Embarking on the journey to design a custom home is a thrilling adventure—a canvas waiting to be painted with your unique vision and lifestyle. At Elevation, we understand that while this process is exhilarating, it can also feel like navigating uncharted waters. That's where our in-house design expertise comes into play. In this blog, we unravel the intricacies of the design process, whether starting from scratch or utilizing one of our meticulously curated plans. Join us as we explore the fusion of art and science that transforms dreams into tailor-made homes.
Understanding Your Unique Vision: The Foundation of Design
Before pen touches paper or cursor hovers over a screen, the design process at Elevation begins with understanding your unique vision. We recognize that your home is an extension of your identity—reflecting your needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Our team engages in thorough consultations to unravel the intricacies of your vision, ensuring that every aspect of the design aligns with your individuality.
Existing Plans as Inspiration: Jumpstarting the Creative Process
To alleviate the potential overwhelm that can accompany designing a custom home, Elevation offers a collection of in-house designs. These serve as not just finalized sets of plans but as catalysts to kickstart the creative process. Whether you find inspiration in one of these designs or opt to start from scratch, our goal is to provide a platform that sparks your imagination. These renderings offer a glimpse into the possibilities, showcasing the flexibility and adaptability of our design process.
In-House Designs: A Palette of Possibilities
Below are renderings of a handful of homes we have drawn in-house. Each design is a testament to the intentional curation for optimal functionality and comfortable living. Let's explore a few examples that highlight the diversity and versatility inherent in our in-house designs.
Design 1: The Modern Haven
A sleek and modern dwelling, this design prioritizes clean lines, open spaces, and an abundance of natural light. The seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living spaces invites a sense of connection with nature, creating a haven of contemporary elegance. This design is a starting point, ready to be personalized to suit your preferences, whether through material choices, interior layouts, or additional features.
Design 2: Timeless Elegance
For those drawn to classic aesthetics, this design embodies timeless elegance. Traditional architectural elements are combined with modern conveniences to create a home that exudes sophistication and warmth. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces caters to both functionality and aesthetic appeal, offering a canvas that can be tailored to accommodate your unique lifestyle.
Design 3: Rustic Retreat
If a rustic charm is more aligned with your vision, this design captures the essence of a retreat nestled in nature. Exposed beams, cozy nooks, and an emphasis on natural materials contribute to a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether situated in the mountains or by a tranquil lake, this design embraces the beauty of the outdoors while providing a comfortable sanctuary indoors.
From Vision to Reality: The Design Process Unveiled
The design process at Elevation is a collaborative journey—a dance between your vision and our expertise. Whether you choose an existing plan or opt for a fresh design, our team meticulously crafts a blueprint that marries functionality with aesthetic appeal. Here's an insight into the key stages of our design process:
Consultation and Vision Unveiling:
Thorough consultations help us unravel your vision. We discuss your lifestyle, preferences, and unique needs, ensuring that every element of the design is tailored to your individuality.
Inspiration and In-House Designs:
The in-house designs serve as inspiration, providing a starting point for the creative process. Whether you choose a design as is or use it as a launchpad, these renderings showcase the possibilities.
Personalization and Customization:
The heart of our design process lies in personalization. Every element of the design can be tailored to your liking—from floor plans and layouts to materials, finishes, and special features.
Technical Precision:
Beyond aesthetics, our team brings technical precision to the design process. Structural integrity, engineering considerations, and adherence to local building codes are seamlessly integrated into the blueprint.
Visualization through Technology:
Technology plays a pivotal role in our design process. Advanced software allows us to create 3D visualizations, offering you a virtual tour of your home before construction begins.
Client Collaboration:
Collaboration is at the forefront. We value your input at every stage, ensuring that the final design is a true reflection of your aspirations.
The End Goal: Exceeding Expectations
As we traverse the design process—from envisioning to personalizing and finalizing—it all converges toward the end goal: a tailor-made home that exceeds expectations. The fusion of functionality with aesthetic appeal, coupled with a commitment to precision and personalization, results in a residence that goes beyond bricks and mortar—it becomes a living, breathing embodiment of your dreams.
