Behind the Design: #WestwingEstate

For our #WestwingEstate project, the vision was a transitional aesthetic with a modern mountain-side flair. Our goal was to incorporate amazing architectural elements that add warmth and a cozy feel without veering into too rustic territory. By layering organic textures, timeless materials, and thoughtful details, we created a home that feels both inviting and elevated. Let’s take a closer look at how these elements came together by diving Behind the Design for our #WestwingEstate new build.

A Balanced Blend of Texture and Tone: Materials and Color Palettes

One of the most important elements of this home’s design was layering finishes and materials to create a welcoming feel without sacrificing durability. The clients emphasized the need for a well-balanced selection of elements that would stand the test of time while still feeling elevated and unique.

To achieve this, we incorporated natural elements such as brick, a statement stone fireplace, and beautifully tumbled stone flooring to provide a grounded, organic feel. To elevate the design further, we added layers of wallpaper, trim, and wood ceiling accents, tying everything together seamlessly carefully balancing texture and tone.

Standout Spaces: The Primary Suite & Laundry Room Design

Among the many stunning spaces in this home, the Primary Suite stands out as a true highlight. The primary bathroom showcases dramatic veined tile in the shower, complemented by moody tile selections and unique vanities. The bedroom features a striking Roman clay-painted fireplace, adding an earthy touch.

Another unexpected gem in this home is the Laundry Room—designed to be as cozy as it is practical. With an apron-front sink, a mix of dark wood and warm white cabinetry, brick walls, and a shiplap ceiling treatment, no detail was overlooked. It’s a space that turns an everyday chore into an enjoyable experience.

The Clients’ Vision: A Forever Home for Generations to Come

After living in their current home for over 20 years, our #WestwingEstate clients were ready to transition into an elevated, custom-designed space that truly reflected their vision. Unable to find the perfect home on the market, they decided to build their dream home from the ground up. More than just a luxurious retreat, this home is designed to be a gathering space—one where holidays are celebrated, and future generations can grow up surrounded by beauty and warmth.

Our #WestwingEstate project is a testament to thoughtful design, where every element serves a purpose, and every space tells a story. A modern mountain retreat with transitional elegance, this design embodies the perfect blend of comfort, style, and timeless appeal.

Introducing our “Inspo to Install” Designer Series

At Alisha Taylor Interiors, we believe that great design is an ever-evolving journey. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our new “Inspo to Install” designer series—where we share the invaluable lessons we continue to learn as interior designers. From the early sparks of inspiration to the final install, we’re diving deep into the details that make luxury design both functional and beautiful.

What to Expect in the “Inspo to Install” Series

Design and construction go hand in hand, and understanding the intricacies of both is key to executing a flawless project. Through this series, we’ll explore:

Material Selection & Application: Guidelines for choosing the right materials, considering factors like durability, function, and layout.
New Build Must-Knows: Key considerations for specifying materials and finishes in custom homes, plus strategies for effectively communicating design vision to contractors.
Team & Workplace Success: Expert advice on building a thriving design team, fostering growth, and excelling as an employee in the industry.
Design Inspiration & Trends: A look at the creative influences and industry movements shaping our projects.

Bridging Creativity & Execution

Our goal with “Inspo to Install” designer series is to bridge the gap between creative vision and practical execution. Whether you’re a fellow designer, a homeowner starting the building journey, or a design enthusiast, this series will offer valuable takeaways to help us all navigate the world of interiors!

At Alisha Taylor Interiors, continuous learning is at the heart of what we do. We stay ahead of industry trends, refine our skills, and elevate our brand to keep up with the times and set ourselves apart. As a team, we strive for excellence, ensuring we deliver the best design experience for our clients.

Stay tuned as we share expert insights, lessons learned, and behind-the-scenes knowledge that turn inspiration into reality and bring “Inspo to Install” to life—because great design isn’t just about dreaming big, it’s about executing it beautifully.

