Ask An Architect: Real Answers and Deep Dives from Our June Live Webinar

At Reynard Custom Homes, we understand that designing a truly custom home is a deeply personal journey. It's a process that requires partnership, expertise, and some hard work on the part of both the architect and the client. It's not for the faint of heart. Still, when grit, collaboration, and communication come together, some truly remarkable things can happen.

We've seen it time and again.

On June 18th, James Knight and I re-launched our new monthly "Ask An Architect" webinar series. We were joined by two of our clients to discuss the design/build process and their own experiences with their homes so far.

Getting Real About Cost Estimates From Builders

The first topic on everyone's mind, and rightly so, was cost estimates. It's the elephant in every room when discussing custom builds. Jack and James immediately cut through the ambiguity, explaining that custom home costs broadly fall into two critical categories: the structural and exterior elements and the interior finishes and details. The structural and exterior bucket includes everything that makes your house a resilient, weather-tight shell. In contrast, the interior bucket encompasses your personal style and comfort.

The structural and exterior bucket includes everything that makes your house a resilient, weather-tight shell: the foundation that anchors it, the intricate framing that defines its shape, the roofing that protects it from the elements, and the exterior finishes—be it brick, stone, siding, or stucco—that give it curb appeal and character. This is the bedrock, the unyielding skeleton of your home.

Then there's the interior. This is where your personal style truly shines, encompassing everything from custom cabinetry and high-end appliances to exquisite flooring, sophisticated lighting fixtures, detailed trim work, and bathroom fittings.

These are the elements you interact with daily, the tactile experiences that transform a house into your home.

James, with his years of hands-on experience, broke down the numbers for a typical custom home in our region: "For most custom homes, you should expect to budget anywhere from $200 to $400 per square foot." 

He immediately qualified this, noting that this range is influenced by several critical factors: the experience level and reputation of your chosen builder, the specific construction methods employed (e.g., conventional stick-built, insulated concrete forms, or more specialized techniques), and, crucially, the uniqueness and complexity of your design. A simpler, more traditional footprint will naturally fall on the lower end. At the same time, a highly bespoke, geometrically intricate design will push towards the higher end.

" Complexity and customization are significant cost drivers."

For instance, think about engineered retaining walls on a sloped lot, or highly unique, open-concept layouts with extensive structural steel. These aren't just aesthetic choices; they often require specialized engineering, more skilled labor, and more expensive materials.

Challenging sites, especially those with significant elevation changes or unique geological conditions, will almost always incur higher development costs, even before the first stud is put up. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about your custom home design and budget.

The key takeaway? Early, honest conversations about your priorities. This sentiment was powerfully echoed by Jay Zimmerman, a seasoned homeowner and Reynard client who joined the panel.

"Pay me now or pay me later,"  

Making smart investments upfront in the things that are difficult or impossible to change later on is a good rule of thumb, according to Jay. Things like ceiling height, window placement for optimal natural light, or structural upgrades that allow for future flexibility—these are 'pay me now' items. They fundamentally shape the feel and function of your home. This stress on early, honest conversations can make homeowners feel informed and prepared for the custom home building process.

Finishes? Those are much easier to change five or ten years down the line. You can constantly update a light fixture or re-tile a bathroom. But moving a load-bearing wall or adding a foot to your ceiling height after the fact is a monumental, costly undertaking." This principle guides smart budgeting for custom homes. It's about understanding where your actual value lies and allocating your resources accordingly.

The Architect's Role: Orchestrating Your Vision, Beyond Just Blueprints

A recurring question from our attendees centered on the scope of an architect's involvement, particularly regarding interiors. "How much does your architect handle when it comes to cabinetry, finishes, and décor?" was a common query.

James clarified the distinct, yet collaborative, roles within the custom home journey. "As architects, our primary responsibility is to shape the flow, form, and structural integrity of your home—the 'bones,' if you will," he explained. "We define the layout, the room adjacencies, the window and door placements for light and views, the rooflines, and the overall architectural style. We ensure the house functions seamlessly and is structurally sound." This emphasis on the architect's role can provide reassurance to homeowners about the structural integrity of their custom home.

However, when it comes to the intricate world of interior finishes, materials, furniture, and décor, James was pragmatic. "While we often have a strong aesthetic sense and can certainly advise on general material palettes, we typically recommend bringing in a dedicated interior designer (REYNARD recommends talking to Soulhouse for interior design selections) for those granular decisions." He emphasized that interior designers possess a specialized expertise in textiles, color theory, furniture sourcing, and creating cohesive interior schemes that align with your lifestyle and preferences. "They are masters of the details that transform a beautifully designed space into a truly personalized sanctuary."

Furthermore, he highlighted the crucial role of your general contractor in material selection. "Your contractor will be your go-to expert for understanding the practicalities, availability, and cost implications of various materials. They work closely with suppliers and subcontractors and can guide you on everything from specific flooring options to roofing materials, ensuring selections align with your budget and the home's performance goals."

