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Home: The Second Story

Sheri Scott, Marilyn Moedinger

Everyone talks about how hard it is to do a major renovation or custom home building project, but we are here to take the guesswork and fear out of it. Join two veteran architects: Sheri Scott of Spring House Architects, and Marilyn Moedinger of Runcible Studios, as they sit down with folks who have been through the renovation or building process. Our guests will offer their best tips and tricks, and answer the key question: "What do you know NOW that you WISH you'd known when you started?"

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#65
Yesterday · 33 min
Resale, Change Orders, and Designing for Real Life (Mailbag 5)
We answer three homeowner questions that come up often during design and construction: how to handle change orders, how to design a house around real life, and how much resale value should influence personal design decisions. We start with an ADU owner who has received several change orders, including a $7,000 increase for tile and fixtures selected from the builder's own options. We explain that allowances need to be realistic and itemized from the beginning. A single $52,000 finish allowance does not tell an owner whether the budget for plumbing, lighting, appliances, tile, or other finishes is reasonable. When a change order arrives, it should also be written and itemized clearly enough for the owner to understand what changed and why. We also stress that owners should not feel pressured into approving changes immediately or agreeing verbally because of schedule concerns. Taking time to understand the cost is reasonable. When several change orders have already appeared, it can be helpful to sit down with the contractor, review the past changes, understand the current one, and ask what additional changes may still be coming. Homeowners should also understand the consumer protection requirements that apply in their state and make sure payments remain connected to work actually completed. Our second question is about designing for real life instead of designing from attractive images. We explain that homeowners do not need to arrive at an architect's office with every answer. A large part of the design process is figuring out how people actually live. That includes when they work, how they entertain, how they exercise, whether guests stay overnight, what pets need, and how spaces might need to change over time. We also talk about inspiration images. The important question is not simply whether someone likes a photo. It is what they like about it. The answer might be the light, materials, layout, color, or relationship between spaces. Images of things people dislike can be just as useful. AI generated images require additional caution because they may show rooms or proportions that could not actually work in a real building. Finally, we consider resale. We believe a home should first support the people living in it. If someone expects to stay for many years, personal finishes do not always need to be selected around a future buyer. There is a difference, however, between a distinctive tile choice and a fundamental layout decision that limits how the house can function. The bones of the house deserve more consideration. Finishes can be more personal. (00:00) Intro (00:13) ADU contractor change orders (03:05) Why allowances should be itemized (05:23) Do not rush to approve a change order (06:58) When builder option lists exceed the budget (09:12) Having a clear the deck meeting with your contractor (10:27) Consumer protections and homeowner leverage (12:27) How to design a home for real life (13:23) Why homeowners do not need everything figured out (16:50) Balancing specific needs with flexible spaces (18:47) What does entertaining actually mean? (20:00) How architects use inspiration images (21:33) The problem with AI generated design images (23:05) How much should resale matter? (26:53) Personal finishes versus major layout decisions (29:11) Designing for yourself while protecting the home's bones (30:17) First floor primary bedrooms and aging in place Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#64
October 20 · 15 min
Who Owns Your Architect's Design?
A homeowner does not need a finished plan before calling an architect. In this snack-sized episode of Home: The Second Story, we start with a Springhouse Architects client who knew they wanted to change their home but could not yet say what problem they were trying to solve. We walked through the house with them, learned how their family uses it, and developed a master plan. After considering several ideas and pricing different options, the clients chose a porch addition. It would give them outdoor space and change the front of the house without committing to a larger renovation. That decision took months. Once they were ready to move ahead, though, they wanted drawings quickly. Our schedule put the work about six weeks out, so they found someone who could do it in two. We agreed to release the porch design. That outcome raises two useful points. First, the time spent considering a larger renovation was still valuable. The clients could move forward knowing they had examined the alternatives and chosen what made sense for their home and budget. Those decisions affect daily life and finances, so it is reasonable to give them time. At the same time, an architect may be working on other projects by the time a client is ready for the next step. Second, changing professionals after design work begins calls for a direct conversation. We explain that clients hire an architect for services, while drawings are generally provided for use on a specific project under the terms of their agreement. Paying for the work does not automatically mean receiving the CAD files or the right to take a design elsewhere. In this case, the client asked, and we found a solution that worked for both sides. Other arrangements should be discussed with the architect before anyone uses the work. The best time to ask how drawings, files, and design rights will be handled is at the start of a project. A good architect can also help you work through the bigger question: what should you build in the first place? If you have a question, a topic idea, or an interest in joining us as a guest, we would love to hear from you. (00:00) Intro (00:29) A renovation plan becomes a porch addition (03:40) Why another professional took on the drawings (04:10) When to bring an architect into the conversation (05:32) The value of considering your options (06:14) Why major home decisions take time (08:00) Taking an architect’s design elsewhere (09:35) What clients receive when they hire an architect (12:40) Custom designs and reusable details (13:36) Discussing design rights up front Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#63
October 13 · 45 min
The Cost of Not Speaking Up During a Build
In this episode of Home: The Second Story, Sheri Scott and Marilyn Moedinger talk with Jenn, a homeowner in Farmersville, Ohio, who built a custom home on 10 acres near Dayton. Jenn’s project moved quickly. The build took about eight months, and the whole process from plans to move-in was about 10 months. Jenn had a unique perspective because she works for Sheri at Springhouse Architects. She did not go through the full architecture process in the usual way. Looking back, she says she would have paid for the full experience. She saw firsthand how much architects help clients think through details, communicate with builders, and avoid problems before they happen. One of Jenn’s biggest lessons was that she should have written down the specific things she wanted before design began. She had ideas in her head, but the speed of the project and the stress of decisions made some of them easy to forget. The biggest example was her primary suite. She wanted the bathroom, closet, and laundry to work together in a more efficient layout. She remembered this early enough to change it, but she did not speak up because she felt guilty asking for more help from people who were giving her discounts or favors. This became a major theme of the conversation. Working with friends or professional contacts can be helpful, but it can also make the relationship harder to manage. Jenn says she would have defined the relationship earlier. When discussing the project, she would want the roles to be client and architect or client and builder. Then they could return to being friends outside of that process. Jenn also talks about making selections herself, including tile, cabinets, lighting, and custom wood countertops made from trees cut down on their property. The countertops became one of her favorite parts of the house, though there was a stressful moment when the island was installed without the seating overhang she had planned. The woodworker was able to fix it, but Sheri points out that full architectural services could have caught that issue through shop drawings before installation. The episode also covers the end of the build. Jenn’s project stayed close to budget except for additions they chose, but the schedule became stressful. She and her family were renting, had to move belongings around, and eventually needed the builder to finish quickly so they would not be without a place to live. Sheri and Marilyn use that story to stress how important it is to ask builders how their projects finish, not just how they start. (00:00) Intro (01:20) Working With an Architect You Know (04:25) What Jenn Would Do Differently (06:56) The Primary Suite Regret (10:27) How Discounts and Friendships Changed the Process (13:07) Defining the Client Relationship Early (15:51) Making Selections Without Full Services (20:34) The Island Overhang Mistake (23:16) How Full Services Could Have Helped (24:18) The Value of a Third Party Advocate (27:20) Budget, Schedule, and the End of the Build (32:19) Why Project Closeout Matters (34:46) Jenn’s Favorite Part of the House (36:30) Sheri and Marilyn’s Recap Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#62
