Why Now Is a Smart Time to Start Your Custom Home Design

Building a custom home is one of the biggest decisions you will make. Many people assume that contacting a designer or builder can wait until they are “ready to build.” In Perth’s housing market, waiting can actually cost you time, money and options. Starting your custom design now, even if construction does not begin until 2026 or 2027, can save stress and provide greater control over the process.

The Design Process Takes Longer Than You Think

A well-designed custom home cannot be completed overnight. The design process involves initial meetings, concept sketches, revisions, structural input and finally detailed plans ready for building. Depending on the complexity of your project, this process can take several months. Starting now gives you the luxury of time so that by the moment you are ready to build, your design is fully resolved with no rushed decisions, guesswork or compromise.

Council Approvals Can Cause Delays

Council approvals across Perth are often unpredictable. Homes in established suburbs, on riverfront or coastal blocks, on sloping or irregular land, or with unique features such as multiple levels, can take months to be approved. Starting the process now allows you to accommodate these timeframes without pushing your build back once construction is meant to start.

Clarity on Costs and Budget

Construction costs have stabilised compared to the peaks of 2021 to 2023, but prices continue to shift. Beginning your design early allows you to receive accurate costings, make adjustments to suit your budget, avoid last-minute financial pressure, and plan your finances and borrowing capacity well in advance. For many clients, this early planning alone saves significant amounts in variations or redesigns later on.

Better Design Through Thoughtful Planning

Rushing the design phase often leads to mistakes and compromises. Starting early gives you time to explore the layout of your home for your lifestyle now and into the future, consider natural light and energy efficiency, plan storage and circulation, and refine the façade, outdoor living spaces, pool, interiors and materials. Thoughtful design is the result of time and careful attention, not pressure.

Material Supply Chains Are More Predictable

Unlike the supply-chain disruptions of 2022 and 2023, materials are now far more reliable. Starting your design now allows you to confidently specify materials, secure long-lead items early and plan for imported finishes if needed. This foresight reduces the risk of delays and ensures that construction in 2026 proceeds smoothly.

Protect Your Lifestyle Plans

Life does not pause while you build. Many clients have important plans to consider, such as selling their current home, relocating, aligning construction with children finishing school, planning for retirement, or accommodating a growing family. Beginning your design now ensures your timing is guided by your plans rather than external delays.

The Benefits of Starting Early

Starting your custom design now gives you a better outcome, greater certainty and more control. It allows for smoother planning, better builder availability and fewer surprises. Most importantly, it provides the time needed to create a home that truly suits your lifestyle and delivers a stress-free and enjoyable building experience.

Why Atrium?

With over 35 years of experience, Atrium Homes has established itself as a benchmark for luxury residential design in Western Australia. We are proud to be recognised among the most trusted custom home builders Perth has to offer, known for delivering homes that combine architectural beauty with functionality. If you’re looking to take the next step, get in touch with our team, and let’s make your dream home a reality.