Resources: Blog

Discover the 90% of custom home design you don’t see. Learn how behind-the-walls details—framing, insulation, systems, and craftsmanship—define a true high-performance home.

Wondering if you’re ready to build a custom home? Explore the mindset shifts—vision, patience, and emotional investment—that matter more than budgets or timelines.

Discover why form should follow feeling in home design. Learn how architecture can create emotional resonance—not just efficiency—in luxury living.

Explore the architecture of arrival—how entryways go beyond function to create emotion, storytelling, and unforgettable first impressions in luxury home design.

Discover why great design isn’t always symmetrical. Explore how balance, asymmetry, and spatial tension create luxury homes that feel dynamic, sophisticated, and alive.

Discover why restraint is a hallmark of great architecture. Learn how editing, clarity, and minimalism with warmth create timeless, intentional spaces that don’t try to do too much.

Discover why luxury home gyms have become the ultimate status symbol. Learn how custom wellness spaces reflect modern values and elevate your daily life.

Understand the difference between a builder and a designer when building a custom home. Learn how these essential roles work together to bring your dream home to life.

Most builders start with curb appeal. We start with feeling. Discover why floor plans should follow emotion—not elevation—and how designing from the inside out leads to a home that lives as well as it looks.

A truly custom home isn’t about finishes or square footage—it’s about alignment, proportion, and emotional design. Discover what makes a home feel personal, even before it’s furnished.

Before floor plans come the questions that shape everything: How do you live? What do you value? What does home feel like? This is the discovery phase—where real custom homes begin.

Are you really ready to build a custom home? It’s about more than money or timing. Here's what we’ve seen in clients who are truly prepared for the journey—and the mindset that makes the difference.

The best custom homes begin with great questions. Here are the ones we wish more clients asked earlier—questions that save time, money, and stress before construction ever begins.

What makes a custom home feel personal? It’s not just the finishes—it’s the light, flow, proportion, and intention. Learn how truly bespoke design feels before you even step inside.

Want to make smarter custom home decisions? Learn how to think like an architect—even if you’ve never studied design. This mindset can change how your home feels for decades.

When building a custom home, it's tempting to focus on what looks good today. But truly thoughtful homes consider what will still feel beautiful, livable, and efficient in 10, 20, or even 50 years.

Building a custom home is exciting — but it’s also a long series of decisions. From flooring to faucets, insulation to lighting layouts, you’ll make hundreds of choices over the course of the project.

A custom home is one of the most personal projects you’ll ever take on — and yet, many clients start the process unsure how to clearly communicate what they actually want.That’s where a strong design brief comes in.

When building a custom home, it’s tempting to think in all-or-nothing terms — either you do everything now, or you’ll miss your window. But in reality, the smartest custom homes are designed with the future in mind.

Here’s how we help our clients create spaces that are warm, elevated, and beautifully functional for guests — without compromising their own everyday flow.

Custom homes are having a moment. From YouTube home tours to renovation reels to endless design shows on streaming, building your dream home has never looked so... fast, fun, and easy. But as anyone who’s done it in real life knows: the TV version leaves out a few key details.

When you're building a custom home, there are a lot of decisions to make — and many of them happen long before the walls go up. For clients who aren't used to interpreting architectural plans, this can feel overwhelming.

For many of our clients, flexibility is just as important as function. Whether you're a frequent traveler, a snowbird, or splitting time between properties, a lock-and-leave home gives you the freedom to come and go — without the worry.

A beautiful home is easy to admire. But a home that feels deeply personal — the kind that gives you a sense of peace, comfort, and belonging the moment you walk in — is something else entirely.

When most people think about luxury homes, they picture stunning kitchens, spa-inspired bathrooms, and soaring great rooms. But in the Pacific Northwest, one of the greatest opportunities for luxury living is just outside your back door.

When designing a custom home, most people think in terms of space, layout, and light. But there’s a more subtle design element that profoundly influences how a home feels — one that often operates just below the surface of our awareness:

One of the greatest advantages of building a custom home in British Columbia is the natural beauty we get to work with — and around. Towering trees, sloped lots, mountain views, and ocean air are all part of the canvas. But instead of clearing it away, the best custom homes are designed in response to the landscape.

Whether it’s your first custom build or your fifth, this phase can feel a little mysterious. At Homes by Westgate, we believe in full transparency — and that includes what happens when you walk your future home-in-progress.

