The Design-Build Process
Designing Your Dream Space with Lakeshore Customs
Our outdoor projects follow a design-driven approach, developed to align the plan with your goals, reduce unexpected issues, and give you full clarity on design, function, and aesthetics before you build.
Starting at our first consultation, we help you visualize every aspect of your property and proposed project, including layouts, moodboards, and design options. This paves the way for a smooth, well-coordinated build.
Share Your Vision
On-Site Design Consultation: Discussion of Project Goals, Aesthetics, & Functionality
We meet at your property to talk through your needs, how you plan to use the space, and what problems you’re trying to solve—whether it’s a new and improved deck, access to your beach, or creating more usable outdoor space.
This conversation helps us explore layout ideas, materials and color options, moodboards, and design approaches that make sense for your property.
Project Proposal
After the design direction is established, we prepare a detailed project proposal outlining the scope of work, materials, timeline, and pricing.
This gives you a clear picture of what will be built and how the project will move forward.
The Design Contract
Visualize Your Outdoor Design
Most builders ask you to imagine it—we allow you to walk through it before a shovel even hits the ground.
Upon the approval of a design contract with Lakeshore Customs, we immediately move forward into the detailed design of your outdoor space.
2D Site Development Drawings
Understand the full layout of your outdoor space with a clear, scaled plan showing the deck footprint, patio, walkways, stairs, and landscape/hardscape elements.
3D Renderings & Models
Compare materials and design options with detailed visuals that show how your deck, hardscaping, and landscaping plan will look together in the finished space.
Step into Your Outdoor Design
Virtual Reality Design Presentation
Experience the full outdoor space before anything is built with a fully immersive virtual reality walk-through experience. See elevation changes, stair layouts, and how the space will actually feel when used.
The Build Contract
See Your Vision Come to Life
This is where plans become commitments. The build contract clearly defines scope, materials, timelines, and costs so that expectations are aligned and we are able to deliver exactly what you envisioned.
Upon acceptance, we move directly into the construction phase.
Permit Acquisition & Construction Scheduling
We acquire the necessary permits and establish a clear construction schedule for your project.
Crews, materials, and inspections are coordinated in advance so that the build starts smoothly and progresses without unnecessary delays.
The Build Process
With the design finalized, our build team of 8 experienced craftsmen takes over under the leadership of our owners and project managers to bring the approved plans to life.
Our main focus throughout the build is consistent communication and attention to detail with every part of your property.
Final Inspection & Walkthrough
Once construction is complete, we schedule a final walkthrough and inspection to review the project with you on-site.
We take you through the finished space, explain key details, and make sure every part of your project is to your satisfaction.
Comprehensive Services for a Full Outdoor Design
— Custom Decks
Composite decks available in many colors & finishes
— Custom Stairs
Treated lumber, composite, or aluminum beach stairs of any layout or length
— Patios
Add stone features, patios, retaining walls, firepits, and natural vegetation
We had an excellent experience with LC. Mason is easy to work with, friendly, knowledgeable and timely. Those who did our work were skillful, adaptable and helpful. We highly recommend them for any who wish to have work done on their lakeshore property.
–William V.
The Lakeshore Customs team recently improved our back yard by adding a fire pit and patio. The project turned out absolutely great. They were punctual, consistently on time, and followed through on every detail, ensuring the final result was exactly what we had envisioned. We had an outstanding experience.
–Dan H.
From the initial design phase through the completion of construction, the entire team were fantastic to work with. We were very impressed with their knowledge, work ethic and attention to details….Lakeshore Customs exceeded our expectations…we couldn’t be happier!
–Cary W.
Lakeshore Customs did a fantastic job installing beach steps and a new front porch and decking at my cottage. We love their design and execution. They were wonderful to work with and we plan to use them again for another project. Highly recommend!
–Sara G.