Having a lifetime fascination in architecture, I have often marveled at many of Evansville’s historical neighborhoods; most notably those of Anderson & Veatch from the 1920’s – 1930’s. They designed and built approximately 100 homes on the city’s east side without ever duplicating the same home. Though all homes were uniquely different, they had one common theme – quality.
They were several generations before my time but their commitment to quality and originality have truly inspired me. In today’s market that is so driven by cost, my desire to build true to those same attributes has been challenging. It makes me realize why many builders reproduce the same houses over again and again with minor cosmetic changes.
After renovating homes for several years, I decided to take what I had learned from correcting many construction deficiencies and build new, quality custom homes. As Exquisite Homes, I began by building 2 Spec homes more than 12 years ago. Both were purchased before completion. Since then, all new construction projects have been pre-sold Customs. One of the most rewarding parts of building pre-solds has been getting to know my clients. Multiple homes have been built for repeat clients; which has given me the privilege of being a part of their family’s lives for many years.
As an IU graduate with a degree in Environmental Science, I worked in the environmental consulting field in Indiana and Colorado for approximately 12 years. My experience and knowledge in the environmental field has helped me be more aware of the subsurface conditions that exist in the Evansville/Newburgh areas and gives me a good understanding of the preventative measures that can be effective. It’s also helped me guide clients to build as energy efficient as possible.
In 2007 a couple I was working with hired an award winning designer who had moved to Evansville from the Indianapolis area to help with their new home project. After collaborating with Jina of D’Vine Design Works, I discovered that she not only had innovative ideas and a passion for helping people but also had a working knowledge of the entire construction process. Her skills combined with her creativity added another level of functionality and style to their home. I also discovered that we had more than just a great working relationship. We married in late 2008.
Since that time, all of my clients have elected to build their new custom home enlisting the services of Jina. Typically she is involved on a daily basis in every detail from the home planning stages through completion of the project. This has been especially helpful for clients when both are working or have very busy schedules. She is able to research and gather samples together and minimize the time they have to put into finding and deciding for themselves. Often times, clients comment that she has their taste figured out right away and pass many decisions off to her.
Having a designer fully involved is also invaluable for the many clients who tell me they know what they like but never pick the right things to put it together. The contribution of her ideas and design flair accomplishes that and greatly enhances every project. There’s a level of continuity throughout the home by having one designer working on all aspects instead of each supplier helping the client make individual selections. However, her services can be utilized as little or as much as desired – it’s all about what you need and want.