by Sarah Thorn | Aug 11, 2025 | Postings
A Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Quality Custom Home Building a custom home should be exciting, not stressful. At Living Stone Design + Build, with 30 years of award-winning experience, we’re here to guide you through each step—making sure you build with no regrets. In this guide, you'll learn the most important questions to ask, smart investments to make, costly traps to avoid, and how to forge a strong, transparent partnership with your builder. Let’s bring your design story to life in a home that’s healthy, beautiful, and meant for you. Critical Questions to Ask Before You Build Before breaking ground, start with these guiding questions—they’ll shape your entire project: What’s your lifestyle goal? (relaxation, entertaining, generational use?) What’s your long-term budget range—including soft costs and contingencies? What timeline fits your life rhythm? When do you truly want to move in? How important are energy efficiency and healthy living features? Which room or feature is your non-negotiable “must-have”? What’s your tolerance for change during construction? How hands-on do you plan to be—weekly check-ins or trusting us completely? How do you want to be communicated with—email, calls, site visits? What does “built to last” look like to you—materials, craftsmanship, certifications? What worries do you have about building custom? These simple but powerful questions set the foundation for clarity, trust, and a seamless building experience. Smart Places to Invest in Your Home Not all investments are equal. These areas bring long-term value, comfort, and wellness: High-performance insulation & efficient windows – lowers energy bills and maintains comfort. Ventilation systems with low-VOC finishes – ensures healthy indoor air quality, part of our Whole Living promise. Foundations and framing rated for longevity – fewer surprises down the road. Durable exterior materials – weather resistance saves on maintenance. Premium kitchen and bath fixtures – daily impact, timeless value. Smart design that blends with your lifestyle – open flow for family gatherings, quiet nooks for personal retreats. Green certifications – Energy Star, Green Built, and third-party quality checks—because we believe better homes mean better lives. At Living Stone, we believe in investing where it matters—so you can enjoy a healthy, livable, and resilient home for decades. Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them Avoiding pitfalls makes the process smoother: Underestimating total costs – account for soft costs like permits, surveys, and design. Skipping contingencies – stay flexible with a 10–15% buffer. Choosing builder by price alone – value expertise and process clarity. Late planning for energy or air quality goals – integrate early for best outcomes. Ignoring site-specific needs – every Carolina mountain site is unique—tailor solutions. Over-customizing early – finalize big-picture before going into details. Poor communication – set clear expectations up front. Not tracking changes – document every change to keep budget and schedule in sync. Substandard materials choices – prioritize quality over cost in long-term categories. Skipping permits or inspections – risks delays, fines, or worse. Neglecting maintenance planning – Preventative Maintenance Plans let you enjoy your home longer. Not aligning Design/Build teams – collaborative approach avoids missteps and stress. Choosing the Right Builder Your builder isn’t just a contractor—they’re your partner in turning dreams into reality. Too many skip this step, choosing based on cost or convenience. But the right builder, like Living Stone, brings: A collaborative “team” approach with designers, architects, and trusted trade partners. 30 years of specialized experience building in the Carolinas. Certifications that back up our quality claims—Energy Star, NC Green Built, Green. Transparent process from trees to keys. When builder equals partner, you’re not just building a house—you’re building a happier, healthier life. Hidden Costs & How to Prevent Them Surprises are fun—but not when they add unexpected bills. Watch for: Site surprises—rock, soil condition, water—mitigate with early surveys and tests. Change orders without foresight—plan, then revisit. Upgrades without planning—budget for future big-ticket finishes. Delayed inspections—can halt progress and push costs up. Utilities and infrastructure—don’t forget driveway, power, septic, etc. Prevent with due diligence, clear documentation, and a builder who values proactive planning. Building a Strong Relationship with Your Builder Successful projects thrive on trust and clarity: Set communication rhythms early—weekly site updates or calls work wonders. Trust the process—your builder brings expertise; you're the guiding vision. Choose mutual respect—your feedback matters, and we want to hear it. Stay open—unexpected issues aren’t personal, they’re just part of building. Celebrate milestones together—it’s your dream coming to life. A strong relationship turns challenges into memorable accomplishments. Practical Checklists to Keep You on Track Checklists turn chaos into calm. Consider: Pre-design checklist – budget, site evaluation, goals. Design review checklist – function, flow, future needs. Permit & documentation – zoning, energy ratings, inspections. Material review – finishes, fixtures, ventilation, green certifications. Pre-construction – site access, utility plans, schedules. During build – weekly tasks, milestones, change orders. Pre-move-in – cleaning,
