Builder & Architect Collaboration

The couple selected Speight Architecture to assist them with the architectural design. The design process began with an extensive questionnaire that explored how they would use the home.  Katie described it as a “comprehensive ten page working document that formulated the basis for their design concepts.”  Stephanie Cook, the project’s architect, literally walked them through the house, on paper.  With her initial hand-drawn designs, they were able to envision how each room could be utilized or adapted to meet their needs. 

The design process continued as they selected their builder, Mueller Homes.  The couple interviewed several builders but felt that Mueller had the most transparent approach.  “Their craftsmanship really stood out and we liked their utilization of technology to streamline the process.  In addition, we really connected with PJ [president of Mueller Homes] and felt confident he and his team would truly carry out our vision,” notes Katie.

Working collaboratively, the team was able to further refine certain aspects and details of the design to appeal to Katie’s preferences for transitional styles.  The garage design was changed from a traditional L-shaped structure to a V-shaped element. The peaks and windows on the front of the house were softened, and an overhang was added to the front porch.  In the rear of the home, a pergola was added to the patio and the screened porch would be an extension of the family game room.  All of these discussions took place, as a team, so a variety of input and scenarios were considered, before the final plans were completed. 

Paul Mueller, Jr., president of Mueller Homes, notes, “We focus on the collaborative process and find that when we can really work as a team, it provides a rewarding experience for everyone involved.”  The couple noted that the collaboration between the builder and architect was always solutions-oriented and made the entire construction process easy and communicative.

Unique Design Capabilities

The original plans called for a ship lap ceiling, which Katie loved.  Mueller suggested they carry these architectural elements into other rooms of the home so the designs were further customized to add subtle nautical elements throughout the home, with uniquely handcrafted details.  For example, the living room built-in bookshelves have a ship lap background.  The stairs have a nautical board and batten design that beautifully combines form and function, with the integration of hidden doors that lead to the crawl space and attic.  Two custom benches were built into the game room and upstairs hall while the mudroom, office, and closets were all custom built to maximize space, enhance the design, and create functional use of these spaces.

Design Selections

Katie had a very clear, intentional design style and utilized Mueller Homes’ design services to assist with the selections process.  She comments on the ease of this process, “Kalyn would help us schedule appointments at showrooms.  She would give me a heads up about what we would be selecting, and my budget, so that I had time to research and gather ideas ahead of time.  When I arrived at the showrooms, she typically had samples or ideas already laid out for me to make the selections process so easy.”  Much of the furniture and accessories in the home were culled from popular brands like Serena & Lily and Pottery Barn.

The Overall Process

Katie noted that the overall building process, working side by side with Speight and Mueller, never felt overwhelming.  Although they had to work through a lot of post-covid challenges, with some supply issues, everything was handled in bite-sized pieces, and every challenge was met with a solution.  The communication was outstanding, and she felt like everyone on the team was approachable and solutions-oriented.

Today, this family heirloom of a priceless waterfront location, has been transformed into the perfect home and lifestyle.  She imagines the kids will spend a lot of time outdoors in the summer; boating, swimming, and having friends over, as the years go by.  Zach is already enjoying his man-cave style game room, complete with a hidden bar, which was a unique element added during construction.  Katie enjoys quiet time, in the sunroom, watching the fire and the water at the same time.  Life doesn’t get much better than this!