Designing a custom home is not just a task; it's a journey—an odyssey that transforms your dreams into the tangible reality of a home. At Elevation, our in-house design process is a testament to the marriage of art and science, where each stroke of the pen and line of code is dedicated to crafting a space that resonates with your unique vision. Whether you find inspiration in our existing plans or wish to embark on a wholly original design, our commitment remains unwavering—to create not just houses, but homes that are an extension of your identity. Join us in this exhilarating adventure, where the canvas of your dreams awaits the transformative touch of design expertise.
Embarking on the journey to build your dream home is an exciting venture, but the success of this endeavor hinges on a thorough understanding of your property. At Elevation Custom Builders, we recognize that each land parcel is unique, presenting a canvas of variables that can significantly impact the construction process. In this blog, we delve into the paramount importance of a comprehensive site analysis—a meticulous examination that forms the bedrock of our approach to residential construction.
Understanding Your Property: The Foundation of Elevation Custom Builders' Expertise
Before laying the first brick or hammering the initial nail, our team at Elevation Custom Builders places a profound emphasis on understanding your property. The intricacies of the land, the interplay of natural elements, and the potential challenges and advantages that the site offers all play pivotal roles in shaping the design and construction process.
Orientation and Sun Exposure: Harnessing Nature's Energy
One of the fundamental aspects we evaluate during a site analysis is orientation. Understanding how your property aligns with the cardinal directions allows us to harness the power of the sun strategically. This evaluation is not merely about optimizing natural light within your home but also considering the potential for active or passive solar features. By strategically positioning your home, we can enhance energy efficiency, reduce reliance on artificial lighting, and create a more sustainable living space.
Views That Inspire: Elevating Your Living Experience
Beyond the practical considerations, a site analysis at Elevation Custom Builders delves into the aesthetics. We meticulously assess the views your property offers, ensuring that your home capitalizes on the natural beauty that surrounds it. Whether it's the panoramic majesty of the mountains or the tranquility of a nearby lake, our goal is to seamlessly integrate these views into your living spaces, creating an environment that resonates with your vision of an ideal home.
Engineering Excellence: A Soil-to-Sky Evaluation
Engineering aspects are paramount in the site analysis process. We delve into the composition of the soil to understand its quality, assess drainage patterns to prevent potential issues, and evaluate utility access for seamless integration into your home. Our engineering background positions us to address these crucial elements with precision, ensuring that your dream home is not only aesthetically pleasing but structurally sound and resilient.
Alternative Perspectives: Navigating the Landscape with Elevation Custom Builders' Expertise
Whether you're in the early stages of shopping for land or have already purchased a parcel, our expertise and engineering background empower us to offer alternative perspectives. We understand that the vision you have for your home may encounter challenges or opportunities unique to your property. It is at this juncture that our team's experience becomes an invaluable asset, providing you with insights and solutions that align with your goals while respecting the nuances of the land.
Shopping for Land: Strategic Decision-Making
For those in the initial stages of searching for the perfect piece of land, our site analysis services become a strategic decision-making tool. We evaluate potential parcels based on their orientation, views, and engineering viability. This proactive approach enables you to make informed decisions, ensuring that the land you select aligns with your vision for a dream home.
Already Purchased a Parcel: Optimizing Your Investment
If you've already invested in a parcel, our site analysis is equally crucial. We navigate the specific challenges and opportunities your land presents, ensuring that your vision is harmoniously integrated with the unique characteristics of the property. From maximizing views to addressing engineering complexities, our goal is to optimize your investment and bring your dream home to life in a way that is both practical and sublime.