October 6 · 23 min
Built-Ins: Design, Costs, and Fun Ideas
Built-ins are one of the most loved parts of a custom home, and for good reason. They are furniture, cabinetry, shelving, storage, and architectural features that become part of the house itself. Kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities count, but when most people talk about built-ins, they mean the fun pieces: bookcases, mudroom storage, pantry systems, bars, room dividers, fireplace walls, hidden doors, and custom storage moments. A good built-in solves more than one problem. Sometimes it hides structure, a chase, or a mechanical need. Other times it turns an awkward space into something useful. In older homes, tight townhouses, and renovations where adding square footage is not possible, built-ins can make every inch work harder. Storage can be hidden in plain sight, so board games, extra blankets, shoes, bathroom supplies, and pantry items all have a place without cluttering the room. Custom built-ins are especially helpful when they are designed around the way people actually live. A mudroom drop zone can include a place for mail and a shredder. A narrow wall can become a shallow can pantry. Eaves can become dressers. A hallway can be lined with closets. A finished basement closet can be sized around storage tubs instead of default dimensions. These details are small, but they make the home easier to use every day. Built-ins can also add flexibility. One small apartment used a single custom wall to hold a Murphy bed, dining chair storage, folding screens, a laptop station, a printer, and hidden HVAC. That one built-in allowed the space to work as a guest room, office, dining room, and party space. It was not cheap, but it made the apartment live much larger than its square footage. The episode also looks at cost. Built-ins are often one of the first things cut from a project because they can be done later, but they often do not get added later. Some built-ins need to be planned early, especially pocket gates, hidden doors, fireplace walls, or anything built into framing. Others can be discovered during construction, especially in renovations, when an odd leftover space becomes ski storage, a cubby, or a secret kid fort. The main point is that built-ins should support real life. They can be simple or elaborate. They can be made by a cabinet shop or built on site by a finish carpenter. They can serve kids, pets, storage, work, entertaining, or daily routines. With thoughtful planning, built-ins make a house feel more personal, more useful, and more fun. (00:00) Intro (01:10) Built-ins as part of the architecture (02:22) Functional built-ins for pantries and mudrooms (03:45) Storage in plain sight (05:51) Built-ins that replace furniture (06:27) Cost and why built-ins get cut (09:51) Hallway closets and hidden storage (10:30) Custom dimensions for real storage needs (12:51) Kid forts, pet storage, and secret compartments (15:00) Simple built-ins versus custom cabinetry (16:47) Planning ahead for built-ins (18:04) Custom projects and discoveries during construction (19:48) Built-ins as creative design moments (20:30) Personal details that support daily life Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#61
September 29 · 46 min
The Kitchen Was Perfect. The Process Wasn't.
Homeowner Beth joins us with her designer Linda to talk about a kitchen renovation that turned out beautifully, even though the process was far more difficult than expected. Beth had lived in her Lancaster, Pennsylvania home for 29 years and had wanted to remove the wall between her small kitchen and dining room for a long time. Once her husband agreed, she and Linda began interviewing builders. Beth chose the builder who seemed calm, reasonable, and willing to listen. The initial pricing was also lower than the other quotes. Problems started once design began. Beth believed the builder would provide design support, but the person presented as the designer did not provide the comprehensive kitchen design Beth expected. Beth and Linda arrived with mood boards, colors, and clear ideas, but felt those preferences were largely ignored. The proposed layout prioritized symmetry instead of the functionality Beth wanted. She and Linda eventually realized they would need to design much of the kitchen themselves. Budgeting added another layer of stress. The final number jumped about $40,000 above the original estimate before Beth had even made many selections. She also kept hearing that items she had requested from the beginning, including finishes without stainless steel, could be upgrades. The lack of clear allowances and coordination made it difficult to understand what was included and where different selections needed to be made. One bright spot was the appliance salesperson. He listened, understood Beth's budget, and helped her find the creamy white appliances and double ovens she wanted without exceeding the appliance allowance. That experience showed what the rest of the process could have been. Clear communication, a defined budget, and someone willing to work through alternatives made the experience enjoyable. Construction moved quickly and was completed on schedule, but Beth still felt she became the general contractor. She and her husband had to coordinate trades, solve problems, track installations, and make sure decisions were implemented. At one point, Beth learned that an appliance installation shown on the project schedule had never actually been arranged! Fortunately, the kitchen itself is now everything Beth wanted. It includes a bar displaying her collection of 1950s and 1960s glassware, gold details, a coffee bar, a banquette, wallpaper, double ovens, and a layout built around how she actually cooks and lives. The result feels personal, glamorous, and highly functional. Our biggest takeaway is that homeowners need to understand exactly what “design included” means. A builder arranging appointments with cabinet, appliance, and plumbing vendors is not the same as having someone manage the entire design. A good architect or designer looks across the whole project, coordinates selections, balances the budget, and makes sure individual decisions work together. Beth ultimately got the kitchen she wanted because she stayed involved, stood her ground, and had Linda beside her throughout the process. But when firends ask her who did her kitchen, she won't share the name. While the end result was the kitchen of her dreams, she wouldn't want anyone else to go through the same trials and tribulations of that process. (00:00) Intro (00:28) Beth's Lancaster Kitchen Renovation (06:54) The Promised Designer (07:27) Mood Boards and Design Ideas Get Ignored (09:37) Linda Steps Into the Design Role (11:09) Custom Builder vs. Custom Kitchen (11:35) The Budget Jumps by $40,000 (16:15) Choosing Fixtures, Sinks, and Appliances (19:00) The One Vendor Who Made the Process Fun (20:35) Fighting to Keep the Double Ovens (23:08) Beth Becomes the General Contractor (24:06) Being a Woman on the Job Site (26:02) Making Every Selection Before Construction (28:58) Why the Project Succeeded Anyway (31:14) What Beth Would Tell Other Homeowners (33:28) The Bandwidth Required for Renovation (34:51) Beth's Favorite Kitchen Details (37:09) Marilyn and Sheri Debrief (38:35) Why “Design Included” Can Be a Red Flag (40:08) The Problem With Disconnected Showroom Decisions (41:49) Why the Renovation Process Should Have Been Fun (43:07) Why Homeowners Need to Stand Their Ground (44:50) Would an Architect Have Cost More? (45:30) Closing Thoughts Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#60