Our Step-by-Step Process for Luxury Interiors

Creating luxury interiors is a personal experience and deserves a process that involves crafting a home that reflects your style, enhances your lifestyle, and stands the test of time. At Alisha Taylor Interiors, we guide you through a refined process that guarantees clarity, creativity, and seamless execution. From our first conversation to the final reveal, transparency is at the heart of everything we do—ensuring your expectations, budget, and timeline are always clear and well-managed.

NEW BUILD DESIGN PROCESS

Project Initiation & Architectural Creative Development

Client Inquiry & Initial Consultation

Our process begins with an inquiry form that helps us understand the scope of your project, including square footage, budget, and design goals. In our initial meeting, we evaluate the space, take measurements, and document “before” photos to establish a starting point.

Design Kickoff Meeting

We take a deep dive into your lifestyle, design preferences, and priorities. Reviewing inspiration images together, we shape the vision that will guide your home’s transformation.

Interior Design Development

Concept & Material Selection

We develop a comprehensive vision for each room, presenting storyboards that include furniture, lighting, and accessories. Premium materials like quartz countertops, high-end flooring, and curated paint colors are selected to align with the overall aesthetic.

Design Documentation

Technical Drawings & Design Book

We produce detailed floor plans, CAD elevations, and ceiling plans, compiling them into a comprehensive Design Book. This serves as the ultimate guide for your builder, ensuring precise execution.

Construction Phase

Builder Coordination & Site Visits

We work closely with your builder to review plans and oversee execution. Regular site visits allow us to confirm that every detail aligns with the approved design.

FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS DESIGN PROCESS

Building a luxury custom home is a marathon and completing the construction phase is merely the halfway mark—crossing the finish line comes with a thoughtfully curated custom furniture and furnishings package that brings the entire vision to life, or the second half of the race, if you will.

Conceptual Design

3D Renderings & Visualizations

To ensure confidence in the design, we create realistic 3D renderings that bring your future home to life, incorporating every detail from furniture to artwork placement.

Detailed Design

Layout Planning & Sourcing

We finalize furniture layouts, ensuring an intentional and cohesive flow. Our team sources high-quality, custom furnishings that elevate your home’s aesthetic.

Procurement

We handle the ordering, inspection, and delivery of all selected pieces, ensuring they meet our quality standards before placement.

Installation & Delivery

The transformation comes to life as our team carefully installs each element. The final step is a personalized walk-through, ensuring every detail aligns with your vision.

At Alisha Taylor Interiors, our expertise, transparency, and commitment to excellence make the design process for luxury interiors seamless and enjoyable. We believe in creating homes that are not only stunning but deeply reflective of the people who live in them.

Luxury Home Collaboration Between Construction & Interior Design

Luxury home collaboration between construction and interior design ensures a seamless blend of architectural integrity and sophisticated interiors, resulting in a truly extraordinary home! Building a luxury custom home is more than just laying a foundation and selecting finishes—it’s about crafting an environment that reflects your lifestyle, elevates functionality, and radiates timeless beauty. The most successful high-end new build projects are the result of a seamless collaboration between the builder, architect, and interior designer from the very beginning of the project.

Why Your Dream Team Matters from Day One

In luxury custom homebuilding, every detail is intentional. By selecting your builder, architect, and interior designer at the very beginning, you ensure that the vision remains cohesive throughout the entire process. Here’s why this luxury home collaboration is essential:

A Unified Vision: When all key professionals are involved from the start, we can work together to create a home where architecture, construction, and interiors align perfectly.
Efficiency & Problem-Solving: Early collaboration allows for proactive solutions rather than costly revisions later. Design challenges can be addressed in real time, ensuring a smoother process. It’s easier to change things on paper, than in the field!
Luxury-Level Customization: Luxury custom homes require intricate details, specialty materials, and custom finishes. Having the full team engaged early makes sure that these elements are incorporated into both the construction and interior design plans.

