Each year, the International Builders’ Show brings together some of the best minds in our industry. It’s a chance to step back from day-to-day work, look at where we are, and think about where we’re headed.
This year felt a little different for me. Between future project planning, board meetings, and speaking engagements, I didn’t have as much time to walk the show floor. But in some ways, that made the experience more focused – and a few key themes really stood out.
Every Home Has a Story
One of the most impactful conversations I was part of centered around storytelling in design.
There was a strong emphasis on something we talk about often, but don’t always articulate clearly: every home has a story. Our job isn’t just to design and build something that looks good or performs well – it’s to understand the people who will live there and reflect their story in the design.
That means shifting perspective. It’s not about what we, as builders, value most. It’s about what the homeowner values – how they live, what matters to them, what they want their home to feel like – and building from that place.
That idea resonated with me because it reinforces something we strive to do every day: make the process personal, not just technical.
Recognition That Reinforces the Standard
Being part of the Best in American Living Awards again this year was another highlight.
There’s always a sense of pride in seeing your work recognized, but what stands out most is the company you’re in. When you’re being evaluated alongside some of the top builders, architects, and designers in the country, it reinforces the importance of staying intentional.
It’s a reminder that quality, design, and execution matter – and that pushing those standards is what moves the industry forward.
Wellness Is No Longer a Niche Conversation
If there was one theme that showed up everywhere this year, it was wellness.
It wasn’t just in panel discussions – it was across vendor booths, product conversations, and even editorial coverage in Builder Magazine. Wellness has clearly moved from a niche idea to a central focus in how homes are being designed and built.
That’s exciting to see.
For a while, conversations around wellness in housing felt ahead of where the broader industry was. This year felt different. It felt like the industry is ready – not just to talk about it, but to implement it in meaningful ways.
That aligns closely with what we’re doing on a yet-to-be-announced future project and how we’re thinking about projects moving forward.
A Moment That Stuck With Me
One of the most meaningful experiences of the week was visiting The New American Home.
Walking the home was impressive on its own, but what really stood out was hearing directly from the homeowner. He shared how he plans to use the home as a platform to support and fund Jonathan’s Landing Foundation and raise awareness for their mission.
That added a completely different layer to the project.
It wasn’t just about design or execution – it was about purpose. Seeing how a home can be used to make a broader impact was a powerful reminder of what’s possible in this industry.
Looking Ahead
IBS didn’t introduce a single groundbreaking idea this year – it reinforced something more important.
- Be intentional.
- Listen closely.
- Design with purpose.
Whether it’s telling a homeowner’s story, prioritizing wellness, or building something that extends beyond the walls of the home itself, the direction is clear.
And it’s one we’re excited to keep building toward.
