Welcome to the Pickens Project, a complete reimagining of a Houston home in the coveted Camp Logan neighborhood. Meticulously crafted by Keechi Creek Builders, this transformation blends sleek, modern design with organic elements to create a serene, functional sanctuary. From the floating staircase that serves as a sculptural centerpiece to the waterfall countertops with continuous veining, every square foot of this residence has been thoughtfully executed. It's not just a remodel—it’s a showcase of contemporary luxury, creative vision, and award-winning craftsmanship. Whether you're a design enthusiast or a homeowner planning your next high-end remodel, you'll find plenty to inspire in this stunning renovation.

Quick Project Snapshot

Feature	Details
Location	Camp Logan, Houston
Awards	GHBA Prism (Best Bathroom Over $50K), TAB Star (Best Kitchen $150–175K, Best Specialty Space $75–100K)
Flooring	Handscraped wood with Aluminum Oxide finish
Countertops	Cambria Mersey (Kitchen), Cambria Berwyn (Bath/Utility), Cambria Skye (Stairs)
Kitchen Fixtures	Thermador appliances, Accent Cabinets, Sherwin Williams Pure White
Design Centerpiece	Floating staircase with Cambria Skye treads
Built-In Features	Bar with backlit slabaster, custom buffet cabinetry
Master Bath Details	Custom-framed mirror in Cambria Berwyn, Kohler fixtures

Project Vision: Rethinking the Modern Houston Home

The original home in Camp Logan was comfortable but compartmentalized, lacking the open flow and architectural interest the homeowners envisioned. Their goals were ambitious but clear: eliminate visual clutter with integrated cabinetry and hidden storage, create a visually impactful staircase that anchors the interior design, elevate the space with top-tier materials and a cohesive, natural color palette, and design a home that feels serene, not sterile—modern, yet warmly organic. Keechi Creek Builders embraced the opportunity, taking the homeowners’ vision and transforming it into a livable work of art. Their design-build approach enabled them to handle every phase in-house—from architectural layout revisions to construction and finishes—ensuring consistency and precision at every stage.

Design & Materials: Elevating Everyday Living

Every element in the Pickens Project serves both a purpose and a design intention. Here’s a look at the standout material choices and details that give this home its sophisticated style.

Kitchen: Clutter-Free, High Function

The kitchen is often the most-used room in a home, and for this homeowner, it was essential that it remained clean, organized, and free of visual clutter. Keechi Creek Builders delivered by designing custom cabinetry from Accent Cabinets, creating storage solutions that concealed everything—from spices to small appliances. The centerpiece? A large island wrapped in Cambria Mersey quartz, with waterfall edges on both sides. The veining is aligned with surgical precision, creating a continuous stone flow that makes the island feel monolithic and sculptural. Thermador appliances are seamlessly integrated, allowing luxury performance to coexist with minimalist design. Walls and trim are painted in Sherwin Williams 7005 Pure White, giving the entire space a fresh, gallery-like quality.

Staircase: Modern Engineering, Artistic Expression

After removing interior walls, space was made for a remarkable floating staircase—the home’s new architectural focal point. Each tread is wrapped in Cambria Skye, a dark, dramatic quartz that contrasts beautifully against the white walls and natural wood flooring. With no risers and barely-there railings, the staircase almost appears to defy gravity.

This staircase isn’t just functional—it’s a sculptural form that creates visual rhythm and balance throughout the main living area.

Flooring & Paint: Grounded, Organic Beauty

Throughout the home, handscraped hardwood floors finished with Aluminum Oxide offer not only durability but a tactile warmth that counterbalances the crisp lines of the cabinetry and countertops. The floors flow from room to room, helping unify the open-concept layout and highlighting Keechi Creek Builders’ attention to spatial continuity.

Designing Through Constraints: Smart Solutions

Building in Camp Logan presents unique architectural challenges. Tighter lots, structural limitations, and design restrictions meant that every square foot had to be optimized. Keechi Creek Builders used their full-service project management model to coordinate layout changes that supported open sightlines and made space for the staircase, design cabinetry and built-ins with millimeter-level accuracy for seamless integration, and navigate structural updates during wall removal to maintain integrity while creating openness. The result? A home that feels expansive without being oversized, and dramatic without being overdesigned.