Three Key Considerations When Building a Luxury Custom Home

As you begin the journey of building your dream home, keep these expert tips in mind:

Prioritize Quality Over Trends – Timeless design and excellent craftsmanship will stand the test of time. Work with your team to select high-quality materials and finishes that maintain their elegance for years to come. If budget is a concern, our job as your team is to educate on where to splurge and where you can implement more cost-effective materials to stay under budget, while getting the home you’ve dreamed of.
Invest in Space Planning & Flow – Luxury isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about how a home functions. As luxury interior designers, we consider how each space connects and ensure a layout that enhances both comfort and usability. As you’ve probably noticed, we love to use the word “intentional” in our design vocabulary. Every decision has an underlying intent.
Think Beyond the Build – Furniture, furnishings, and accessories should be considered early in the process to complement the architectural elements. This forward-thinking approach prevents last-minute compromises. As full-service interior designers, we view the new build as only the foundation—completing the home with a thoughtfully curated furniture package is the final, essential step.

Bringing It All Together

Luxury homebuilding is an art form, and the best results come from a collaborative approach. By involving your builder, architect, and interior designer from day one, you create a seamless, high-end experience that results in a beautifully designed, expertly crafted home. When every detail is carefully curated from the start, your dream home becomes a reality—one that’s both stunning and effortlessly functional. Building a custom luxury home is a journey that requires patience and precision, much like a marathon rather than a sprint.

Are you ready to design your luxury dream home? Submit an inquiry on our Contact Us page, and receive our Welcome Packet with the next steps!

BEHIND THE DESIGN: #UrbanRanch

Inside Our #UrbanRanch New Build

Designing the #UrbanRanch project wasn’t just about building a house—it was about creating a heartfelt, functional home for a lively family of four. With two energetic boys running around and a love for hosting everything from family gatherings to work events, this young family needed a space that could keep up with their busy, joyful lives. Our goal was to craft a home that’s both a sanctuary for the everyday and a stage for those big life moments.

Grounded in neutrals, the #UrbanRanch design may look like an understated elegance, but don’t let that fool you. This home has its share of vibrant surprises! From funky tiles in the game room bar to bold wallpaper in the pool bath, the family’s openness to playful accents added personality in all the right places. The result is a blend of durability and style, where every surface can withstand a bit of roughhousing while still looking polished enough for a dinner party.

The Showstopper Moment

Among all the amazing spaces in this home, the primary suite bathroom steals the spotlight! At its heart is a beautiful 3D tile design framing the vanities. It’s a bold, sculptural choice that elevates the room into something truly special—a perfect reflection of the client’s willingness to embrace unique design moments. This bathroom promises to be a showstopper!

The clients behind the #UrbanRanch are as charming as their new home. With two boys constantly on the go and a passion for community, they needed a space that could grow and adapt with them. Finding a spacious lot in a beloved neighborhood was the first step. The #UrbanRanch is more than a home—it’s the backdrop for a lifetime of memories, from backyard soccer games to celebratory dinners around the table. It’s a project that perfectly captures the essence of a family’s dreams and turns them into a beautiful reality.

At Alisha Taylor Interiors, our goal is to make each one of our clients feel at home in their living space. Through our personalized design process, we work to create homes that are unique, timeless, and reflective of the people who live in them.

We believe that your home is the one place you can escape to after a long day, a place to host and gather with family and friends, and a place that represents growth, memories, and stability. We do what we do in order to make your home beautiful and livable for the life you want to live within its walls.

Understanding the Difference Between a $75,000 and a $150,000 Furniture Budget

When designing great room and dining furniture plans, the furniture budget plays a significant role in shaping the outcome. Whether you’re considering a “gently priced” budget ($75,000) or a “luxury-priced” budget ($150,000), both approaches create beautiful results. The choice ultimately comes down to quality, quantity, and style. Budget not only determines the caliber of materials and craftsmanship but also influences the level of customization and the designer’s ability to curate unique, statement-making pieces. Each budget tier offers its own version of beauty and functionality, ensuring that the space truly reflects your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.

