Building More Than Houses: The Build Co 7 Approach

What We’re Really Building

This isn’t about granite countertops or high-end fixtures. This is about a space that understands how you live.

There’s something magnetic about the idea of a home like this. Not just a house, but a home. Somewhere that feels like it fits, like it holds the rhythms of your daily life. For most people, that sense of place doesn’t come from square footage or magazine-worthy finishes. It comes from flow. From quiet confidence in the layout. From natural light that hits just right. From a space that’s honest about how you live, but also makes you feel like your best self.

And yet, so often, the process of getting to that space is anything but human. It’s overrun with paperwork, drawn-out timelines, disjointed teams, and awkward communication. Somewhere between the concept sketches and the final inspection, the joy gets squeezed out. What should feel like an exciting collaboration turns into something to survive.

We’re not interested in that kind of building.

We believe building or remodeling a home should feel like a craft, not just in how we swing hammers or set tile, but in how we listen, communicate, and guide you through the process. That mindset shapes every decision we make. It’s why we emphasize a collaborative design-build approach. It’s why we talk about values like trust and transparency as much as materials and finishes. It’s why we care just as much about how our projects feel as how they look.

We’re not trying to be the biggest builder in Nashville. We’re trying to be the one that people are proud to work with. The one they call back when it’s time for the next project. The one that gets recommended over beers or passed along in group texts. That only happens when you treat people and their homes with real care.

So yes, we build houses. But more than that, we build relationships. We build trust. And we build spaces that support real life, not just staged photos. If that’s what you’re looking for, we think we’ll get along well.

Why the Design-Build Model Changes Everything

Design-build isn’t just a trendy industry term, it’s a fundamentally smarter, more efficient, and more collaborative way to bring a vision to life. Instead of hiring separate firms for design and construction, then trying to act as the go-between when problems arise, design-build puts it all under one roof. One team. One vision. One clear line of accountability.

Here’s what that looks like in practice: When Sarah and James wanted to add a second story to their East Nashville bungalow, they didn’t have to coordinate between an architect who’d never built anything and a contractor who hadn’t been part of the design conversations. Our team walked through their home together, sketched possibilities on site, and immediately flagged structural considerations that would have been expensive surprises later. The result? A seamless addition that feels like it was always part of the original house.

That integration solves a lot of the headaches people usually associate with construction. The numbers tell part of the story: integrated design-build projects typically finish 23% faster and cost 6% less than traditional design-bid-build approaches. But those statistics don’t capture what really matters: the peace of mind that comes from working with a unified team that’s been aligned with your vision from day one.

Timelines move faster because there’s no hand-off between designer and builder. Miscommunications are reduced because everyone’s in the same room. Decisions are more informed because the people designing your space are the same ones who’ll build it. And accountability becomes clear, because everyone’s genuinely on the same team.

It also means we’re there from the very beginning. Not just when it’s time to break ground, but when the first ideas are taking shape. We listen to your wish list. We learn how you live. We walk through the site, sketch concepts, talk budget, and make sure the foundation of your project both literally and figuratively is strong.

From there, the same team that designs your home also manages the construction. There’s no hand-off. No “that’s not my job” mindset. Just one clear, streamlined process where everyone knows the goal and how to get there.

Design-build also allows for better adaptability. When challenges come up (and they always do) we’re able to respond quickly, adjust plans, and keep things moving without derailing the project. Because the whole team is looped in, we don’t waste time pointing fingers or waiting for sign-offs. We just solve the problem.

For clients, this all adds up to a smoother experience and a better result. You get a home that reflects your vision, built by a team that’s been aligned with you from day one. It’s efficient. It’s personal. And once you experience it, you’ll understand why we believe it’s the best way to build.

Why Nashville Shapes How We Build

This familiarity isn’t just sentimental. It makes us more effective builders.

