It may be dangerous to say so, but custom homes designed by independent architects generally hold the aesthetic edge over design/build projects. On the other hand, the design/build process typically gives clients better control of the budget. Andy and Emily Rosenthal combine the best of both worlds, matchmaking their clients with local architects they know and trust and shepherding them through design, product selection, and construction with an attentiveness that matches the best design/build firms.
The foundation of the Rosenthals’ design-team approach is their position as the first point of contact. Most of their work comes by referral from previous clients, and their contracts are negotiated rather than bid. “We’ve stopped getting in line with a bunch of builders in front of an architect,” Andy says. That allows the Rosenthals to turn the typical design-and-bid process upside down, helping new clients choose the architect who will best fit their taste and budget.The option of working with a “builder set” of drawings, rather than a more extensive bid set, saves clients money right off the bat.
But the Rosenthals do more than just drop customers on the architect’s doorstep. “I spend a huge amount of time with the client,” Emily says. “I go to all the design meetings. I never leave them alone.” By providing immediate cost feedback on design matters, the Rosenthals keep projects running straight down the rails. “Most of our clients have friends who have blown their budget,” Emily says. “I’m constantly giving them prices as we go through.” On kitchens, for example, “I don’t use allowances in my specifications. I use specific makes and models.” Clients can opt for upgrades, but there is nothing hypothetical about the basic spec. “We leave as little to chance as possible,” Emily says. Keeping the budget in clear focus at all times not only saves clients from spending more than they want to, but also helps them get the most for what they do spend. Anyone with enough money can build a $3 million house, Emily says. “My job is to help them understand what’s important to them, so they get their version of a $3 million house.”
Rosenthal Homes, Potomac, Md.
Type of business: custom builder, remodeler
Years in business: 13
Employees: 9
2003 volume: $4 million
2003 starts: 1 custom home, 4 remodels