$75,000 Furniture Budget — $75,000 Room Budget

$150,000 Furniture Budget — $150,000 Room Budget

Quality of Materials

One of the most notable differences between these two budget tiers is the quality of materials. In a $75,000 design, furnishings often come from reputable, yet accessible brands that offer high-quality, durable pieces. For example, sofas may feature sturdy hardwood frames with polyester or blended fabric upholstery, while dining tables may be crafted from solid wood with simpler finishes.

In contrast, a $150,000 design allows for premium materials such as hand-tufted rugs, custom-made furniture, and upholstery crafted with luxury textiles like linen or velvet. Dining tables might showcase intricate craftsmanship, inlaid details, or rare wood species. These elements enhance the tactile and visual experience of the space, offering heirloom-quality pieces into the design.

Scale and Number of Pieces

Square footage and furniture needs also influence the budget. A $75,000 design is ideal for a moderately sized space, offering well-planned layouts with all the essential pieces. This may include a sofa, a couple of accent chairs, a coffee table, a dining table with seating for six, and a few decor accents like lamps and area rugs.

A $150,000 design accommodates larger or more intricate spaces. It includes additional seating, custom-built storage solutions, and layered decor such as curated artwork, decorative lighting, and statement pieces that make the room truly unique.

Style of Home and Design Complexity

Finally, the architectural style and overall design complexity of your home play a crucial role. A $75,000 design often leans on timeless, versatile aesthetics that seamlessly blend into various styles. In contrast, a $150,000 design embraces unique elements tailored to your home’s character, whether that’s a modern minimalist aesthetic or a richly layered traditional style. The luxury budget also allows for carefully curated and intentional layers & textures that add depth to the furniture design.

A Perfect Fit for Every Budget

Both gentle & luxury pricing tiers provide thoughtful, professionally designed spaces that elevate your home. With a $75,000 design, you can expect a well-executed space that balances comfort, style, and durability, making it ideal for those seeking value-driven solutions. On the other hand, a $150,000 design allows for a deeper level of personalization, enabling you to integrate one-of-a-kind pieces, superior finishes, and artistic touches that transform the room into a statement of refined taste. The choice between these tiers hinges on your vision for the space—whether it’s a comfortable, polished design or a truly luxurious design that reflects your unique personality and needs. Ultimately, the decision is about aligning the design with your lifestyle and goals, ensuring the space feels like home.

Our Story at Alisha Taylor Interiors: Design Journey

As designers, we love sharing our design journey, from uncovering our clients’ unique stories to transforming their spaces into beautifully designed homes that reflect their personal style. We are Alisha Taylor Interiors, a full-service interior design firm in Scottsdale, Arizona, specializing in new build & full remodel design. With so many fresh faces joining us on social media, we wanted to take a moment to share our story—our design journey and the path that’s brought us to where we are today!

A few years ago, we underwent a name change and rebrand to better reflect the evolution of our company and the exceptional design work we’re known for today. From refining our detailed design process to embracing continuous learning, our journey has been all about growth, creativity, and delivering timeless, personalized interiors that bring our clients’ dreams to life.

The Evolution of Our Dream Team

What started as a one-woman dream has blossomed into a powerhouse team of seven, each with unique talents that elevate every project! Together, we’ve grown, learned, and refined our craft to design timeless, personalized interiors that perfectly capture our clients’ lifestyles. Our growth has brought fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table, ensuring that every design we deliver is as thoughtful as it is beautiful. With collaboration at the heart of our projects, we bring unique ideas together to create spaces that are both cohesive and functional.

Perfecting the Design Process

Over two decades of hard work, we’ve perfected a design process that turns dream homes into reality. It all starts with the Project Initiation Phase, where we dive deep into your vision with kickoff meetings to better understand you and your lifestyles. From there, the magic continues in the Interior Design Development Phase, complete with concept creation, material selection, and stunning 3D renderings to bring ideas to life. Finally, we compile every detail into a Design Book, guiding the Construction Phase to ensure everything is executed to perfection.

