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A Masterclass in Bespoke Texan Building
Keechi Creek Builders stuns with regional vernacular architecture and interior design Decision Drive from Keechi Creek Builders charms with its remarkable attention…
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Keechi Creek Builders stuns with regional vernacular architecture and interior design
Decision Drive from Keechi Creek Builders charms with its remarkable attention to detail. The project is a fitting finalist for Best Kitchen and Best Overall Interior Design from the Texas Association of Builders (TAB) Star awards.
Dedicated to Design
In 2001, Brandon Lynch began his residential construction career immediately after graduating from Texas A&M with an engineering degree. He quickly saw success in his role with production builders, managing an estimated $20 million to $30 million on-site at one time.
While Lynch excelled and enjoyed the aspects of volume construction management and client relations, he believed these experiences could be taken on a more personal level. He decided that the custom homebuilding and remodeling markets offered the detail-oriented one-to-one care he found fulfilling to deliver.
From there, in 2007, Brandon and his wife, Sheri, founded Keechi Creek Builders. Within the company’s first month of operation, it had a signed contract for a custom home. The builder’s name originates from both personal and metaphorical roots: fond memories of Keechi Creek in Palo Pinto County, Texas and the belief that homebuilding is a fluid and adaptive process. In the last nearly two decades of building, Keechi Creek grew to earn more projects in the Houston area, building over 200 custom homes to date and gaining the trust of the local community.
“Today’s homeowners are more informed about their investment,” said Lynch. “They want to know that their builder is paying attention and understands their vision; our process has grown with that demand. We place an even greater emphasis on developing that trust, which leads to a smoother building process for everyone.”
The industry accolades followed suit, earning Keechi Creek the Custom Builder of the Year award from the Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA), along with GHBA Prism awards and other TAB Star awards. Lynch and Keechi Creek were also recognized with the Aggie 100, an award honoring Texas A&M alumni businesses.
Impressive Interiors
Construction of the 5,092-square-foot project began in January 2024 and was completed in February 2025. The facade of the home blends New-Traditional-style architecture with its elegant material selection of Old St. Louis brick, Texas Hill Country limestone and metal roofing to create an intriguing yet welcoming exterior.
“For many of our clients, true luxury means a home that is designed specifically around them,” said Lynch. “It is no longer defined only by square footage; our clients want a beautiful home that is comfortable and functional with superior quality.”
When entering, the home’s distinct design character is immediately apparent. Under one continuous cathedral ceiling with vintage cedar scissor trusses, Keechi Creek juxtaposes classic architectural decisions with eclectic colors and contemporary flair. With ease of movement from the living room, to the dining and kitchen areas, the space is the heart of the home for entertainment and relaxation. The dining area features an Italian-imported 12-foot custom dining table with seating for a party of up to 13 guests. The open-concept layout remains connected through a Venetian plaster fireplace, a design element mirrored in the chef’s kitchen through an architectural range hood surround. The statement La Cornue range in a dusty blue finish, grounds the kitchen and is complemented by an elegantly placed MacKenzie-Childs checkered tea kettle. The kitchen is finished with custom cabinetry, three unique backsplashes and an expansive 12-foot quartzite waterfall island.
Unexpected Elements
For this project, Keechi Creek Builders collaborated with BKD Interiors, an award-winning full service interior design firm. With Brenda Denny as Lead Designer and Tamara Cunningham as Senior Designer, the duo ingrained personality throughout every detail of the project.
While BKD Interiors masterfully balances pops of color, materials and prints throughout the home, the primary bathroom is a quiet and serene sanctuary. The room features custom cabinetry, gold accents and thoughtful vanity placements under the airy high-pitched ceilings. Under expertly placed windows allowing natural light to flood the room and an elegant tile mosaic, the freestanding tub is the center of attention.
The most exceptional addition to Decision Drive is the dedicated music room. Keechi Creek custom-built the stage for the baby grand piano with excellent millwork on the storage and display space.
Photo Credits: Analicia Hermann
By Sofia Feeney. She is the Editor at Builder and Developer and can be reached at sofia@builder.media.
This story is also featured in B&D June, read the print version.
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NAHB study analyzes homebuilding regulatory costs
A new study from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) analyzed homebuilding regulatory costs, comparing results from the 2026 survey to…
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A new study from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) analyzed homebuilding regulatory costs, comparing results from the 2026 survey to a previous one conducted in 2021. The 2026 survey revealed that, on average, regulations imposed by the government at all levels account for $131,734, or 26.4%, of the final price of a new single-family home built for sale. Of this amount, $46,795 is due to a higher price for the finished lot, a direct result of regulations imposed during the lot’s development. The remaining $84,939 is the result of regulatory costs imposed on the builder during construction, after the builder purchases the finished lot.
According to the study, regulatory costs are one of several factors, including record increases of tariff rates on building materials, ongoing skilled labor shortage, a decrease in available lots and tighter lending conditions, currently limiting the supply of housing, particularly housing for the entry-level market.