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by Sarah Thorn | Aug 8, 2025 | Meet the Team
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="4.24.2" custom_padding="0px|||||" da_disable_devices="off|off|off" global_colors_info="{}" da_is_popup="off" da_exit_intent="off" da_has_close="on" da_alt_close="off" da_dark_close="off" da_not_modal="on" da_is_singular="off" da_with_loader="off" da_has_shadow="on"][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="0px||0px|" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" module_class="chronospro-heading" _builder_version="4.27.4" vertical_offset_tablet="0" horizontal_offset_tablet="0" custom_padding="0px|||||" z_index_tablet="0" text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" 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hover_enabled="0" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Brenton Benware brings nearly two decades of experience in leadership, coaching, and student engagement to the Living Stone Design + Build team. Most recently, he served as both Director of Admissions and Director of Soccer at Asheville Christian Academy, where he played a key role in building strong relationships and guiding families through the admissions process. Prior to that, Brenton spent 16 years as a collegiate soccer coach, with several of those years focused on recruitment and admissions. He also coached within the Olympic Development Program (ODP), helping young athletes grow and excel. His background in mentorship, communication, and team-building adds valuable perspective to our client-first approach—and supports our mission of building happier, healthier lives.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.16" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20250808142503/DeskBrentonBenware.png" alt="Chuck Simmons Project Manager" title_text="DeskBrentonBenware" align_tablet="center" align_phone="" align_last_edited="on|desktop" disabled_on="off|off|off" admin_label="Image" module_class="desktop-team-image" _builder_version="4.27.4" vertical_offset_tablet="0" horizontal_offset_tablet="0" z_index_tablet="0" box_shadow_horizontal_tablet="0px" box_shadow_vertical_tablet="0px" box_shadow_blur_tablet="40px" box_shadow_spread_tablet="0px" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label="Contact Info" _builder_version="4.27.4" background_color="#ede8e5" custom_padding="27px|27px|27px|27px" border_style="solid" global_colors_info="{}"]Contact Information Office 855.720.2435 bbenware@livingstoneconstruction.com 121 Sweeten Creek Rd. Asheville, NC 28803[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_3,1_3,1_3" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_button button_url="/meet-the-team" button_text="MEET OUR TEAM" button_alignment="center" admin_label="MEET OUR TEAM" _builder_version="4.27.4" custom_button="on" button_text_size="17px" button_text_color="#ffffff" button_bg_color="#62a844" button_border_width="1px" button_border_color="#589a43" button_border_radius="0px" button_icon="9||divi||400" button_icon_color="#ffffff" button_on_hover="off" background_layout="dark" z_index_tablet="500" button_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet="0px" button_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet="0px" button_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet="1px" box_shadow_horizontal_tablet="0px" box_shadow_vertical_tablet="0px" box_shadow_blur_tablet="40px" box_shadow_spread_tablet="0px" global_module="20044" saved_tabs="all" global_colors_info="{}" button_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_text_size__hover="null" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_size__hover="null" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_size__hover="null" button_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_text_color__hover="null" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_text_color__hover="null" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_text_color__hover="null" button_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_border_width__hover="null" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_width__hover="null" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_width__hover="null" button_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_border_color__hover="null" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_color__hover="null" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_color__hover="null" button_border_radius__hover_enabled="on" button_border_radius__hover="0" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_one_border_radius__hover="null" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled="off" button_two_border_radius__hover="null" button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="on" button_letter_spacing__hover="0" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_one_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled="off" button_two_letter_spacing__hover="null" button_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_bg_color__hover="null" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_one_bg_color__hover="null" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled="off" button_two_bg_color__hover="null"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
by Sarah Thorn | Jul 29, 2025 | Communities, Highlands Cashiers Plateau
Longcliff is a private gated community nestled just five minutes from downtown Highlands, NC. This exclusive enclave features luxury estate homesites, sweeping Blue Ridge Mountain views, and convenient access to all the culture, dining, and natural beauty Highlands has to offer.