The Bar, Buffet & Custom Touches

The main living area now includes a built-in bar and buffet—spaces that add function and flair for everyday use and entertaining alike. The bar is particularly noteworthy. It features a backlit slabaster panel—a translucent stone that radiates soft, ambient light from behind. This not only adds depth and texture to the bar wall but also introduces an atmospheric glow during evenings.

The buffet cabinetry mirrors the kitchen design, keeping visual clutter at bay while offering generous storage.

Bathrooms: Spa-Like & Tailored

The master bath is serene and textural, featuring Cambria Berwyn on the counters and as the material for a stunning custom-framed mirror—a thoughtful detail that ties the space together. Kohler fixtures provide timeless, dependable luxury. Secondary and half baths continue the story with Cambria Grey Limestone surfaces and creative, artistic tilework. The Lanova tile in the secondary bathroom adds a fun, street-art-inspired twist—unexpected and memorable.

Award-Winning Execution

Keechi Creek Builders’ exceptional work on the Pickens Project didn’t go unnoticed. The remodel received the following industry honors: GHBA Prism Award: Best Bathroom Remodel Over $50K and TAB Star Awards: Best Kitchen Renovation ($150K–$175K) and Best Specialty Space ($75K–$100K). These awards underscore the project’s balance of creativity, functionality, and luxury—a true reflection of Keechi Creek Builders’ reputation as one of Houston’s premier renovation firms.

A Holistic Home for Modern Living

More than a remodel, the Pickens Project is a narrative in materials, light, and intentionality. It’s a place where every detail was chosen to enhance the homeowners’ daily experience—from the moment they enter the foyer to their evening wind-down in a backlit bar-lit living room.

Ready to Start Your Own Transformation?

Keechi Creek Builders continues to raise the bar for luxury home renovation in Houston, blending innovation, timeless materials, and a truly client-centric process. If you're seeking a trusted design/build partner for a custom home or transformative remodel, look no further than this award-winning team.

Contact Keechi Creek Builders

Keechi Creek Builders
21175 TX-249 #328, Houston, TX 77070
Phone: (281) 914-4951
Website: https://keechicreekbuilders.com

Discover how a team committed to craftsmanship, creativity, and client satisfaction can bring your dream home to life.

When choosing a custom home builder in Houston, Texas, it's crucial to ask insightful questions to ensure they can deliver your dream home and that you're comfortable with the process. Key areas to explore include their experience, construction process, costs, and how they handle potential issues.

Key Takeaways

• Experience matters: Ask how many years the builder has been in business and how many custom homes they’ve completed in Houston.
  
• Clarify the build process: Understanding the timeline, communication flow, and access to the site will keep you informed and confident.
  
• Know what's included: Discuss the scope of work, upgrades, and what’s covered in the final cost to avoid surprises later.
  
• Ask about warranties: A reputable builder should offer a strong warranty and a clear process for addressing post-construction issues.
  
• Understand permits & regulations: Houston’s permitting process can be complex—ensure your builder is well-versed in local codes and deed restrictions.
  
• Choose a client-first firm: A builder who prioritizes communication, transparency, and your lifestyle needs will make the journey smoother.
  

Questions to Ask About Experience & Reputation

Before you commit to a custom home builder, start by learning about their background. The more established and transparent they are, the more confidence you’ll have.

Key Questions:

• How long have you been in business building custom homes in Houston?
  
• How many homes have you completed, and can I tour any current or past projects?
  
• Do you have a portfolio or virtual tours available?
  
• Can you provide client references? Reach out to past clients and ask about communication, timeline accuracy, and satisfaction with the final product.
  
• Are you licensed and insured in the state of Texas? This protects you legally and financially.
  
• Have you received any industry awards or recognitions? This can indicate high standards and a strong reputation.
  

Tip: Builders like Keechi Creek Builders, based in Northwest Houston, have earned honors like the GHBA PRISM Award and BBB Winner of Distinction for their quality and service.