In custom home design, luxury isn’t always loud. Often, it’s the quiet confidence of thoughtful details — the ones you don’t notice at first glance, but can’t imagine living without once you do.

We asked our architecture and design team: What are the most common design regrets you hear (from both clients and friends)? Here are the top five — and how we help prevent them.

A custom home isn’t just where life happens—it’s where stories begin, traditions are passed down, and memories are made. At Homes by Westgate, we often work with clients who aren’t just building for themselves. They’re building with a generational lens: creating a home that will be cherished and lived in by children, grandchildren, and beyond.

Whether you're in Toronto, Texas, or Tokyo, building a home in British Columbia might feel like a stretch—logistically, emotionally, even legally. But at Homes by Westgate, remote builds aren't the exception anymore. They're an everyday reality.

In a world that often equates luxury with size, we’re seeing a refreshing shift: more and more homeowners are choosing to build smarter, not bigger. At Homes by Westgate, we’re increasingly working with clients who are leaning into intentional living — where every square foot is purposeful, beautiful, and deeply personal.

So, you’ve signed the contract on your custom home build. The vision is clear, the excitement is real, and now you’re ready to see things start moving. But then... nothing seems to happen. No machinery. No ground-breaking ceremony. Just quiet.

As winter melts away and spring begins to bloom, it’s the perfect time to refresh your home—both functionally and decoratively. Spring isn’t just about clearing out the clutter; it’s about creating a space that feels alive, vibrant, and ready for the energy of the new season. With practical tips, creative decor ideas, and a touch of feng shui philosophy, here’s how to prepare your home for spring.

The way we design and live in our homes is constantly evolving, and 2025 is bringing some of the most exciting trends we’ve seen in years. From earthy palettes to sculptural lighting, this year’s trends are all about creating spaces that feel personal, grounded, and inspiring. Here’s what’s shaping the world of home design in 2025.

When we think about home design, we often focus on how a space looks. But truly exceptional homes go beyond visual appeal—they engage all the senses to create an environment that feels harmonious, comfortable, and inspiring. Designing for the senses can elevate a home from simply functional to a deeply personal sanctuary.

The construction industry is experiencing a technological revolution, with advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and smart home technology reshaping how homes are designed and built. These innovations are not just futuristic concepts—they’re already transforming the way we approach custom home construction, offering efficiency, precision, and personalization like never before.

When designing a home, most people focus on functionality, aesthetics, and budget. But what if we told you the design of your home could influence your mood, productivity, and overall well-being? The psychology of home design is an emerging field that examines how spaces shape our lives, and it’s something every homeowner should consider when building or renovating.

Hardwood flooring has long been a hallmark of luxury homes, offering a blend of elegance, durability, and timeless appeal. At Homes by Westgate, we understand that the right flooring can transform a space, adding warmth and sophistication. Here's how hardwood flooring can elevate your custom home:

As we step into 2025, the concept of smart homes has evolved from a futuristic dream to a standard expectation for modern living. At Homes by Westgate, we are at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge automation technologies into luxury custom-built homes, creating spaces that are not only intelligent but also intuitive and personalized.

Whistler, with its breathtaking landscapes and world-class amenities, offers an unparalleled setting for luxury mountain retreats. Nestled amidst the striking peaks of the Coast Mountains, this iconic destination provides the perfect backdrop for those looking to create a sanctuary that combines opulence with nature. At Homes by Westgate, we specialize in crafting custom homes that capture the essence of Whistler's unique allure.

The Fraser Valley is a region that offers the best of both worlds: the sophistication of urban living and the tranquility of rural landscapes. As more homeowners seek to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, the demand for estates that seamlessly blend these two elements is on the rise. At Homes by Westgate, we specialize in creating custom homes that capture the essence of this unique lifestyle.

As we venture into 2025, the landscape of luxury custom homes in Vancouver is evolving with innovative design trends that reflect the changing preferences of discerning homeowners. These trends not only highlight the latest in architectural innovation but also emphasize sustainability, technology, and personalization. Here's a closer look at the trends shaping the future of Vancouver's most prestigious custom homes.

In Vancouver's luxury home landscape, the integration of pools has evolved far beyond simple backyard additions. At Homes by Westgate, we've mastered the art of creating fluid transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, where pools become architectural masterpieces that enhance both lifestyle and property value.