As a trusted builder in Longcliff, Living Stone Design + Build brings over 30 years of experience in crafting award-winning custom homes that support healthier, happier living. Our team collaborates closely with you to design and build a high-performance, Energy Star and Green Certified home that fits your vision and lifestyle.
From concept to completion, our 8 Levels of Service ensure your custom home journey is seamless, personalized, and deeply rooted in craftsmanship and care.
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by Sarah Thorn | Jul 29, 2025 | Communities, Highlands Cashiers Plateau
Located in the heart of Cashiers, NC, Cashiers Lake is a gated community offering residents a serene mountain lifestyle in one of the area’s most coveted destinations. With 30 acres of preserved greenspace, a private lake, walking trails, and easy access to town, this community is ideal for homeowners who want nature and convenience in one stunning package.
At Living Stone Design + Build, we’re proud to be a builder in Cashiers Lake. We bring over 30 years of award-winning experience to the mountains of Western North Carolina and craft high-performance, energy-efficient homes that promote healthier living.
From trees to keys, we manage every aspect of the build, guiding you through our 8 Levels of Service and creating a home designed around your lifestyle. Our proven process and deep roots in the region ensure you’ll enjoy a home—and a homebuilding experience—with no regrets.
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by Sarah Thorn | Jul 14, 2025 | Postings
Building Distinctive Homes in Western North Carolina From the artistic streets of Asheville to the tranquil ridgelines of Burnsville, Western North Carolina offers a rich tapestry of landscapes, communities, and lifestyles. It’s a region where natural beauty meets architectural creativity — and where Living Stone Design + Build brings its expertise to craft homes that truly belong. If you're considering building a home in the mountains, valleys, or vibrant towns of WNC, we're here to help you do it right. Homes Inspired by the Region, Designed for You Each pocket of Western North Carolina has its own character — and so should your home. Our approach is never one-size-fits-all. We take the time to understand your needs, the property’s potential, and how to blend functionality with regional design inspiration. Living Stone homes across WNC are: Crafted to respond to the terrain and climate of each site Customized to reflect your lifestyle and design preferences Built with care to ensure long-term performance and comfort From cozy craftsman cottages to expansive modern retreats, your dream is our blueprint. Proven Process, Personalized Experience Over the past three decades, we’ve developed a process that puts homeowners at ease. Our team handles everything — from early planning and architecture to finish selections and energy certifications — all with a sharp eye on quality and transparency. We’re with you every step of the way, making sure your home isn’t just beautiful, but smart, sustainable, and tailored to your goals. Healthier Living in the Heart of the Mountains Western North Carolina homeowners care about wellness — and so do we. That’s why we go beyond building code to create spaces that support healthier indoor environments and responsible material choices. Our wellness-forward builds may include: Smart air flow and filtration systems Eco-friendly paints, glues, and sealants Low-toxicity interior finishes and furnishings We call this approach Whole Living — and it’s what helps your home feel as good as it looks. Proudly Serving Communities Across WNC We’re deeply rooted in this region and proud to serve a range of communities including: Asheville Black Mountain Waynesville Burnsville Brevard Mars Hill Lake Lure Our experience navigating the permitting, topography, and style of each area helps us deliver homes that are as regionally appropriate as they are personally meaningful. Let’s Create Your WNC Legacy Home If you're ready to build a custom home in Western North Carolina, partner with a team that brings local expertise, award-winning craftsmanship, and a client-first approach. At Living Stone Design + Build, we’re here to make your design story a lasting part of this incredible region. Reach out today to start planning your Western North Carolina home.