September 22 · 22 min
Non-Traditional Construction: Things to Consider
Sometimes, a homeowner wants to use a construction method that is not common in their area. This could mean SIP construction, ICF, modular, masonry, post and beam, or another system outside of standard stick framing. The point is not to compare every building technology or decide which one is best. The real issue is how to know whether a different construction type makes sense for your project. The first step is building the right team. Most residential construction in the United States is stick framing, so anything outside of that requires more care. The builder needs direct experience with the system. Otherwise, the homeowner may end up paying for the builder’s learning curve, or worse, paying for panic pricing because the builder does not know what problems may come up. The architect or designer should also understand the system, but they can often bring in a consultant, structural engineer, or experienced partner. For the builder, hands-on experience matters even more. It also helps to bring the builder in early. When a builder knows the construction system, they can work with the architect during pre-construction and help solve details before the permit set is complete. That collaboration helps avoid surprises later. It is a red flag when someone does not want the architect and builder talking early. A non-traditional system can also raise questions at the building department. The code is often written around standard stick framing, especially in residential construction. That means the team may need to explain how the project meets the code through a different method. This is often called an alternate compliance path. It can mean more drawings, more explanation, and more early conversations with officials. Cost and energy performance need to be studied early. Many homeowners ask about SIP or ICF because they want better energy performance. That can be a good goal, but the financial return is not always simple. In some places, like Massachusetts, strict energy codes make high-performance construction more normal. In other places, like Ohio, the code environment may be different. Climate, local code, construction norms, storms, snow, earthquakes, and other factors all matter. The main takeaway is to know your priorities before choosing an alternative construction method. If the goal is lower energy bills, run the numbers early. If the goal is stewardship, durability, comfort, or a specific construction value, name that clearly. Homeowners do not need to arrive with the answer. They need to bring their goals, questions, and priorities so the right team can help them make a smart decision. (00:00) Intro (00:14) Considering a different construction technology (01:29) Why the right team matters (03:30) The risk of learning curves and panic pricing (03:55) Why designers need system knowledge too (05:20) Partnering with experienced consultants (06:01) Builder experience matters most (07:33) Building department red flags (08:29) Talking with officials before permit submission (12:29) SIP and ICF questions around energy savings (14:23) How Massachusetts and Ohio differ on energy codes (16:02) Rethinking return on investment (18:14) Know your real priorities (20:36) How a HERS rater can help Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#59
September 15 · 47 min
Save Costs, Hire Right and Move Out During Construction (Mailbag)
In this mailbag episode of Home: The Second Story, we answer three common questions about residential construction and renovation. We start with what happens when homeowners feel like they are managing the builder instead of the builder managing the project. We then talk about whether it is realistic to live in a house during a major renovation. Finally, we cover the early design decisions that can have the biggest impact on construction cost. We first respond to a homeowner who feels like building a house has become a second full time job. Communication is slow, decisions happen at the last minute, and trades sometimes arrive without the information they need. The important point is that the coordination work always exists. The homeowner, builder, architect, or someone else has to do it. If nobody is responsible for that work, problems follow. A strong team can prevent much of this. Homeowners should also interview the actual project manager who will manage their job, not only the owner of the construction company. If a project is already going badly, an owner's representative or architect can sometimes step in to help manage communication and decisions. Firing a builder is possible, but it is usually a last resort because replacing a contractor in the middle of construction creates major financial and liability complications. Homeowners should document everything, hold regular meetings, understand their contract and state laws, review payment requests carefully, and avoid allowing the contractor to get too far ahead financially. These things may not seem like your job, but they are crucial. Our second question is whether homeowners should remain in their house during a major renovation. Our preference is clear. If moving out is at all possible, move out. Living through construction slows the project because crews have to work around the family, reconnect utilities, manage dust barriers, limit working hours, and protect occupied areas. It can also be emotionally exhausting to watch your house being demolished and rebuilt. A temporary rental may seem expensive, but it can cost less than the additional time and inefficiency created by living on site. We also recommend finding housing with flexibility in case construction runs longer than expected. (It usually does.) We finish with the early decisions that affect budget most. Site selection can have an enormous impact. Long driveways, difficult terrain, utility extensions, limited construction access, and complicated urban sites can add substantial costs before finishes are even considered. Size matters, but different square footage has different costs. Kitchens and bathrooms are usually more expensive than open living areas. Structural complexity, foundation shape, HVAC planning, window systems, and architectural style also matter. Good design means spending money where it has the most value. Homeowners should establish priorities early, maintain a contingency, and resist increasing the budget every time a more expensive finish catches their attention. (00:00) Intro (00:19) Not All Builders Suck (01:11) When Building a House Becomes a Second Full Time Job (06:12) Interview the Project Manager, Not Just the Company Owner (07:24) What to Do When a Construction Project Is Already Going Wrong (09:24) Document Everything During a Troubled Project (12:21) Why Regular Construction Meetings Matter (16:08) Can You Live in the House During a Renovation? (19:01) Contractors, Kids, Dogs, and Limited Work Hours (22:08) Why a Temporary Rental Can Actually Save Money (27:01) Renovating Before Moving In and Other Alternatives (29:57) Which Early Decisions Affect Construction Cost the Most? (31:39) Driveways, Utilities, Style, and Square Footage (33:36) Infrastructure Costs Are Not Included in Simple Cost Per Square Foot Estimates (34:34) Difficult Urban Sites and Construction Access (38:56) Structural Design Decisions That Save Money (41:17) Spend Money Where the Design Really Benefits (45:13) Protect the Budget Early and Maintain a Contingency (46:06) Decide Whether an Upgrade Really Adds Value (46:33) Closing Thoughts Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#58
September 8 · 23 min
How To: Find a Builder for Your Project