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Lennar announces C-suite changes
Lennar, one of the nation’s largest homebuilders, announced two appointments in its C-suite: Jim Parker named Chief Operating Officer and David Grove…
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Lennar, one of the nation’s largest homebuilders, announced two appointments in its C-suite: Jim Parker named Chief Operating Officer and David Grove appointed to Executive Vice President, Homebuilding.
Parker joined the company in 2018 following its merger with CalAtlantic Homes. Following the merger, he served as a Regional President for the builder. In 2003, Parker founded Parker Chandler Homes and sold the company three years later.
Grove joined Lennar in 1999 as a Construction Area Manager in Austin. He was then named Division President in 2004 and Regional President for Texas in 2022.
“Jim and David are tenured, proven Lennar leaders who are energized by the opportunity ahead,” said Stuart Miller, Lennar’s Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President. “They have consistently delivered strong results for our teams and our business. More than that, they exemplify our core values — building quality homes and delivering more value to our customers, always with the highest level of integrity.”
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Residential Contractor Magazine: Coming July 2026
Residential Contractor Magazine residentialcontractormag.com THE PROJECTS. THE PRODUCTS. THE PROS. Residential Contractor connects manufacturers with the remodelers, contractors, trades and dealers shaping…
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Residential Contractor MagazineTHE PROJECTS. THE PRODUCTS. THE PROS.
Residential Contractor connects manufacturers with the remodelers, contractors, trades and dealers shaping today’s residential construction market.
The Summer 2026 issue features the National Deck Competition Winner’s Showcase alongside the products, tools, technology and business solutions driving better, more profitable projects.
If you are interested in participating please contact fiona@builder.media
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Builder confidence increases in May
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) released the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) for May 2026. The HMI is based…
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The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) released the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) for May 2026. The HMI is based on a monthly survey of single-family builders who are asked to rate three specific conditions of the housing market: present sales of new single-family homes, expected sales of single-family homes for the next six months and traffic of prospective buyers of new single-family homes. Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes increased three points to 37 in May.
The survey revealed that 32% of builders cut prices in May, down from 36% in April. However, the use of sale incentives was up 61% in May, a slight increase from 60% in April.
Key factors that can impact the HMI include interest rates, employment rates, material costs and inflationary pressures.
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May 2026 Luxury Housing Market Report
Luxury home prices across the U.S. reached $1,283,432 in May 2026, despite year-over-year declines continuing at -1.4%. The pace of annual softening has pulled back considerably from the 5%-plus drops seen in early 2025, suggesting an uptick in the national luxury housing market.
Among tracked luxury metros, Minneapolis and Boise City, Idaho, have fully surpassed their pandemic-era peaks as of February, at 5% and 4.2%, respectively. The composition of the top 10 luxury markets was unchanged from April, with the same 10 appearing in slightly different order.
Year over year, Naples-Marco Island, Fla., at 4.3%, and Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin, Fla., at 3.2%, were the only markets on the list with positive annual price growth.
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June 2026 Housing Market Forecast
The National Association of REALTORS released an analysis forecasting the housing market dynamics in June, including sales, inventory and buying trends. The analysis cited various factors, called seasonality trends, that influence the housing market and compared the current market conditions to previous seasonality trends to predict the June 2026 housing forecast.
The analysis found that existing-home sales typically rise by 8.2% during the month, reaching their highest level of the year on average. The beginning of the summer marks a distinct shift in the housing market, characterized by the end of the school year for most localities, additional daylight and consistently warm weather. These conditions provide more flexibility for potential buyers to view a wider range of open listings.
June usually sees an average increase of 0.8% in housing inventory, presenting specific advantages for sellers, including the optimal moving conditions previously mentioned, if they plan to buy and the high prices associated with the season.
Historically, the average home spends about 30 days on the market in June, representing the fastest turnover in the year, alongside May. The favorable weather conditions drive prospective buyers to spend more time viewing homes, resulting in more frequent offers and decreasing the days spent on the market.
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Less young adults are first-time homebuyers
According to a report from First American, young adults are the missing gap in first-time homebuyers. Nearly half of 20-to 24-year-olds still lived with their parents in 2025. Only about 25% of 25-to 29-year-olds owned their homes.
The reality is that homeownership is arriving later in life for young adults, with the delay often originating at moving out of their childhood homes.
Young adults are moving through traditional markers of adulthood, such as moving out, work, marriage and children, on a different timeline than previous generations. As those milestones shift, the housing sequence that often follows, moving out, renting and buying, also shifts.
Most young adults are still renting. While today’s renters are likely to become tomorrow’s buyer, that “tomorrow” is happening later in life. The reasons for this vary between affordability challenges, as well as other life milestones that have shifted into the later years, such as school, work or family.
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Industry legends honored with National Housing Center Awards
Several industry leaders were honored for their contributions to the housing industry during the National Housing Center Awards Ceremony on June 13, 2026, in Washington, D.C. The ceremony recognized the 2026 inductees to the National Housing Hall of Fame and the recipients of the Exemplary Service to Home Building Award.
