New homes designed from the landscape outward.
We begin where the site begins — with topography, light, trees, and water. The building follows from there.
Custom residences of all scales.
We work on custom residences of all scales, from main houses to guest cottages, pool structures, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs). We handle every phase: schematic design, design development, construction documentation, permitting, contractor selection and bidding, and construction administration through certificate of occupancy.
We are licensed in Massachusetts, Maine, and New York, with reciprocity available in additional states as needed. We regularly design and manage projects on Martha's Vineyard, in the Hamptons, in Cambridge and greater Boston, in coastal Maine, and in Vermont.
Built to last.
New construction at Auerbach Architecture is guided by a commitment to traditional biogenic materials: linseed oil paint, lime plaster, hempcrete, straw and wool insulation, and locally sourced or reclaimed timber. These materials are permeable to water vapor — assemblies can dry, and buildings that can dry do not rot.
We do not use spray foam in concealed assemblies, vinyl-binder paints, or extruded plastic cladding. Read more about our methods.
About new home design.
How long does it take to design and build a custom home?
Most new custom residences take 18 to 36 months from first meeting to occupancy. Design and documentation typically runs 6–12 months, permitting 2–6 months depending on jurisdiction, and construction 12–18 months.
What does a new custom home cost to build?
Construction costs vary significantly by region, scale, and specification. Our projects typically range from $600 to $1,200+ per square foot, with premium finishes and remote locations at the higher end. Architecture fees run 8–15% of construction cost.
Do you work with the client's contractor or select one for them?
Both. We can work with a contractor you have already identified, or we can run a competitive bid process and help you select from qualified local builders. We have strong contractor relationships in all of our primary markets.