How do I find a builder? In this snack size episode of Home: The Second Story, we start by making one thing clear. Clients do not need to come to an architect with a builder already picked out. Some people arrive with a builder in hand. Others come with no names at all. Both are fine. A good architect helps guide that decision and can share builders who have done strong work on similar projects. We also clarify that architects do not build the house, and we do not have financial partnerships with builders. The goal is to help clients find the right fit for their project. We talk about the difference between a good builder and the right builder. A builder may be excellent, but still not suited to a specific project, budget, location, or client. Custom homes, renovations, production builds, and spec homes all require different processes and different kinds of teams. That fit matters more than a polished website or a big social media presence. For owners looking on their own, we walk through practical ways to find names. Social media can help, especially when builders show work that looks similar to what the owner wants. But a strong online presence does not always mean strong execution. Driving through neighborhoods can also be useful. Active job sites reveal a lot. A clean, organized site says something about how the builder works. Friends, neighbors, neighborhood groups, and private messages can also be valuable sources, especially when people are willing to talk honestly about the process. We also talk about builder open houses, model homes, and Parade of Homes events. These can be helpful because they let owners see finished work and meet the builder in person. But they can also move too fast. A beautiful model home is not the same as a custom process, and owners should not sign with someone before checking references and understanding what kind of work that builder really does. Once there is a list of possible builders, the next step is to narrow it down. Owners should ask whether the builder’s services match the project. They should notice whether calls are returned, whether the builder has a clear process, and whether the first conversation feels honest. A salesperson is not a problem, but the goal should be connection, not just closing a deal. If every answer is yes, that can be a warning sign. The best builders know when a project is not the right fit. The main takeaway is simple. Finding a builder takes networking, research, and honest conversations. Or, an owner can start with an architect who has already done much of that vetting and can help build the right team from the beginning. (00:00:00) - Intro (00:00:40) - How clients find builders (00:02:34) - The architect's role in builder selection (00:06:18) - Finding a builder without an architect (00:08:04) - Neighborhood research and asking friends (00:10:02) - Builder open houses and model homes (00:13:14) - Evaluating your shortlist (00:16:18) - First contact and communication style (00:20:12) - Checking references and final vetting (00:23:13) - Outro Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#57
July 21 · 56 min
Simplifying Home Technology with Caleb Fetter of RMS
In this episode of Home: The Second Story, Sheri Scott and Marilyn Moedinger talk with Caleb Fetter, President and Managing Partner at RMS in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. RMS is an electrical services provider, lighting specifier, and technology integration company. As Caleb puts it, they are “not just the AV guys.” Caleb explains why electrical, lighting, and technology planning need to happen much earlier in a custom home or renovation project than many homeowners expect. He says the ideal time is usually after schematic design, as the project moves into design development. That is when the architect, builder, client, and technology team can talk through goals, budget, finish level, and how the home will actually be used. A major theme of the conversation is that good technology should make a home easier to live in, not more complicated. Caleb pushes back on the idea that smart home systems mean too many apps, touchscreens, or voice commands. When done well, technology can simplify daily life with carefully planned buttons, lighting scenes, wired infrastructure, and systems that are tailored to the homeowner’s routines. We talk about lighting design, LED technology, and why cheap or default choices are not always the best choices. Caleb explains that better lighting does not always mean a dramatically higher budget. Sometimes it means bringing the right people in early, asking better questions, and giving electricians or lighting professionals enough time to make thoughtful recommendations. For homeowners who are not building luxury homes, Caleb’s advice is still clear: find professionals who listen to your goals, understand the quality of experience you want, and are not just trying to sell gadgets or win the job with the cheapest bid. He also explains why “wireless” homes still need wiring, especially for internet infrastructure, security cameras, doorbells, generators, and other connected systems. Sheri and Marilyn close the episode by reflecting on how important it is for homeowners to advocate for what they want. Technology, lighting, and integration affect daily life in a home. Planning them early can prevent frustration later and create a better experience from design through move-in and beyond. (00:00) Intro (00:39) What RMS does: electrical, lighting, and technology integration (04:10) Why the end of schematic design is the right time to start (06:34) Budgeting early for lighting and technology (08:22) Homes are more complex than they used to be (10:17) The myth that technology makes a home harder to use (12:13) Why RMS avoids the phrase “smart home” (13:55) Why architects and builders need specialty experts (16:49) RMS’s role in lighting design (19:20) How RMS connects design with field implementation (24:16) Advice for homeowners outside the luxury market (28:05) The future of LED lighting, connected devices, and AI (39:03) Caleb’s favorite part of helping homeowners (42:42) Recap (53:35) Summer vacation announcement Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#56
July 14 · 21 min
Navigating Uncertainty in Home Projects
In this snack-sized episode of Home: The Second Story, we talk about uncertainty and how much of it shows up when homeowners are deciding whether to renovate, build new, or take on a custom residential project. Big projects come with big unknowns. There is uncertainty in the market, in the environment, in pricing, in interest rates, and in our own lives. No one has a crystal ball. No architect can predict exactly what will happen with school systems, real estate, gas prices, construction costs, or a family’s future needs. What we do have is experience working inside uncertainty every day. Uncertainty is not new. It can feel like this moment is more unstable than any other, but every era has had its own major disruptions. The 2008 housing crash changed the path of Sheri’s career. COVID changed the way projects were built, priced, and planned. Those events were not neat, singular moments. They created ripple effects that are still shaping the construction industry, especially in pricing, supply chains, and client expectations. We also talk about the uncertainty that lives inside the project itself. In renovation work, we can plan carefully and still discover hidden problems the first time a contractor opens a wall. There may be rot, structural issues, or conditions that no one could have seen ahead of time. The way to prepare is not to pretend those surprises will not happen. The way to prepare is to build in contingency money, extra time, and emotional capacity. On new custom homes, uncertainty often shows up through cost tracking and decision making. Even when most choices have been made, a team may need to pause, review the budget, and adjust. Sometimes that means removing a design feature that would have been beautiful but is not essential. That does not mean the team failed. It means the team stayed aware, communicated, and corrected course before the end of the project. We also remind homeowners to look at how they already handle uncertainty in daily life. A family vacation can be disrupted by weather. A dinner plan can change when the grocery store is missing an ingredient. These moments require contingency planning, flexibility, and calm decision making. A residential project is the same kind of problem, just at a much larger scale. The key is knowing your own tolerance for change. A fully custom home involves the most decisions and the most uncertainty. A renovation, semi-custom home, or existing house may be a better fit depending on your capacity, life stage, and appetite for decision making. There are ways to reduce the unknowns, but there is no way to remove them completely. We close by talking about timing. Many clients wait because they hope prices will come down, but construction rarely gets cheaper over time. Commodities like lumber can fluctuate, but labor shortages, manufacturing costs, and long-term market pressures continue to push prices up. The best time to do a project is usually now or ten years ago. A strong team will not promise that nothing will go wrong. A strong team will help you prepare, react well, and keep moving when surprises happen. (00:00) Welcome & introducing today's topic: uncertainty (01:15) Why clients want someone to tell them what to do (02:52) Career milestones: the 2008 crash & COVID's lasting impact (04:05) Supply chain ripple effects and permanent price changes (05:26) Two questions: should I do the project, and how do I design for longevity? (06:22) Renovation surprises: why contingency budgets matter (08:02) Managing budget in new construction — staying aligned as a team (10:43) Drawing parallels: how you handle everyday uncertainty applies here (13:01) Knowing your tolerance for change and decision fatigue (15:33) Why waiting for prices to drop is usually a mistake (17:53) The skilled trades shortage and rising labor costs (19:30) Final thoughts: making uncertainty more manageable Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#55