Construction Process: What You Should Know Before Signing

Understanding how your home will come together from the ground up is essential. Every builder has their own process, but you should know what to expect from day one.

Ask These Questions:

• What does your construction timeline typically look like from permitting to move-in?
  
• How do you assist with design selections and customization?
  
• Who is my main point of contact throughout the project?
  
• Will I be able to access the job site during construction? Knowing how often and when you can visit is important.
  
• How do you handle the permitting and site prep process in Houston?
  
• What quality control measures do you have in place at each stage of construction?
  
• What is your approach to punch lists and final walkthroughs? A structured finish process shows attention to detail.
  

Here’s a sample breakdown of construction touchpoints to review:

Stage of Construction	Questions to Ask
Pre-Design & Planning	How are design consultations handled?
Permitting & Approvals	Who manages permit submissions and HOA approvals?
Site Prep & Foundation	How do you address Houston’s soil and drainage needs?
Framing to Finish	How do you ensure quality and timely execution?
Final Walkthrough & Warranty	What’s the process for punch list and warranty follow-up?

Budget, Contracts & Financing: Set Expectations Early

Custom homes in Houston can range significantly in cost depending on location, materials, and finishes. That’s why it's critical to get clarity on how your builder handles money matters.

Financial Questions to Ask:

• What is your payment schedule? Understand how payments are divided across milestones.
  
• What is included in the final quoted price? Be sure you understand what’s covered and what may incur additional costs.
  
• How are upgrades and changes handled during construction? Builders should have a clear change order process.
  
• Do you offer or work with financing providers? Some custom builders, like Keechi Creek Builders, can refer trusted lending partners.
  
• What kind of warranty do you provide and how long is it valid for? A structural and workmanship warranty is a must.
  

Pro Tip: Ask if the builder uses fixed-cost contracts or cost-plus contracts. Each comes with pros and cons related to budget flexibility and risk.

Regulations, Deed Restrictions & Community Requirements

Houston’s lack of zoning laws adds both flexibility and complexity to the homebuilding process. Builders must understand local rules and any deed or HOA requirements that may apply.

Essential Questions:

• Do you build in neighborhoods with HOA or architectural guidelines?
  
• How do you verify and comply with deed restrictions?
  
• Are you familiar with flood zone elevation requirements and drainage plans in Houston?
  
• Do you handle windstorm certification if required? Especially important in coastal counties.
  

Many communities in Cypress, The Woodlands, and Tomball have strict building covenants. Working with a builder who understands these nuances—like Keechi Creek Builders—can help prevent costly delays and rework.

Your Customization & Lifestyle: How Well Do They Understand You?

Finally, your builder should be interested in your lifestyle—not just your floor plan. The best custom homes feel tailor-made for your daily routines, future needs, and personal design preferences.

Personal Fit Questions:

• How do you personalize homes based on the family’s lifestyle?
  
• Can you accommodate future-proofing features like aging-in-place modifications or home automation?
  
• Do you build energy-efficient or solar-ready homes?
  
• Are luxury amenities like wine rooms, home gyms, or outdoor kitchens part of your design capability?
  

Keechi Creek Builders specializes in custom luxury features, from spa-inspired bathrooms to smart kitchen tech and multi-functional living spaces. Their expertise helps turn unique visions into buildable, beautiful realities.

Conclusion

Choosing the right custom home builder in Houston starts with asking the right questions. From experience and communication to design flexibility and legal know-how, you deserve a builder who checks all the boxes. And if you're seeking a firm that blends luxury, transparency, and Houston-specific expertise, Keechi Creek Builders is a standout choice. Located at 21175 TX-249 #328, Houston, TX 77070, you can reach their team at (281) 914-4951 or visit keechicreekbuilders.com to start your journey toward a truly custom home experience.

Whether you're building in Houston, Cypress, or The Woodlands, Keechi Creek Builders offers a client-first approach, award-winning craftsmanship, and a full-service design/build model that ensures a seamless and elevated building experience from concept to keys.

