Design-Build Custom Homes in East Tennessee
At Walnut Ridge Construction, our design-build approach brings your home from concept to completion under one unified team. By managing design, engineering, budgeting, and construction together, we eliminate guesswork, streamline communication, and deliver exceptional homes that stay on time and on budget.
What Is the Design-Build Method?
Design-build construction integrates architectural design and construction services into a single contract. Instead of juggling separate designers, engineers, and builders, you’ll have one cohesive team working toward the same goal—your perfect home.
This method ensures:
Faster project timelines and fewer delays
Unified communication between all team members
Transparent budgeting and scope control
Flexibility for design changes throughout construction
Advantages of a Design-Build Home
Homeowners across East Tennessee choose the design-build model for its simplicity, speed, and cost savings. By partnering directly with Walnut Ridge Construction, you’ll gain complete control of your design decisions while our team manages every technical detail behind the scenes.
Benefits include:
Streamlined project management from start to finish
Improved cost accuracy through early builder involvement
Collaborative design process that adapts to your budget
One point of contact and total accountability
Seamless transition from design to construction
Our Design-Build Process
Our design-build process follows a clear, step-by-step framework that’s both creative and disciplined. It ensures your vision comes to life without budget or schedule surprises.
Initial Consultation: We listen to your goals, design ideas, and functional needs.
Preliminary Design & Budget: Early collaboration between design and construction ensures feasibility and cost control.
Final Plans & Contract: Once the design is refined, we finalize specifications and pricing under a transparent cost-plus agreement.
Permitting & Construction: We handle approvals, permits, and daily oversight while keeping you informed every step of the way.
Finishing & Warranty: Quality inspections, walkthroughs, and a full post-construction warranty.
Ready try our Design-Build Custom Home Services?
Walnut Ridge Construction combines your design with our quality construction. Start your next home today.
Transparent Cost-Plus Pricing
Every Walnut Ridge Construction design-build project is managed under a cost-plus contract for complete financial transparency. You’ll see exactly what materials and labor cost—no hidden markups or vague allowances.
Transparent billing and real-time reporting
Flexibility to upgrade or adjust materials
Alignment between design goals and actual cost
Honest budgeting from the start
Designed for East Tennessee Living
Whether your lot overlooks Tellico Lake or the rolling hills of Loudon County, our design-build process ensures your home is perfectly suited to its environment. We combine architectural creativity with local knowledge to make the most of each site’s natural beauty and terrain.
Popular Build Locations:
Vonore – Lake and golf course homes
Tellico Village & Rarity Bay – Premier resort-style communities
Loudon & Lenoir City – Family-friendly and scenic neighborhoods
Maryville – Foothill views and top schools
Why Choose Walnut Ridge for Design-Build?
Homeowners trust Walnut Ridge Construction for our craftsmanship, honesty, and personal attention. Unlike volume builders, we take on a limited number of homes each year to ensure detail, communication, and satisfaction at every stage.
Our Promise:
One integrated team managing your entire project
Transparent budgets and detailed progress updates
Unmatched craftsmanship in every detail
Respect for your vision, budget, and timeline
Ready to Design and Build Your Custom Home?
Let’s turn your ideas into architectural reality. Whether you already own land or are just beginning the process, Walnut Ridge Construction’s design-build model gives you a seamless path from inspiration to move-in.
Testimonials
Tellico Village
“We interviewed several builders before choosing Walnut Ridge, but what sold us was their open-book pricing and constant communication. We saw every invoice and cost, and there were zero surprises. The process was honest and smooth from start to finish.”
Sarah & Mark L.
Rarity Bay
“From our very first meeting, we knew we were in good hands. Kenny and his team took the time to understand our needs, our land, and our budget. Our home fits our lot perfectly and turned out even better than we imagined.”
Tom & Rachel B.
Loudon County
“The craftsmanship is outstanding. Every trim line, cabinet, and stone detail feels intentional. It’s clear Walnut Ridge Construction takes pride in every home they build.”
Greg & Melissa K.
WindRiver Community
“We were building from Florida, and Kenny kept us updated with progress photos, budget reports, and quick responses. We never felt out of the loop, even from hundreds of miles away.”
David & Karen T.
Monroe County
“We’ve built before, and this was by far the best experience. The cost-plus contract gave us peace of mind, and the workmanship exceeded expectations. We would recommend Walnut Ridge to anyone building in Tennessee.”
Mark & Sheila R.
Blount County
“I've had the pleasure of knowing the general contractor of Walnut Ridge Construction, Kenny Schmidt, for over 20 years. So, when it came time to build a house, there's only one person I trusted to take care of me. You'll never meet a more honest person in your life.”
David M. & Melanie W.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a design-build home?
A design-build home combines design, engineering, and construction under one contract. It streamlines communication, saves time, and improves cost control.
Why choose a design-build contractor?
Choosing a design-build contractor like Walnut Ridge simplifies the process, reduces delays, and ensures your design, budget, and schedule stay aligned.
Does Walnut Ridge use cost-plus pricing for design-build projects?
Yes. All design-build projects are managed under a transparent cost-plus agreement so homeowners can see every expense and make informed decisions.
Can you design a home for my specific lot?
Absolutely. We tailor every design-build home to the lot’s shape, slope, and views, ensuring your home fits naturally within its East Tennessee setting.
Where do you offer design-build home construction?
We provide design-build home construction throughout East Tennessee, including Tellico Village, Rarity Bay, WindRiver, Loudon, and Maryville.
East Tennessee’s trusted builder for custom homes, additions, and renovations crafted with care and a foundation of honesty, transparency, and integrity. Trust your home with Walnut Ridge Construction.
Contact Us
Walnut Ridge Construction
General Contractor
TN General Contractor Lic. #80735
1916 Highway 411
Vonore, TN 37885
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