Last Fall I discovered architect Brent Hull’s book, ‘Building a Timeless House in an Instant Age’, and met him for an interview when I arrived in Dallas for my True Colour Expert Training.
We had such a rich conversation covering many overlooked considerations that go into designing and building a home.
This video today is a short clip that you haven’t seen. It’s the best advice I’ve ever heard on how to choose the style of your new build straight from someone who loves timeless design as much as I do.
Watch the video here:
We discussed that he is teaching builders and architects how to approach projects with a timeless point of view and clear historic precedent. And how he really should devise a way to reach out to the homeowner with this invaluable training.
And that’s exactly what I’m trying to do for homeowners–provide information and guidance on how to avoid all the ugly and expensive pitfalls of building.
After guiding THOUSANDS of homeowners through their renovation and new build projects, I’ve seen firsthand how overwhelming and costly design mistakes can be. So I’ve made it my mission to help homeowners like you navigate the complex world of home design with confidence.
Make better decisions for your new build, renovation or decorating project
Learn how to transform your home without the stress or endless second-guessing -OR- costly mistakes. I’ll help you create a well thought out plan for creating a home you’ll love forever in my Create Your Dream Home workshop. Registration is open here.
Still on the fence? Join me for a FREE masterclass where I’ll share some common pitfalls to avoid that could derail your project. I’ll also introduce you to my proven framework for making confident colour decisions that will help you create the home you’ve always dreamed of. Plus, you’ll get a free home project checklist that can be used as a guide for any home project.
Don’t miss it! It will transform the way you approach your project, for a much more beautiful and timeless outcome. I promise. Save your seat here.
Related posts:
10 Steps for Planning a Timeless New Build
Are Black Windows the Best Choice for Your New Build?
Loved this, Maria! Thank you. I wish you two offered seminars required for every home builder in America. ♥️ And I want his library!
Love this discussion. It’s so sad to see so many ugly buildings out there. I think another reason why houses are ugly is because they are planned from the inside out. People want a certain size foyer, Primary room, bathroom, closet… and all those blocks get added up like Legos and windows get slapped on.
I don’t think most people want to go completely back to the rigid structure and design of older styles, but using the older styles as a “story” as Brent says is a good starting point. I feel like even if some finishes weren’t found in the traditional home, they can still be worked in. In his example of brass or iron in a Colonial Revival, I feel like you could use chrome if it was the kitchen or bathroom and the shape of the chrome had echoes of the traditional shape.
I find this post, and the previous with Brent Hull, incredibly valuable. Thank you, Maria!
Even if someone is not planning a strictly historically accurate build or remodel, this information is critical. A basic knowledge regarding the architectural style of your home will help you focus and narrow the available choices during the selection process.
This also reinforces the need for homeowners take plenty of time to research and plan in advance of a building or remodeling project instead of rushing headlong into things. Often, regrettable decisions are made in a panic. It’s so much better to take time to plan as much as possible in advance, even if that means you build next year not this year. Don’t worry, there will still be surprises along the way. Advance planning gives you so much more control over your project, reduces stress, helps keep you closer to budget and you are more likely to be pleased with the results.
So glad to hear an architect weigh in.
But bless Mr. Hull’s heart, but no one who says “meh, I want to build a home but I don’t know what I like,” who has no clue to architectural history or styles, nor wants to go pretty deep down the rabbit hole of learning that should be allowed to build a house. Look, that building is going to stand for 70+ years. It will need to shelter and please more people than just you. It is a privilege to have the wealth to build a custom home. Give the design process the respect it deserves. There’s nothing wrong with not knowing; there is a lot wrong with being intellectually lazy about something so costly and important.