Crafting Your Dream Home, Grounded in Expertise
We recognize that the importance of a site analysis goes beyond a checkbox in the construction process—it is the compass that guides the journey of crafting your dream home. By understanding your property intimately, we navigate the complexities of orientation, views, and engineering with precision. Our expertise and engineering background empower us to offer alternative perspectives, ensuring that your dream home not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
In the realm of residential construction, the significance of a site analysis cannot be overstated. It is the foundation upon which the entire design and construction process rests. With Elevation Custom Builders, your dream home is not just a structure; it is a harmonious integration with the natural beauty and unique characteristics of your property. From soil to sky, we navigate the landscape with a commitment to excellence, turning the canvas of your land parcel into the masterpiece of your dreams.
Embarking on the journey of building your dream home is an exhilarating experience, and at Elevation Custom Builders, we are committed to making this journey seamless and rewarding. Whether you already own the perfect parcel of land or are in the process of finding it, our comprehensive process ensures that every step is meticulously planned, from the initial engineering considerations to the final walkthrough of your dream home.
Section 1: Engineering Excellence for Your Land
Understanding Land Variables:
At Elevation Custom Builders, we recognize that the success of any dream home begins with the land it's built on. Whether you're a landowner or in the process of finding the ideal parcel, our team assists in identifying crucial engineering variables that impact land utilization.
Site Visits and Analysis:
Scheduled site visits form a vital part of our process, providing an in-depth analysis of elements such as driveway grade, property access, drainage, utilities, and soil quality. Our engineering background ensures compliance with current city and county code requirements. We also consider environmental factors like sun exposure, solar considerations, views, and proximity to water features, ensuring a holistic approach to your dream home.
Empowering Informed Decisions:
Fully analyzing properties not only maximizes their potential for existing landowners but also empowers those yet to purchase land, helping them make informed and confident decisions about their investment.
Section 2: Crafting Your Dream Home Design
Conceptual Design Phase:
Moving beyond land considerations, our process delves into the conceptual design phase. Here, we collaborate to develop your house plans, incorporating structural engineering. Through multiple iterations and your valuable feedback, we bring your ideal floor plan and home design to life. For those who prefer an outside architect, we're more than happy to collaborate with them.
Stylistic Stage:
Entering the stylistic stage, we encourage you to share visuals and design inspiration, allowing us to understand your personal style and aesthetic preferences. Concurrently, this stage involves essential steps like soils testing and property surveys, ensuring that your dream home is built on a solid foundation.
Section 3: Budgeting and Transparency
Preliminary Estimate:
With the ideal floor plan and design established, our team creates a preliminary estimate based on current industry labor and material costs. This estimate provides a general overview of costs, allowing for necessary adjustments to align with your budget. It is important to note that market fluctuations can impact costs, making this budget preliminary and subject to changes.
Final Construction Documents:
Upon approval of the preliminary estimate and design, we proceed to create final construction documents and engineering specifications. These detailed documents are crucial for obtaining accurate estimates from our subcontractors.
Transparent Cost Breakdown:
Our complete estimate includes approximately 260 different line items, clearly defining and detailing costs and scopes of work/materials. A contingency line item, typically 3% of project costs, is included to cover unforeseen expenses. As a cost-plus design-build company, transparency is paramount, and each cost is presented clearly, with Elevation charging a contractor's fee as a percentage of the total.
Change Orders:
Any additional expenses chosen by the client after approval of the final estimate are handled through Change Orders. These changes are signed off by both the client and the contractor, ensuring transparency and agreement on alterations to the original plan.
Section 4: Construction and Client Communication
Obtaining Permits:
Once the final estimate is approved, our team obtains all required building permits and necessary approvals needed to commence construction.
Continuous Client Communication:
Throughout the construction process, our team maintains continuous communication with our clients. This includes in-person material selections facilitated by our design team, who work with clients in showrooms and our office. For long-distance clients, we are readily available via phone, email, and remote communication.
Selection Approval:
Critical to the construction phase, finishes such as materials, fixtures, and colors are documented with a Selection Approval. This detailed document includes specific items with images, prices (within budget), and any associated labor costs (also within budget). This approval is signed off by both the client and the contractor.