The overarching message here is one of collaboration. Building a custom home is not a linear process with one person in charge of everything. It's an actual meeting of the minds where the architect, interior designer, and general contractor each bring their specialized expertise to the table, working in concert with you, the homeowner, to bring your vision to life. This integrated team approach means that each professional is responsible for their area of expertise. Still, they also work together to ensure that all aspects of your home, from the structure to the interior design, are cohesive and aligned with your vision.

Lessons from the Field: Homeowners Speak the Truth

One of the most valuable aspects of our webinar was hearing directly from Reynard clients Jay Zimmerman and Dawn Hawk. Their candid reflections bring the theory of custom home building to life, offering practical wisdom from personal experience.

Here are some of Jay's key takeaways so far after designing his home with Reynard.

• "Study your designs and 3D renderings thoroughly." He stressed that these visual tools are invaluable. "Don't just glance at them. Imagine yourself moving through the spaces. Does the kitchen layout suit your cooking style? Is there enough wall space for your art collection? Can you envision your furniture in those rooms? Ask for different perspectives. The more you immerse yourself in the design virtually, the fewer surprises you'll have during construction."

• "Stay engaged—ask questions and don't hesitate to request more clarity or revisions." James was emphatic that this is your home. "Don't feel shy or like you're being bothersome. If something isn't clear or if you have a nagging doubt about a design choice, speak up! It's far easier and cheaper to make a change on paper than after the foundation is poured. A good architect and builder will welcome your questions and appreciate your engagement."

• "Remember, you're building a home that should fit your lifestyle for years to come." This was a powerful reminder to think long-term. "Consider not just your current needs, but how your life might evolve. Do you plan to expand your family? Will you be hosting more often? Are you thinking about aging in place? These future considerations should inform design decisions today."

Get a glimpse of Jay's truly custom design that he and James developed for his custom home in Ellijay, GA

Another of Reynard's clients, Dawn Hawk, added her perspective, which echoed Jay's sentiments and added a few key points from her experience:

• "Take your time with research on land, builders, and architects." She highlighted the importance of due diligence. "Don't rush the investigative phase. Research potential land sites thoroughly, talk to multiple builders about their processes and portfolios, and interview several architects to find someone whose vision aligns with yours and whose communication style you appreciate."

• "Meet with multiple professionals before making a decision." This allows you to compare approaches, personalities, and pricing. "It's like any major life decision; you wouldn't buy the first car you see. Building a home is exponentially more significant, so invest the time in finding the right partners."

• "Clear, consistent communication is everything." Dawn shared that the most successful aspects of their project stemmed directly from an open dialogue with their team. "From weekly meetings to quick phone calls or emails, ensuring everyone is on the same page, understands expectations, and addresses issues promptly prevents misunderstandings and keeps the project moving smoothly."

Both homeowners stressed that the most successful custom home projects are born from a client-architect relationship built on trust, transparency, and a willingness to iterate. It's about being partners in the journey, not just a client-service provider dynamic.

Site Selection in North Georgia: More Than Just a Pretty View

Building a custom home, especially in a geographically diverse area like North Georgia with its mountains, lakes, and rivers, introduces unique considerations for site selection.

 It's not just about finding a plot with a stunning view; it's about understanding the land itself.

James and the group delved into several critical points:

• Surveying: "Get a detailed site survey," James urged. "And don't just get any survey; ensure it's a topographical survey that shows elevation changes, existing trees, and other natural features. You need to know your exact property lines, critical setbacks from roads or other properties, and any potential flood risks." He highlighted that what appears to be a minor slope on a sales listing may translate into significant grading costs or the need for expensive retaining walls once construction begins.

• County & HOA Rules: "Engage with local authorities and HOAs early" was another key piece of advice. "Every county has its own zoning ordinances, building codes, and permitting processes. Similarly, many homeowners' associations (HOAs) have strict architectural guidelines, material restrictions, and even specific timelines for construction. Ignorance of these rules is not a defense, and they can significantly impact your design and budget." Proactive engagement can prevent costly redesigns or delays down the line.

• Development Costs: "Sometimes a 'cheap' lot comes with hidden expenses," Jack added, underscoring a common pitfall. "That seemingly great deal on a remote piece of land might require extensive grading, bringing in miles of utility lines (water, sewer, electricity), or expensive flood mitigation measures. These 'hidden' development costs can quickly outweigh any initial savings on the land itself, turning a bargain into a budgetbuster." It's crucial to factor in these potential expenses when evaluating a plot of land.

• Lifestyle Needs: The discussion also addressed how the site affects daily living. "Consider factors like accessibility," James pointed out. "Is the driveway steep? Will it be difficult to navigate in inclement weather? If you have pets, is there enough yard space or safe areas for them? And if you're planning to age in place, is the site conducive to a single-level home or easy accessibility features?"

Dawn, ever pragmatic, shared an anecdote from their own journey.

Here's a sneak peak at Dawn's design that she and her husband developed with James Knight for their home in Talking Rock, GA

"Our initial dream was a large, unrestricted parcel," she recounted. "But after extensive searching, we found the perfect HOA lot for our custom home, with incredible views and amenities. Yet, we still had a desire for land where we could have animals, specifically goats! So, we ended up buying both—the HOA lot for our main house and an unrestricted neighboring lot for our 'goat farm.' It wasn't our original plan, but it truly gave us the best of both worlds."

