M. Jason Fisher of Content Architecture + Interiors provides us with very useful information regarding the current costs of construction for residential projects.

(Content Architecture + Interiors)

$275.00 per Square Foot (+/- $25 per sf)

Let’s not get too crazy, but quite a bit can be had for this price point. The house can be a full stucco system on concrete block wall or a long list of other framing/cladding systems. Windows can be high end clad wood windows, and large openings can be located in numerous places. Roofs can become more complicated with other finish materials introduced, such as standing seam metal, or tile. The foundation system allows for a more irregular site, with the incorporation of a stem wall foundation, and piling systems in some areas. Larger spans with more advanced structural elements can be used, and cantilevered elements incorporated. Insulation for the home can be spray foam throughout and features that increase the energy efficiency of the home can be introduced including geothermal systems. Wood flooring can be used throughout the home, with higher allowances for other floor and wall finishes. You can have higher grade plumbing fixtures and more designer items including specialty lighting fixtures. Appliances are now in the $25,000 - $30,000 range, and your choices for cabinetry and countertops begin to widen even more. Staircases become more of a design feature and can open to the rest of the home. Some audio/video integration and smart home features can be incorporated.

$350.00 per Square Foot (and up)

This price point isn’t if you can dream it, you can do it territory, but it’s getting close. The budget will allow for much more custom elements on the interior and the exterior of the home. Exterior finishes are of higher quality, including brick, stone, and various cladding materials. Windows can be high end and custom made with larger openings throughout the home. Roofs can become even more complex with virtually whatever readily available material you want to use at your disposal. Foundation system allows for a more irregular site and its possible piers or piling systems can be employed for the home if required (think ocean front lots). Larger spans and cantilevers with more advanced structural elements can be utilized, including steel and concrete beams. The entire structure can be constructed with concrete block or insulated concrete forms. Wood flooring can be used throughout the home, with higher allowances for other floor and wall finishes. You can have higher grade plumbing and lighting fixtures. Premium appliances are now in the budget, and the majority of cabinetry and countertops made are available to you. Whole home audio and video controls and automation can be incorporated.

$500.00 per Square Foot (and up)

If you can dream it, you can do it. The reason we want to share this information is to provide you with enough knowledge to allow you to make informed decisions, on both your needs and wants, and how they will drive the budget you should expect to have for your home. We understand that you may read this and think, “The above numbers are incorrect and other architects or builders have told me that I can build cheaper than what these guys have quoted above.” Because of that, you might think you have no reason to contact us to interview for your project, and that’s okay. Although we would miss having the chance to meet you, so call us anyway!

(Content Architecture + Interiors)

The numbers we’ve shared are what the builders we trust doing similar work are quoting and what we as designers are seeing across the markets. Each project and client is different, and is a variable when calculating the construction budget. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us with general questions or project specific questions, and we look forward to having a chance to help you make your dream a reality.

Article by M. Jason Fisher, Principal at Content Architecture + Interiors