The Insider's Guide to Custom Homes

Luxury design isn’t just about finishes — it’s about creating emotional harmony the moment you walk through the door. In this episode, Rick Bell sits down with Goli Basiri, co-founder and principal designer of Harmen Design, to explore how thoughtful interior architecture, intuitive discovery, and purposeful design transform a home into a deeply personal living experience. Together, they discuss common design challenges and how early collaboration leads to a more aligned, seamless process.Goli also shares her journey from physics to international award-winning designer, and how she uses technology, creativity, and architectural insight to help clients experience their future home long before it’s built.➡️ Listen now and discover how to create a home that feels as exceptional as it looks — and share this episode with someone designing their dream space.Episode Highlights•       How Goli blends science, architecture, and emotion to create harmonious homes•       What homeowners can do early to avoid rework and costly design changes•       Why some beautifully built homes still feel empty—and how design restores soul•       How 3D walkthrough technology transforms client understanding•       What winning a global SBID Award means for Harmen Design’s evolution Glossary of TermsEnscape: A real-time 3D walkthrough tool that lets clients virtually experience their home’s layout, finishes, and lighting before it’s built.Color Temperature (Kelvin): The warmth or coolness of light that designers use to influence mood, from soft evening ambience to bright task lighting.Interior Architecture: The structural interior framework — like millwork, lighting layouts, and spatial flow—that shapes how a home functions and feels. Explore Goli Basiri’s award-winning projects and design philosophy:Website: https://harmendesign.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/harmen.design Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LzDQNSaAk15tm1rM8J6eo 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes/id1815798115 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TIGTCH 🌐 Website: https://tigtch.com Connect with Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigtchpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIGTCHPODCAST LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes Resources & Links Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch Email Rick: Rick@TIGTCH.com...

What does it take to lead one of the world’s top luxury interior design firms for nearly 40 years?  In this episode, host Rick Bell welcomes Jason Lynn, Partner and Vice President at The Decorators Unlimited, to explore the art of design, leadership, and legacy in a fast-evolving industry.Jason shares his inspiring journey from U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmer to global design executive — and how structure, teamwork, and mentorship have shaped the firm’s signature “white-glove” approach. Together, Rick and Jason dive into what makes The Decorators Unlimited a name synonymous with timeless design, precision, and passion, delivering seamless client experiences from blueprint to final reveal.Whether you’re building a dream home or reimagining your space, this conversation reveals how communication, innovation, and craftsmanship come together to create homes that feel as extraordinary as they look.🎧 If you’re dreaming of a home that reflects who you are and how you live, tune in and discover how thoughtful design can turn vision into reality.  Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show!Episode HighlightsHow Jason’s Coast Guard discipline shaped his design leadershipWhat drives The Decorators Unlimited’s 40-year legacy of excellenceThe power of teamwork, mentorship, and communication in luxury designHow technology and innovation redefine the client experienceWhat it means to create truly timeless interiors Discover more of Jason’s projects:The Decorators Unlimited: https://decoratorsunlimited.comSchematic Designs: https://schematicdesigns.comGlossary of Terms CAD (Computer-Aided Design): Software programs such as AutoCAD and Revit that allow for precise 2D and 3D design of buildings.Renderings: 3D digital visualizations that bring designs to life before construction. Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LzDQNSaAk15tm1rM8J6eo 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes/id1815798115 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TIGTCH 🌐 Website: https://tigtch.com Connect with Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigtchpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIGTCHPODCAST LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes Resources & Links Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch Email Rick: Rick@TIGTCH.com...