Thomas Bozzuto and Laurie Goodman were among the National Housing Hall of Fame inductees. Bozzuto redefined the standards for building and managing homes, provided thought leadership on housing policy and has been an advocate for sustainable development. Goodman, who founded the Housing Finance Policy Center at the Urban Institute, spent more than 30 years primarily focused on mortgage market research and analysis.
The 2026 Exemplary Service to Home Building Award recipients were Marvin “Jerry” Carter Jr. and Edward “Eddie” Martin Jr.
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21st Century ROAD to Housing Act advances to Senate
The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act has reached the Senate. The bill aims to solve the national affordable housing shortage by increasing supply, easing regulatory burdens and modernizing outdated U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development programs.
On May 202, 2026, the U.S. House of Representatives approved an amendment to the bill that would have removed a build-to-rent sales provision that would have hurt affordability and reduced much-needed housing supply. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) led the push to remove the provision and has been an active supporter of the bill.
“NAHB congratulates congressional leaders for reaching a bicameral and bipartisan agreement to move forward a final version of the 21st Century Road to Housing Act,” said Bill Owens, NAHB chairman, a home builder and remodeler from Worthington, Ohio. “This landmark legislation would expand housing opportunities for buyers and renters, strengthen homeownership and help tackle the affordability challenges facing communities nationwide. It’s time for Congress to move this historic housing package across the finish line.”
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Lennar announces C-suite changes
Lennar, one of the nation’s largest homebuilders, announced two appointments in its C-suite: Jim Parker named Chief Operating Officer and David Grove appointed to Executive Vice President, Homebuilding.
Parker joined the company in 2018 following its merger with CalAtlantic Homes. Following the merger, he served as a Regional President for the builder. In 2003, Parker founded Parker Chandler Homes and sold the company three years later.
Grove joined Lennar in 1999 as a Construction Area Manager in Austin. He was then named Division President in 2004 and Regional President for Texas in 2022.
“Jim and David are tenured, proven Lennar leaders who are energized by the opportunity ahead,” said Stuart Miller, Lennar’s Executive Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President. “They have consistently delivered strong results for our teams and our business. More than that, they exemplify our core values — building quality homes and delivering more value to our customers, always with the highest level of integrity.”
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Mortgage rates average 6.52%
On June 11, 2026, Freddie Mac released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey, showing the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage reached an average of 6.52%.
“The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.52% this week,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s Chief Economist. “Stronger employment momentum has helped existing home sales reach a five-month high. Importantly, we’re seeing homebuyers look past the short-term rate fluctuations and actively enter the market, signaling renewed confidence in homeownership opportunities.”
The most recent 30-year FRM reached a 6.52% average, up from last week’s 6.48%. A year ago at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.84%. Meanwhile, the 15-year FRM averaged 5.84%, up from last week’s average of 5.79%. A year ago at this time, the 15-year FRM averaged 5.97%.
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NAHB study analyzes homebuilding regulatory costs
A new study from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) analyzed homebuilding regulatory costs, comparing results from the 2026 survey to a previous one conducted in 2021. The 2026 survey revealed that, on average, regulations imposed by the government at all levels account for $131,734, or 26.4%, of the final price of a new single-family home built for sale. Of this amount, $46,795 is due to a higher price for the finished lot, a direct result of regulations imposed during the lot’s development. The remaining $84,939 is the result of regulatory costs imposed on the builder during construction, after the builder purchases the finished lot.
According to the study, regulatory costs are one of several factors, including record increases of tariff rates on building materials, ongoing skilled labor shortage, a decrease in available lots and tighter lending conditions, currently limiting the supply of housing, particularly housing for the entry-level market.
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Mortgage rates decrease to 6.48%
On June 4, 2026, Freddie Mac announced that the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 6.48%, according to its Primary Mortgage Market Survey. The FRM decreased from the week before, when it averaged 6.53%. A year ago at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.85%.
“The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage decreased to 6.48% this week,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s Chief Economist. “With mortgage rates in the mid-6% range and income growth outpacing home price growth, housing affordability is marginally improving.”
The 15-year FRM averaged 5.79%, down from the week prior when it averaged 5.87%. A year ago at this time, the 15-year FRM averaged 5.99%.
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AIA Awards 2026 Winners announced
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) announces its AIA Awards 2026 Winners at the AIA Conference on Architecture & Design 2026. Taking place at the San Diego Convention Center from June 10 to 13, 2026, the event draws in over 5,000 architects and design professionals to network, take classes and expand on how to build a better world.
AIA Awards celebrated over 100 award winners across ten categories. One of the recipients of the AIA Housing Award, Pine Flat by Faulkner Architects, was featured in Green Home Builder’s January/ February issue. Other recipients include Spoonbill Ranch, a single-family custom home in North Dakota’s Prairie Pothole Region by Johnsen Schmaling Architects.
“Every project honored across these 10 award programs is a powerful reminder of architecture’s profound impact on our communities—and its role in shaping a stronger future for generations to come,” said 2026 AIA President Illya Azaroff, FAIA. “The projects being are forward-looking, creating spaces that uplift, connect, and inspire. Together, the winners demonstrate how thoughtful design can enrich lives and help build a better future for all.”