Never Stop Learning

Interior design never stands still, and neither do we! Our team is committed to staying ahead of the curve—learning new techniques, exploring fresh trends, and refining processes to keep delivering the best for our clients. This passion for growth ensures our designs are always timeless and creative—whether it’s for today, tomorrow, or years to come.

At Alisha Taylor Interiors, we’re proud of our journey and the incredible team we’ve built. With a commitment to excellence, a perfected design process, and a hunger to keep learning, we’re ready to turn even more client dreams into stunning realities!

Insights into Our Design Process and Team Growth

Our Interior Design Process at Alisha Taylor Interiors

The Design Process: Creating Your Dream Team | Alisha Taylor

What A Year! 2024 Designer Recap

As we reflect on 2024, we’re overwhelmed with gratitude for an incredible year filled with creativity, recognition, and meaningful connections. At Alisha Taylor Interiors, our passion for crafting spaces that blend both beauty and functionality allows us to create timeless, livable designs that reflect the unique lifestyles and personalities of our clients. From award-winning kitchens and custom homes to featured stories in prestigious publications, 2024 has been a celebration of our team’s dedication & vision. Here’s a look back at the highlights that made this year unforgettable.

Designing Excellence: A Year of Award-Winning Spaces

LUXE Red Awards

Regional Best Kitchen – Blue Sage Kitchen: This award celebrates excellence in luxury residential design. Our Blue Sage Kitchen was recognized for its blend of function and beauty, reflecting innovative craftsmanship and thoughtful details.

People’s Choice – Best Kitchen: Voted by the public (design enthusiasts and industry professionals), this award highlights how Blue Sage Kitchen resonated with a broader audience, showcasing its timeless materials and sophisticated design.

Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove: TOP 10 Entrant

As part of their global 2022-2023 Kitchen Design Contest, our Blue Sage Kitchen stood out among countless entries, earning a spot in the TOP 10 for the Southwest. This recognition underlines our ability to merge cutting-edge appliances with seamless design.

Gold Nugget Awards: Best Custom Home (5,000-7,000 sq. ft.)

Honoring the best in custom residential design, this award celebrated the Modern Sunset home for its exceptional layout, stunning natural materials, and integration of indoor-outdoor living.

Iconic Design Awards

Iconic Award – Modern Sunset Primary Bath: Recognized for its luxurious yet functional design, this bathroom combines natural elements with elegant finishes.

Gold Award – Modern Sunset Great Room: This award highlights the balance of warmth and luxury in the heart of this home, featuring sophisticated layers of texture and light.

Silver Awards – Pinnacle Peak Estate & Blackstone Estate: Both On-The-Boards designs were praised for their visionary layouts and approach to blending timeless elegance with modern functionality.

Arizona Masonry Council: Citation Award – Residential

This award celebrated our commitment to architectural integrity through the expert use of masonry. The project demonstrated how thoughtful material choices elevate both durability and design appeal.

Features That Tell Our Story

This year, our projects and expertise were celebrated across notable publications and design platforms, sharing the heart and soul behind our work:

Interior Collective highlighted the timeless charm of our Bella Vista Remodel.
The Haven List put the spotlight on our Blue Sage Kitchen, celebrating its sophisticated details.
Helser Brothers featured the beautiful DC Ranch Villa, showcasing its refined character and curated finishes.
Iconic Life Magazine explored the understated elegance of Blue Sage Estate.
Home Sweet Home Magazine interviewed us on the art of Modern Farmhouse design, offering insights into creating warmth and style in today’s homes.
Cambria Magazine celebrated the stunning craftsmanship of the Blue Sage Primary Bathroom, highlighting its natural elements and luxurious appeal.
Cameron Custom invited us to share our expertise on Architectural Details in a New Build, giving readers a behind-the-scenes look at design precision.

Each feature allowed us to tell our story, share our passion, and connect with a broader audience, showcasing how thoughtful design transforms everyday spaces into timeless homes.

