Custom Home Builder
Homewood, AL

Custom home costs depend on size, finishes, and site conditions. Square footage, material selections, and architectural complexity all affect final pricing. River Brook provides transparent budget tracking throughout design and construction. We'll talk through your vision and provide realistic cost guidance early in the process so you can make informed decisions and plan accordingly.

River Brook performs architecture, interior design, and construction under one roof with one team. Many builders work from plans created by separate architects. We control the entire process from initial concept through move-in. That integration earned us HGTV Designer of the Year (2023) and features in Architectural Digest. Husband-wife team Kevin and Leigh Misso bring complementary expertise: licensed homebuilder credentials and Building Science education from Auburn University working in concert. Our clients love the cohesion this partnership creates.

We handle both design and construction with our in-house team. Architecture, interior design, cabinetry details, FF&E selections, and all construction are performed by River Brook. We don't outsource design or subcontract the build to other companies. Our superintendents, project managers, and designers work together from day one, ensuring cohesive results without competing priorities or communication gaps. This integrated business model is what sets true design-build apart.

A complete custom home project typically takes 12-18 months from initial design through move-in. Design development and permitting usually require 3-5 months. Construction timelines vary based on square footage and complexity but generally range from 9-13 months. Homewood's permitting process and site preparation requirements can affect schedules. We'll provide a realistic timeline based on your specific project during our initial conversations and update you regularly throughout the year.

Our design-build services encompass complete architectural plans, interior architecture, FF&E selection (lighting, plumbing, flooring, countertops), furnishings and styling, and full construction from foundation to finishes. Kitchen and bathroom designs are fully detailed. You'll receive 3D visualizations, presentation boards, and detailed specifications. Construction includes site preparation, all trades coordination, quality oversight, and post-occupancy support. Everything needed to create your dream home from vision to move-in is included.

You'll be involved at key decision points throughout the process. We start with a style assessment meeting, then you'll approve mood boards, floor plans, material selections, and furnishing packages. During construction, we provide regular updates and handle daily coordination so you're informed without being overwhelmed. Think of it as flowing gently down a current of complete clarity. You maintain control over important decisions while we handle execution details and keep the work moving forward.

Yes, River Brook handles whole house renovations, remodeling, and additions alongside new custom home construction. Our design-build approach works beautifully for renovating existing homes in Homewood's established neighborhoods. We'll assess your current house, understand what's working and what isn't, and create a cohesive plan that integrates new construction with existing architecture. Recent projects throughout the Birmingham area demonstrate our renovation expertise. Whether you're updating a kitchen, expanding a bathroom, or adding an entire wing, we ensure seamless results.

Our superintendents provide daily on-site oversight during active construction. Every phase is inspected before moving forward. Because our team designed what we're building, there's no gap between design intent and execution. Craftsmanship is quiet in its confidence and unmatched in its caliber. We use professional materials from trusted sources and maintain direct relationships with skilled trades. Quality control is built into our process, not added as an afterthought. We take great care to ensure excellence at every step.

Because we design with such intentional foresight, most decisions are finalized before construction begins. That prevents costly mid-build changes. If something truly needs adjustment, we'll assess the impact on budget and timeline honestly. Our integrated team can evaluate changes quickly without coordinating between separate firms. However, our comprehensive planning process typically means you won't feel the need for changes once we start building. Taking time during design ensures you're confident moving forward.

We provide comprehensive builder warranties covering structural elements and workmanship. Post-occupancy check-ins ensure you're settled and satisfied after move-in. Our commitment to your home extends beyond the final walkthrough. If questions arise or you need guidance navigating your new home's systems, we're responsive and available. Get in touch anytime you need support. Detailed specifications and as-built documentation are provided so you have complete information about materials and finishes for future reference.