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Backyard features homebuyers want in 2026
Homeowners now treat outdoor spaces like functional extensions of the house, packed with purpose, comfort and long-term value. When scanning listings, homebuyers look for backyard features that offer more than looks; they look for performance, resilience and year-round usability.
This year has seen a rise of climate-resilient backyard design. Designers are responding by introducing heat-tolerant plants, permeable surfaces and shade-first layouts that keep outdoor spaces usable longer. Smart plant groupings now replace random flower beds with intentional ecological zones. Gardeners mix native shrubs, deep-rooted grasses and drought-resistant perennials to stabilize soil and reduce watering needs.
Water efficiency now plays a large role in potential buyers’ decisions. Homebuyers are increasingly asking how a property manages irrigation, runoff and seasonal drought conditions. Smart irrigation systems answer those concerns with soil sensors, weather tracking and precision watering schedules.
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Award-Winning, Elevated Living
North River Ranch, developed by Neal Land & Neighborhoods, represents a fresh approach to developing a master-planned community in Southwest Florida. Located in Parrish, the project continues to expand across multiple phases of development.
On May 26, 2025, the community celebrated the grand opening of a new neighborhood, Crescent Creek, with both single-family detached homes, townhomes and two-story villas with rear garages. The developer plans for the community to host approximately 6,000 single-family homes, villas, townhomes and multi-family residences across the 2,640 acres full of community amenities for both engagement and entertainment.
The community received a Silver Award from the Best in American Living Awards (BALA) in the category of Best Single-Family Community from the National Association of Home Builders.
“Receiving recognition from BALA is especially meaningful because it reflects the intentional, thoughtful design and collaborative vision behind North River Ranch,” said John A. Neal, President of Neal Land & Neighborhoods. “From the beginning, the goal was to create a master-planned community where architecture, land planning, amenities and the natural environment work together cohesively to shape an elevated living experience.”
Diving into Development
In 2013, Neal founded the company with a vision to create innovative, master-planned communities that shape how people live and connect. The primary goal was to integrate residential living with high-quality lifestyle amenities and long-term economic growth.
“We create tomorrow’s neighborhoods through smart design and meticulous execution; neighborhoods that are both visually compelling and highly functional for the way people live,” said Neal.
The developer approaches community development from a holistic perspective, focusing on the overall neighborhood’s lifestyle and functionality rather than a single home. Neal Land & Neighborhoods recalled the challenge of developing new models for homes for master-planned, daily living in an emerging market, all while striving for infrastructure improvements and economic growth. On top of this, the developer worked closely with the builders, architects and engineers to preserve the community’s native landscape.
For North River Ranch, Neal Land & Neighborhoods worked with several homebuilders and designers, including Homes by WestBay, Cardel Homes Florida, Neal Communities, Pulte Homes and David Weekley Homes. With over 30 possible floor plans, new homes in the community range in size from 1,433 to 3,518 square feet and in price points from $300,000 to over $1 million.
Booth Design Group based the community’s architectural design to feel authentic to the way people live, from lighting aesthetics to on-site planning. Looney Ricks Kicks conceptualized and designed the community’s prominent amenities, including the 12-acre Camp Creek Clubhouse and Headwaters Swim Center.
Neal Land & Neighborhoods envisioned the community to function as a “city-within-a-city,” blending residential neighborhoods with educational centers, retail stores and healthcare facilities so residents have access to life necessities without venturing too far from the comfort of their home.
Elegant and Functional
Tucked into the southwest of the community is the Longmeadow neighborhood, with new homes by Pulte Homes, Homes by WestBay and Cardel Homes.
Homes by WestBay designed the single-family model homes with both traditional and luxurious elements. The homes range from 2,533 to 3,518 square feet, featuring three to five-bedrooms and three to five-bathrooms. The homes come in both one and two-story options as well as a three-car garage.
With a neutral color palette inspired by modern contemporary design, the homes’ interiors inspire a high-class lifestyle. The marble kitchen island is accented with dark, wooden cabinetry. An open layout between the kitchen and the living room allows for functionality of movement without sacrificing the elegant design. An opalescent dual-vanity with hidden storage features gives the bathroom a resort-spa-like feel.
Floor-to-ceiling windows and a glass-patio-covered pool overlook the lake, making the backyard feel like a lakeside vacation home.
Coastal Design
Next to Longmeadow is the Wildleaf neighborhood, featuring homes from Neal Communities. The builder’s single-family homes range from 1,533 to 2,400 square feet, with two to four-bedrooms, two to three-a-half bathrooms and two to three-car garages. These homes also come in one and two-stories.
The homes’ grey and white color palette inspires coastal living, amplified by sliding doors that lead to an open patio at the lake’s edge.
Sleek finishes and appliances accent the kitchen. The white cabinetry pairs beautifully with the pristine, white marble island and countertops.
Each of the model homes’ exteriors reflect the unique style of the individual builder while blending into a cohesive, community design; a credit to the planning and development of North River Ranch.
Photos courtesy of Neal Land & Neighborhoods.
By Taylor Moore. She is the Assistant Editor at Builder and Developer and can be reached at taylor@builder.media.