When we’re designing a kitchen addition for a 1920s bungalow, we know exactly how the original framing will behave and what the soil conditions are likely to be. When we’re navigating historic district requirements, we understand both the letter of the law and the spirit behind it. When a client wants to add a second bathroom to a Craftsman cottage, we know which walls are likely load-bearing and which mechanical systems will need updating. This local knowledge prevents surprises and keeps projects moving smoothly.

Nashville is beautifully layered. You’ve got historic neighborhoods like Belmont-Hillsboro and Lockeland Springs that demand precision and respect for the past. You’ve got fast-growing pockets like The Nations and Germantown where innovation and density are changing what’s possible. And then there’s our focus in East Nashville. Homeowners here want modern finishes inside a 1920s bungalow and modern design with a traditional aesthetic. We understand that nuance, and we tailor our work accordingly.

We also understand the spirit of this city. Nashville is creative, collaborative, and proudly independent. It’s a place where authenticity matters more than trends, where character trumps conformity. That ethos shows up in the way we build: thoughtful, honest, and never cookie-cutter. We’re not interested in dropping generic designs into unique neighborhoods. We want every project to feel like it belongs, not just to the homeowner, but to the street, the block, the community.

The rapid growth Nashville has experienced means we’re often working in neighborhoods that are evolving quickly. New construction sits next to century-old homes. Young families are moving into houses with decades of history. Our job is to honor both the past and the future, to preserve what makes these neighborhoods special while adapting them for contemporary life.

Whether we’re restoring a century-old home in Germantown or breaking ground on something new in The Gulch, we approach it with the same respect for place. Because we’re not just building for clients, we’re building alongside neighbors. And in a city that’s changing as fast as Nashville, that responsibility means something to us.

What We Build: Homes That Support Real Life

We build homes, but what we’re really doing is helping people shape the backdrop of their lives. Sometimes that’s a full custom home from the ground up. Sometimes it’s a kitchen remodel that finally makes room for everyone to gather. Sometimes it’s restoring a historic bungalow in East Nashville that’s been in the family for generations.

Take the kitchen we just completed for a family in Lockeland Springs. Instead of defaulting to a standard island layout, we created a working peninsula that let the parents cook while staying connected to kids doing homework at the dining table. We added a built-in desk nook where mom could manage household paperwork without claiming the dining room table. A small mudroom off the kitchen became command central for backpacks, sports gear, and dog leashes. Every detail was intentional, designed around how this specific family actually lives.

We think through how people will move through a space, where they’ll gather, how they’ll host friends or find quiet when they need it. It’s not about over-designing or adding features for the sake of complexity. It’s about being thoughtful, so the finished home feels both beautiful and completely intuitive.

We also build with longevity in mind. Not just in the materials we choose (though we do prioritize quality finishes and hardware that will age gracefully) but in the way we construct. Tight tolerances that prevent squeaks and drafts. Quality control at every step to catch issues before they become problems. Craftspeople who take pride in their work and stand behind it. Because the best homes don’t just look good on move-in day, and they still feel solid and smart ten years later.

And we know that Nashville homes carry a certain personality. We embrace that. Whether it’s preserving the original hardwood floors in a Craftsman bungalow, designing a modern addition that complements rather than competes with historic architecture, or choosing materials that will weather gracefully in Tennessee’s climate, we work to make each project feel like it belongs here.

From custom new builds that take advantage of Nashville’s rolling topography to kitchen and bath remodels that respect the bones of older homes to historic renovations that preserve architectural character while adding modern functionality, we take on work that challenges us, excites us, and adds something meaningful to the city we call home.

Our Process: How We Make It Different

When people think about construction, they often brace for stress. Missed deadlines. Budget surprises. Weeks without updates. Contractors who don’t return calls. Dust everywhere and no clear end in sight. We don’t accept that as the norm, because we know it doesn’t have to be.

Our process is designed to be different from the very first call to the day you move in. It starts with listening, not selling. We don’t rush to pitch solutions before understanding what matters to you. Instead, we ask questions, learn about your goals, and start shaping a path forward together.

Discovery and Design

We also keep things organized and transparent from day one. That means timelines you can track, costs that are clearly explained, and decisions made with all the relevant information on the table. We know how overwhelming construction can feel. Our job is to simplify, not complicate.