On-Site Supervision:
Our Superintendents play a crucial role in overseeing all work by subcontractors on the job site. They ensure the highest standard of quality, keep the project on schedule, and promptly address any unforeseen obstacles. Clients who cannot visit the job site have access to photos, videos, and progress reports via a private Client Portal on our website.
Section 5: Invoicing and Post-Construction
Monthly Invoicing:
Clients are invoiced monthly via email for completed work. Invoicing packets include copies of bills from subcontractors and suppliers, a cost tracking spreadsheet to monitor the budget, and a detailed description of each expense and its corresponding budget line item. This commitment to transparency ensures clients understand where their dollars are being spent throughout the project.
Project Completion:
Upon completion of construction and necessary inspections, a certificate of occupancy is issued. Elevation Custom Builders proudly welcomes clients to their new homes, marking the culmination of a collaborative and rewarding journey.
Building Lasting Relationships:
One of the most rewarding aspects of our work at Elevation Custom Builders is the opportunity to create lasting relationships with clients. Clients often become close friends, and our goal is to establish connections that continue long after clients have settled into their dream homes.
Building your dream home is a transformative experience, and the Elevation Custom Builders process is designed to make every step memorable, transparent, and rewarding. From the initial analysis of land variables to the final walkthrough of your dream home, our commitment to excellence ensures that your vision becomes a reality.
Embarking on the journey of building a custom home is an exciting venture, and one of the foundational decisions that can significantly impact the outcome is choosing the right piece of land. The process involves a careful balance of practical considerations, personal preferences, and an understanding of the land's potential. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the essential aspects of selecting the perfect parcel for your custom home, ensuring that your dream residence is grounded in a location that aligns with your vision.
Section 1: Defining Your Vision
Understanding Your Lifestyle:
Before you even begin the search for the ideal land, take a moment to reflect on your lifestyle. Consider your daily routines, hobbies, and the type of environment you envision for your dream home. Are you drawn to the tranquility of a rural setting, or do you prefer the vibrancy of an urban landscape? Understanding your lifestyle will help guide your search.
Establishing Priorities:
Different individuals prioritize different aspects when it comes to selecting land. Some prioritize proximity to work or schools, while others seek a secluded oasis away from the hustle and bustle. Outline your priorities clearly, considering factors such as commute, schools, amenities, and the overall ambiance of the neighborhood.
Budget Considerations:
Establish a realistic budget for both the land and the subsequent construction of your custom home. Keep in mind that factors such as location, accessibility, and available utilities can impact the cost of the land. Having a clear budget in mind will narrow down your options and guide your decision-making process.
Section 2: Location, Location, Location
Researching Locations:
Once your priorities and budget are defined, begin researching potential locations. Consider factors such as climate, local amenities, crime rates, and future development plans. Investigate the accessibility of the area, taking note of nearby highways, public transportation, and the overall convenience of the location.
Evaluating Neighborhoods:
Beyond the land itself, the surrounding neighborhood plays a crucial role in the desirability of a location. Assess the quality of schools, nearby parks, shopping centers, and the general atmosphere of the neighborhood. Engage with the community to gain insights into the local culture and lifestyle.
Future Development:
Consider the potential for future development in the area. While a quiet, undeveloped area may appeal to some, others might prefer a location with ongoing growth and improvement. Research any upcoming infrastructure projects, zoning changes, or developments that could impact the value and appeal of the land.
Section 3: Environmental Factors
Land Topography:
The topography of the land is a critical factor that can influence the design and construction of your custom home. Evaluate the slope, elevation changes, and the overall terrain to determine how well it aligns with your vision. Flat land might be ideal for certain architectural styles, while sloped land could offer unique design opportunities.
Soil Quality:
Conduct a thorough soil analysis to understand the soil quality of the land. Different soil types have varying implications for construction, drainage, and landscaping. A professional soil test can provide insights into potential challenges and help you plan accordingly.