Exclusive Feature
-
A Masterclass in Bespoke Texan Building
Keechi Creek Builders stuns with regional vernacular architecture and interior design Decision Drive from Keechi Creek Builders charms with its remarkable attention…
by
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Residential Contractor Magazine: Coming July 2026
Residential Contractor MagazineTHE PROJECTS. THE PRODUCTS. THE PROS.
Residential Contractor connects manufacturers with the remodelers, contractors, trades and dealers shaping today’s residential construction market.
The Summer 2026 issue features the National Deck Competition Winner’s Showcase alongside the products, tools, technology and business solutions driving better, more profitable projects.
If you are interested in participating please contact fiona@builder.media
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Less young adults are first-time homebuyers
According to a report from First American, young adults are the missing gap in first-time homebuyers. Nearly half of 20-to 24-year-olds still lived with their parents in 2025. Only about 25% of 25-to 29-year-olds owned their homes.
The reality is that homeownership is arriving later in life for young adults, with the delay often originating at moving out of their childhood homes.
Young adults are moving through traditional markers of adulthood, such as moving out, work, marriage and children, on a different timeline than previous generations. As those milestones shift, the housing sequence that often follows, moving out, renting and buying, also shifts.
Most young adults are still renting. While today’s renters are likely to become tomorrow’s buyer, that “tomorrow” is happening later in life. The reasons for this vary between affordability challenges, as well as other life milestones that have shifted into the later years, such as school, work or family.
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Taylor Morrison acquired in $8.5 billion deal
Announced on May 31, 2026, Berkshire Hathaway will acquire homebuilding giant, Taylor Morrison for $8.5 billion. The all-cash transaction values Taylor Morrison at $72.50 per common share.
This is the first major move from Berkshire Hathaway ‘s new CEO Greg Abel who assumed the role in January. Berkshire Hathaway owns Clayton Homes, the modern manufactured homebuilder, which it acquired in 2003 for $1.7 billion..
There are indications of a consolidation between the two homebuilders. Between Taylor Morrison’s 12,997 closings and Clayton Properties’ 9,953 closings in 2025 would create the fourth largest homebuilder in the United States.
“We are excited to welcome Taylor Morrison into Berkshire’s portfolio, reflecting our long-standing commitment to housing, exemplified by Clayton Homes and our other building products businesses,” said Abel. “Over time, we expect to unify our site-built homebuilding operations into a combined platform enabling us to deliver the dream of homeownership to more Americans.”
However, Taylor Morrison’s extremely successful CEO Sheryl Palmer is not going anywhere following this acquisition. Berkshire Hathaway announced the Taylor Morrison team to continue with its existing management, including Palmer. Palmer drove the company to its nationwide strength and growth, going public in 2013 and currently building in 21 markets across 12 states. Under her tenure, Taylor Morrison’s leadership team boasts a unique point of view, 50% of senior leadership roles are occupied by women, four times the industry standard.
“Over the last 13 years as a public company, we built a track record of strategic growth—expanding our geographic footprint, integrating acquisitions with discipline and deepening our competitive strengths across procurement, brand and customer experience,” said Palmer. “Berkshire Hathaway’s long-term orientation is uniquely well-suited to the multi-year investment cycle of homebuilding, and this combination will allow us to scale the Taylor Morrison platform in ways that would not be possible as a standalone company.
Latest Issue
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June 2026
This issue of Builder and Developer features our mid-year housing update and insights into the future of luxury living.
Exclusive Feature
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Residential Contractor Magazine: Coming July 2026
Residential Contractor Magazine residentialcontractormag.com THE PROJECTS. THE PRODUCTS. THE PROS. Residential Contractor connects manufacturers with the remodelers, contractors, trades and dealers shaping…
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Cole West announces new President of Homebuilding
Cole West, one of the nation’s fastest-growing homebuilders, announced Chris Winter’s appointment to President of Homebuilding. Founded in 2016 by Colin Wright, the privately-held Utah-based company currently has 21 active communities across the state.
Winter’s last position at the company was Division President for Cole West’s Southern Utah homebuilding operations. Previous to Cole West, he served as Vice President of Finance in Northern California for PulteGroup.
“Chris’ proven leadership and deep understanding of the Utah market make him exceptionally well-suited to lead our homebuilding operations during a time of significant growth,” said Darlene Carter, CEO of Cole West. “Chris has already overseen the development of more than 1,400 homes throughout his tenure with Cole West. His expertise, vision, and commitment to our team and local community are invaluable as we continue to expand our presence throughout the state.”“It has been a privilege to be part of Cole West’s evolution from a startup homebuilder to a leading, diversified real estate company in Utah, and I am honored to step into the role of Homebuilding President,” said Winter. “I appreciate our commitment to, and unwavering pursuit of, excellence through intentional design, quality craftsmanship, and a commitment to building communities that we can be proud of. We have some exciting projects in the works, and I look forward to helping shape these communities.”
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Builder confidence increases in May
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) released the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) for May 2026. The HMI is based on a monthly survey of single-family builders who are asked to rate three specific conditions of the housing market: present sales of new single-family homes, expected sales of single-family homes for the next six months and traffic of prospective buyers of new single-family homes. Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes increased three points to 37 in May.
