Famous architects and builders might have some name recognition but it’s not nearly at the level of famous artists or musicians. Somehow, these visionary minds are not always household names. There’s a few, perhaps, that have reached that level. And yet, the work of many of these architects affects our lives in a much more real way than, say, Picasso. That’s because, over time, the ideas and visions of architects have been adopted into common design or modified and molded to inhabit the very living spaces that provide us shelter every day. Here at Villa Custom Homes, we are inspired by the building process and the way that visions come to life. It’s why we love doing what we do.
When it comes to Southwest style homes, the design features are relatively well-known and common across the board. You have your pueblo-style features, vigas, wood features, wood floors, concrete floors. From rammed earth construction to Venetian plaster to faux finish, Vigas, and Latillas. Most people would recognize a Southwest style home as such if they drove by it.
And with the many homes we work on every year, we find that the process itself is fulfilling and a great part of our job. As the old saying goes, it is the journey, not the destination.
It All Begins With a Conversation
Custom home building is a journey for both the builder and soon-to-be homeowner of a brand-spanking-new home. And it all begins with a conversation. Because just like so many brilliant ideas in human history—like penicillin, corn flakes, and the slinky (all accidental inventions)—the beauty and brilliance of your home begin as a kernel of an idea. So we discuss both the technical stuff and the fun stuff. That is, we go over design themes, major features you’re looking for, style, material, as well as budget, timeframe, and price. Another plus is Villa Custom Homes is a cost-plus and fixed fee builder.
Then, the fun begins. This is when we get to create, build, and bring what was once a possibility, a maybe, a “one day” dream, into the real world.
Phase 1: Preparation, Construction Site, and Foundation
Depending on the materials you have chosen for your home and whether you are building rammed earth home or not, we need to make sure that the land is ready to be built on. This also depends on the condition of your lot. Using a skid steer, loader, or heavier equipment, the ground crew will clear the site of rocks, debris, and trees. The crew will also clear everything for the septic system if need be. The site is then leveled and wooden forms are also put up for the foundation. The first phase is all about getting started on the right foot and setting the right path to follow. So we have the floor systems, walls, and roof systems set up. Then, plumbing infrastructure and the concrete is poured and cured.
Some of this may not apply if your home is rammed earth, as this type of construction is a little different. There is still the use of some wooden form, but once the soil is poured and packed, that can be removed. What you are left with is an incredible and form-lasing structure that will stand the test of time, weather, and more. After all, the Great Wall of China was built using rammed earth, so your house will be incredibly sturdy.
Phase 2: Complete Plumbing, Electrical HVAC
Once the shell or skeleton of the house is up, then it’s time for the second layer of fun stuff that is your pipes, electrical work, and the heating and cooling system. This phase includes the pipes and wires, sewer lines and vents, water supply lines, ductwork, HVAC vent pipes, and more.
Phase 3: Siding and Roofing
At this point, it begins to really take shape but still seems pretty unrecognizable to the final plans.
Phase 4: Installing Insulation
Again, this depends on what kind of material your home is, but you will more than likely be getting some insulation. We might use fiberglass, cellulose 0r foam. Insulation, of course, will play a major part in creating a comfortable and consistent indoor climate. Also, it will save you money on energy.
Phase 5: Complete Drywall
Any needed drywall is hung and taped and the texturing is completed. You’ll have the primer coat of paint also applied here.
Phase 6: Interior Fixtures
Now we’re getting to the fun stuff, as the final product is almost done. You’ll have interior doors, window sills, door casings, and decorative trim installed along with your choice of cabinets, vanities, and fireplace. Then, you’ll have any hard surface flooring, countertops, and more.
Phase 7: Final Details
This includes mirrors, shower doors, flooring, and any outside landscape. We’re almost getting to the end here.
Walk Through Your Vision Brought to Life
The final walkthrough is always an exciting time for most homeowners. This is when you get to see the final product in its final stage almost ready to be lived in.
Get the Right Build With Villa Custom Homes
From the ground up, we love to watch as our houses grow from an idea and a conversation to reality. Villa Custom Homes are focused on quality and longevity. Our rammed earth homes or wood frame homes are one of a kind and built using a precision process. Every detail matters. Ready to see your home come to life? Give us a call today.