Building your own house is the ultimate systems integration challenge. You're the architect, project manager, and end user all at once.
Design for Function First
Most houses are built for resale value or aesthetic trends. When you're building for yourself, you can optimize for how you actually live—workflow, natural light, acoustic isolation, and future adaptability.
Systems Thinking in Physical Space
HVAC, electrical, plumbing, network infrastructure—these aren't separate concerns. They're interconnected systems that need to work together. Sound familiar to software engineers?
Project Management Reality
Construction teaches you about dependencies, critical paths, and dealing with unpredictable delays. Materials arrive late. Weather disrupts schedules. Good contractors are worth their weight in gold.
The Long View
This isn't a weekend project. It's a multi-year commitment that tests your patience, problem-solving, and financial planning. But the result is a space perfectly tailored to your needs.