When you drive through Vancouver's most prestigious neighborhoods, each stunning custom home tells a unique story. At Homes by Westgate, we're not just builders – we're storytellers who bring architectural dreams to life. Today, we'll take you behind the scenes of how a luxury custom home evolves from concept to reality in Vancouver's most sought-after locations.

Building your dream home is an exciting journey, but like any great adventure, its success lies in the preparation. At Homes by Westgate, we've learned that the pre-construction phase is where dreams either take flight or stumble. Here's why this crucial planning stage can make or break your custom home project.

The landscape of residential construction in Vancouver is undergoing historic changes. As custom home builders and property developers, understanding these new zoning regulations is crucial for success in 2025. Here's your comprehensive guide to navigating Vancouver's evolving zoning landscape.

In British Columbia's diverse climate, where we experience everything from heavy rainfall to occasional snow and warm summers, designing a custom home requires careful consideration of our unique weather patterns. With Vancouver averaging 1,189 millimeters of annual precipitation and experiencing around 160-170 rainy days per year, at Homes by Westgate, we've mastered the art of creating residences that not only withstand but thrive in our distinctive Pacific Northwest climate.

In a world where excess and ostentation often dominate the luxury market, there is a growing shift towards a more refined and understated approach to high-end living. This trend, known as quiet luxury, is rapidly gaining traction among discerning individuals who value simplicity, quality, and exclusivity over conspicuous displays of wealth. If you’re an entrepreneur or executive looking for a deeper, more meaningful connection with your surroundings, quiet luxury offers a refreshing alternative to the flashy, over-the-top designs of the past.

In the fast-paced lives of entrepreneurs and executives, routines and rituals are often the anchors that keep them grounded. A luxury custom home can do more than just provide a place to live; it can actively support and enhance these daily habits. By designing spaces that align with your routines, your home becomes a tool for productivity, relaxation, and personal growth. Here’s how tailored design can elevate your lifestyle.

In home construction or renovation, electrical rough-ins are a pivotal step that significantly impacts a project’s success. The process involves installing the foundational wiring, outlets, and electrical boxes before insulation and drywall are added. This phase ensures that all electrical systems are in place, functional, and up to code, preventing costly rework and delays. Below, we dive into the critical aspects of electrical rough-ins and offer expert insights to guide both homeowners and construction professionals.

Choosing the ideal floor plan is one of the most important steps when building a custom home with Homes by Westgate. A well-thought-out layout serves as the foundation for how your home will look, feel, and function, ensuring it meets your family’s unique needs while blending comfort, style, and practicality.

Building a custom home is an exciting journey, but unexpected change orders can disrupt timelines and budgets. At Homes by Westgate, we prioritize proactive planning to help our clients enjoy a seamless home-building experience. Here’s how you can minimize changes during construction and ensure a smooth process from start to finish.

Building your dream home is one of the most significant investments you’ll make, both emotionally and financially. At Homes by Westgate, we know that finding the right builder is critical to ensuring your project runs smoothly and delivers the home you envision. To help you navigate this process, here are some red flags to watch for when choosing a custom home builder in British Columbia (BC).

Building your dream home is an exciting journey, and at Homes by Westgate, we’re here to make sure you’re fully equipped with the knowledge you need to safeguard your investment. One key resource for custom homebuyers in British Columbia (BC) is the builder’s warranty. In BC, builder’s warranties are regulated under the Homeowner Protection Act, ensuring that your investment is protected by law.

As we enter 2025, interior design is shifting towards a harmonious blend of style, functionality, and sustainability. Whether you’re refreshing a single room or planning a complete redesign, these trends will keep your space modern and inviting.

The holiday season is the perfect time to transform your custom home into a festive retreat that exudes elegance and warmth. Luxury holiday decorating goes beyond the basics—it's about complementing your home’s unique design and creating a welcoming atmosphere for family and friends. From grand entryways to cozy living rooms, here are sophisticated ideas to inspire your seasonal décor.

As the holiday season approaches, many homeowners are turning their attention to outdoor holiday lighting to bring festive cheer and showcase their home's unique design. Thoughtful lighting not only enhances your home’s architectural features but also sets the tone for the season, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. In this guide, we’ll explore how to use festive lighting to highlight your custom home while keeping safety and sustainability in mind.

The holidays are around the corner, and for many, this means welcoming family and friends into your home for festive gatherings. Whether you're hosting an intimate dinner party or a lively New Year’s bash, having the right spaces in your custom home can make all the difference. From open-concept kitchens to wine cellars and expansive dining areas, here’s how thoughtful design can elevate your holiday entertaining game.