The survey revealed that 32% of builders cut prices in May, down from 36% in April. However, the use of sale incentives was up 61% in May, a slight increase from 60% in April.
Key factors that can impact the HMI include interest rates, employment rates, material costs and inflationary pressures.
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Cotality reports June U.S. home price insights
Cotality released the June 2026 U.S. home price insights. The report found that overall, the year-over-year home price increase remains relatively steady at 0.4%. However, the recent surge in mortgage rates has disrupted the spring homebuying season and reversed some of the affordability gains created by the lower rates seen throughout 2025.
“Market strength suggests that some buyers remain insulated from mortgage-rate volatility and are supported by substantial home equity and stock market gains,” said Cotality Chief Economist Dr. Selma Hepp. “Meanwhile, markets that depend more heavily on traditional mortgage financing and rate-sensitive buyers are seeing prices stay relatively flat. Overall, fewer markets posted year-over-year price declines in April than in prior months, pointing to continued stabilization across the housing market.”
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Private residential construction spending increases in April
Private residential construction spending was up 0.8% in April 2026, following the monthly gain of 0.6% in March. Gains in single-family and home improvement spending largely drove this increase. Overall, total private residential construction spending was 1.7% higher than a year ago.
According to the latest construction spending data from the U.S. Census, single-family construction spending increased 1.4% in April, consistent with the steady builder confidence reflected in the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index.
Improvement spending also increased in April, rising 0.4% for the month and remaining a bright spot year over year, with spending up 7.5% from April 2025.
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B&D Interview: AIA EVP & CEO Carole Wedge, FAIA, NOMA, LEED AP
In the June issue of Builder and Developer, Wedge shares how AIA supports the future of residential design and architecture
Builder and Developer: The American Institute of Architects first established in 1857, how has the organization evolved to serve the contemporary needs of its members?
Carole Wedge: The American Institute of Architects, founded in 1857, has evolved from a traditional trade association into a modern member-focused organization. Today, it supports architects through advocacy, business tools, continuing education and targeted resources that address key industry priorities such as practice success, climate action and diversity.
AIA serves contemporary member needs by providing industry-standard contract documents and market research, advancing sustainability through climate leadership and zero-carbon design resources, promoting diversity and inclusion through research and dedicated programming and offering more personalized benefits for professionals at different career stages. AIA’s advocacy program champions policies that empower architects to do their best work—advocating for pro-architectural business incentives, smart public investment and stronger codes and standards. By partnering with members to build a unified collective voice, the program works to shape the built environment in meaningful ways. Government Affairs monitors the legislative landscape at every level, international, federal, state and local, ensuring that the profession’s interests are represented wherever critical decisions are made.
B&D: The AIA26 Conference on Architecture & Design is from June 10-13, what can attendees expect from this event?
CW: AIA26 is the place for AEC professionals to explore the latest tools, materials and innovations shaping the built environment. Attendees can expect a well-rounded mix of professional development, inspiration and industry connection at AIA26. The event features visionary keynote presenters and nationally recognized speakers, continuing education sessions with opportunities to earn HSW credits for the year and architect-led tours showcasing notable San Diego architecture and firms. Attendees will also have time to connect with peers, firm leaders and industry partners and explore a large expo featuring leading AEC brands.
B&D: How is AIA connecting with the rest of the building industry, such as contractors, to work better together?
CW: AIA is strengthening its connection with the broader building community by partnering with the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) on a joint framework to improve architect-contractor collaboration. The effort is designed to help project teams work better together from the earliest stages of a project through completion.
The framework report, Toward Collaboration’s Future: Strengthening the Architect-Contractor Relationship, focuses on early alignment around shared goals, clearer communication protocols and earlier contractor involvement during design to improve constructability and cost certainty.
It also emphasizes clearly defined roles and responsibilities, proactive risk and change management and shared performance metrics for outcomes such as quality, safety and schedule. In addition, it encourages the use of digital coordination tools and promotes a culture of trust, transparency and mutual accountability.
Together, AIA and AGC are providing practical guidance that can help architects, contractors, owners and project teams reduce conflict, improve decisions and deliver stronger project outcomes.B&D: What makes you optimistic about the future of residential architecture & design?
CW: While I am optimistic about new technologies and materials becoming available to expand the design capabilities of architects, I’m most optimistic about the housing crisis in the U.S.
The housing crisis is no longer being treated as a niche issue: it’s being recognized as a shared, urgent challenge and that is driving real action. We’re seeing stronger collaboration across architects, policymakers, developers and civic leaders, which is exactly the kind of alignment needed to create meaningful change.
I’m also encouraged by the role architects are stepping into. Our profession brings both design expertise and public credibility to policy conversations and that opens the door to more practical, community-based solutions. There’s growing momentum around approaches that can expand housing supply in smart, livable ways: upzoning, gentle density, infill housing, more efficient permitting and better planning for housing at all income levels.AIA has been working to advance bipartisan legislation in Congress to address housing challenges through comprehensive reform. By supporting both the House-passed Housing for the 21st Century Act and the Senate-passed ROAD to Housing Act, AIA is urging action.
