Collaborative Design Group : Architecture & Interiors

You’d probably expect this decision to happen much later in a project.

It doesn’t.

In this week’s Studio Chat, Olivia shares one thing she always prioritizes early in the design process and explains why waiting simply isn’t an option.

Watch to hear her answer—and Mark’s take on another early decision that can have a big impact.

This courtyard just got one step closer to completion with the addition of its new fountain.

While fountains create a beautiful focal point, they also served a practical purpose for centuries, helping cool outdoor spaces by dispersing water into the air.

Mark explains why this timeless feature still has a place in residential design today.

Architecture + Interior Design: Collaborative Design Group
Builder: CB Cooper Construction

From hidden features to smart storage and seamless appliances, this kitchen is full of details that are easy to miss unless someone points them out. In this walkthrough, Olivia shares a few of the features that make this space work so well.

Our favorite detail might just be custom drawers tucked right beside the range- watch through to the end to see why!

Interior Design: Collaborative Design Group
Builder: Aspire Fine Homes

“What actually makes a floor plan work well?”

Mark’s answer might make you laugh.

Behind the joke is something every homeowner should know: a great floor plan isn’t accidental. It takes an experienced architect who can see the possibilities, solve problems before they’re built, and reimagine spaces that no longer work.

That’s especially true in a remodel, where every decision has to work with what’s already there.

In this week’s Studio Chat, Mark shares why he loves the challenge of putting those pieces together. 🧩

A bar should feel just as intentional as the rest of the home. Wait until you see where this one is headed.

This Memorial project is getting closer to the finish line, and this bar is quickly becoming one of our favorite spaces. The gold accent wall frames the window beautifully, while the Night Owl cabinetry, quartzite countertops, and suspended gold shelving will bring everything together once installed.

It’s bold, elegant, and designed to be a destination within the home.

Interior Design: Collaborative Design Group

The last time we shared this custom steel staircase, it had just been installed. Now, with framing, glass, and the surrounding architecture taking shape, you can finally see the vision coming together.

From the second floor, the staircase sweeps gracefully to the home’s lowest level, the family’s entry, before making its way up through a dramatic vertical space wrapped in floor-to-ceiling corner glass. An integrated handrail keeps the design clean and uninterrupted, allowing the staircase itself to become a sculptural centerpiece.

It’s one of those architectural moments that will feel just as impressive years from now as it does during construction.

Architecture: Collaborative Design Group

It’s Friday, which means it’s time for another Studio Chat.

This week, we’re diving into one of the design decisions that can have a bigger impact than most people expect.

Whether you’re planning a custom home, renovating, or simply interested in great design, this conversation offers insight into a decision that’s often overlooked early in the process.

Sometimes the biggest design decisions aren’t the most obvious. Watch to see what Olivia has to say.

What if your game room could double as movie night?

This space is designed to do a lot more than improve your golf swing.

Hidden behind the wall is a dedicated equipment room that keeps the simulator technology out of sight, while the main space stays clean and ready for whatever the day calls for. Just outside, the terrace creates an easy connection to the outdoors, making it just as well suited for gathering with friends as it is for family time.

The plan also includes arcade games, room for active play (yes, even a game of dodgeball), and technology advanced enough to transform the simulator into a full home theater with the touch of a button.

It’s one room, designed to do it all—and we’re excited to see it come together.

Architecture + Interior Design: Collaborative Design Group
Builder: CB Cooper Construction

We’re excited to finally start sharing one of our newest homes in Memorial.

There are still a few finishing touches left, but this utility room was too fun not to show early. Designed as a combined mudroom and dog wash, it’s packed with personality, from the black and white checkered floor to the custom Audrey Lane tile covered in illustrated dog faces.

It’s one of those spaces that makes you smile every time you walk through it, and it’s just the beginning. We have so much more of this home to share over the next several weeks as we get closer to the finish line.

Interior Design: Collaborative Design Group
Builder:

Happy Friday! Mark and Olivia are back with another Studio Chat.

This week’s question: What’s something that’s difficult to change once construction begins?

Mark’s answer might surprise you. While almost anything can be changed, it’s far better to make the right decisions before construction starts. He shares one often-overlooked detail that can make a big impact in the finished home.

Watch the full Studio Chat, then tell us: what’s a design detail you never knew to ask about?