Custom home builders limit choices to expedite delayed housing projects

The Alpharetta Design Review Board meeting on March 21, 2025, highlighted significant changes in the design of new townhomes, aiming to streamline construction and enhance aesthetics. Builders emphasized a shift away from offering multiple design choices to avoid project delays, citing a recent custom home that took 14 months to complete due to excessive modifications.

The board discussed the introduction of three styles of bridges for the townhomes, with a focus on maintaining a cohesive look. Builders confirmed that the chimneys would be decorative and not functional, with HVAC units vented through them instead. The design will feature two-story back elevations and three-story fronts, with a consistent use of materials across the six townhomes to minimize variability.

Notably, the balconies will now be open on three sides, removing previous privacy walls, which sparked discussions about safety and fire regulations. Builders clarified that while outdoor fireplaces would not be included, electric fireplaces could be an option for the units.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to a neutral color palette and low-maintenance materials, ensuring that the new townhomes meet both aesthetic and practical standards. The anticipated outcome is a more efficient building process and a visually appealing neighborhood that aligns with Alpharetta's development goals.