As we look ahead to 2025, we remain committed to delivering exceptional designs that tell each client’s unique story and continue to elevate the art of interior design. Thank you for being part of our journey—here’s to another year of creating timeless luxury custom homes!

Building Tips for Luxury Homes

Creating a luxury custom home is a rewarding yet complex process that requires strategic planning, attention to detail, and collaboration with skilled professionals. Whether you’re envisioning a grand estate or a sleek modern retreat, these building tips for luxury homes will guide you through every step, ensuring the final product meets your highest expectations.

BUILDING TIPS FROM ALISHA TAYLOR INTERIORS:

1. Select the Perfect Location

The foundation of a luxury home begins with the right location. Consider factors such as views, privacy, neighborhood ambiance, and proximity to amenities. A well-chosen site not only elevates the value of your home but also enhances your everyday living experience.

2. Set a Realistic Budget

DO: Establish a comprehensive budget that accounts for all aspects of the project. This includes land acquisition, architectural fees, construction costs, and premium finishes.
DON’T: Overlook hidden expenses, such as permits and utility hookups. Planning for these ensures you avoid surprises during the build.

3. Prioritize Quality Over Cost

DO: Invest in high-quality materials and craftsmanship to create a home that will stand the test of time. Luxury is as much about durability as it is about aesthetics.
DON’T: Skimp on quality. Cutting corners to save costs can compromise the longevity and value of your luxury home.

4. Hire Experienced Professionals

DO: Assemble a team of trusted experts, including architects, builders, and interior designers with proven experience in luxury home construction. Their expertise ensures that every detail aligns with your vision and meets building codes.
DON’T: Rely on generalists for a specialized project. Luxury homes demand precise execution and innovative solutions.

5. Take Your Time in the Design Process

DO: Dedicate ample time to designing your home. Collaborate closely with your team to ensure every space reflects your style and serves your needs.
DON’T: Rush the design phase. Hasty decisions can lead to costly changes later or result in a home that falls short of your expectations.

6. Embrace Energy Efficiency

DO: Incorporate energy-efficient solutions, such as smart home technology, sustainable building materials, and high-performance appliances. Luxury living can coexist with eco-consciousness, offering long-term savings and environmental benefits.
DON’T: Assume luxury and efficiency are mutually exclusive. Today’s innovations make it easy to build a sustainable yet opulent home.

7. Maintain Clear Communication

Throughout the building process, ensure open and regular communication with your team. This fosters alignment on decisions and reduces the chances of misunderstandings or delays.

The Final Touch

Building a luxury custom home is a journey that demands careful planning, a commitment to quality, and the right professional support. By following these building tips for luxury homes, you can achieve a residence that is not only beautiful and functional but also a true reflection of your personal style.

At Alisha Taylor Interiors, we specialize in creating luxury homes tailored to your unique vision. Let us guide you through the process and bring your dream home to life.

Understanding Luxury New Build Costs

Along with Brady Fenn, Fenn Rogers Custom Homes, is a luxury home builder, Adam Kostis, Creative Director at Cosan Studio, a Scottsdale-based architectural firm, and our team discuss how our clients and industry professionals can navigate luxury new build costs.

The biggest question that we get in this professional field is, “How much is my luxury new build project going to cost?” And my short answer is, “I don’t know. We’ll add it up when it’s all done.” And that’s the case because there are so many unknowns. Brady and Adam are here to educate our readers about what to expect for a luxury new build budget.

As a custom home builder, Brady, how do you field those luxury new build costs questions?

Brady Fenn: The first few questions that we’ll need to be answered are, “What lot are you building on? What are the restrictions of your lot? Is it a flat lot? Is it easy to build on?” That’s kind of the first indicator of cost. The next indicator depends on your lifestyle. So, answering questions like, “What are you used to? What’s your current home like? Are you going to be building something similar to where they’re living now or is it going to be the next step to luxury?”

