Frequently asked questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the custom home design process at Clark Richardson Architects?

At Clark Richardson Architects, the custom design process begins with programming—understanding your lifestyle, goals, and site opportunities. From there, we move into schematic design, design development, and construction documents, ensuring every detail is carefully planned and specified. This structured process allows our clients to visualize their home at every stage while aligning design decisions with budget and schedule. Explore in more detail at www.clarkrichardson.com.

How does the design process translate into construction with Halcyon Builds?

Because Clark Richardson Architects is the sister company to Halcyon Builds, the transition from design to construction is seamless. Our team manages permitting, detailed specifications, and pricing early in the process, eliminating surprises and ensuring that what you see in the design phase is exactly what gets built. This design-build approach allows for better communication, faster timelines, and a smoother experience from start to finish.

Why is design-build the best approach for building a custom home in Austin?

Traditional construction often separates the architect from the builder, which can create miscommunication and cost overruns. With a design-build contractor like Halcyon Builds, architecture and construction are fully integrated. This means:

  • Your budget is considered from the very first design sketch.

  • Permitting and pricing are streamlined.

  • The same team carries your vision through design, specifications, and construction.

  • You save time, reduce stress, and enjoy a more transparent process. We make it fun.

What are the main steps in the design-build process?

The steps typically include:

  1. Programming & Visioning – Defining goals, lifestyle needs, and site opportunities.

  2. Architectural Design – Creating drawings and renderings with Clark Richardson Architects.

  3. Specifications & Pricing – Aligning material selections and construction methods with budget.

  4. Permitting – Managing approvals and city requirements.

  5. Construction – Halcyon Builds oversees every detail of the build with precision and care.

  6. Completion – Delivering your custom home on time, on budget, and true to your vision.

How does Halcyon Builds simplify the custom home process for clients?

By combining architectural design, interior design, and construction under one roof, Halcyon Builds eliminates the confusion of managing multiple contracts, consultants, and builders. Our clients work with one dedicated team from the first programming meeting to the final walk-through. This integrated approach ensures clear communication, greater flexibility, fewer delays, and a home that truly reflects your vision.

Do you only build homes designed by Clark Richardson Architects?

Yes — our goal is to protect design integrity and deliver the highest level of craftsmanship. By building the homes we design, we ensure that every detail is executed as intended, resulting in a custom home of exceptional quality.