Drainage Considerations:
Evaluate the drainage patterns on the land to prevent future issues with flooding or erosion. Poor drainage can lead to structural problems and impact the overall longevity of your custom home. Assess the natural flow of water and consider the implementation of proper drainage solutions.
Section 4: Infrastructure and Utilities
Access to Utilities:
Check the availability and accessibility of essential utilities such as water, electricity, gas, and sewage. The cost and feasibility of connecting to these utilities can vary based on the location and terrain. Understanding these factors will contribute to the overall cost of developing the land.
Road Access:
Assess the road infrastructure leading to the property. Consider factors such as road conditions, ease of access, and the proximity to major highways. A well-maintained and easily accessible road ensures convenience for daily commuting and future resale value.
Zoning and Building Codes:
Understand the zoning regulations and building codes applicable to the land. Zoning restrictions can impact the type of structures allowed, while building codes ensure that construction meets safety and environmental standards. Consult with local authorities or a professional to navigate these regulations.
Section 5: Natural Features and Aesthetics
Capturing Views:
Take advantage of the natural features and aesthetics of the land. Consider whether the parcel offers scenic views, natural landmarks, or unique features that align with your vision. The placement of your custom home should maximize these features, creating a harmonious integration with the environment.
Sun Exposure:
Evaluate the sun exposure on the land throughout the day and across seasons. Understanding the sun's path can influence the orientation of your custom home, optimizing natural light and energy efficiency. Consider both active and passive solar design principles.
Proximity to Water Features:
If your dream home includes a connection to nature, proximity to water features such as rivers, lakes, or ponds can enhance the overall appeal. However, be mindful of potential flood zones and regulatory restrictions related to water bodies.
Section 6: Seeking Professional Guidance
Engaging with Professionals:
Consider enlisting the expertise of professionals such as real estate agents, land surveyors, and architects. A real estate agent with local knowledge can guide you through available land options, while a land surveyor can provide critical information about the parcel's boundaries and characteristics.
Architectural Insight:
Engage with an architect early in the process to receive architectural insight into the land's potential. Architects can offer valuable advice on how the topography, orientation, and natural features can be incorporated into the design of your custom home.
Legal Consultation:
Before finalizing any land purchase, seek legal consultation to ensure a clear understanding of property rights, easements, and any potential legal constraints. Legal professionals can help you navigate the complexities of land transactions and protect your interests.
Section 7: Making an Informed Decision
Creating a Shortlist:
Based on your research, create a shortlist of potential parcels that align with your priorities and vision. Narrow down your options by considering factors such as location, environmental considerations, infrastructure, and aesthetic appeal.
Conducting Site Visits:
Visit the shortlisted sites to experience them firsthand. Assess the feel of the land, the surrounding environment, and its compatibility with your vision. Walk the boundaries, take note of neighboring properties, and visualize how your custom home could fit into the landscape.
Evaluating Cost vs. Value:
Consider the overall cost of acquiring and developing the land in relation to the value it brings to your custom home. Assess the long-term investment potential and resale value, ensuring that the chosen parcel aligns with your financial goals.
Due Diligence:
Perform thorough due diligence before finalizing any land purchase. This includes reviewing all relevant documentation, conducting additional soil tests if necessary, and verifying the legal status of the property. Due diligence ensures that you are well-informed and mitigates potential risks.
Choosing the right piece of land for your custom home is a pivotal decision that lays the foundation for your dream residence. By carefully considering your lifestyle, conducting extensive research, and seeking professional guidance, you can navigate the complexities of land selection with confidence. At every step of the way, Elevation Custom Builders is here to guide you through the process, ensuring that your custom home not only meets but exceeds your expectations. Let the journey begin – where dreams meet the perfect parcel, and the landscape becomes a canvas for your vision to unfold.
More like several hundred bottles, but we’ll get to that in a minute…
“Stop and smell the roses.”
“Enjoy the ride.”
“It's about the journey not the destination.”