A question we like to ask to indicate the level of luxury is, “What appliance package are you used to?” That’s a big one. If it’s LG or it’s Sub-Zero, Wolf, then we know what type of client we’re dealing with and that can guide the cost of the project based on those expectations.

Yes, I agree. We navigate our clients’ budgets in the same way by really diving into what are they used to and what kind of lifestyle do they currently live or are expecting to live in their new build. What are you seeing for costs per square foot in this market right now from Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Queen Creek areas?

Brady Fenn: I think for us, we’re a little different kind of builder and the way we do things, but the bottom of what we could do starts at $350/sqft. But honestly, that’s getting harder to do. A year ago, that was a little bit easier to accomplish, but as prices and costs increase, and with so much demand, it’s getting hard to gauge. Ultimately, I would say the cost per square foot is in that $350 range up to even $1,200 a square foot. But with that being said, that cost includes the lot, the pool, and landscape design, whether this is a full turnkey package. There are just so many different variables to drive cost.

So many factors go into luxury new build costs. I like to use the analogy, “Well, how much would a car cost?” The response could be the cost of a Hyundai or the cost of an Aston Martin. So as the process goes on and as the designs from the architect and interior designer come in, we gather those little bits of knowledge to help to completely understand that budget and what level of luxury they want. My rule of thumb is to not be afraid of talking about budget and costs. As an interior designer, builder, architect, and especially as a client or homeowner, it’s important to tell your team what your expectations are. As an architect, Adam, how do you approach the conversation of budget with your clients?

Adam Kostis: The earlier we know [your honest budget] on the front end of things, the better. As architects and interior designers, we value your constraints. Our job solely is to understand your constraints and your wants & needs and be able to assemble them into one package.

We want to push you in the design ability. We want to give you all those bells and whistles within your constraints, but we might have to dial back a little bit as we work through it. And that’s where Brady, your builder, comes in and starts putting numbers to those sticks & bricks and we work together to stay within that budget.

By the end of it, we’ve got something that you’re proud of and fits within your budgetary constraints.

Absolutely. And unfortunately, no one has a magic wand. Costs are costs. If budget isn’t shared, you are leaving a lot of room for headaches and negative outcomes. We all either design or build on any reasonable budget. Just because you have a luxury builder that has done an $800/sqft, doesn’t mean they can’t do the $400/sqft build. It’s just about education, expectations, and communication within your team!

The Difference Between a Custom vs. Luxury Custom Home

Some may not know there’s a difference between custom homes & luxury custom homes. If you are building a new home, it’s important to know the differences and be honest with your budget and expectations. If you are ready to build your dream home, are looking forward to enjoying the process and the focus isn’t on the budget but on quality, then you are ready to build a luxury home.

Here is what to expect when building a Custom Luxury Home:

PROFESSIONAL TEAM

A luxury custom home build includes a team of professionals; an Architect, a Luxury Builder, an Interior Designer, and a great Landscape Architect. Each professional brings their expertise to the table working together to accomplish the most amazing house possible for the client. For luxury custom home projects, we advise our clients to hire the entire team upfront, before a floor plan is even drafted. This will ensure the best design from the beginning to end.

REDUCED STRESS AND TIME

The professionals and processes of a luxury home build are designed to alleviant stress and time required from the client. A professional interior designer will guide the client through all the aesthetic decisions before the build even starts. A luxury builder will educate and ensure the right quality products in construction are ordered ahead of time to ensure a smooth build schedule. The experience is to be enjoyed by the client as they lean and rely on the team of professionals they’ve hired.

PREMIUM DESIGN

Luxury custom homes are constructed & designed with high-end/premium materials, finishes, fixtures, and appliances. They are designed with true stylistic architectural details & quality craftsmanship. Luxury custom homes often include indulgent amenities such as well-equipped kitchens, gorgeous back kitchens, resort-style bathrooms, a designated movie theater, or a lavish home office. The design decisions are focused on the client’s lifestyle and desires.