Keechi Creek Builders transformed this historic Houston Heights bungalow into a smart, award-winning sanctuary that blends luxury materials, thoughtful design, and modern functionality—while preserving the soul of a 1920s-era home. With a 1,100-square-foot expansion, high-end finishes, and smart home technology, the Taft Project is now a seamless fusion of old-world charm and contemporary elegance. Every detail—from the custom Ipe Brazilian deck to the EMPowered touchscreen entryset—was crafted to reflect the homeowner’s vision for a resort-style retreat in the heart of the city.

Key Project Highlights

• Schaub hardware in the master bath and Top Knobs hardware in kitchen, laundry, and guest baths bring refined, purposeful detail to every room.
  
• Ipe Brazilian pool deck and built-in dog bowl with faucet combine high-performance with personalized luxury.
  
• Smart home features, including Omni-logic outdoor control and EMPowered Motorized Touchscreen Entryset, offer intuitive, connected living.
  
• European White Oak flooring and Sherwin Williams Snowbound paint create warmth and harmony throughout.
  
• Custom cabinetry with soft-close hardware, glass insets, and peg-drawer systems delivers elegant utility.
  
• Winner of GHBA Prism and TAB Star Awards for whole-house and outdoor living remodels.
  
• Luxury appliances include Wolf, Subzero, Cove, and a dedicated wine cooler for entertaining.
  
• Expanded square footage includes a new master suite, open living/kitchen concept, and spa-style exterior living area.
  

History & Vision: Preserving the Past, Elevating the Present

At 1909 Taft Street in Houston Heights, the original home had all the charm of a 1920s bungalow—high ceilings, craftsman touches, and a walkable location. But its footprint and layout didn’t align with the needs of modern living. The homeowners wanted to retain its charm while creating a luxury retreat that prioritized indoor-outdoor flow, efficiency, and clean, resort-inspired aesthetics.

Enter Keechi Creek Builders, known for their award-winning remodels and deep respect for architectural heritage. The team preserved the original home’s historic facade while gutting and expanding the interior to meet today’s lifestyle standards—adding 1,100 square feet that included a new master suite, open-concept kitchen and dining area, and custom outdoor escape.

Design & Materials: Where Function Meets Fine Finishes

This wasn’t just a remodel—it was a materials masterclass. From flooring to hardware, every surface was chosen for both durability and design.

Timeless Flooring & Serene Walls

Throughout the main living areas (excluding wet zones), LV6 The Silvan Collection – Virta Sream, European White Oak flooring grounds the home with warm, natural elegance. The wide planks and subtle grain pair beautifully with Sherwin Williams 7004 Snowbound, a crisp, clean white paint that reflects Houston’s natural light and offers a serene canvas for luxury accents.

Custom Cabinetry, Purpose-Built for Everyday Living

In the kitchen and library, stained mahogany cabinetry is paired with a modified Shaker profile, giving a clean but classic look. Guest baths feature frameless white oak vanities, and across all cabinetry, Keechi Creek integrated custom storage details:

• Trash pull-out drawers
  
• Double cutlery drawers
  
• Drawer peg sets
  
• Under-sink pullouts
  
• A dog bowl cutout with its own faucet, seamlessly integrated into the base cabinetry
  

Hardware That Elevates

Luxury lives in the details, and hardware selections were chosen accordingly:

• Schaub hardware in the master bath adds sculptural precision and tactile elegance.
  
• Top Knobs hardware, used in the kitchen, laundry, and guest baths, brings cohesive style and function across utility spaces.
  

Countertops: Bold, Functional Beauty

Each space features a distinct surface for both beauty and performance:

• Kitchen: Neolith Mont Blanc Silk — a durable, marble-inspired surface with a soft matte finish
  
• Master Bath: Nero Absolute — deep, bold black stone for drama and contrast
  
• Guest Bath: Nero Absoluto — high contrast, polished sophistication
  
• Powder Bath: Neolith Krater Riverwashed — tactile and striking in tone and texture
  

Overcoming Challenges: Creativity Within Constraints

Remodeling in the Houston Heights neighborhood means navigating strict permeability codes, historical preservation concerns, and space limitations. Keechi Creek Builders embraced these limitations as an opportunity for creativity.