July 7 · 45 min
One Year of Interviews: Best Advice, Biggest Lessons
In this one-year anniversary episode of Home: The Second Story, we look back at what the podcast has taught us about homeowners, custom projects, and the conversations people need before they begin. The show started as a way to let past clients talk to future clients, because a homeowner’s voice lands differently than advice from an architect. Over the past year, that format has expanded to include homeowners, industry professionals, snack episodes, and mailbag questions. The goal is still the same: help people understand what a custom home or renovation really feels like before they are deep in it. One big lesson is that people want help at the beginning. The most downloaded episodes are about how to start, what a project costs, and how to assemble the right team. Those questions come up constantly because early uncertainty is hard to sort through with Google or AI alone. A real professional can give context. A number like $400 per square foot may be a starting point, but every project depends on the site, access, soil, scope, location, and team. We also talk about the emotional side of construction. Renovations often start with excitement when demo begins, then crash when the house is stripped down and unrecognizable. New construction has a similar letdown after the foundation and framing go up quickly, then the project slows while trades begin their work. These moments are normal, but they can feel alarming to homeowners who have never been through them. Part of our job is technical, but part of it is helping people feel steady when the project gets stressful. Another theme is that problems are not the real issue. The real issue is how the team responds when problems happen. Good architects, builders, designers, trades, and suppliers make the project safer because they know how to gather facts, make a plan, and keep moving. That is why starting strong matters. Who you choose in the beginning shapes the entire experience. We also talk about knowing yourself. Homeowners often overestimate what they can take on and underestimate how much coordination a custom project requires. Picking finishes is only one part of the work. The real value is in making sure every piece fits together, works over time, and supports the way the family actually lives. A custom home should be custom. It should not be built around resale fears or assumptions about what a house is supposed to have. After one year, the podcast has shown us that the same questions and emotions come up across the country. People are trying to make homes that support family, work, aging parents, kids, gatherings, privacy, and everyday life. The details may change by region, but the experience is familiar. Finally, we invite homeowners and industry professionals to come on the show. There are many good people in this industry ready to help homeowners get the details right. (00:00) Intro (02:41) Adding industry professionals to the mix (02:48) Reaching 20,000 downloads (04:37) Why starting and cost episodes perform best (06:56) Why online answers can miss project context (08:51) The emotional side of home projects (14:35) Helping clients process bad news (15:57) What homeowners wish they knew earlier (21:22) Assembling the right team (22:35) Trusting the vibes when choosing people and places (25:17) Resale value versus lifestyle investment (28:13) Why custom should actually be custom (29:23) Why mailbag episodes are useful (32:13) Outsourcing the wrong things (32:52) Undervaluing your own time (35:52) Why design work is more than picking finishes (38:45) Collaboration and execution (39:05) Why hiring professionals can save money (43:01) Invitation for future guests (44:44) Closing and contact information Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#54
June 30 · 54 min
Mailbag 3: Builder Interviews, Bid Comparisons, and Pricing Sets
In our third mailbag episode, we answer three listener questions about hiring a builder, comparing bids, and knowing when plans are detailed enough for pricing. The first question asks what homeowners should ask builders beyond cost and schedule. We explain that homeowners need drawings before they interview builders, even if those drawings are preliminary. A builder cannot give meaningful feedback without seeing the scope. The interview should feel like a conversation, not a questionnaire. Good questions reveal how many projects the builder runs at once, who manages the site, how they communicate, and how they handle problems. Just as important, homeowners should pay attention to the fit. If the communication feels off early, it usually does not improve later. Red flags include avoiding contracts, skipping permits, being disrespectful, or keeping messy job sites. References matter too, but they should be checked by phone. The most important reference question is whether that past client would hire the builder again. The second question focuses on comparing bids that are hard to read side by side. We explain that pricing is only as reliable as the information given to the builder. A napkin sketch leads to a napkin sketch level of accuracy. Once bids come in, homeowners need to know whether the proposals include the same scope. A single lump sum is not enough. The best approach is to normalize the bids in a spreadsheet so each line item can be compared. That process often shows that the lowest number is not always the best value. One builder may have left out site work, permit fees, landscaping, management, allowances, or general conditions. Homeowners also need to understand where overhead and profit are shown. Some builders break it out at the end, while others spread it through each category. Allowances need close attention because a tile allowance, for example, may or may not include labor. Builders should be willing to answer reasonable questions without getting defensive. The third question asks how complete plans should be before pricing. We explain that the more detailed the drawings and selections are, the more accurate the pricing will be. Early pricing can help guide decisions, but it comes with wide ranges. More complete drawings narrow those ranges, but that takes time and money. For renovations, it can help to put everything into the “shopping cart” first, price the full scope, and then remove items with better information. For new homes, pricing may be easier to estimate early because the scope is clearer. The main point is that homeowners need to know themselves. Some people are comfortable moving forward with broad numbers. Others need more detail before they can make decisions. A good architect should help match the process to the client, the budget, the risk level, and the long term goals for the home. (00:00) Welcome to the mailbag episode (00:15) Question 1: What to ask builders before hiring (03:08) Why you need drawings before builder interviews (07:06) Looking beyond cost when choosing a builder (14:42) Checking references and asking the right questions (17:57) Question 2: How to compare bids (23:42) Normalizing bids for an apples to apples comparison (34:42) Question 3: How complete plans should be before pricing (37:54) Pricing the full “shopping cart” before cutting scope (52:45) Final advice on asking questions and trusting the process Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#53
June 23 · 19 min
Trendy vs Timeless Residential Architecture (Snack Sized Episode)