Designing a custom home should feel exciting — but for many homeowners, it quickly becomes overwhelming once hundreds of decisions, finishes, and layouts enter the picture.In this episode, Rick Bell sits down with award-winning interior designer Jennifer Fitzpatrick, founder and principal of Studio J & Co, to bring clarity to the entire process.They unpack Jennifer’s journey from working solo during the early days of COVID to leading a thriving 10-person design team known for sophisticated, hospitality-level designs and photorealistic renderings.🎧 Ready to build a home that feels as good as it looks?Hit play — and don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share the show to support the podcast. Episode Highlights Studio J & Co’s growth from a solo venture to a 10-person luxury design studio How early collaboration between architect, builder, and designer keeps projects cohesive Turning inspiration into reality — concept boards, technical drawings, photorealistic renderings, and built spaces Blending modern Miami aesthetics with warmth and durability for livable luxury Key differences between decorators and licensed interior designers in large custom projects Design trends shaping high-end residential and commercial spaces across Miami, New York, and beyondExplore more of Jennifer's work:Studio J & Co. – https://www.studiojandco.comGlossary of Terms Rendering: A photorealistic, digital visualization that shows clients exactly what a room will look like before it’s built.Technical Drawings: 2D architectural drawings showing dimensions, elevations, lighting, electrical, and all the construction details neededShop Drawings: Highly detailed drawings produced by fabricators (like cabinet makers or millworkers) based on the designer’s technical plans.Maximalism: A design trend focused on layering rich textures, bold materials, and standout statement pieces to create a curated, luxurious look.Design to Budget: A collaborative process ensuring that the homeowner’s vision aligns with a realistic investment Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LzDQNSaAk15tm1rM8J6eo 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes/id1815798115 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TIGTCH 🌐 Website: https://tigtch.com Connect with Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigtchpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIGTCHPODCAST LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes Resources & Links Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch Email Rick: Rick@TIGTCH.com...

In this engaging conversation, award-winning interior designer Perla Lichi shares her journey from her early days as 'Purple Perla' to crafting opulent spaces worldwide. She discusses the essence of luxury—emphasizing texture, materials, and personal style. Perla reveals her unique methods of understanding clients through astrology and body language while highlighting the importance of collaboration with builders and architects. She also dives into current design trends and her innovative approach to creating harmonious, move-in-ready homes.

You’ve probably walked into a beautiful home that somehow just feels right — balanced, warm, and personal. That kind of magic doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of thoughtful collaboration between architect, builder, and interior designer, working together to bring structure and soul into harmony. As a custom home builder with over 40 years of experience, host Rick Bell has seen how the right interior designer can completely transform a project — and how the wrong choice can create unnecessary stress and compromise your vision. In this episode, Rick shares what to look for, what to expect, and how to choose a designer who truly understands your style and lifestyle. Whether you’re dreaming of your first custom home or already working with a design team, this episode will help you make informed decisions that ensure your space feels as good as it looks. 🎯 Tune in and discover how to build your masterpiece beautifully, intentionally, and the Landmark way.Highlights: The real difference between a decorator and an interior designerHow a designer shapes every detail of your home’s look and feelWhat questions to ask before hiring a designerHow pricing structures and retainers typically workWhy collaboration between builder, architect, and designer matters mostGlossary of Terms Decorator – A professional who focuses on aesthetics such as color, furniture, and finishes, but typically without formal training in spatial design or construction.Interior Designer – A trained and certified professional who plans and executes the functional and aesthetic layout of interior spaces, often coordinating directly with architects and builders.ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) – A leading professional organization for interior designers that upholds design standards, ethics, and continuing education in the field.Retainer – An upfront fee paid to secure a designer’s commitment to a project, ensuring availability and prioritization through completion.Finishes – The visible materials and textures in a home, such as flooring, tile, paint, and hardware, that define its look and feel. Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LzDQNSaAk15tm1rM8J6eo 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes/id1815798115 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TIGTCH 🌐 Website: https://tigtch.com Connect with Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigtchpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIGTCHPODCAST LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes Resources & Links Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch Email Rick: Rick@TIGTCH.com...

Ever wondered why so many custom home projects go over budget — even with careful planning?When building a luxury home, the smallest decisions can have the biggest impact. From appliances to cabinetry, every choice shapes not just the look of your home, but the final cost as well.In this episode of The Insider's Guide to Custom Homes, Rick Bell explains the vital role of selections and allowances — two tools that help homeowners stay organized, avoid costly surprises, and keep their dream build on track.Rick shares real-world stories from Landmark Custom Homes projects, showing how the right approach to selections can save thousands while still delivering the beauty and quality every homeowner expects.Whether you're just starting your design journey or deep into the build, this episode will help you make confident, informed choices that align your vision with your budget.Tune in to learn how to plan smarter, spend wiser, and build beautifully — the Landmark way. What You’ll LearnWhat "selections and allowances" really mean in a custom home buildHow these tools help you control costs and reduce stressThe real-life $40,000 lesson every homeowner can learn fromWhy timing your selections keeps your build on scheduleHow to make design upgrades without breaking your budget Glossary of TermsSelections: The individual design choices homeowners make during a custom home build — including finishes, fixtures, appliances, and materials.Allowances: Pre-set budget amounts assigned to specific categories (like cabinets, flooring, or lighting) to help manage spending during construction.Selection Schedule: A timeline outlining when each decision must be made to keep the project moving efficiently. Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LzDQNSaAk15tm1rM8J6eo 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes/id1815798115 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TIGTCH 🌐 Website: https://tigtch.com Connect with Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigtchpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIGTCHPODCAST LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes Resources & Links Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch Email Rick: Rick@TIGTCH.com...

