New Home Build Construction Guide
“I WANT to take on full-scale build projects… but I’m not confident enough in how the actual construction process works.”
 
You’re not alone — and you absolutely can learn this.
 
If you’ve ever felt unsure about the sequence of a home build, who does what, how timelines unfold, or when you as the designer step in… this guide is your new essential resource.
 
Many designers assume they “should already know” how a home gets built - but the truth is, most aren’t taught the construction flow in design school or early in their careers. And that uncertainty can make even talented designers hesitate to take on larger, more profitable new-build projects.
This guide eliminates the guesswork and gives you the understanding, structure, and confidence you’ve been missing.
 
Why This Guide Matters
Picture this:
You’ve met wonderful clients. They’ve accepted your proposal. They’re excited to move forward with a brand-new custom home. And suddenly… you’re panicking.
How does a new build actually unfold?
When do trades come in?
Where do you fit into the process?
What if the builder asks you something you don’t know?
 
This guide ensures you are never caught off guard again.
In an easy, clear, step-by-step format, it breaks down exactly how builders run a new home construction project from start to finish — and clarifies exactly how designers integrate into the process.
 
What You’ll Learn
Inside this streamlined, highly practical guide, you’ll gain clarity on:
Average timelines and the typical construction phases
Who prepares plans for permit packages (and when)
What trades and sub-trades are involved at each stage
When and how designers are brought into a project
How to run your full internal design phase during a new build
When to meet with clients and builders to discuss budgets and deliverables
How to schedule your own design deliverables around construction milestones
When to collect payments on your design fees
When to present drawings, finishes, and materials confidently
When to guide clients through selections efficiently and professionally
When to curate, source, supply, and install furnishings for a new build
Which site visits matter most — and when to attend
How construction events flow chronologically while design work is underway
Deficiency walkthroughs and what to look for before final occupancy
How to hand over the project on an organized, professional high note
 
What This Guide Gives You
A clear, confidence-boosting understanding of the entire build process
The ability to speak knowledgeably with builders, clients, and trades
A strong foundation for offering full-scale new-build design services
Clarity on your responsibilities, boundaries, deliverables, and timelines
A roadmap you can refer back to for every new-build project you take on
 
Who This Is For
Designers who:
Want to expand into full-scale construction projects
Feel anxious about not fully knowing the build sequence
Want to elevate their credibility with builders and clients
Need a simplified, straight-to-the-point explanation of the new build ecosystem
Are ready to step into bigger, more profitable project opportunities
 
Build Your Confidence. Elevate Your Expertise. Never stumble your way through a new-build conversation again.
 
This guide gives you the structure, clarity, and industry insight you need to approach full-scale projects with ease - and finally feel in control of the entire process from day one.