In this snack-sized episode of Home: The Second Story, we talk about the difference between trendy and timeless design, and why that question comes up so often for homeowners. Clients often arrive with inspiration images, social media saves, and a real concern about making the wrong choice. When a renovation or new home takes major time, money, and resources, it makes sense to want the result to last. But timelessness is not as simple as avoiding trends. Marilyn points out that many things now considered timeless were once trendy, unfamiliar, or even unpopular. Craftsman homes are a good example. They were once seen as strange or too modern, and now many people love them. Trends need time to settle. That makes chasing them risky, especially now that social media speeds up the cycle so much. We use the modern farmhouse as an example. Black and white modern farmhouses became a huge trend, but the problem is not always the style itself. The problem is when the look gets applied too quickly or too superficially, like painting a one-story ranch black and white and calling it farmhouse. The stronger path is to understand the deeper design elements, such as simple massing, good proportions, and restraint, instead of copying the most visible parts of the trend. A major point in the conversation is that style words are often limited. Clients may say “modern farmhouse” or “timeless,” but those words can mean different things to different people. That is why inspiration images matter so much. Pictures help everyone point to what they actually love and talk about the feeling, proportion, material, light, and function behind the image. We also make the case that timeless does not mean traditional. Modern homes can be timeless. Traditional homes can be timeless. So can homes that do not fit neatly into a named style. The more important questions are whether the space functions well, has good light, supports real life, and makes sensible long-term decisions. Resale value also comes up. People worry that a future buyer might not like a countertop or tile choice. But if someone is not selling soon, that should not drive every decision. The bigger resale problems come from strange layouts, poor circulation, and decisions that are expensive to undo, like putting the only laundry room behind a primary bathroom. Paint, finishes, and many surface choices are easier to change. We close by talking about AI and social media. Inspiration is moving faster than ever, and AI images can make trends feel even more intense because they are not always grounded in real construction. Our best advice is to bring the images anyway, trust the design team, and focus less on online lists of what not to do. Good design comes from thoughtful decisions, not fear of trends. (00:00) Intro (00:15) Why clients worry about trendy versus timeless (00:54) Trends change, and timelessness is complicated (02:05) Modern farmhouse and the danger of surface-level copying (03:30) Why style labels can be reductive (06:50) Loving the design and making sensible decisions (07:14) Social media trend lists and what they get wrong (08:41) How architects help clients find a timeless direction (09:38) Timeless does not mean traditional (11:47) Sheri’s own kitchen renovation anxiety (13:36) Resale value and what really hurts a home (15:48) Structural decisions matter more than trendy finishes (18:07) Bring the images and trust the process Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#52
June 16 · 44 min
How To: Shop for Windows for a Custom Home or Renovation
In this episode of Home: The Second Story, we welcome Craig Hyson and Nick Blessing from Pella Windows & Doors of Cincinnati. This conversation is for homeowners who are starting a custom home, a large renovation, or even a production build and want to understand how to make better decisions about windows and doors before they order anything. Craig and Nick start with one of the most important points of the episode: the window itself matters, but the installation matters just as much. A high quality window can still fail if it is flashed incorrectly or installed poorly. That is why they encourage homeowners to vet both the manufacturer and the installer. Pella’s local team describes its role as “owning the opening,” which means they can help with the product, installation, and service after the fact. We also talk about why homeowners should go to a showroom before ordering windows. Windows affect both the inside and outside of a home, and a catalog does not tell the whole story. The way a window opens, the feel of the hardware, the look of the grilles, the screen options, and the finish details can all change a homeowner’s decision once they see and touch the products in person. A showroom visit can prevent surprises later. Budget is a big part of the conversation. Homeowners can often save money without compromising the whole design. Grilles can be used only on the front elevation. Some upgraded hardware or blinds between the glass can be limited to key rooms. In some cases, changing window series or staying within certain size limits can make a large difference. Standard sizes can save some money, but the bigger issue is often whether a custom size pushes the window into a more expensive product line. We also talk about glass, energy efficiency, sound control, and the importance of looking at the house as a whole system. Better glass can help, but walls, insulation, flashing, air sealing, and the overall envelope all matter. A great window cannot solve every performance problem on its own. The design conversation gets especially fun when we talk about larger doors, multi-slide systems, pocketing doors, and the way homeowners want indoor and outdoor spaces to connect. Craig and Nick share examples of automated awning windows, huge stacking doors, and larger aluminum products that allow designers to push size and glass limits. Our biggest takeaway is that homeowners should be more involved in the window selection process. Even when the architect and builder have a strong recommendation, it is worth visiting the showroom, asking questions, testing options, and understanding what is actually going into the home. More: Pella Windows & Doors of Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky: https://www.pella.com/locations/cincinnati/ Pella Windows & Doors Showroom of Cincinnati, OH: https://www.pella.com/locations/oh/montgomery/ (00:00) Intro (02:05) What homeowners should know before starting a project (04:38) When homeowners work directly with the window team (05:31) Why windows affect both the interior and exterior (07:33) What makes a good quality window (09:51) Visiting the showroom and testing products (14:25) Grille choices and setting clear expectations (16:38) Budget levers that do not change the whole design (18:50) A hot take on using fewer, better windows (22:02) Standard sizes, custom sizes, and fixed versus operable windows (24:37) Choosing upgrades only in key rooms (27:12) Energy efficiency and glass options (31:25) A memorable automated awning window project (32:26) Multi-slide pocketing doors and big views (34:05) Larger aluminum products and bigger glass limits (36:27) Post-interview reflections (44:08) Closing and contact information Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#51
June 9 · 21 min
How To: Battle Decison Fatigue (Snack Sized Episode)
We talk about decision fatigue in home renovation and custom building, and why it catches so many homeowners off guard. The core issue is mental exhaustion. People already have full lives before a project starts, and then they are asked to make a long series of choices over many months. Some of those choices are big, like layout and room count. Others show up during construction and feel urgent. That steady pressure wears people down. In a build or renovation, these are not simple or neutral decisions. They are emotional, personal, and often unfamiliar. Clients are making choices that affect how they will live every day, even though most of them are not used to thinking in this way. A question like where to put the laundry room can sound small, but it carries long term consequences. Decision fatigue can also look different depending on personality. Some people feel better once a choice is made. Others feel safer when they keep options open. Some research every detail. Others want to move quickly. In many couples, those styles do not match, which adds another layer to the process. A strong process helps. Good design work does not begin with finish selections. It starts with the big picture, then moves gradually toward details. Marilyn compares that to circling lower and lower before landing a plane. We also stress the value of an enthusiastic yes. A "tired yes" is not enough. If clients agree just to move on, that choice often comes back later as regret. We also compare custom homes, production homes, and the messy space in between. Production builders often limit options, which can reduce stress and protect people from bad combinations. A true custom process offers more freedom, but it also demands more time, trust, and guidance. The biggest problem comes when people are pushed into a semi custom process without real support. They are sent from showroom to showroom to make connected decisions without anyone holding the full vision together. We close by saying that decision fatigue is normal, even with a strong team. The goal is not to remove every choice. The goal is to guide people through them. We help by shaping the process, narrowing options, explaining what matters most, and reminding clients what can still change later. Most of all, we keep bringing them back to the bigger picture of the home they are building and the life they want to live in it. (00:00) Introduction (00:22) What decision fatigue really means (00:59) Why homeowners underestimate the number of choices (02:12) Why these decisions feel so hard (03:12) Emotion, personality, and overthinking (03:45) Different decision making styles in couples (05:21) How architects and designers help (05:38) Why the process starts with big decisions (08:05) The need for an enthusiastic yes (08:48) Why process improves design decisions (09:54) Adapting the process to each client (11:38) Custom homes versus production builders (14:13) The problem with semi custom without guidance (17:08) How to reduce decision fatigue during the project (19:21) Which choices matter most and which can change later (20:54) Outro Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#50
