Tell us a little bit about your company and its foundation.

Felicia Foster: I started out in the business 26 years ago, and most of my clientele have come to me via referral. I value the relationships that I build with both builders and custom clients. My focus is on the service that I provide to my clients: helping a builder with a speculative project that needs to be built within a budget and helping a custom client see their dream home become a reality. My experience is not only in design but also construction and value engineering.

What are a few of the benefits of starting with a floor plan when designing a home?

Most people can walk a model and pick out what they like and dislike because they can see it. I sit down with the client and ask questions about their day, what their goals are, where they see themselves in 5 years, and then start to design a floor plan around their lifestyle. It’s important in our part of the country to have a good understanding of topography and how to design with the lay of the land. Sometimes listening to a client describe their wishes and then standing on a lot where I think their family room will be can be very impactful, better than a model home.

Can you briefly walk us through the floor plan process?

The process of designing a home can vary as much as the clients. Every time it’s a little different. When I meet with a client the first time I can usually “design” their house in my head before leaving. Most people know what they want but can’t put it all together. That’s my job.

How long does this process take?

Just like the design process is different for each client, so is the time it takes to bring an idea, or several ideas, to fruition. There is a level of trust that has to be developed before moving too far into the design. Once the client understands that everything that they tell me they want in their home will be considered then they feel more comfortable moving forward. I meet with the clients several times through the process: programming, schematics, working drawings, etc. and each time it may take a few meetings to process the “wish list.”

If you could give any outstanding advice for a homeowner who is designing floor plans for the first time, what would it be?

Do your design homework. Have an idea of what you want in a house, how it will work for your family, and determine what your budget is. Don’t be afraid to share your budget up front. A good design team will help you achieve your goals but will also tell you when what you want will not work within your budget. Everyone has a budget.

What is the best way for people to reach you and or your company?

The best way to reach me and view my portfolio is to visit www.barroncustomdesign.com.

By Felicia Foster

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