Building a custom home is more than constructing a place to live—it's about creating a legacy. A well-designed home can transcend trends, meet the needs of multiple generations, and become a cherished family treasure. When planning a home to pass down through the generations, the focus shifts from what’s in vogue to what endures. Below, we explore key design and construction principles to ensure your custom home stands the test of time.

Designing your dream home is an exciting journey that begins with the expertise of an architect. Whether in person or through the convenience of remote services, an architect plays a critical role in turning your ideas into reality. At Homes by Westgate, we’ve adapted to the needs of modern clients by offering flexible remote architecture solutions that ensure top-notch service no matter where you are.

In today’s interconnected world, architecture and interior design have become rich playgrounds for cultural fusion. Incorporating elements from diverse cultures not only creates unique, personalized spaces but also celebrates the beauty of global traditions. Let’s explore how you can seamlessly blend international architectural styles—such as Japanese zen gardens, Moroccan tiles, or Scandinavian simplicity—into your custom home design.

For the art lover, a home isn’t just a place to live—it’s a personal gallery where every corner can become an opportunity to display cherished works of art. At Homes by Westgate, we understand the passion for art and the unique needs that come with designing a home for collectors. From carefully crafted lighting to thoughtfully planned wall arrangements, here’s how you can create a space that elevates and preserves your art collection.

Laneway houses have become an innovative solution for maximizing space and creating flexible living areas in densely populated areas like Metro Vancouver. These small, secondary homes are built in the backyard or on the rear portion of a property with lane access, blending convenience, efficiency, and modern design. At Homes by Westgate, we specialize in creating high-quality, custom laneway houses tailored to meet diverse needs, whether it’s extra space for family, rental income, or a sustainable downsizing solution.

In custom home design, one of the greatest challenges is finding the right balance between timeless style and current trends. While trends bring a fresh, exciting look, classic design principles ensure longevity and lasting appeal. Striking a balance between the two means crafting a space that feels stylish today and remains relevant for decades. Here’s how to blend timeless elegance with trendy touches in a way that will keep your home beautiful and inviting over the years.

When designing a custom home, the opportunity to express personality, history, and values is nearly limitless. Architectural storytelling is the art of using design elements to convey a narrative that resonates with the homeowner. Whether through symbolic elements like archways and columns, or through themed rooms and material choices, architectural storytelling can turn a home into a tapestry of meaningful experiences. Here, we explore how specific design choices can create a narrative that feels uniquely yours.

In a world full of bustling sounds, designing a home that offers tranquility, clarity, and controlled acoustics is more important than ever. The art of "soundscaping" is not just for concert halls and recording studios; it can be a defining feature of a well-designed custom home, where the flow of sound and silence has been carefully considered. Here, we’ll explore how acoustics impact the feel of a home and highlight key strategies for creating spaces that balance privacy, relaxation, and functionality.

Open-concept layouts have become a staple of modern home design, providing a seamless flow between living areas that’s ideal for entertaining. Here’s how to design an open-concept space that enhances connectivity while preserving comfort.

In the quest to create homes that nourish both the body and mind, one design philosophy stands out: biophilic design. Rooted in our innate connection to nature, biophilic design seeks to bring the outdoors inside, creating spaces that foster well-being, reduce stress, and enhance productivity. As homeowners and designers alike prioritize health and wellness, this nature-inspired approach is becoming a leading trend in modern architecture and interior design.

When building a custom home, one of the most critical decisions you'll make is choosing the perfect lot. The land you select will not only influence your home’s design but also impact your lifestyle, property value, and long-term enjoyment. At Homes by Westgate, we guide our clients through every stage of the custom home-building process, including finding the ideal location. Here’s what you need to consider when choosing the perfect lot for your custom home.

When deciding to purchase a new home, one of the first choices you’ll face is whether to go for a pre-built home or to build a custom one from the ground up. Each option has its merits, but for homeowners looking for a truly personalized living experience, custom homes offer a level of detail, quality, and satisfaction that’s hard to match. At Homes by Westgate, we specialize in bringing your vision to life through custom home building that perfectly matches your lifestyle and needs. Here’s why going custom is worth the investment.

In part one of our wellness-oriented design series, we covered the importance of air quality, natural light, and biophilic design. Now, we’ll dive deeper into additional wellness aspects that are often overlooked—soundproofing, sleep environments, and mental wellness. These elements play a crucial role in creating a home that fosters peace, relaxation, and emotional well-being.

