The Power of Collaboration

A local builder once said, "Designing and building a custom home is the greatest group project of your life," and they couldn't be more right. It's a massive undertaking that can span years and cost millions of dollars.

Think back to group projects in college. Sometimes, one person did all the work, carrying the whole team across the finish line. Other times, everyone contributed equally, leading to an incredible final product where each person respected their partners. This ideal scenario is rare, both in academia and in the world of design and construction.

Yet, this is exactly the outcome every client wants: the very best. So, how can a client achieve that? The key is to understand the roles of the key players and how they must collaborate, as I’ll outline below.

The Team: Architect, Builder, and Interior Designer

• Architect: The architect sets the overall vision for the home. They determine where the house will sit on the property and design the exterior and overall structure. They also coordinate with structural engineers and other specialists to incorporate essential systems like electrical, mechanical, and plumbing. In short, the architect is responsible for the big, foundational decisions of the home's design.

• Builder: It's ideal to bring the builder in early, during the first or second phase of design. They are crucial for providing feedback on buildability and helping to create and manage the budget. They can offer practical insights that inform the architect's design process, and they'll keep the budget in check as the plans evolve.

• Interior Designer: The interior designer guides the client on the comfort and style of their home. They work closely with the architect to ensure the interior vision complements the architectural style. The interior designer provides detailed drawings and a budget for all interior elements, from finishes to fixtures. A great interior designer acts as a dedicated advocate for the client throughout the entire project. They are concerned about the home’s interior and comfort

How to Collaborate

Ultimately, trust is the most critical factor. It isn't built overnight, which is why it's essential to fully vet your architect, builder, and interior designer before you begin. Some ways to do this are by talking to previous clients, understanding their process and contract, and comparing against other professionals to get a big picture. The most successful projects are those where the entire team is brought to the table early, creating an environment where there is room for creativity, open communication, and honest conversations.

The TLDR version: architect = exterior + systems, builder = budget and execution, interior designer = interior + comfort. You need all for a well-designed home, bring them to the table early (yes, earlier than you think!).

Thanks for reading -

Montana