The Craft of Custom

Premium appliances, smart home systems, luxury finishes, high-end HVAC, the options during a custom build are endless... and the price tags can be too!  But which upgrades actually deliver long-term value, and which ones are just expensive, shiny distractions?  In this episode, Paul gets honest about what he recommends without hesitation, what depends entirely on how you actually live, and what he...

Nearly 50-70% of a custom home's budget goes to work you'll never see: foundations, framing, plumbing, electrical, insulation, and all the systems that determine how your home actually performs.  In this episode, Paul breaks down why these invisible investments matter more than most people realize and where to prioritize your money for long-term comfort, efficiency, and durability.  This...

Not all builders are created equal, and local expertise matters more than you might think.  In this episode, Paul breaks down why working with someone who truly knows the Monadnock Region translates to a better build.  From understanding New Hampshire's specific climate challenges and soil conditions to navigating local building codes with ease, regional knowledge shows up in ways that direct...

Ever wondered what a luxury custom home builder would build for himself?  In this episode, Paul gets personal and walks through his dream home from the ground up.  He chooses his ideal location, and we give him complete creative freedom to dream, splurge, and skip out on the stuff that doesn't matter!  This isn't just about Paul's dream build, it's a masterclass in values-based...

LR3 Development is growing!  Paul's looking for just the right person to join the team as an experienced Residential Construction Project Manager.  In this episode, Paul shares more about the role, what it entails, and what it takes to succeed in luxury custom home building. We get into why this is more than just a job; it's an invitation to grow your career and be part of a team that st...

The home-building industry has changed a lot in the past twenty years, but some principles have remained tried-and-true.  In this episode, Paul shares from his two decades of construction experience as we take a look at what’s actually different, and what hasn’t changed a bit between then vs. now.  Listen to hear:  How long Paul has been in the industry, and what it was like when he started, vs. w...

While some materials go together like cheese and wine, not all materials play well together so nicely!  The difference between a cohesive custom home and a chaotic one often comes down to thoughtful material selection.  In this episode, Paul breaks down his approach to pairing finishes, textures, and tones that create harmony throughout a home. From mixing modern and rustic elements to balancing a...

How do you know before breaking ground whether or not a builder is the right one for YOUR custom build? In this episode, we get into the earliest red flags so you can identify when to walk away before getting in too deep.  We shine a light on vital cues to listen for when choosing the right luxury builder for your project.  Inside the episode:  What are the earliest red flags for a client looking...

From initial vision to final awe-inspiring walkthrough, in this episode, we go behind-the-scenes to learn what goes into building an award-winning home.  Taking home the New Hampshire Home Builders’ Association 2025 “Best Single Family Construction >$1M” award, this custom home is set apart from the noise, boasting breathtaking views, quiet luxury, and bold beauty.  Modern luxury, intentional d...

We all know by now that bigger isn’t always better… but when it comes to building from the ground up, how do you determine the square footage sweet spot?  In this episode, we break down the truth of square footage and show you the real numbers behind the decisions to go big or go home (good news: you can do both!).  Let's talk square footage! Inside the episode, you'll learn:  What’s the...

Just like every home build client is unique, every builder is too! In this episode, we get into some of the special touches that set LR3 apart as a luxury home builder in the Monadnock Region.  From non-negotiables to balancing signature style with individual visions, this episode guides you in what makes LR3’s process distinct, and how to choose the right home builder for you!  In the episode:  H...

Design isn't just aesthetic; it also impacts behavior. Good design has to align with functionality needs and work seamlessly for everyday life. In this episode, Paul explores how the spaces we create shape our daily patterns, from room flow that encourages family connection to ceiling heights that influence how energized or calm we feel. This conversation covers activity zones, the psychology...

Primary residence or vacation getaway?  The answer changes everything about how you build. In this episode, Paul walks through the key considerations that separate vacation/second home design from everyday living.  Inside the Episode:  Differences when considering a primary home vs. a second home Features for vacation homes, primary homes, and future forever homes  Maintenance considerations for s...

