In this episode of Home: The Second Story, we shift gears from interviewing homeowners to focusing on how we, as residential architects, actually work. It's just the three of us—Sheri Scott, Marilyn Moedinger, and Taylor Davis—having a candid conversation about the different ways we approach custom home design and renovation. While there's no one-size-fits-all model for architectural services, we share how our processes reflect our regional contexts, client types, and project scopes.

We begin by outlining the general responsibilities of an architect—creating the plans and specifications that contractors use to build. Regardless of whether it's a ground-up home or a complex renovation, the architectural process moves from broad concepts to detailed decisions. We all stress early alignment on scope, budget, and goals, emphasizing that good architecture starts with listening and learning from clients, even before any designs are drawn. Taylor introduces a concept they call “project definition,” which helps clients understand the implications of their goals before committing to a design path.

From there, we each detail how we handle pre-design and schematic phases. Sheri and Taylor focus on early cost clarity, while Marilyn explains how her firm builds out comprehensive bid packages, ensuring contractors have the same baseline for pricing. The conversation reveals regional differences in bidding practices and how relationships with contractors can shape project trajectories.

Design development and construction documents get equal attention. Marilyn describes her firm’s intensive, full-service model—meeting biweekly with clients, making live updates in digital models, and selecting everything down to cabinet knobs. Taylor’s firm also offers interior design, coordinating all elements from architecture to furniture. Sheri contrasts that by highlighting her more streamlined approach, often dictated by builder-led projects in her area. While her firm also does full-service work, they frequently make final selections during construction, allowing clients to experience spaces in real time.

As we shift into construction, we talk about our roles as advocates for the homeowner. Weekly meetings, clear communication, and detailed documentation are non-negotiables. We also address the emotional side of construction—helping clients manage stress and make confident decisions in the face of inevitable surprises. Throughout, we stress the value of teamwork between the architect, contractor, and client.

We wrap by encouraging listeners to take that first step—meet with architects, ask questions, and be honest about what they don’t know. Different architects offer different services, and finding the right fit is essential. Whether your project is a major urban renovation or a rural new build, there's a process—and a professional—that’s right for you.

Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us!  [email protected]

Learn about our hosts:

Taylor: TPD Architecture and Design: https://tpdarchitect.com

Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com

SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com

In this snack-size episode of Home: The Second Story, we dig into cabinetry—one of the most pivotal yet complex parts of home renovation. As architects, cabinetry is something we talk about with nearly every client, whether they’re updating a kitchen, building a bathroom, or reimagining a mudroom. We break down the different cabinet categories—off-the-shelf, semi-custom, and full custom—highlighting their distinctions in design flexibility, cost, and construction. Marilyn shares that her firm almost exclusively uses full custom cabinetry for the precision and tailored aesthetics it offers. Sheri describes a 50/50 split in her projects between semi-custom and full custom, pointing out that the price gap between the two is shrinking. Taylor adds that in renovations, full custom is usually the go-to, especially when navigating existing spaces.

We explore the nuances of cabinet construction: from frameless, full-overlay European styles to inset cabinetry with historical detailing. Regional preferences and storage benefits also come into play. Taylor emphasizes the practical and design-driven reasons for going full custom, including the local craftsmanship and built-in efficiencies.

Cabinet interiors get their moment too. We talk about the importance of inserts and organization, from Rev-A-Shelf solutions to custom stations for kids’ lunches and hidden appliances. We agree that well-designed drawers often outperform traditional doors, especially with custom touches like nested drawers or pullouts. We even geek out a bit over specialty cabinetry elements like hidden TV lifts, hydraulic mixer lifts, and dedicated storage in mudrooms, pantries, and laundry rooms.

Toward the end, we discuss how each of us approaches cabinet design. Marilyn and Taylor draw everything themselves, treating cabinetry as both a functional element and a design focal point. Sheri collaborates more directly with cabinetmakers, bringing client needs into the process without drafting every detail in-house. We also touch on the emotional and practical prep that should happen before cabinets are built—thinking through what to keep, what to discard, and how to ensure every piece has a purpose.

We wrap up by briefly touching on hardware—a massive topic we plan to revisit in another episode. From hinges to knobs, there’s a world of choices that impact budget and aesthetics alike. Cabinetry, as we see it, is where design and function converge—and when done right, it can truly make a space come alive.

Rev-A-Shelf Website: https://rev-a-shelf.com/

Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us!  [email protected]

Learn about our hosts:

Taylor: TPD Architecture and Design: https://tpdarchitect.com

Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com

SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com

In this episode of Home: The Second Story, we sit down with Niki Gulick, a seasoned homeowner and real estate agent who has built two custom homes and is considering a third. As residential architects, we dive into her journey to uncover lessons that can help future homeowners navigate their own projects. Niki walks us through her most recent home build, a 6,600-square-foot modern mountain lodge on a six-acre lot in South Dayton, Ohio. Although the design was originally conceived with a former partner, she chose to move forward due to favorable interest rates and timing, despite some compromises on the layout.