Her story highlights the importance of staying flexible and open-minded—sometimes your dream property is different from what you first imagined, or it's a creative combination of solutions that works.

avigating HOAs: The Art of the Possible (and the Power of a Fruit Basket)

Homeowners' Associations (HOAs) emerged as a distinct topic. This realm can be both a blessing (protecting property values and neighborhood aesthetics) and a challenge (sometimes perceived as overly restrictive).

Jay Zimmerman, a webinar attendee, raised a great question that resonated with many: "How do you deal with HOAs that go beyond written guidelines, offering subjective feedback on aesthetics or interpretations that seem arbitrary?"

James Knight provided practical strategies for navigating these waters:

• "Lean on what's written in the HOA rules," he advised. "Your first line of defense is always the official Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) document. If your design adheres strictly to the published guidelines, you have a strong case. Use existing neighborhood examples as precedent if other homes have similar features that were approved."

• "Approach conversations collaboratively, not adversarially." This was a crucial piece of advice. "Go into discussions with the HOA board with a spirit of partnership. Frame your design choices in terms of how they enhance the neighborhood's character or how they align with the spirit of the guidelines, even if they're a fresh interpretation. Bringing well-prepared renderings and explanations of your design intent can make a huge difference."

• "Remember, HOAs exist to protect the neighborhood's character—but flexibility and communication are key." James acknowledged that HOAs have a legitimate purpose. "They are there to maintain certain standards and protect property values. Understanding their perspective can help. But that doesn't mean there isn't room for discussion or compromise. Clear, respectful communication often opens doors."

Tiny Homes & Custom Builds: The Cost Myth Debunked

The rise of the "tiny home" movement and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) has led many to believe that smaller homes automatically mean significantly lower costs per square foot. James Knight expertly debunked this common misconception.

"Thinking of building small?" he posed. "It's important to understand that tiny homes and ADUs can actually cost more per square foot than larger homes." 

This often surprises people. He elaborated: "When you're building a smaller footprint, especially if it's truly custom-designed, every single inch has to be incredibly efficient and highly functional. You're not necessarily saving on major systems like plumbing, electrical, or HVAC; you still need a kitchen, a bathroom, and all the basic utilities. But now, you're packing high-end, custom features and often complex built-ins into a very compact space."

Consider a luxury kitchen: the cost of appliances, cabinetry, and countertops doesn't scale linearly with the overall size of the house. A high-end kitchen in a 1,000 sq ft home might cost as much as the same kitchen in a 3,000 sq ft home, driving up the per-square-foot cost dramatically for the smaller dwelling. The same applies to bathrooms, specialized storage, and multi-functional spaces.

James also offered practical advice for those considering smaller builds:

• Always check the neighborhood's minimum and maximum square footage requirements. "Many communities, particularly those with HOAs, have regulations on the minimum or maximum square footage for primary residences or ADUs. You don't want to design your dream tiny home only to find it doesn't meet local requirements."

• Be realistic about the amount of space you'll need. "While the idea of minimalism is appealing, truly assess your lifestyle. If you have pets, hobbies that require space (like crafting or woodworking), or plan to age in place and might need space for a caregiver or adaptive equipment down the road, a truly 'tiny' home might become restrictive rather than liberating." He emphasized that a custom home should grow with you, or at least comfortably accommodate your foreseeable future.

Final Thoughts: Research, Communication, and Collaboration – The Pillars of Your Dream Home

There are no shortcuts to a truly custom home. This isn't a quick transactional purchase; it's a significant investment of time, resources, and emotion.

The journey demands diligence and active participation from the homeowner.

Some "musts":

• Do your research: Dive deep into understanding land considerations, architectural styles, material options, and the reputations of potential partners.

• Build the right team: Surround yourself with experienced, trustworthy professionals—an architect whose vision aligns with yours, a general contractor with a proven track record, and potentially an interior designer to perfect the details. This team is your foundation for success.

• Communicate openly: Establish clear lines of communication from day one. Be transparent about your budget, desires, concerns, and any feedback you may have. Encourage your team to do the same. Consistent, honest dialogue is the single most significant predictor of a smooth project.

• Be prepared to adapt as you go: Custom building is a dynamic process. Unforeseen site conditions, material availability challenges, or even evolving preferences on your part mean that flexibility and a willingness to adapt are crucial. Embrace the iterative nature of design and construction.

The result of this dedicated effort, this thoughtful process, and this collaborative spirit? A home that's not only beautiful, functional, and structurally sound, but also perfectly tailored to your life. It will be a sanctuary that reflects your unique personality, supports your daily rhythms, and brings you joy for decades to come.

At Reynard Custom Homes, we are passionate about making this journey a rewarding one. We invite you to join us for our next "Ask An Architect" webinar as we continue to demystify the custom home building process, one honest answer at a time. Your dream home awaits, and we're here to help you build it.