COST

Due to their unique features and quality construction, luxury homes are listed above the median, in both cost and value. The use of high-end materials finishes quality craftsmanship, and customization throughout result in a higher budget per square foot. A luxury custom home builder and the client will work together to make sure construction details are done right versus putting the focus on cutting corners. A luxury custom home budget is not about the sky being the limit, it’s about a really smart budget that is centered around quality.

If you’re considering building a new home, it’s important, to be honest about your expectations around quality, stress, and budget. Are you expecting a luxury custom home build experience or does building a custom home without the tag of ‘luxury’ attached fit you better? We work with both types of clients and part of our job as designers is to help navigate our client’s expectations and goals. What fits one client doesn’t fit another so no matter what type of home you are building the best advice we can give you is to communicate expectations upfront to all professionals hired and then listen and be willing to learn along the way.

The Price of Luxury: What to Know About Furniture Costs for Custom Homes

When it comes to luxury living, furniture costs are more than just numbers—they’re the price of transforming a house into your dream home, one stunning piece at a time! High-end furnishings will elevate and create a more functional and enjoyable living space. When working with our luxury design firm, our clients benefit from access to exclusive materials, designer furnishings, and a curated selection of items that wouldn’t be available to the general public. We bring our expertise in sourcing unique pieces, coordinating a cohesive look across different spaces, and ensuring that each piece aligns with the home’s overall design vision.

However, with luxury design comes an array of associated costs and fees that are often unique to the high-end market. From the procurement and shipping of items to professional handling, installation, and customization options, furnishing a luxury home involves detailed planning and coordination. These costs reflect the added level of service, exclusivity, and quality assurance that our firm provides, ultimately creating a seamless and elevated home experience.

Today, we will break down what to expect in terms of typical luxury furniture costs & fees, so you can plan your investment with confidence.

What to Consider for Your Furniture Costs & Budget

The general industry benchmark for a full home furnishings package in a luxury custom home falls between $60 and $100 per square foot. This estimate includes the cost of furniture, furnishings, and other essentials, but specific costs can vary based on your home’s unique needs and preferences.

For example, a 5,000 sq. ft. home at the lower end ($60 per sq. ft.) would result in an estimated $300,000 for the entire furnishings package. Within this budget:

$225,000 might be allocated for product purchases, divided by room (e.g., $28,000 for a primary suite, $80,000 for a great room and kitchen, etc).
The remainder would cover taxes, procurement, furniture handling, and shipping.

Additional Fees To Expect from our Full-Service Furniture Design

Procurement Fee

Our Operations Director will manage everything from placing orders to coordinating deliveries. This service includes vendor confirmations, quality checks, and storage arrangements. A flat-rate procurement fee is added, allowing our team to manage the many details on your behalf.

Shipping and Freight Costs

Shipping costs can amount to approximately 5% of your product budget. These costs cover the furnishings transfer from various manufacturers to our design studio or designated warehouse.

Furniture Handling and Installation Fees

For our local clients, we add a percentage of the total product budget to cover the furniture handling, installation, storage, and final placement. This fee supports services like white-glove delivery, climate-controlled storage, and coordination with various installers (e.g., art and window treatment specialists). Similar fees may apply for out-of-state projects, but they’re passed directly to our client based on their local handling rates.

Additional Customization and Scope Adjustments

While every project is designed to be comprehensive, clients may wish to expand or adjust their scope after moving in. These additional furnishings or decor selections, often referred to as “Phase II,” are typically billed hourly at rates of $150 for designers and $250 for the lead designer.

Design Discounts and Warranty Support

As a luxury design firm, we pass along a percentage of our exclusive trade discounts, which often offset the costs of handling and installation fees. Additionally, we extend our manufacturer warranties for peace of mind, ensuring your investment is protected for years to come.

Furnishing a luxury custom home is like bringing your dream space to life—and thoughtful budgeting & planning help make it all possible. With our design and operations team handling every last detail, you can sit back and watch as style, function, and your unique taste come together for a luxury custom home that’s truly you.