We discuss the importance of choosing the right team, especially a builder who has experience with projects of a similar scale. Niki highlights a critical moment when she was blindsided by a potential $15,000 gas line issue—something she believes a more experienced builder would have anticipated. This leads us to the key takeaway: make sure your builder has experience at or above the complexity of your planned project and request to speak directly with past clients to understand how issues were handled.

Niki also reflects on the role of the architect, noting how working with Sheri for a second time made the design process more efficient and enjoyable. She appreciates Sheri’s thoughtful design additions, like a three-story wall of windows and a spiral staircase, which enhanced the functionality and aesthetics of the home. However, she also acknowledges that she ended up serving as a de facto project manager, coordinating details that ideally would have been handled by others.

We explore the concept of having a “partner” in the build process—whether that’s an architect, a contractor, or a personal support system—emphasizing that it's nearly impossible to manage such a large endeavor alone. Niki’s story underlines that building a house is not just about money or design; it's a second job requiring time, emotional energy, and technical decision-making.

Looking ahead to a possible third project, Niki aims for simplicity and more strategic delegation. Her parting advice? Know what level of involvement you’re willing to commit to and choose your team accordingly. And despite the stress, when she looks out her bedroom window at the pond and fountain framed by Sheri’s beautiful window design, she knows it was worth it.

Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us!  [email protected]

Learn about our hosts:

Taylor: TPD Architecture and Design: https://tpdarchitect.com

Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com

SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com

In this episode of Home: The Second Story, we sit down with Ashley and Greg Luthman to explore their journey of building a custom home during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting their design process in the spring of 2020 and moving in by December 2021, they offer a detailed, honest reflection on what it took to transform a blank field in Versailles, Ohio, into a forever home for their growing family of six.

We talk about the motivations that drove them—rooted in a desire for stability after frequent moves and the challenge of accommodating four children. Finding land was a feat in itself, made possible by a family connection, and that set the stage for collaborating with Sheri to design a house that balances functionality with character.

Ashley and Greg entered the process with a clear understanding of what they didn’t want, based on experiences in prior homes. That clarity helped shape choices that favored natural light, thoughtful layout, and long-term adaptability. They describe how small design decisions—like maximizing daylight with large windows and building spaces for coziness—paid off. The design emphasized living intentionally: thinking through how they’d use each space, from everyday routines to future family changes.

They also share candid lessons learned. For example, the unexpected impact of locating the master bedroom above the utility room, and their wish for better sound insulation between floors. They reflect on how some oversights came from not having their architect engaged throughout the construction phase—reminding future homeowners of the value of continuous collaboration.

Despite supply chain chaos and material substitutions during construction, Ashley and Greg stayed focused on their vision. They made trade-offs but kept their eyes on the end goal: a warm, inviting home built for love and memory-making. Their two favorite features—the wood-burning fireplace and a practical basement staircase—represent their blend of emotion and pragmatism.

Through it all, their advice is clear: build with purpose, stay flexible, and keep the end in mind. This episode is a rich resource for anyone considering a custom build, offering both inspiration and practical takeaways.

Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us!  [email protected]

Learn about our hosts:

Taylor: TPD Architecture and Design: https://tpdarchitect.com

Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com

SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com

In this episode of Home: The Second Story, we talk with Alex and Ximena, homeowners in Jamaica Plain, Boston, who undertook a thoughtful and vibrant renovation of their Victorian home, originally built in 1885. Joined by their architect Marilyn, we walk through their journey of transforming a “move-in ready” house into a warm, family-oriented home with an eye for aesthetics and future needs.

We explore the function-forward design process, where Alex prioritized flow, family practicality, and technical upgrades—like replacing all the electrical systems—while Ximena led a bold interior design vision driven by her art collection and a love for color. The home bursts with personality, where every room reflects intentionality, including a memorable half bath inspired by wallpaper she found before even starting the renovation.

We also dive into the logistics of the project: the renovation began with design in mid-2020 and concluded with their move-in in April 2022. They initially considered transforming the third floor into a primary suite but pivoted when the bids came in over budget. This kind of recalibration is a recurring theme. Alex emphasized the importance of budget transparency and allowing for financial headroom to accommodate unexpected opportunities or issues. Their ability to adapt resulted in valuable features like a spacious mudroom addition and practical pocket doors for flexibility and privacy.

Throughout construction, having Marilyn on-site proved essential. She mediated decisions, translated challenges into options, and kept detailed meeting notes that prevented miscommunications. Alex and Ximena appreciated the collaborative decision-making and credited their positive experience to a strong team dynamic and clear communication.

Looking back, they have minimal regrets—mostly small refinements they would have made had they known how their needs would evolve with a growing family. Alex's favorite part is the functional, well-organized kitchen, while Ximena loves their unique half bath, a true expression of her creative vision.

