All,
I've been away from the discussion table for a while, however have a sense of where the forum is heading.
With that said: yes, educate; yes, speculate; and no, there are several other types of residential new construction owned (NCO) projects, per the "builder language". Some we may be able to mould to our benefit and some we may never have a opening for entry for boutique type operations.
I have now heard these different residential types in terms of end user ("customs"), "spec / custom", "plan shop / spec", and "tract" for NCO descriptions you might find in the homebuilder vocabulary.
Typically, home designers will not be providing services on customs nor tract work. However, such is not unprecedented. For example, some tract work produced for the larger builder operations are through their own A/E divisions or specialty A/E firms where they have established longstanding relationships. Moreover, they are rarely ready to solicit to or entertain the use of none established relationship A/E's.
In addition to this business of the homebuilder industry, and what should be of greater concern, home designer and homebuilders are becoming more involved in design / build, systems replacements, and renovations once a safe haven for the fledgling professional.
Really, this is in response to some of the latest rants. And Thad, "kudos" to you - very well put - residential design and construction has it's rewards, no doubt. Unforetunately, the "common man" doesn't get that expectation fulfilled "McDonald's Experience" by using the Howard R's boutique since the results are never the same. Just look all around us at the architect designs of homes, additions, and renovations. With most seasoned (old) Home Designer service firms, there's a history, an expected look, and thus a brand experience.
My two cents contribution,
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Stephen Dunakoskie AIA
Riordan Construction Group Inc
Leesburg VA
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