AIA convened leaders from over 20 nationally focused housing organizations at the AIA Housing Summit in late 2025. AIA hosted the summit to showcase best practices, embrace diverse perspectives and explore opportunities for collaborative legislative action that would help foster collaboration, gather insights and inform housing policies.
More people are acknowledging that access to housing is fundamental and that residential design must be equitable, resilient and responsive to how people actually live. When a crisis creates this level of urgency, innovation and cross-sector commitment, it gives me real optimism about the future of residential architecture and design.This is the full interview, read the print version.
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Designing for a Greater Purpose
A well-designed space speaks to our soul. It engages all of our senses. That belief has shaped my approach to design from the very beginning.
At Ueda Design Studio, we create homes that are modern, minimal and defined by clean lines, while also fostering a strong relationship with nature. I am drawn to spaces that feel modest yet beautiful, poetic yet comfortable, elegant yet playful. I find beauty in simplicity and in the richness of natural materials. Rather than trying to overpower nature, I prefer to work with it: to invite the view in, the sun, the shadows, the wind and to celebrate the changing seasons.
I am also fascinated by how a home unfolds through movement and contrast. Not every room needs to be large. In fact, varying the size, scale and sequence of spaces can make a home far more interesting and memorable. A narrow, darker hallway can heighten the feeling of entering a bright, expansive room with sweeping views. I also try to connect interior spaces to gardens and landscapes whenever possible. If there is no garden, I may borrow the view of a neighbor’s garden. If there is no nearby greenery at all, I look to the sky. Constraints are never just problems to solve; they are often where the design begins.
My understanding of architecture was deeply influenced by growing up in and around traditional Japanese houses. What I learned from those spaces was not simply a style, but a way of thinking. To me, Japanese architecture is something you feel rather than simply see. It is carefully composed to heighten awareness of nature, the beauty of materials and the subtle play of light and shadow, all within a clear functional balance. Spaces unfold gradually, almost like a journey and are experienced with both body and mind.
My path into architecture was not a straight one. I studied business in college and worked as a stock analyst in Tokyo in my twenties. Through my work and my travels, I encountered many kinds of architecture around the world. Over time, I became increasingly moved by the power of space and began to imagine what it would mean to create places like the ones that had stayed with me. Later, a series of life-changing events made me realize how deeply the built environment affects our daily lives, both physically and emotionally.
I also became more aware of how many spaces are designed primarily for healthy people, but not enough for those who are healing, aging, sick or otherwise vulnerable. That realization gave me a strong desire to design spaces that support people more fully; places that can make us feel happier in good times, help us heal and find peace in difficult ones. That purpose still guides my work today.
After working at Olson Kundig in Seattle, where I learned high-end residential design, I started my own practice in 2016. At the time, I wondered whether I could really succeed on my own as a Japanese female architect building a practice in the United States. However, contrary to those early concerns, the parts of my identity and experience that once felt like obstacles have become some of my greatest strengths. Being a Japanese architect in the U.S., having worked in another field before architecture and being a mother of three all shape the way I see design. They allow me to approach each project from multiple perspectives, with empathy, curiosity and a broader understanding of how people live.
Sustainability is also central to our practice. I believe every home should respect the environment, protect health, conserve energy and endure for generations. That requires both sound building science and timeless design principles. But sustainability is not only technical; it is also emotional. A truly sustainable home is one that people love, care for and want to preserve for years. I believe homes should serve the needs of today while also anticipating how life may change over the next ten, 20 or 50 years. A home should age with dignity, growing richer and more meaningful over time. That long view shapes both the way we design and the materials we choose.
I am also passionate about remodeling because it requires understanding an existing structure, uncovering its character and weaving the old and the new into a coherent whole. It can be more challenging than new construction, but also deeply rewarding.
At a time when so many older homes are demolished and replaced by buildings with little character, thoughtful remodeling feels especially important. It saves resources, reduces waste and honors the craftsmanship and stories already embedded in a place. That is also an essential part of residential architecture.
Nahoko Ueda, AIA, is the Principal of Ueda Design Studio. She can be reached at nahoko@uedads.com
This column is featured in our June issue of Builder and Developer. Read the print version.
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Blue Heron Redefines Building in Vegas
Tyler Jones founded Blue Heron with a vision to redefine luxury living in the desert, recognizing an opportunity to move beyond traditional homebuilding. He created a design-driven company rooted in modern architecture, environmental responsiveness and experiential living. The idea was to create a homebuilding company centered around innovation, craftsmanship and deep connection to the Las Vegas landscape.
Blue Heron’s building philosophy is rooted in what the company refers to as “Vegas Modern.” This approach is grounded in designs that withstand the harsh desert climate, prioritize wellness and sustainability, while ensuring each home feels modern and in touch with the luxurious charm of Las Vegas.