Their story underlines key takeaways: be clear about your goals, specify everything, involve your architect throughout, and keep budget flexibility. As Marilyn notes, renovations are rarely linear, but with the right mindset and team, they can be rewarding and even joyful experiences.

More:

The Chloe Hotel – https://www.thechloenola.com

Sara Ruffin Costello (designer) – https://www.sararuffincostello.com

Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us!  [email protected]

Learn about our hosts:

Taylor: TPD Architecture and Design: https://tpdarchitect.com

Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com

SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com

In this episode of Home: The Second Story Podcast, we talk with Cindy, a homeowner and designer who built her second custom home—this time with a bold industrial modern aesthetic in Morrow, Ohio. Cindy walks us through her unique journey, from the early days of collecting design ideas in a journal back in 2011 to moving into her new home in September 2020, during the heart of the pandemic. Her deep design background, paired with a firm point of view, shaped a streamlined process where she collaborated closely with Sheri. They achieved a fluid design process with minimal revisions, thanks to Cindy’s preparedness and clarity.

We explore the challenges Cindy faced, especially the initial attempt to build in an HOA-controlled development that ultimately rejected her modern design. That experience pushed her to find a wooded plot free of HOA restrictions, allowing for creative freedom. Her story highlights the importance of understanding your non-negotiables and the power of walking away when your vision is compromised.

We discuss allowances—a vital, often misunderstood part of the building process. Cindy candidly shares how underestimating these line items can derail a budget. She emphasizes the need for early research, realistic estimates, and consistent communication with both builder and architect to stay on track.

Cindy also offers strong advice on designing around how you live. She had all her furniture and room layouts mapped out, making her new space feel intentional and cohesive. She credits this foresight with creating a home that fits “like a glove.”

Finally, Cindy reflects on her favorite part of the home—its dramatic exterior lighting. It's such a showstopper, it even distracted a student driver enough to crash into her mailbox. You've got to hear this story.

Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us!  [email protected]

Learn about our hosts:

Taylor: TPD Architecture and Design: https://tpdarchitect.com

Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com

SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com

In our first episode of Home: The Second Story Podcast, we come together—three architects from different regions and backgrounds—to set the stage for the stories we're about to share. Taylor Davis from Birmingham, Alabama, is joined by Marilyn Moedinger from Boston and Lancaster, and Sheri Scott from Cincinnati. We each run our own architecture firms and bring decades of experience to the table, not just in design, but in guiding homeowners through the complex process of building or renovating a home.

We explain why we started this podcast: to offer a second perspective—the one that comes after the dust settles and the project is lived in. It's not about the flashy reveal. It’s about what homeowners learn once they’ve lived in their new or renovated space. These reflections, shared directly from homeowner to homeowner, can offer powerful insight that architects alone can’t always communicate.

Each of us shares our origin story—how we came to architecture and how our careers have evolved. From starting firms during economic downturns to buying churches on a whim for development, we've each taken unique paths. Despite differences in location and project type, our shared focus is residential architecture and a deep commitment to client-centered design. We discuss the emotional weight that home design carries—how homes are places of celebration, grief, growth, and memory—and why that makes our work feel deeply personal and significant.

We also talk about what architects really do. Many people don’t fully understand the value we bring: from guiding early project decisions, through design, contractor selection, permitting, and construction oversight. We’re not just drawing floor plans; we’re counselors, strategists, advocates, and collaborators. We help clients navigate tough decisions, balance budgets, and plan for the future. And often, we stay involved even after move-in.

Finally, we discuss the most important phase—the beginning. Many homeowners don’t know how to start a project or assemble the right team. We want to demystify that. Whether someone is building from scratch, renovating, downsizing, or aging in place, our goal is to help them start with clarity and confidence. Through this podcast, we hope to empower more people to approach their projects with intention and a sense of possibility.

Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us!  [email protected]

Learn about our hosts:

Taylor: TPD Architecture and Design: https://tpdarchitect.com

Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com

SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com

Everyone talks about how hard it is to do a major renovation or custom home building project, how you're going to fight with your spouse the whole time, how hard it is to make decisions, and how you're going to spend way more money than you want to. But does it really have to be that way? We're not here to pretend it's easy, but when you're equipped with the right knowledge, tools and team, the whole process is a whole lot smoother. Our goal is to get you excited about doing your project and equip you with knowledge from the expert experts, people who've done it before.

We are three architects who've been in the industry for 20 plus years, each with our own practices that specialize in custom homes. We take clients from the earliest stages of dreaming about their homes, through full design services and on through construction, helping our clients navigate the process creatively, competently and with a sense of fun.

But you're not just going to hear from us. On each show, we interview a homeowner who's on the other side of the process. They've done their project and they're all. Settled into their new home and we. Have two simple questions for them. What do you know now that you wish you knew before you started? And if you could do it a second time, how would you do it differently? Join us here where you'll learn directly from those who've done it before in their own words. We call it home. The Second Story. 

Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us!  [email protected]

Learn about our hosts:

Taylor: TPD Architecture and Design: https://tpdarchitect.com

Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com

SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com