In this episode, Rick Bell dives into one of the most powerful — but often underappreciated — tools in custom homebuilding: the mockup. Whether built in the field or experienced virtually, mockups help owners, architects, and builders test details, refine designs, and avoid costly mistakes before full-scale construction begins. From unique roof overhangs to stone transitions and virtual walk-throughs, Rick explains how mockups bring creative visions to life while protecting budgets, schedules, and peace of mind. What You’ll Learn Why physical mockups are critical for testing bespoke architectural details. Real-world examples of mockups that revealed design and construction challenges. The rise of virtual mockups and VR walk-throughs, using tools like Revit, Twinmotion, Lumion, Unreal Engine, and Meta Quest headsets. How technology helps owners visualize finishes, lighting, and spatial flow—reducing decision fatigue and avoiding expensive changes later. The future of mockups, including AI-driven design combinations and immersive simulations. Glossary of TermsMockup – A small-scale or partial construction model used to test architectural details, materials, and systemsOil Canning – A visible waviness or rippling effect that occurs in flat metal panels, often seen in roofing or siding. Reglet – A small, often metal channel or groove used to create clean transitions between dissimilar materials such as stone, stucco, or roofing. Cumaru – Also known as Brazilian teak, a dense, durable hardwood often used for exterior decking and cladding. Ashlar Pattern – A masonry layout in which stones are cut into uniform shapes and set in horizontal courses for a clean, structured appearance. Field Mockup – A physical section of a wall, roof, or detail built on-site to test materials, finishes, or construction methods. Virtual Mockup – A digital 3D model of a home that allows owners and designers to preview materials, layouts, and lighting conditions VR Walk-Through – An immersive experience using virtual reality headsets that lets owners explore their future home in a realistic environment.  Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LzDQNSaAk15tm1rM8J6eo 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes/id1815798115 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TIGTCH 🌐 Website: https://tigtch.com Connect with Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigtchpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIGTCHPODCAST LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes Resources & Links Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch Email Rick: Rick@TIGTCH.com...

In this episode of The Insider’s Guide to Custom Homes, Rick Bell interviews Chris Bates, a property tax expert, to shed light on one of the least understood but most impactful aspects of owning a luxury custom home: property taxes. Chris explains how tax assessments are determined, the common pitfalls homeowners face, and the strategies high-net-worth families can use to manage their property tax liabilities effectively. He shares stories from his work representing clients and highlights what builders and homeowners alike should know to avoid costly surprises.This episode is a must-listen for anyone preparing to build or purchase a luxury home, as well as professionals who want a deeper understanding of how property taxes intersect with construction and ownership.What You’ll LearnChris’s background and how he became an expert in property tax consulting.How property taxes are assessed on new custom homes and what can trigger reassessments.Common mistakes homeowners make when it comes to tax planning.Strategies to appeal assessments and reduce property tax burdens.The relationship between appraisers, municipalities, and property owners.Real-world examples of property tax disputes and resolutions.Chris’s advice for homeowners building multi-million-dollar estates.Glossary of Terms: Assessed Value: The value assigned to a property by a local tax authority for the purpose of calculating property taxes. Millage Rate: The tax rate applied to the assessed value, expressed in mills (one mill = $1 per $1,000 of assessed value).Homestead Exemption: A legal provision that reduces the taxable value of a primary residence.Tax Appeal: The process of formally contesting a property’s assessed value.Comparable Sales (Comps): Recent home sales used to determine market value during assessments or appeals. Connect with Chris BatesWebsite: https://myfloridapropertytaxes.com Email: chris@myfloridapropertytaxes.com Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LzDQNSaAk15tm1rM8J6eo 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes/id1815798115 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TIGTCH 🌐 Website: https://tigtch.com Connect with Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigtchpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIGTCHPODCAST LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes Resources & Links Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch Email Rick: Rick@TIGTCH.com...