“Our design philosophy has always centered on the idea that the spaces we inhibit should actively support how we want to live, including physically, mentally and over the long term,” said Jones. “At Blue Heron, that means integrating architecture, technology and environment in a way that feels effortless and deeply intentional. We’re not just designing homes, but creating living ecosystems that prioritize air, water, light and human performance.”
The builder’s design philosophy is evident in the Priva project, located in the MacDonald Highlands region of Henderson, Nev.
A Challenging Climate
Blue Heron seamlessly integrates the indoor and outdoor environments, enhancing wellness while bringing natural beauty to the forefront of the Priva project. Rather than shy away from construction in a harsh climate, the builder uses biophilic design so the project can withstand extreme heat while still feeling luxurious.
“We’ve embraced technology, advanced building systems and sustainability standards to meet the demands of a more informed and environmentally conscious buyer,” said Gonzalo Romero, Chief Design Officer at Blue Heron.
The builder approached the project’s design as a direct response to both environmental forces and human experience. The home’s architecture has layered planes and strategic overhangs to mitigate solar gain, while expansive glazing is carefully positioned to capture views without compromising performance. The company also installed advanced HVAC systems and smart home technology to optimize energy performance. The home’s seamless indoor-outdoor design reduces reliance on artificial lighting and encourages natural ventilation throughout. All of these strategies showcase Blue Heron’s commitment to sustainable luxury.
“The goal is always to create a home that feels open and connected, yet remains comfortable year-round in a desert climate,” said Romero.
Building with Precision
Development on Priva began in the early design phase with extensive site analysis and planning, followed by construction throughout 2024. Blue Heron completed the home in October 2025. The project’s topography allows architecture to actively engage with the landscape. The home is positioned along a ridge to create a cohesive, elevated streetscape of Las Vegas while maintaining individuality. Designing on such a prominent ridge line required careful precision from the in-house architectural and design teams. The project’s location was also the primary challenge; balancing expansive openness while adhering to environmental performance in Nevada required meticulous planning. Large glass openings had to be carefully engineered to maintain both comfort and efficiency. The builder designed the 8,800 square-foot home with a strong emphasis on flow and energy to create a sense of harmony within the project. Priva’s exterior is defined by a composition of intersecting planes that create depth, shadow and movement through the day, producing a dynamic facade that evolves with the sun.
Designing for Luxurious Lifestyle
Luxury and Las Vegas go hand-in-hand; a belief that Las Vegas native Jones founded Blue Heron on. That belief is embedded in Priva’s design. Romero described the project’s design as both bold and restrained; modern yet grounded through materiality and proportion. Floor-to-floor ceiling pocket glass doors dissolve the boundary between interior and exterior spaces. The project’s great room features doors that open to panoramic views and an infinity pool, bringing the elevated feel of a luxury resort without having to sacrifice the comfort of home. Priva enables effortless entertainment, complete with a wine room, media lounge, in-home gym and multiple gathering areas to inspire connection.
The dining area’s open design on the first floor embodies the same look as a luxurious, vacation penthouse, further elevating everyday living. Dual staircases connect the two stories for both functionality and enhanced movement. Romero described the large, circular driveway as “wealth-embracing,” reinforcing arrival and symbolism. That same wealth-embracing look is what defines the Priva project, bringing a luxurious flare to the Nevada desert.
“Priva represents a convergence of intention, performance and experience,” said Romero. “It’s about how architecture can shape the way people live, connect and feel within a space. This home is a clear expression of where the future of home is headed.”
Photo Credit: Blue Heron
By Taylor Moore. She is the Assistant Editor at Builder and Developer and can be reached at taylor@builder.media.
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Construction employment increases in 32 states
Construction employment rose in 32 states from April 2025 to April 2026, according to an analysis of new federal data released by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC)on May 22, 2026. Texas added the most construction jobs, adding approximately 18,700 jobs, followed by North Carolina, Ohio, Louisiana, Illinois and Missouri. Louisiana had the largest percentage gain in the span of 12 months.
“It’s encouraging to see construction employment increasing in many parts of the country,” said Ken Simonson, the AGC’s chief economist.
In April 2026, Florida added the most construction jobs with 6,000, followed by Texas with 3,500, Massachusetts with 3,100, North Carolina with 2,700 and New Mexico with 2,600.
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Housing economist comments on core inflation report
The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) released the April report for Personal Income and Outlays, outlining core inflation at 0.4% for the month and a 3.8%12-month inflation rate. This is an indication that on the next Fed decision on June 17, 2026 might continue March’s holding pattern.
The BEA data does not relay one singular outcome for the housing market with a varying landscape across the U.S.
“When inflation runs this hot, the Fed stays put and mortgage rates stay stuck in the mid-6s,” said Dr. Selma Hepp, Cotality‘s Chief Economist and regular contributor to Builder and Developer. “That freezes the national housing market in place. But a flat national number is hiding a lot behind the scenes. In fact, at a local level, many markets are hiding a complex landscape that is completely fractured from national numbers.”
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Taylor Morrison acquired in $8.5 billion deal
Announced on May 31, 2026, Berkshire Hathaway will acquire homebuilding giant, Taylor Morrison for $8.5 billion. The all-cash transaction values Taylor Morrison…
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