Building a home from the ground up is one of the most rewarding projects a person can undertake. It’s a chance to create a space that reflects your lifestyle, personality, and long-term needs. At the heart of this process lies one crucial element: design and architecture.

In this article, we’ll explore the major components of residential design and architecture. Working alongside our professionals, you will choose a style with our designer and meet with our production coordinator to integrate modern trends and ensure long-term functionality. Whether you’re a first-time home builder or considering a custom upgrade, understanding how design and architecture impact your build is essential.

Understanding Your Lifestyle and Long-Term Needs

Before diving into blueprints and floor plans, it’s essential to start with you—the homeowner. The most successful home designs are tailored around the daily rhythms, preferences, and future goals of the people who live in them.

At CMH Florida, we sit down with each client to understand their lifestyle, preferences, and practical needs. This helps us shape every architectural decision—big or small—around your unique vision.

Choosing the Right Architectural Style

South Georgia and Florida offer a rich tapestry of architectural styles—from Mediterranean villas to contemporary coastal retreats. The architecture of your home should not only align with your aesthetic preferences but also reflect the climate, neighborhood, and regional character.

Popular Florida Architectural Styles:

Mediterranean Revival

Stucco exteriors, red-tile roofs, arched windows

Coastal Contemporary

Clean lines, large glass windows, and open layouts. Prioritizes natural light and breezy interiors

Craftsman Bungalow

Exposed beams, wood finishes, front porches

Modern Farmhouse

Blends rustic charm with modern comfort. Features gabled roofs, shiplap walls, and neutral tones

Custom Hybrid Styles

Our in-house design experts at CMH Florida work collaboratively with you throughout the customization process, blending your vision with practical, high-quality execution.

Material Selection

Materials are not just about aesthetics—they influence durability, maintenance, and energy efficiency, especially inSouth Georgia and Florida’s hot, humid, and hurricane-prone environment.

Key Material Choices:

Roofing: Metal and tile roofs offer superior storm resistance and longevity.

Exterior finishes: Stucco and fiber-cement siding resist moisture and insects.

Windows: Impact-rated windows are essential for storm protection and energy savings.

Flooring: Tile, engineered wood, and luxury vinyl perform better in high-humidity environments.

Insulation and HVAC: Energy-efficient systems reduce long-term costs and keep your home comfortable year-round.

At CMH Florida, we partner with premium suppliers to provide materials that look beautiful and last for decades.

The Role of Customization in Design

While pre-designed models can be cost-effective and convenient, custom homes offer unparalleled freedom to personalize every aspect—from layout and lighting to built-ins and tech integration.

At CMH Florida, we offer a full-service design-build experience. That means everything—architecture, interior design, permitting, and construction—is handled under one roof. No finger-pointing, no gaps in communication.

Benefits of Custom Home Design:

Tailored to your site, view, and lot shape
Accommodates unique lifestyle needs (e.g., aging in place, special hobbies)
Incorporates unique features like wine cellars, home theaters, or smart-home systems
Offers flexibility with architectural details like ceiling heights, wall textures, or specialty lighting

Your Journey with CMH Florida

At CMH Florida, we believe you’re not just building a house—you’re building the backdrop to a life well-lived. Every decision in design and architecture should serve not only your aesthetic desires but also your long-term comfort, function, and peace of mind.

Whether you’re drawn to clean modern lines or classic coastal elegance, our team is here to make the journey seamless, creative, and truly rewarding.

Let’s build something beautiful together!

Kay H

13:53 05 May 23

I have recently learned that building a home is quite stressful. Building with CMH made it less stressful. I felt heard and seen. Whenever there was an issue, it was rectified. Any questions asked, were answered.A HUGE shoutout to their superintendent John! He was magnificent! He definitely went above and beyond.KH

Gregg Fisher

22:48 13 Apr 23

The Chris Mill Team with DiAnna Sara as the front person made having my home built a dream come true. House building isn’t easy…. The team made it easier than any other house I’ve had built. Love these guys!

Tracey Mays

17:28 20 Mar 23

We highly recommend ChrisMill Homes of Florida for your custom home build. First, let me say that I am not easily impressed; then I met the team of ChrisMill Homes of Florida. My husband and I are career military, and throughout our 20+ year careers we have owned six homes consisting of three resales and three new construction. When we decided to relocate to the rural outskirts of the city of Madison, Florida we met with several home builders. ChrisMill Homes of Florida stood out during our first meeting due to their projection of professionalism, expertise, and integrity. These traits presented themselves throughout our entire home building process, making it exciting and enjoyable. There were items that we asked for that were not standard at the time of our build and ChrisMill Homes of Florida went above and beyond to ensure that we got everything we wanted. Specifically, we asked for dedicated circuits for a garage located deep freezer and compressor, electrical panel with dedicated transfer switch and exterior plug for portable generator, dedicated circuits and switch control for outlets in the eaves for Christmas décor, a pot filler and instant hot water dispenser, trayed/vaulted dining room for wood beams and a foyer wood tray ceiling. From the signing of the contract, drawing up and approval of plans, design selections, breaking of ground, to construction and turnover of keys, Diana, Ronnie and Ernie were instrumental in ensuring a smooth and pleasurable process from start to finish. If you want a builder who will not be satisfied unless you are completely satisfied and who will work hard for you, call ChrisMill Homes of Florida today. We love our home!!

Jeffrey Epperson

18:24 11 Mar 23

Tim Richardson

20:55 10 Mar 23

From the first phone call to Chris Mills to being in the final stage of building our new home the team at Chris Mills of FL. have been top notch. From our initial meeting with Diana to our construction superintendent Tony we could not have asked for a more pleasing experience. We truly appreciate the job you have done for us.

Jaidyn Wesley

17:54 09 Mar 23

I had the pleasure of working with ChrisMill Homes of Florida recently. The staff was and is a joy to work alongside with. They are very knowledgeable and understanding. They made every attempt possible to ensure I received exactly what wanted and made sure I stayed within my price range. DiAnna always made herself available and never complained, she went over and beyond with assisting me, making sure I received the best quality of work. Hands down ChrisMill of Florida is the BEST to do it, I highly recommend this TEAM, where dream’s definitely do come TRUE❤️

Leviathan Flame

19:23 24 Feb 23

ChrisMill Homes of Florida has a hardworking team, they work relentlessly to satisfy their customers and help give everyone the home they deserve. Everyone here is so kind and helpful. They have their own little work family and they welcome every one of their costumers into it. It's amazing to see so much effort going into these houses, and how the team doesn't stop thinking of new ways to be more efficient and better please their customers. I love CMH Florida.

May 9, 2025

Design and Architecture in Home Construction: A Comprehensive Guide