What are the keys to a beyond successful new build? Because you’ve heard plenty of our thoughts… we wanted to offer a fresh perspective on the matter! So, we brought in special guest, Nathan Kono, to share a peek behind-the-scenes as an LR3 client as his recent home build went seamlessly from concept to completion.  Inside the episode:  What made Nathan and his wife, Jackie, decide to build vs. pu...

While LR3 doesn't focus on remodels and renovations, there are instances where they accommodate these projects.  In this episode, we get into what type of home remodels make a good fit for our team and how Paul helps homeowners decide between renovating or starting fresh.  In the episode, you'll learn:  When it's time to renovate and when to start fresh  A renovation challenge peopl...

After years of experience in the world of home building, Paul’s seen A LOT. In this episode, we get his insights and lessons learned from job-site challenges and successes.  In the episode:  Unexpected problems with innovative solutions  An on-site decision that changed the final outcome for the better  Seemingly unplanned occurrences that come up consistently for clients (perhaps not so unplanned...

One thing LR3 has done consistently well, beyond just building custom homes, is building strong relationships. In this episode, we get into the power and importance of a good builder-client relationship and how Paul LaRoche works to strengthen these relationships, right from the start.  In the episode:  The role of communication in a smooth project  How Paul handles situations where clients don&ap...

It takes a unified team of skilled individuals to bring together the vision for our LR3 custom home clients.  To provide impeccable quality, excellent customer service, and a stunning result, Paul doesn’t leave it to chance! He hand-selects the best and brightest of local contractors for each and every detail of the build.  This episode gives you a peek behind the scenes as to how Paul chooses and...

If you’re the hostess with the mostess or love having everyone home for the holidays, this episode is for you!  We get into guest-ready features and must-haves, customized for everyone’s comfort, both inside and outside the home.  Inside the episode:  How your social calendar informs the custom build  The features not to overlook for large gatherings and entertaining  Paul’s must-have and favorite...

Sometimes "home sweet home" means more than one generation living under the same roof. From kiddos to aging parents, this episode walks you through the custom features to consider when creating a space everyone can enjoy for years to come.  Inside the episode:  How does the need for "multi-generational" spaces impact modern building?  What are the different ages and stages a ho...

Everyone’s idea of the perfect storage and organization system looks a little different.  One thing we can almost all agree on is that we don’t want a home full of clutter. Custom storage solutions bring a sense of calm throughout the home with a balance of function and aesthetics.  In this episode, we get into custom storage options from closets to pantries to garages, so everything has a place a...

Got questions about exteriors? Shades of paint, tying in nature, and which materials you can trust to go the distance, this episode is a deep dive into exterior options for your home.  Paul sheds light on the difference between various exterior materials, common options for his custom home clients, and what to avoid for an exterior that stands out.  How Paul helps homeowners decide between materia...

Back in June, Paul hosted his third annual staff and family appreciation BBQ. In this episode, Emily’s got questions about why it’s so meaningful for Paul to show gratitude to those who are building this business alongside him.  You’ll learn more about the business of building, get to know Paul as an entrepreneur, and learn about how his vision has evolved as we get into:  Taking time to celebrate...

A well-designed roofline and intentional materials do more than keep the rain out, they play a huge role in the look and feel of your home.  In this episode, we’re unpacking how roof structure, gables, and even gutters all contribute to aesthetics, performance, and long-term protection. Listen in to learn:  Decisions to make around roofing materials, slopes, gutters, and more  A breakdown of the d...

When clients first begin the homebuilding process with LR3, the beginning is exciting! Dreaming, designing, and decision-making.  After the plan is finalized and in place, there's what seems to be a lull in the action before the building process begins.  But what's really happening is far from a lull!   In this episode, we get into the behind-the-scenes action taking place before the vis...