June 2 · 51 min
Brooklyn Gut Renovation: What Patrick Wishes He Knew Before Starting
We talk with Patrick Paul about a Brooklyn gut renovation that began as something much smaller and turned into a much bigger project. Patrick bought a two-family home in a historic district in New York City after years of searching. He and his family used an FHA loan, lived with the risk of an as-is purchase, and took on a house that came with both DOB and landmark violations. The project started in November 2024, reached completion in July 2025, and, like many homes, still has work happening around the edges. Patrick’s biggest lesson is that he wishes he had brought in an architect earlier. He had a real estate agent and a lender from the start, but the architect came later through the contractor. Looking back, he believes an architect could have helped him understand the house better before purchase, shape the renovation strategy, and maybe even strengthen the negotiation. In a city like New York, where agencies do not always communicate clearly with each other, the architect and expediter became essential. The permitting process involved the Department of Buildings, Landmark, and the added complexity of working in a historic district. The original plan was to patch things up, live in part of the house, and phase the work. After the architect asked better questions about noise, dust, permits, resale, and the unknown conditions behind the walls, the project shifted toward a full gut renovation. Patrick explains that every trade carried a different level of uncertainty. The electrician did not know what old wiring might be behind the walls. The plumber could not fully price the work without knowing what needed to be opened. The risk of piecemeal work became too high, so the full gut became the more sensible long-term decision. The renovation was stressful. Patrick and his family were spending money they did not really have and trusting people they were still getting to know. They dealt with decision fatigue, delays, and the emotional weight of watching the house get torn apart before it came back together. Patrick stayed involved by visiting the site often, asking questions, and keeping communication moving through the architect, GC, and foreman. He learned how important the foreman is because that person knows the daily reality of the job better than almost anyone. The biggest construction issue came when the wrong joists were installed. The architect caught the mistake during construction administration, which forced the GC to replace them. The relationship was strained, but the problem was fixed before it became a hidden structural issue. That moment became a clear example of why construction administration matters. Now that Patrick is living in the house, the stress has turned into pride. He knows the details of the home, from the doors to the layout to the systems behind the walls. The house supports the way his family lives, hosts, works, and gathers. It was scary, expensive, and difficult, but it became an investment in family life, not just real estate. (00:00) Intro (00:45) A project that became a gut renovation (01:22) Working with an architect and expediter (03:23) Why city approvals need the right expertise (04:15) What Patrick would tell his past self (05:56) Buying a two-family home with an FHA loan (11:57) Buying an as-is house with violations (13:26) Why the project became a full gut renovation (17:55) Staying involved through proactive communication (20:07) How to be present on site without disrupting the team (22:22) Why the foreman matters so much (29:38) The joist mistake that changed the project (33:15) What construction administration really protects (36:33) What Patrick loves about the finished home (39:41) Marilyn and Sheri reflect on Patrick’s lessons (50:38) Closing and how to share your story Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#49
May 26 · 23 min
What To Say When Things Start Going Wrong (Snack Sized Episode)
In this snack-sized episode, we lay out three simple phrases that help when a construction project starts to feel tense or disorganized. The focus is not on winning an argument. It is on getting everyone back to the same set of facts so the team can move forward. The first phrase is, “Let’s look at the contract.” When communication breaks down or stress rises, the contract is often the best place to start. It defines what counts as completion, what counts as a delay, how payments work, and what happens when part of the work is in dispute. Instead of reacting emotionally, we can return to what was already agreed to and use that as the basis for the next step. The second phrase is, “Let’s look at the drawings.” The drawings are part of the contract documents, and they show what the team agreed to build. In the middle of construction, it is easy for everyone to rely on memory, especially when there are multiple projects and many revisions in play. Looking at the drawings brings everyone back to the same information. It can also calm a charged moment because people stop speculating and start looking at the actual plan. Sometimes the drawings do not fully resolve the issue, and sometimes they reveal that something was missed. Even then, they still give the team a clear place to begin solving the problem. Drawings can say, in pictures, what would take far longer to say in text. The third phrase is, “Let’s look at the minutes.” Weekly meeting minutes create a record of decisions, responsibilities, and timing. They help track who agreed to what and when an issue first came up. The episode makes a strong case for architects keeping and organizing the minutes, because that process helps shape an accurate narrative of the project. Marilyn and Sheri also talk about AI tools for meeting minutes. They see value in them, but they do not think AI is fully reliable yet. It can miss context, confuse speakers, and create concerns around confidentiality and recording. For now, they describe a hybrid approach as more useful. The larger point is that custom residential work is complicated, and perfection is not the standard. Problems will come up. The goal is to keep the team aligned, reduce finger-pointing, and stay focused on solutions. These three phrases help do exactly that by bringing everyone back to the contract, the drawings, and the written record. (00:00) Intro (01:30) Phrase 1: Let’s look at the contract (05:18) Phrase 2: Let’s look at the drawings (13:24) Phrase 3: Let’s look at the minutes (15:23) Why owners need to review meeting minutes (16:01) AI for meeting notes: benefits and limits (19:05) Who should receive the meeting minutes (22:07) Final recap of the three phrases (23:06) Outro Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#48
May 19 · 50 min
Building a Multi-Generational Forever Home