Once we start the design phase, you’ll work with a dedicated team that helps bring your ideas to life with clarity and precision. Our 3D renderings give you a realistic sense of what your finished space will look like, and not just the layout, but how light will move through the rooms, how furniture will fit, how the space will feel when you’re actually living in it. Our Selections Coordinator guides you through finishes and fixtures with a curated approach that saves time and prevents decision fatigue.

Construction Management

During construction, we do everything we can to minimize disruption to your daily life. That includes keeping the site clean and organized because we don’t believe your home should look like a war zone while we’re working. If you’re living in the house during a remodel, we protect your belongings and create barriers to contain dust and noise. We communicate clearly and proactively if anything changes, so you’re never left wondering what’s happening or when.

We follow a disciplined approach to project management: weekly progress reports with photos, so you can see exactly what’s been accomplished. Regular check-ins to discuss upcoming decisions and timeline. Clear protocols for handling the inevitable surprises that come with any construction project.

Problem-Solving

When problems do come up (and again, they always do in construction) we show up with solutions, not excuses. Our integrated team means we can respond quickly without waiting for multiple parties to coordinate. We present options with clear explanations of cost and timeline implications, so you can make informed decisions without feeling pressured.

Follow-Through

We also follow through after completion. We don’t disappear after the final payment. We stay available for questions, for seasonal adjustments (like HVAC fine-tuning), for punch list items, for anything you need to feel confident in the result. Because we live in Nashville too, and we want every project to be something we’re proud to drive by years later.

One client put it this way: “I was dreading the construction process, but BuildCo7 made it feel like having a team of experts who genuinely cared about our family’s happiness, not just getting the job done.”

Ultimately, our process is rooted in respect: respect for your time, your home, your money, and your trust. That’s how we would want to be treated, and it’s how we show up every time.

Interior Remodeling: Transforming How You Live

Not every dream home starts from scratch. Sometimes the perfect home is the one you’re already in and it just needs some thoughtful updates to match how you actually live today. Kitchen and bathroom remodels make up a significant portion of our work, and they’re projects that can completely transform your daily experience without the complexity of a full home build.

Kitchen Remodeling

The kitchen truly is the heart of most homes, especially in Nashville where entertaining and gathering are part of the culture. But too many kitchens were designed for a different era, back when cooking was more formal, when families ate separately from guests, when storage needs were simpler.

Our kitchen remodels start with understanding how you actually use your space. Do you cook elaborate meals or prefer simple prep? Do kids do homework at the island while you’re making dinner? Do you host large groups or intimate dinners? Do you need a coffee station that functions before you’re fully awake? Every answer shapes our design approach.

We’ve transformed galley kitchens into open, flowing spaces that connect to living areas. We’ve reconfigured choppy layouts to create better work triangles and more storage. We’ve added islands that become homework stations, breakfast bars, and party central. But we’ve also preserved the character that makes Nashville homes special—original cabinet hardware, vintage tile, architectural details that tell the story of the house.

Whole-Home Flow

Often, interior remodeling is about more than updating individual rooms. It’s about improving how the whole house works together. Removing walls to create better flow between kitchen and living areas. Adding built-in storage that reduces clutter. Reconfiguring awkward layouts that don’t match contemporary family life.

We approach every interior remodel with the same attention to craft and detail that we bring to new construction. Quality materials, precise installation, thoughtful problem-solving. Because whether we’re updating a powder room or completely reimagining your main living spaces, the goal is always the same: creating a home that supports and enhances your life.

New Construction: Building Your Vision from the Ground Up

There’s something special about starting with a blank slate. Designing and building a home that’s tailored specifically to your family, your lifestyle, your dreams. Our custom new construction projects range from modern farmhouses that embrace Nashville’s rural roots to sleek contemporary homes that push architectural boundaries, but they all share a commitment to thoughtful design and exceptional craftsmanship.

