Home Construction and Design

Deciding to design and build your dream home opens the door to an exciting new chapter. However, home construction and design require a practical approach that encompasses all of the moving parts and anticipates any potential challenges. Whether you're just diving in or needing advice for a particular phase of the project, you'll find what you need with our library of helpful resources, checklists, and cost guides.

A woman in sitting behind a desk
Photo: Getty Images 1210334452 / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
A woman in sitting behind a desk
Photo: Getty Images 1210334452 / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
Explore top articles
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
yurt tent in the forest
Mariel Loveland
•
Dec 13, 2023
Dec 13, 2023
The average cost of a yurt is $35,000, but the price can vary depending on the size, building materials, and number of add-on features.
A construction site on the exterior of a house
Dan Simms
•
Oct 30, 2024
Oct 30, 2024
Wondering how much it costs to build a house? Use this guide to cover all your bases, from permits and planning to construction and finishing touches.
A contractor in front of a new construction
Lauren Bongard
•
Jan 15, 2024
Jan 15, 2024
It’s essential to determine the estimated rebuild costs of your home to get adequate coverage with your homeowner’s insurance policy. Read on to learn more.
Shipping container house orange door patio
Mariel Loveland
•
Dec 13, 2023
Dec 13, 2023
How much does a container home cost? It depends on the number of containers you use. This guide will help map out potential expenses for your project.
Single Family New Construction Home
Deane Biermeier
•
Jul 3, 2024
Jul 3, 2024
Learn the essential foundation requirements for adding a second-story addition to your home, how much it costs, and other considerations.
Bungalow syle house
Rachel Hoffman
•
Feb 14, 2024
Feb 14, 2024
Bungalow-style houses are a great choice for small families. Find out what a bungalow is and if it’s the right choice for you.
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A couple of architects working on a blueprint at their office
Rachel Hoffman  •  Nov 18, 2024
Designer vs. Architect: Which Should You Hire?
Designers and architects both play a role in home construction projects. Learn the differences between designers and architects so you know who to hire.
An architect sketching on a drafting table
Rachel Hoffman  •  Nov 15, 2024
Do I Need an Architect to Draw Plans?
Detailed house plans are an important part of construction projects. Learn when you need an architect to draw plans for a project.
Man and woman looking at blueprints together
Dan Simms  •  Nov 14, 2024
Architect vs. Contractor: Which Should You Hire?
Knowing whether to hire an architect vs. a contractor is important when building or remodeling. Learn the differences between the two.
Builder working on a wood framed house
Rachel Hoffman  •  Nov 14, 2024
Structural Engineer vs. Architect: Their Differences and Why You Need Both
Do you have an upcoming construction project and aren’t sure whether hiring a structural engineer vs an architect is better? Find out here.
Father greeting and holding daughter in the entryway
Heather Ayer  •  Nov 14, 2024
DIY Guide: How to Replace a Door Frame Yourself
Learn how to replace door frames like a pro with this DIY guide. With a few tools and supplies, reframing a door will take you only a couple of hours.
Couple talking to real estate agent
Rachel Hoffman  •  Nov 14, 2024
How Much Do Blueprints Cost to Draft Up? [2024 Data]
Need to know how much blueprints cost for your new construction project? Use this comprehensive cost guide to get an accurate estimate for your build.
A gray wooden house with a wheelchair ramp
Xiao Faria daCunha  •  Nov 14, 2024
How to Build a Wheelchair Ramp: Full Guide
Building a wheelchair ramp for your home or residential business can offer vital accessibility. Learn how to build a wheelchair ramp with this DIY guide.
Couple of architects working
Anna Baluch  •  Nov 13, 2024
What is an Architect and Do You Need to Hire One?
What does an architect do and what can you expect when you hire one? Let's break down what an architect is, from training to costs and services.
An open plan space with a kitchen and a living room
Rachel Hoffman  •  Nov 13, 2024
Who Can Check if a Wall Is Load-Bearing?
Before removing a wall, make sure it’s not load-bearing. Learn the benefits of hiring a structural engineer to check if a wall is load-bearing.
Architect checking blueprints
Chelsea Van Bloom  •  Nov 13, 2024
9 Types of Architects and When to Hire Them
You'll encounter many types of architects in your search for the best pro. Keep these specialists in mind before your next renovation or home build.
family gathered around the kitchen working
Anna Baluch  •  Nov 13, 2024
The Open Floor Plan Explained: Design Pros and Cons
An open floor plan combines two or more shared spaces, including the kitchen, living room, and dining room, to create a single larger room.
An architect creating a floor plan
Dan Simms  •  Nov 13, 2024
8 Types of Floor Plans for Your Home
Learn about the different types of floor plans you can choose, including floor plan drawings and specific layouts for interior and exterior spaces.