Custom home construction costs vary based on size, finishes, site conditions, and design complexity. Waterfront properties, historic district requirements, and custom millwork affect costs. River Brook provides transparent pricing from earliest design phases. Because we handle both architecture and construction, you'll understand real costs before committing, preventing budget surprises and ensuring your investment delivers lasting value. We take your budget into account from our very first conversation.

River Brook performs architecture, interior design, and construction under one roof with one team. Most firms claiming design-build still outsource components, creating silos and miscommunication. We've earned HGTV Designer of the Year (2023) and LUXE RED Award recognition (2024), achievements we're proud of and that reflect our commitment to excellence. Kevin's licensed homebuilder expertise combines with Leigh's Auburn Building Science education. You work with one dedicated team from initial concept through move-in, eliminating coordination burdens traditional models create.

We handle everything internally. Our team includes architects, interior designers, project managers, and superintendents all working together from day one. We don't outsource design, trade coordination, or construction management. This integration ensures the home we build perfectly matches the home we designed. No translation errors. No competing priorities. Just seamless execution of one unified vision delivering exceptional results. Our clients appreciate this cohesive approach that keeps all work under one reliable roof.

Most custom homes require 12-18 months from initial design through move-in, depending on size and complexity. Design and permitting consume 3-5 months. Construction takes 9-13 months. Birmingham's permitting processes, weather patterns, and material availability affect timelines. Because all decisions happen before construction begins, we avoid delays from indecision or changes mid-build. We'll provide a detailed schedule during planning so you understand what to expect at every step and can plan your life accordingly.

Complete architecture, interior design, and construction delivered as one integrated experience. We handle site planning, floor plans, elevations, construction documents, permitting, cabinetry design, fixture and finish selections, furniture curation, construction management, and post-occupancy support. You work with one team making all decisions together. No coordinating between separate firms. No gaps in communication. Just clarity and cohesion from first meeting through final walkthrough, whether you're building new construction or renovating an existing house.

You'll approve decisions at every milestone while we handle coordination and execution. During design, you'll participate in style assessments, review mood boards, approve floor plans, and select finishes. During construction, you'll receive regular updates and can visit the site. We guide you through decisions without overwhelming you with options. All that's required of you is to settle in and trust a process characterized by clarity, intention, and calm. We meet you where you are and work at a pace that feels comfortable.

If you're noticing production builders can't accommodate your vision, or if your current space limits how you want to live, custom home construction makes sense. Families wanting specific architectural styles, unique site conditions like waterfront or historic neighborhoods, or integration of architecture with interior design benefit from our approach. When your lifestyle requires personalized planning, or you're ready to create your dream forever home exactly as you envision it, custom building delivers what production models can't. The difference between custom builders and production work becomes clear quickly.

Birmingham's architectural heritage includes craftsman, colonial revival, traditional Southern, and modern designs. What works best depends on your neighborhood's character, your personal aesthetic, and how you want your home to age. We create both heritage-inspired designs honoring traditional proportions and contemporary homes with clean lines. Our approach ensures your home fits its context while expressing your individual style, delivering timeless beauty rather than trendy details that date quickly. Every house we design reflects both place and personality.

Absolutely. Birmingham's topography and established neighborhoods often present site challenges. We view these as opportunities for creative problem-solving. Slopes become multi-level designs capturing views. Mature trees shape site layout and outdoor spaces. Our construction expertise addresses grading, drainage, and foundation requirements while preserving site character. Strategic planning transforms challenging parcels into beautiful homesites where architecture and landscape work together. Whether you're building, remodeling, or renovating, we adapt to site conditions with skill and creativity.

We provide comprehensive support ensuring your satisfaction beyond move-in. Post-occupancy check-ins confirm you're settled and everything functions as intended. We address questions about systems, finishes, or maintenance. Because we built your home, we understand it completely and remain available for guidance. Our commitment to your experience doesn't end when you receive keys. We want you living beautifully in a home designed with distinction and built to endure. When you need us, you can always reach out and we'll be there.