Building a custom home is one of the most exciting and rewarding journeys a homeowner can take — but it also comes with a lot of questions. If you’ve ever wondered how long it takes, what steps are involved, or how to get started, you’re not alone.
At Old Town Design Group, we’ve guided hundreds of homeowners across Central Indiana — from Carmel to Westfield to Zionsville — through the custom home building process, and we’ve refined it into a seamless, personalized experience. Whether you’re starting with a napkin sketch or a Pinterest board, we’re here to help you move from dream to move-in day with clarity and confidence.
Step 1: Dream + Discovery
Every great home starts with a great conversation. In this first phase, we want to learn about your goals, lifestyle, and design preferences.
What happens during this step:
- We meet with you to understand how you live and what inspires you
- We discuss location options, including available lots in our custom neighborhoods
- You share ideas — photos, sketches, or even rough concepts — and we help shape the vision
This step ensures the rest of the journey is grounded in your priorities, whether that means an open-concept kitchen for entertaining, a home office, or a serene outdoor living space.
Step 2: Site Selection
Choosing the right lot is about more than square footage. It’s about orientation, views, privacy, and how your home will sit on the land.
With deep knowledge of Carmel and surrounding communities, our team helps you evaluate:
- Available lots in Old Town neighborhoods
- Soil and topography
- HOA requirements or architectural guidelines
- Sun exposure and drainage
We’ll walk the land with you and talk through how the home design can complement the site — not fight it.
Step 3: Design + Architecture
This is where your ideas become a plan. Our in-house design team works closely with you to create a custom floor plan that balances form, function, and flow.
Key parts of the design process:
- Floor plan and room layout
- Exterior elevations and architectural style
- Custom features: ceiling details, built-ins, outdoor living, energy efficiency
- Review of finish inspirations and preferred materials
Once we finalize your plans, we move into 3D renderings and begin working with our construction team to align design and build feasibility.
Step 4: Pre-Construction Planning
Before we break ground, we lock in the details and create a roadmap for construction.
In this step, we:
- Finalize budget and construction documents
- Submit architectural plans for approval
- Obtain permits
- Coordinate your personalized selections process
Our streamlined selections process includes guidance from our design team as you choose finishes, fixtures, flooring, cabinetry, lighting, and more — all with the support you need, without the overwhelm.
Step 5: Construction Begins
Now the magic starts to take shape. This is where your vision comes to life — and our expert craftsmen get to work.
What to expect during construction:
- Site preparation and foundation work
- Framing and exterior shell
- Mechanical systems: HVAC, plumbing, and electrical
- Interior finishes: drywall, cabinetry, trim, tile, paint
- Final installation of appliances, fixtures, and landscape features
Throughout construction, we keep you updated with:
- On-site walkthroughs
- Project milestone reports
- Transparent communication and timelines
Every Old Town home is built with integrity, attention to detail, and the highest quality standards.
Step 6: Final Walkthrough + Orientation
As we near completion, you’ll walk through your new home with our team. We’ll guide you through every space, explain systems, and ensure every detail meets your expectations.
This includes:
- Punch list review
- Warranty information
- Homeowner care and maintenance tips
It’s our goal to make sure your first day in your new home feels like the continuation of a great partnership — not the end of one.
Step 7: Move-In + Beyond
It’s time to move in and make your new space your own.
But our relationship doesn’t end at move-in. Old Town Design Group offers post-close service and support, ensuring that your home continues to perform beautifully for years to come.
We’re also here to help with:
- Future customizations or additions
- Maintenance guidance
- Warranty questions
Why Work with Old Town Design Group?
Choosing the right custom builder is just as important as the home you build. Here’s what sets Old Town apart:
| What We Offer | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Local experience in Central Indiana | We understand the land, the permitting, and the style |
| In-house design and architecture | Seamless coordination between vision and execution |
| Personalized selections process | You’re never alone in making big design decisions |
| Neighborhood development expertise | Build in thoughtfully planned communities |
| A commitment to long-term partnership | We care just as much after you move in |
Want to see how our approach has helped other clients? Visit our Custom Home Builders page to explore featured homes and testimonials.
Building a custom home should feel like an exciting collaboration — not an overwhelming task. With the right process and a team that values communication, design integrity, and craftsmanship, your dream home in Carmel, Westfield, or beyond is closer than you think.
At Old Town Design Group, we walk with you every step of the way — from dream to move-in day.
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June 14 @ 12:00 pm - June 15 @ 5:00 pm
Springwater Grand Opening
We’re thrilled to invite you to the grand opening celebration of Springwater, a new Westfield community designed with quality, comfort,