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After thirty years and more than 2,200 custom homes, the design philosophies and core values David Small Designs was founded on remain at the heart of how we approach every project. Each homeowner brings a distinct vision. Each property has its own opportunities and constraints. And every home must answer a question that goes deeper […]
Buildproof™ is evidence that a designer’s ideas have successfully made the journey from concept to construction. It can be found in a portfolio of real homes, built for real clients. Homes that demonstrate a designer can do more than produce compelling image—they can develop a design that works in the real world and can actually […]
If you’re considering building a custom home or undertaking a major renovation, you’ve probably asked yourself questions like: How large of a home can I actually build? Will zoning allow what I’m envisioning? Is my property regulated by a Conservation Authority? Will I need a minor variance? Can my vision actually be achieved on this […]
One of the most common things we hear from prospective homeowners is: “We’re thinking about building… we’re just not sure if now is the right time.” It’s an understandable hesitation. A custom home is a significant investment, and there will always be reasons to wait for the “perfect” moment. But the reality is that designing […]
When most homeowners begin searching for a custom home designer, they naturally focus on the portfolio. Do the homes feel timeless? Can the firm design something that reflects your vision? Those questions are important—but they’re only part of the story. The reality is that the success of a custom home project depends on far more […]
For years, modern architecture has dominated design conversations. Clean lines, flat roofs, expansive glass, and minimalist detailing became synonymous with luxury residential design. Lately, however, we’re noticing a shift. More and more homeowners are gravitating toward traditional architecture—not because they want something old-fashioned, but because they’re looking for something familiar, comfortable, and enduring. The challenge […]
When designing a custom home, the focus often begins with architecture—how the home looks, how it sits on the site, and how its form takes shape. But how a home feels to live in is defined just as much by the interior. Interior design is not simply a finishing layer. When considered early, it becomes […]
Great architecture goes beyond the walls of the home—it extends to the edges of the property. A well-designed home is not simply placed on a lot to satisfy zoning requirements. It is carefully positioned to respond to the unique qualities of the site—its views, topography, vegetation, and relationship to the surrounding neighbourhood. Just as importantly, […]
For many homeowners, there comes a moment when the conversation around building or renovating shifts. It’s no longer about the next step—it’s about the final one. The Last House™ represents more than just a project; it’s a mindset, a philosophy, and a deeply personal approach to designing a home that will support, inspire, and adapt […]
If you’ve been thinking about a major renovation—but hesitating on timing—this is the moment to take a closer look. As of April 1, 2026, Ontario has expanded its HST rebate to include substantial renovations, creating a meaningful opportunity for homeowners to reinvest in their existing homes. What This Means for Renovations The updated program allows […]
As energy efficiency becomes a more prominent part of residential design, many homeowners are hearing the term “Net Zero”—often with mixed or unclear explanations. At its core, Net Zero is about performance. But what does that actually mean for your home, your lifestyle, and your project? What is Net Zero? In technical terms, a Net […]
At some point, many homeowners reach a crossroads with their home. The space may no longer suit their lifestyle, the layout may feel dated, or the house simply no longer reflects how they want to live. The question that often follows is a simple one: should we renovate our existing home, or build new? At […]
Designing a home on a rural property is a rare opportunity. Unlike most urban or suburban sites, rural land offers space, privacy, and connection to the landscape. But that freedom also comes with complexity. The land itself becomes one of the most important parts of the design process. A successful rural home isn’t just placed […]
When designing a custom home you think about the present moment — how you live today, what your family needs now, and what feels inspiring and personal. But the most successful homes also look ahead. A thoughtfully designed custom home should evolve with you. It should anticipate lifestyle shifts, market expectations, technological advancements, and long-term […]
Designing a custom home is one of the most personal and meaningful investments a family can make. It is also one of the most complex. One of the first questions clients ask is simple: What does it cost to design a custom home? The answer depends on a number of factors—size, complexity, approvals, and the […]
Planning a custom home or major renovation—but not sure where to begin?
Our Vision Study shows how your vision, needs and budget could come together before you commit to the full architectural design process.
