Founded with a simple principle, “Building with Purpose” is not just a tagline, it’s what drives the entire team at Michael Paul Design + Build. They take great pride in supporting each client through the entire build process, attending to each detail along the way, from the initial sketches to the momentous occasion when the finished house and homeowner come together for the first time. Leading by example, owner Mike Laumann insists his team demonstrate an unwavering dedication to every client, as well as their project.
How did you get your start in custom homebuilding?
Before I was a homebuilding contractor, I worked on video and film production projects ranging from commercials to music videos to feature films. I worked as a director of photography and camera operator. Twenty years ago, I took my film composition eye and started doing remodel projects and eventually homebuilding. I still think our projects are influenced by my past career bringing a unique level of creativity, flow, and style to each home.
What inspires and influences your work?
Trends and products influence our work. We love trying new things, whether that’s a new faucet finish, unique wall detail, or plan layout. Lately, our building sites have really influenced our work. Several of our current builds are lake homes, and a lake or specific lot can really drive the design and feel of the space.
How would you describe your build style?
As a custom builder, our style evolves to our homeowner’s needs and wants. Whether it’s contemporary, modern, traditional, or rustic, we strive to meet each client’s vision.
Why do you think your clients choose you as their builder?
I feel our clients really like the one-on-one, personal approach to our building style. I am very hands-on in the field on every one of our projects. Although we do have project managers, I’m still the main point of contract for every build. This allows cost and design decisions to be made efficiently.
How do you bring a client’s vision to life?
We always have several eyes on the project. The architects, designers, homeowners, and our team all get together during the design phase and work on getting the homeowner’s vision on paper. Then we pair up all the necessary suppliers and craftsmen to bring the vision to life.
What are the most important elements of a successful build team?
Communication, understanding, and knowledge of the product are the most important elements of a luxury build team.
What do you wish others knew about your company?
We’ve finished hundreds of building projects, and a piece of us is attached to each one of them. We continue to grow, but we try to stay small by design, allowing us to have a more personal approach. Our talented build team has big ideas, a design imagination, and, most importantly, great values.
What makes you most proud to be a builder?
Creating something that will last for generations and will provide a lifetime of family memories. My creative bones just would not be satisfied if I didn’t work in a field that allowed me to produce a product that I can touch, feel, and be proud of.
How do you define an Artisan home?
An Artisan home isn’t necessarily the biggest, grandest home—it’s a home that is full of unique ideas, creative design details, and thoughtful layouts. It is built by quality artisans, from the architect to the tile installers.
Photography by Erica Loeks