In this episode, we talk with John and Lauren Katzman about building their custom multi-generational home in Powell, Ohio, just north of Columbus. Their project was a new build on five acres near a pond and woods. They began working with Sheri and Springhouse Architects well before construction started, and they broke ground in February 2020. About a month later, the pandemic hit. Even with that timing, they moved in by August 2021 and came away feeling supported and safe throughout the process. John and Lauren built the house for their family and Lauren’s parents. The home includes a true independent apartment for her parents, shared family space in the middle, and a two-story family home on the other side. Privacy was important for everyone. Her parents needed their own kitchen, their own front door, and the ability to close off their side. At the same time, the family wanted to open the house up for everyday life, childcare help, and larger gatherings. The result is a home that can function as one house or two connected homes. They also share what they would change. John wishes they had added heated floors to their own bathroom, since they included them on the in-laws’ side. Lauren says the solid maple floors are beautiful, but more delicate than expected. They love the natural look, but scratches and stains have made them rethink durability. John also wishes the garage had been just a little taller for a possible car lift, though that idea was news to Lauren. Many decisions worked very well. The upstairs playroom became one of the biggest wins. It gives the kids a place to spread out, make a mess, store toys, watch TV, and host cousin sleepovers. The siting of the house was another major success. They chose not to put a driveway in front because they wanted to look at the pond, not parked cars. That choice protects the feeling of the property and keeps the house connected to nature. A major theme is the value of building the right team. John and Lauren worked with an architect and builder who cared about the house, not just the job. Weekly meetings, clear communication, and early problem solving kept the process calm. They did not avoid every issue, but they had people around them who brought options and solutions. We close by reflecting on what made the project work. A forever home asks for serious planning. A multi-generational home asks for even more honesty about privacy, finances, decision-making, and future care needs. John and Lauren’s home now gives them a feeling of relief when they walk in. It is beautiful, functional, and deeply tied to the land around it. (00:00) Intro (01:03) A new build that began in February 2020 (02:12) Finding Springhouse Architects and starting the design process (04:02) What John and Lauren would do differently (05:04) Designing a multi-generational home (10:17) Alzheimer’s, timing, and caregiving at home (11:37) What worked and what they would rethink (14:23) The upstairs playroom as a major success (17:32) Designing the driveway around the pond view (18:33) Construction surprises and weekly meetings (22:21) Why the architect and builder team mattered (26:02) The cost of cutting corners (31:31) The value of full-service architectural support (34:05) Creating a house that feels connected to the outdoors (36:19) What they love most about the finished home (38:25) Sheri and Marilyn reflect on the conversation (50:00) Closing and contact information Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#47
May 12 · 25 min
HVAC Basics and Design Impacts (Snack Sized Episode)
Today we focus on why HVAC design matters far earlier in a project than most homeowners expect. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning shape more than temperature. These systems affect comfort, humidity, indoor air quality, and even the long-term durability of a home. We stress that when HVAC is treated as an afterthought, the result is often awkward soffits, dropped ceilings, poor airflow, and systems that do not perform well. Our hosts also push back on the idea that modern homes are too tight. Houses are not the problem. Poorly designed ventilation is. A house still needs to breathe, but it should do so in a controlled way with filtered and conditioned fresh air. HVAC planning begins very early, often right after the floor plan and scope are established, and in renovation work it can start even sooner. In Sheri's new construction, early decisions include where equipment will go, where outdoor units will sit, and how trunk lines will distribute air through the house. In Marilyn's older homes, the design may have to adapt to the limitations of existing framing and wall construction. But we both agree that waiting until construction to let a subcontractor figure it out is a mistake. HVAC planning is like structural and foundation design. It needs coordination in advance, not improvisation on site. The conversation also covers why proper sizing matters. Sheri shares two personal examples. In one home, a loud system cycled on and off constantly, likely because it was oversized or poorly selected. In another, an oversized mini split cooled a small stone outbuilding too quickly without removing enough moisture, leaving the space clammy and prone to mold. Once it was replaced with a correctly sized unit, the space became more comfortable and humidity was controlled. That story supports one of the main lessons of the episode: bigger is not always better. We also talk through common system choices, including gas versus electric, geothermal, heat pumps, radiant systems, and ducted versus ductless options. Marilyn notes that heat pumps have improved and can perform well in cold climates, despite outdated assumptions to the contrary. We explain the appeal of radiant heat, especially its comfort, but also point out that it usually requires a separate cooling system, which adds cost and complexity. Homeowners benefit when architects coordinate with skilled HVAC professionals early, understand the tradeoffs, and protect the design of the house from easy but damaging shortcuts. (00:00) Introduction and what HVAC means (00:48) Why HVAC affects comfort, air quality, and durability (02:51) Why houses are not too tight (04:19) When HVAC planning starts in the design process (06:09) Why builder and subcontractor coordination matters (09:09) Oversized systems and Sheri’s real-life examples (11:40) Gas, electric, geothermal, and heat pump choices (15:26) Radiant floor heating and why it needs a second system (16:41) Duct layout and protecting the design of the house (19:03) Working around duct constraints in old homes (22:49) Why easy subcontractor solutions can hurt the project (23:56) Final thoughts on the architect’s role Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#46
May 5 · 49 min
Mailbag: Hidden Costs, Site Risks, and First Steps That Matter
In this mailbag episode of Home: The Second Story, we answer three questions that come up early in almost every home project. First, we talk about the fear of missing hidden constraints before buying a property or committing to a renovation. We walk through the kinds of issues people should investigate early, including zoning, setbacks, easements, drainage, septic limitations, wells, and utility concerns. We explain that these questions often involve multiple layers of rules and that what looks simple on the surface can quickly become more complicated. Our main point is that bringing in an architect early can help homeowners make sense of those moving parts before they get too attached to a lot, house, or idea that may not work. Often, the operative question is not what, but how. We also talk about what to bring to a first meeting with an architect. Inspiration images, Pinterest boards, a survey, and a rough budget are all helpful, but we say the most important thing is having a sense of your priorities. You do not need to arrive with every detail figured out. In fact, part of the process is discovering what matters most, what tradeoffs are worth making, and what ideas may not need to stay on the list. We explain that good design starts with honest conversation, clear goals, and a willingness to engage in the process. We also underline how important it is to share your budget early so the project can be shaped around real expectations. And while you should bring your own opinions, you don't need to crowdsource every idea before - or after- meeting with us! Finally, we dig into the question of what a custom home or renovation will really cost. We break down why price per square foot is only a rough starting point and why homeowners need to understand the difference between a full project budget and a construction budget. We talk about the many expenses that sit outside the build itself, including land, design fees, consultants, financing, furniture, contingency, and temporary housing. We also touch on allowances, soft costs, and the risks of vague contracts or unrealistically low estimates. Throughout the episode, we come back to the same advice: start strong, ask questions early, understand what is actually included, and work with professionals who will tell you the truth before the stakes get higher. (00:00) Intro (02:36) Why zoning rules are harder than they look (06:16) Surveys, setbacks, and easements (12:14) Wells and water access (13:04) Hidden constraints in renovation projects (14:59) What to bring to your first architect meeting (17:28) Why priorities matter more than perfect ideas (21:41) Budget honesty from the start (25:28) Why price per square foot is only a rough gauge (30:39) Spec homes vs true custom homes (35:27) Allowances and soft costs explained (38:24) Consultants, code requirements, and surprise expenses (42:28) Contracts, change orders, and cost structure (45:22) Final takeaways on starting strong (49:00) Outro and how to send questions Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us! admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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