs Well With Modular Homes

Modular home manufacturers, builders, and owners now have many choices when it comes to indoor climate systems, but small-duct, high-velocity (SDHV) systems may be the perfect fit for these types of homes

Codes & Standards

An Introduction to the Zero Energy Ready Home Program

Late in 2022, the U.S. Department of Energy's Zero Energy Ready Home program announced the rollout of ZERH Single Family Version 2

Construction

Trouble-Free Stucco Overhangs

Transitions from walls to horizontal surfaces are prone to moisture problems. Attention to proper detailing in these areas is key.

Case Studies

The Art of Weaving Custom Homes Into the Urban Fabric

These homes demonstrate the challenges and opportunities of custom urban infill

Case Studies

A Pittsburgh Rowhouse With a View

Working mostly within the city limits but in a variety of neighborhoods on different building types, architect Darren Lloyd says every project is instructive for projects that follow, regardless of type.

boombox2 -
halfpage1 -
native1 -
native2 -