Building an ultra-luxury custom home often rivals the complexity of managing a commercial high-rise. Behind every dream estate in South Florida is a demanding process that requires expertise, foresight, and a dedicated advocate to safeguard the owner’s vision. In this episode, host Rick Bell sits down with Rick Peña—founding principal of Prime Group Management and a seasoned owner’s representative with over 25 years of experience and a portfolio surpassing $1 billion.Together, they explore the indispensable role of an Owner’s Rep in guiding complex projects from start to finish. 👉 If you’re planning your first luxury custom home—or simply want to understand what it takes—subscribe and share this episode with someone embarking on their dream build. Highlights & Takeaways • How to choose the right Owner’s Rep—and what traps to avoid • Why today’s luxury estates are managed like large commercial projects • The hidden challenges that can derail timelines (like windows, doors, or overseas shipments) • How early planning and data-driven cost control save millions • What makes trust, reputation, and repeat clients the true measure of success • Why aligning architects and builders with the homeowner’s goals prevents costly redesigns and delays • How selectivity in projects leads to higher service, stronger focus, and exceptional results Connect with Rick Pena's TeamPrime Group Management, LLC: https://www.primegroupmanagement.comGlossary of TermsOwner’s Representative (Owner’s Rep): A consultant who represents the homeowner’s interests during the planning and construction process, coordinating with architects, contractors, and consultants.OAC Meeting: Regular project meetings between the Owner, Architect, and ContractorChange Order (CO): A formal amendment to the construction contract to account for changes in scope, cost, or time.Submittals & RFIs: Documentation and requests used by contractors to confirm materials, details, or resolve uncertainties.Design to Budget: A process ensuring design decisions align with the owner’s financial parameters from the start. Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LzDQNSaAk15tm1rM8J6eo 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes/id1815798115 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TIGTCH 🌐 Website: https://tigtch.com Connect with Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigtchpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIGTCHPODCAST LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes Resources & Links Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch Email Rick: Rick@TIGTCH.com...

Building a luxury custom home is a dream for many, but managing the process can be a daunting task. In this episode, host Rick Bell sits down with Tom Koulouris—a seasoned builder, Owner’s Representative, and professor at the University of Miami—to explore the indispensable role of an Owner’s Rep in high-end residential projects.Both alumni of the University of Florida’s School of Building Construction, Rick and Tom share lessons from working together on a 37,000-square-foot estate in Southwest Ranches, Florida.Tom’s decades of experience in both commercial and residential construction, combined with his passion for education, make him one of the most respected voices in the industry. Episode HighlightsWhat an Owner’s Representative is—and why every homeowner should consider one.How to align vision, budget, and execution without losing sight of priorities.Why clear communication between owners, architects, and contractors is non-negotiable.How their shared background at the UF School of Building Construction shaped their approach to collaboration.The importance of having an advocate who understands both the technical and human sides of construction.Glossary of TermsOwner’s Representative (Owner’s Rep): A consultant who represents the homeowner’s interests during the planning and construction process, coordinating with architects, contractors, and consultants.Delivery Models: Different methods for structuring construction contracts and responsibilities (e.g., Design-Bid-Build, Design-Build, CM-at-Risk). Each model affects risk, cost, and decision-making.RFQ (Request for Qualifications): A document used to shortlist firms based on experience and capability before requesting formal proposals.RFP (Request for Proposal): A formal document inviting firms to submit detailed proposals on how they would deliver a project, including scope, cost, and approach.GNM (Guaranteed Maximum Price): A contract structure where the contractor is reimbursed for costs but capped at a maximum price, protecting the owner from overruns.OAC Meeting: Regular project meetings between the Owner, Architect, and ContractorChange Order (CO): A formal amendment to the construction contract to account for changes in scope, cost, o Listen & Subscribe 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LzDQNSaAk15tm1rM8J6eo 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes/id1815798115 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TIGTCH 🌐 Website: https://tigtch.com Connect with Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigtchpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIGTCHPODCAST LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-insiders-guide-to-custom-homes Resources & Links Landmark Custom Homes: https://www.landmarkcustomhomes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homesbylandmark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-bell-lch Email Rick: Rick@TIGTCH.com...