Every great home begins with a vision — but sometimes, that vision is tested.
In this Designing in 5D episode, I sat down with our designers Haylee Meador and Ashtyn Chance to share what really went into creating our award-winning English Tudor show home with Alair Homes DSM.
This wasn’t just another project. It was a lesson in collaboration, flexibility, and trust — and a reminder that confidence in design isn’t built in comfort.
“Confidence isn’t built in comfort — it’s built when you push boundaries, make the tough calls, and trust your design instincts.”
The Vision: English Tudor with Modern Intentionality
When the project began, the vision wasn’t fully defined. Together with Andrew and Olga from Alair Homes DSM, our team helped shape a design direction that honored traditional Tudor character while embracing modern livability.
The home needed to feel timeless — rich with real woodwork, layered textures, and architectural details — yet function seamlessly for contemporary life.
The Challenge: Designing in Motion
Unlike our usual process, this show home evolved while it was being built. Timelines tightened, financing arrived late, and there wasn’t time for our standard preplanning. Instead of having every detail finalized, we were designing live — making decisions in real time.
It was uncomfortable, yes. But it taught us to trust our process and each other. Haylee and Ashtyn adapted quickly, providing specs, managing vendor communication, and making dozens of micro-decisions daily — all while maintaining design integrity.
Design Wins: Cabinetry, Trim, and Lighting That Tell a Story
One of the biggest triumphs? The cabinetry and trim work.
Working closely with Amish Cabinet Company, Ashtyn detailed cabinetry drawings down to appliance depth, ensuring perfect alignment and function. Haylee layered custom trim profiles, picture molding, and crown details that elevated every space from standard to stunning.
Then came the lighting. Instead of harsh overheads, the home relies on ambient, layered lighting — sconces, picture lights, and architectural accents — creating warmth and rhythm that shift beautifully from day to night.
Material Moments That Matter
From bold bar cabinetry to statement wallpaper in the pantry and powder bath, the design team found balance between restraint and expression.
Even the red oak floors, once considered dated, were reimagined with a modern finish that brought warmth and nostalgia without the heavy red tones.
Technology & Livability
With Alair Homes DSM leading construction and Olga’s project management expertise, the home integrated high-tech comfort without sacrificing charm. Hidden speakers, automated shades, and a smart lighting system created a sense of wellness and rhythm throughout the space.
Even the lower level was designed to live like the main floor — with 10-foot ceilings, no soffits, and a seamless flow between entertaining areas.
The Lesson: Confidence Comes from Collaboration
By the time the doors opened for the show, the home didn’t just look beautiful — it felt right. Visitors described it as comforting, livable, and full of subtle surprises.
For our team, it was a reminder that confidence grows through collaboration. Every challenge pushed us to refine our process and trust our instincts — and that’s what makes design powerful.
Start Your Design Journey with Confidence
If you’re starting your own new build or remodel, clarity is your greatest tool.
Our free Decision Confidence Toolkit helps you simplify choices, set priorities, and create a plan that feels empowering — not overwhelming.
📥 Download the Decision Confidence Toolkit →
🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTube →
Every project teaches us something new — about creativity, patience, and ourselves.
And sometimes, the designs that challenge us the most are the ones that change us the most. ✨