In recent years, home design has evolved from merely focusing on aesthetics and functionality to prioritizing the well-being of those living within the space. As homeowners seek to create environments that nurture both physical and mental health, wellness-oriented design has emerged as a major trend. From ensuring optimal indoor air quality to maximizing natural light, this approach places health at the forefront of every design decision.

In the world of interior design, minimalism and maximalism have long been viewed as opposing forces—one defined by its "less is more" philosophy, and the other by bold, expressive excess. However, a new trend is emerging that blends the two in a way that allows homeowners to enjoy the best of both worlds.

When the temperatures drop, ensuring your custom home stays warm and comfortable can make all the difference. Proper home insulation and draft-proofing are vital to maintaining indoor comfort and energy efficiency. Here are some tips for keeping your custom home cozy during the colder months.

As the crisp fall air settles in, it’s the perfect time to focus on HVAC maintenance before winter arrives. A well-maintained heating system ensures your home stays cozy and energy-efficient during the colder months.

When it comes to designing and building a home, it's easy to get caught up in the big picture: square footage, floor plans, and overall aesthetics. But what truly elevates a home from ordinary to extraordinary are the small, often overlooked details. At Homes by Westgate, we know that these little touches are what make a house feel uniquely yours. Let’s explore 10 unique details that can make all the difference in your custom home.

In the world of home building, materials are more than just the stuff that holds everything together. They’re the backbone of a good build. At Homes by Westgate, we know that suitable materials can make all the difference. But why do they matter so much? Let’s dive in.

When it comes to building a home, one size does not fit all. That’s why we’re all about customization at Homes by Westgate. We believe every home should be as unique as the people who live in it. But what does that mean?

As fall sets in, it’s time to think about winterizing your pump and filter to protect them from freezing temperatures. Doing this not only prevents damage but also keeps your equipment in top shape for the next swim season. Here’s how you can easily get your pump and filter ready for winter.

Closing your pool for the colder months may not be as exciting as opening it in the summer, but it’s an essential part of pool maintenance. By taking the time to winterize your pool properly, you’ll protect it from damage, save on repairs, and make next spring’s reopening a breeze. Here’s how to prepare your pool for fall.

As the cooler temperatures roll in and the leaves start to fall, your backyard needs some TLC to get ready for the upcoming months. Prepping your outdoor space for fall ensures it stays tidy, protected, and ready to bounce back when spring arrives. In this post, we’ll walk you through simple steps to get your yard in top shape for the colder weather.

The pre-construction phase is one of the most critical stages in this process, as it lays the foundation for everything that follows. At Homes by Westgate, we understand that proper planning and preparation during this phase can significantly impact the success and timeline of your project. Here are five essential tips to ensure a smooth and efficient pre-construction phase for your custom home.

One of the most significant concerns for new homeowners is the potential for delays during the custom home construction process. These delays can be frustrating, expensive, and are unfortunately common in the industry. However, at Homes by Westgate, we believe that such delays aren’t inevitable and can be effectively managed or even prevented.

Maintaining your home might seem like a big task, but with a clear and organized approach, it’s entirely manageable. Regular care will help preserve the health, performance, longevity, and resale value of your home.

When it comes to custom luxury homes, the right features can transform your living experience. Here are ten luxury home features that Homes by Westgate recommends to elevate your lifestyle.

Selecting the ideal architect for your custom home is a critical decision that influences the design, functionality, and overall success of your project. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this process.

When designing your custom home, the choice of countertop material is essential for both functionality and aesthetics. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the best decision.

When designing a custom home, the choice of roofing material significantly impacts the home’s aesthetics, safety, and durability. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:

New construction homes are freshly built properties that have never been occupied. These homes, typically constructed by builders or developers, showcase the latest design trends, technologies, and amenities. In contrast, resale homes have been lived in by one or more previous owners before being listed on the market again.

Building a custom home is an exciting journey that can result in a unique living space tailored to your style and personality. However, this journey can become overwhelming and expensive if not managed properly. In this article, we’ll explore why selecting the right builder is essential for achieving your dream home within your budget.

Designing a kids' room in your custom home offers a unique chance to create a space that mirrors your child’s personality and supports their growth.

"How long does it take to build a custom home?” Unfortunately, the answer isn’t so straightforward. Many factors determine the time it takes from finalizing the house plan to moving in.

In this article we explore how to maximize your space using interior design.