Remodel vs Build: Which option is right for you?

It can be difficult to decide between remodeling an existing home or building a custom home. There are many factors that can impact your decision, including budget, style, and timeframe for completion. Our job as experienced designers, home builders and remodelers is to help you make the most informed decision so you can enjoy your new space for years to come.

Remodeling a Home

Remodels are fun and exciting because of the possibility to transform something old into something new while still retaining its original character. However, with the unknowns that are inherent in a remodel, you face the unappealing prospect of unexpected costs

Our city of Santa Fe has so many beautiful, historic homes with unique character. In fact, myself, my mother Sharon, and brother Shane all live in remodeled homes. We love taking the old and fusing it with our own style. Certain areas around the city do not have vacant lots to build so your only option may be a remodel. The historic Eastside, one of Santa Fe’s most desirable areas, has been virtually fully developed so a remodel is your best bet if you wish to live in that area in an home.

In exploring the possibility of remodeling an existing home in Santa Fe it is critical to understand the different districts and the limitations they impose.  The Core Historic District  is the most restrictive district as it often requires exterior facades to either remain the same or be restored in kind and can make it difficult to add new construction.  Other districts such as ridgeline escarpment and historic review district carry their own set of restrictions as well that can limit your choices for exterior stucco color, window type and roof heights.  Woods, through 40 years of experience, has done countless jobs in all of these districts and can you help you navigate the process and achieve your dream home in even the most trying of circumstances

Building a Custom Home

Building a custom allows you the flexibility to start from scratch and create your spaces exactly how you prefer. We design a plan that fits your needs, adheres to your style and takes advantage of the land and Santa Fe’s breathtaking vistas. There are no limits; we can completely customize every space, every room, and every view. It’s an intimate and very detailed process that takes an average of 10 months to complete. Custom builds limit your unknowns so there are less surprises and unanticipated costs.

You are the best person to decide if a remodel or a custom home build is best for you. We find it comes down to your goals, so start by assessing your needs and establishing a budget. We have been designing and building homes in Santa Fe for forty years.  We love what we do and most of all we love working with clients to help them create their dream home.  Whichever route you choose we are here to make the journey fun and to exceed your expectations in every way possible.