Site and Context

Every custom home starts with the lot. Nashville’s rolling topography offers incredible opportunities for homes that work with the natural landscape rather than fighting against it. We spend significant time on site analysis understanding drainage patterns, seasonal sun angles, existing vegetation, views, and privacy considerations. The best custom homes feel like they’ve always belonged in their spot.

We’re also mindful of neighborhood context. A contemporary home in The Gulch calls for a different approach than a farmhouse-style build in Franklin. We study the surrounding architecture, the street patterns, the way other homes sit on their lots. The goal isn’t to copy what’s already there, but to create something that feels like a thoughtful addition to the community.

Design Process

Our design process for custom homes is highly collaborative. We start with extensive conversations about how you live, and not just how many bedrooms you need, but how you actually use space. Do you work from home and need a dedicated office? Do you entertain large groups or prefer intimate gatherings? Do you have collections that need display space? Do you need a mudroom that can handle sports gear and dog supplies?

Quality and Craftsmanship

Custom homes allow us to showcase the highest levels of craftsmanship. We work with skilled tradespeople who take pride in their work, carpenters who can execute complex millwork, tile setters who create seamless patterns, electricians who hide technology infrastructure without sacrificing functionality.

We also focus on long-term performance. Proper insulation and air sealing for energy efficiency. High-quality windows and doors that will operate smoothly for decades. Roofing and siding materials chosen for Nashville’s climate. Mechanical systems sized and installed correctly. Because a truly custom home should perform as beautifully as it looks.

The BuildCo7 Difference

What sets our custom homes apart isn’t just the level of finish. It’s the integration of design and construction from day one. Our builders are involved in the design process, catching potential issues early and suggesting improvements based on their construction experience. Our designers understand the realities of building, so they create plans that can be executed efficiently without compromising the vision.

The result is custom homes that feel cohesive, thoughtful, and perfectly suited to their owners. Homes that will age gracefully and continue to feel fresh and relevant years down the road. Homes that add something meaningful to Nashville’s architectural landscape.

Historic Renovation: Honoring the Past, Building for the Future

Nashville’s historic neighborhoods are filled with architectural treasures: Craftsman bungalows, Colonial Revivals, Victorian cottages that tell the story of the city’s growth and character. Preserving and updating these homes requires a special approach, one that honors their historical significance while adapting them for contemporary life.

Understanding Historic Architecture

Every historic renovation starts with research. We study the home’s original architectural style, its construction methods, the materials that were used. We look at historic photos when available, examine other homes from the same era, and consult preservation guidelines. This isn’t just academic exercise. Understanding the original design intent helps us make better decisions about what to preserve, what to restore, and where thoughtful updates can be made.

Nashville’s historic homes each have their own personalities. A 1920s Tudor Revival in Belle Meade calls for different treatment than a 1910 Craftsman bungalow in East Nashville. We tailor our approach to the specific style and era, respecting the architectural vocabulary while addressing contemporary needs.

Preservation Priorities

Not every historic element needs to be preserved, but the important ones deserve careful attention. Original hardwood floors, decorative plaster, built-in cabinetry, period lighting fixtures, architectural trim are the elements that give historic homes their character and should be restored rather than replaced when possible.

We’ve restored original pocket doors that had been painted shut for decades. We’ve carefully removed layers of paint from decorative millwork to reveal original wood underneath. We’ve repaired rather than replaced original windows, improving their performance while maintaining their historic appearance.

Thoughtful Updates

The challenge in historic renovation is adding modern amenities without compromising the home’s character. That might mean tucking new HVAC systems into existing spaces without visible ductwork. Installing modern electrical and plumbing systems while preserving original fixtures and finishes. Adding insulation and improving energy performance without altering the exterior appearance.

Kitchen and bathroom updates in historic homes require particular sensitivity. We look for ways to create modern functionality while respecting the home’s proportions and architectural details. Sometimes that means working within existing room layouts. Sometimes it means carefully expanding into underutilized spaces. Always it means choosing materials and finishes that feel appropriate to the home’s era and style.

