12 Essential Resources to Read Before Building Custom Homes

August 30, 2023

Building a custom home is an exciting endeavor that allows you to create a living space tailored to your unique preferences and lifestyle. However, embarking on this journey requires careful planning and informed decision-making. To ensure you’re equipped with the knowledge and insights necessary for a successful custom home build, we’ve compiled a list of 12 amazing resources that you should read before breaking ground. From design inspiration to budget management, these resources cover a wide range of topics to guide you through the process.

1. Architectural Digest

Architectural Digest is a treasure trove of design inspiration and architectural marvels. Explore their collection of stunning custom homes to get ideas for layouts, materials, and aesthetic elements that resonate with your vision.

2. Houzz

Houzz is a fantastic platform for discovering design ideas, connecting with professionals, and finding the right home products. Explore their extensive photo galleries and articles to gather inspiration for every aspect of your custom home.

3. HomeAdvisor

HomeAdvisor offers valuable insights into the construction process, providing tips on hiring contractors, estimating costs, and managing your budget effectively. Their articles are a great resource for navigating the financial aspect of building a custom home.

4. The Spruce

For practical advice on home improvement and maintenance, The Spruce is an excellent resource. Explore their articles on construction techniques, material choices, and tips for making informed decisions during the build.

5. Fine Homebuilding

Fine Homebuilding is a publication dedicated to providing in-depth insights into home construction and remodeling. Their articles cover a wide range of topics, including design, construction techniques, and energy-efficient building practices.

6. Builder Magazine

Stay updated on the latest trends, technologies, and industry news by reading Builder Magazine. This resource offers a comprehensive view of the homebuilding industry, helping you make informed decisions throughout the custom home building process.

7. Green Building Advisor

If sustainability is a priority for your custom home, Green Building Advisor offers expert advice on eco-friendly building practices, energy-efficient systems, and environmentally conscious materials.

8. Pinterest

Pinterest is a visual playground for design enthusiasts. Create boards to gather inspiration for various aspects of your custom home, from exterior facades to interior decor. Follow design trends and explore a world of creative ideas.

9. National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)

The NAHB website provides a wealth of information on home construction and industry standards. Their resources cover topics like home design, building codes, and advocacy for builders and homeowners alike.

10. This Old House

This Old House combines renovation, remodeling, and home improvement expertise. Explore their articles and videos for step-by-step guides on construction techniques, repairs, and remodeling projects.

11. Houseplans.com

Houseplans.com offers an extensive collection of pre-designed house plans that you can customize to suit your needs. Browsing through their catalog can provide insights into layout options and architectural styles.

12. YouTube – Home Building Channels

YouTube hosts a variety of channels dedicated to home construction and DIY projects. Channels like “Home Repair Tutor,” “Matt Risinger,” and “HomeBuildingHero” offer practical advice, tutorials, and real-world insights from experienced builders.

Conclusion:

Building a custom home is a monumental undertaking that requires careful planning and research. By immersing yourself in these 12 amazing resources, you’ll gain the knowledge and inspiration needed to create a home that perfectly reflects your vision, while also making informed decisions along the way. From design concepts to budgeting strategies, these resources will serve as your compass on the exciting journey of building your dream custom home.

Shelby Website

Shelby Construction, Inc.’s mission is to provide the finest renovations and new builds while keeping close communication with each client throughout the project, creating a trusting relationship from start to finish. Shelby Construction began as a vision of three friends to provide remarkable construction and build long lasting partnerships with their clients.

At Shelby, we know the first step to any project is to have sound planning. We leverage our more than 40 years experience in residential and commercial construction to offer an end-to-end client experience that starts with understanding your project and its needs. We then walk our clients through the steps timely and with full transparency so that their dream goes from concept to reality smoothly and confidently.

The information provided in this blog or website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Consult local and state rules and laws for more information.