We all know the idioms, but sometimes life can feel so busy (yes, the overused “b” word). We forget to slow down, lift our gaze and take it all in. Celebrate the little wins, ya know?
As builders we’re certainly guilty of the aforementioned, especially when we have a handful of jobs under construction—all in different phases—with a million decisions happening everyday, each intertwined in the workings of creating the final product. The dream home— shiny, polished and somehow better than ever imagined.
Of course we’re always going to be pushing toward the finish line, it’s the nature of our business after all, but it’s important to honor the milestones as they come. In this case, the milestone is in the form of a 1,500 pound wine rack.
The infamous wine rack.
The completed work of art in welder, Dave Claussen’s shop.
When we say we bring your vision to life, we mean it. In this case, one of our client’s visions was this incredible steel, custom wine rack they dreamed and drew themselves. It needed to accommodate holding several hundred bottles of wine, match the clean contemporary style they envisioned, span a finished size of 12 by 6.5 feet and be positioned on the wall above a countertop. Challenge accepted.
We knew we had the talent to create the work of art (one of our incredible welders, Dave Claussen), next came the engineering component. Structurally speaking we needed to make sure the home could support not just the weight of the wine rack itself, but also the full wine bottles it would be housing. After a bit of collaboration and troubleshooting with our Elevation team and expert carpenter, Catamount Carpentry, we had a plan in place.
Teamwork makes the dream work. All hands on deck to set the rack in place.
Fast forward a few months and it’s installation day. If you’re asking yourself, “how many people does it take to install a 1,500 pound wine rack?” It’s eight. The answer is eight burly men.
She’s beauty, she’s grace- she’s securely set in place.
It was a very long winter with a fair share of setbacks on this job site, and there are months of work ahead before our clients will be moving in, but in the meantime we’ll take the “win” of getting this wine rack situated. It’s a (really heavy) step closer to the overall vision of what will be a stunning home.
Oh, and that part about pausing, lifting your gaze and taking it all in? See below 😉
Long time locals, do you remember the “Howdy Partner” parking tickets? Back in the day the meter maids would leave a cutesy imitation parking ticket on first-time parking offenders with out of state license plates. A gentle reminder to our tourists to pay their meters before hitting them with an actual ticket. Gone are the days, but the sentiment is a nice encapsulation of the local Durango spirit. Friendly, welcoming and a wholesome nod to the old west cliché.
Our quintessential mountain town is continually growing (yes, to the dismay of some) but living here it’s easy to understand why others want to relocate to our little slice of heaven. Somehow the secret of the magic in these mountains made it’s way beyond our borders and continues to entice those looking for a more mellow pace of life.
As custom home builders we’re certainly a part of ushering these transplants into our community. Some building second or vacation homes, but many relocating full time. Of course there’s some education that comes with the territory when people do relocate.
“Yes, the City Market parking lot really is always that much of disaster…actually both are” or “Yep, a majority of restaurants do close by 9pm” or “No, it’s not unusual for us to get this much snow”. And “Durango Time” is absolutely a thing.
Facetious anecdotes aside, Durango does operate differently than most metropolitan communities, especially when it comes to construction. There aren’t a dozen different tile setters (at least that perform to our standards) to have bid jobs. Our welder who does custom work doesn’t have a website or a portfolio to show you because he’s a one man show working in the field all day. The painters do have to charge that much because material costs have increased and they also need to account for increasing costs of living.
We typically work with the same subcontractors on all of our projects because they’re the best of the best and our longstanding relationships equate to loyalty and exceptional work. So with that slower pace of life comes the acceptance that other things might be a little slower too, including shipments and freight. All this is said not to be snide, but realistic. Like all things in life, sometimes we have to make small compromises in order to focus on the bigger picture of what we want.
And on the flip side, us locals can choose to focus on the negatives of a growing and changing community, or we can embrace the change and welcome new neighbors with open arms and a “Howdy, Partner”, cliché and all.