Regulatory Navigation

Many of Nashville’s historic neighborhoods have preservation guidelines or are part of historic districts with specific requirements. We understand these regulations and work within them to achieve our clients’ goals. We’re experienced in the permitting process for historic properties and maintain good relationships with local preservation organizations.

The Reward

Historic renovations are among our most satisfying projects. There’s something deeply meaningful about bringing a century-old home back to life, preserving its character for future generations while making it functional for contemporary families. These homes have stories to tell, and our job is to help them continue telling those stories for decades to come.

The families who choose historic renovation are often drawn to the craftsmanship, the established neighborhoods, the sense of connection to Nashville’s history. Our job is to honor that choice while creating homes that work beautifully for modern life.

Why All of This Matters

At first glance, custom home building can seem straightforward: hire a contractor, make a plan, start construction. But anyone who’s been through it, or even seriously considered it, knows how much more is involved. Design decisions that affect daily life for years. Budget realities that require smart tradeoffs. Permitting processes that can derail timelines. Communication breakdowns that create stress and mistrust. Hidden costs that appear after you’re already committed. The stress of having strangers in your most personal space, managing your most important investment.

That’s why the way we work matters as much as what we build.

We’re proud of our design-build process because we know what it protects you from: the endless back-and-forth between architect and builder when something doesn’t work as planned, the finger-pointing when problems come up, the “that’s not my job” mentality that leaves you managing relationships that should be working together. Our integrated approach means everyone’s on the same team from day one, and our clients feel the difference in every meeting, every update, and every finished space.

Process Drives Results

We emphasize process because it’s how you get results that last. It’s how we uncover potential issues before they become expensive surprises. It’s how we make smart tradeoffs that support your vision without compromising quality. It’s how we keep things moving, and not just on schedule, but with purpose and care.

Good process also protects the creative aspects of the work. When logistics are handled smoothly, when communication is clear, when problems are solved quickly, there’s more time and energy for the design decisions that make your home special. The details that make spaces feel right. The problem-solving that turns challenges into opportunities.

Relationships Matter

We talk about relationships because construction is ultimately a human business. You’re not hiring tools and materials; you’re hiring people. People who will be in your home, around your family, managing a significant investment. That kind of access requires trust. And trust is something we work hard to earn, not just once, but throughout the life of every project.

The best client relationships don’t end when construction is complete. They evolve into ongoing partnerships. Clients call us for future projects, refer us to friends and family, become part of the extended BuildCo7 community. That only happens when the process itself is positive, when people feel heard and respected, when the finished result exceeds expectations.

Local Knowledge Creates Better Outcomes

We share our knowledge of Nashville not just to show off our experience, but because this city is layered in ways that matter to your project. You need a team who can interpret those layers and guide you through them—from zoning and permitting to sourcing the right materials and knowing which details are worth fighting for.

Understanding Nashville also means understanding its future. We’re building in a city that’s changing rapidly, where property values are rising, where new development is reshaping neighborhoods. The decisions we make today about design, materials, and construction methods will affect how well these homes age, how they fit into evolving neighborhoods, how they perform as investments.

Caring About the Outcome

And most of all, we care about your home. Not just as a construction site, but as a future backdrop for your everyday life. Whether it’s the kitchen where your kids will do homework, the porch where you’ll watch summer storms roll in, or the bathroom that finally makes mornings easier, we care about what your home will mean to you. That’s why we build the way we do.

Every choice we make, from the layout decisions that affect daily traffic patterns to the material selections that determine how spaces will age, is filtered through that lens. Will this make life better for this family? Will this choice still feel right in five years? Ten years? Will this home support the life they want to live?

The Choice Is Yours

There are plenty of builders who can give you a finished house. What sets us apart is how we get there and how you feel throughout the journey.

If you’re ready to work with a team that listens first, leads with integrity, and treats your project like it’s personal, if you’re ready to build something that will make you proud every time you pull into your driveway, something that will support and enhance your life for years to come, then let’s start that conversation.

We’d love to help you build what’s next.