With a small lot to work with, the team prioritized vertical and spatial efficiency. The added square footage didn’t overwhelm the yard—instead, it flowed seamlessly into the landscape. Built-ins maximized storage and function, while soft-close hardware and glass cabinet insets added luxury finishes without taking up space.

And when the client requested a resort feel within a compact footprint, Keechi Creek responded with elegance: a spa-inspired outdoor living area that expands the home’s function without sacrificing its charm.

The Outdoor Oasis: Pool, Pets, and Pure Relaxation

The crown jewel of the Taft Project is its outdoor retreat—a multifunctional haven that brings together elegance, functionality, and seamless indoor-outdoor living.

Ipe Brazilian Decking & Built-in Features

The custom Ipe Brazilian hardwood deck adds warmth, visual contrast, and long-lasting durability. The rich tone of the wood balances the Snowbound-painted exterior and provides a naturally slip-resistant surface perfect for the Houston climate.

A built-in bar enhances entertaining, while the pet station—featuring a dog bowl with integrated faucet—proves that Keechi Creek doesn’t overlook even the smallest residents.

Smart Living Outdoors

The entire outdoor space is connected via Omni-logic smart technology, allowing full control of lighting, water features, and entertainment systems—all from a smartphone. The EMPowered Motorized Touchscreen Entryset adds another layer of security and convenience, blending high-tech features with high-end design.

Awards & Recognition: Excellence You Can Trust

The Taft Project didn’t just wow the homeowners—it impressed the industry.

Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA) Prism Awards:

• Best Remodel Whole House ($250–500K)
  
• Best Outdoor Living Remodel
  

Texas Association of Builders (TAB) Star Awards:

• Best Whole House Remodel ($425–500K)
  
• Best Addition ($200–300K)
  

These honors validate Keechi Creek Builders’ position as a leader in luxury home renovation in Houston, with a reputation for precision craftsmanship, client-first collaboration, and visionary problem-solving.

Conclusion

The Taft Project is more than a remodel—it’s a reimagination of what a Houston Heights bungalow can be when artistry, innovation, and heritage come together. Keechi Creek Builders transformed a 1920s home into a luxurious, award-winning retreat, blending smart technology, fine craftsmanship, and high-end finishes in every square foot.

For those seeking a custom transformation that honors the past while building for the future, look no further than Keechi Creek Builders.

Keechi Creek Builders
21175 TX-249 #328, Houston, TX 77070
(281) 914-4951
https://keechicreekbuilders.com

With a reputation for client-focused service, elegant solutions, and exceptional results, Keechi Creek Builders remains the trusted name in Houston’s luxury home renovation market.

When choosing a custom home builder in Houston, focus on local experience, reputation, and communication. Look for builders with a strong track record in the Houston area, positive client reviews, and a clear, consistent communication process. Consider their design style, building process, and warranty programs.

Key Takeaways

• Prioritize Houston-based experience. Builders familiar with local codes, permitting, and soil conditions help streamline your project and reduce costly surprises.
  
• Check client reviews and references. Talk to past clients and explore online ratings to evaluate satisfaction, communication, and craftsmanship.
  
• Look for transparent communication. A builder who provides clear timelines, budgeting updates, and responsive communication fosters a stress-free experience.
  
• Evaluate construction quality and warranties. Visit completed homes, assess build quality, and ask about warranty programs that protect your investment.
  
• Review design capabilities and style fit. Choose a builder whose portfolio aligns with your aesthetic—whether modern, traditional, or transitional.
  
• Verify financial health and licensing. Confirm insurance, licenses, and that the company has stable operations to avoid project disruptions.
  

Understanding the Houston Custom Home Market

Building a custom home in Houston means navigating a dynamic market filled with both opportunity and complexity. With Houston ranking No. 1 for new home construction permits in recent years, the demand for quality builders is high. But not all builders are created equal. From permit processes to floodplain regulations and deed restrictions, Houston's unique environment makes local expertise a non-negotiable.

Let’s break down exactly what to look for in your custom home builder—so you can move forward with confidence.

Local Experience and Reputation Matter

Before committing to a builder, look at their history in the Greater Houston area, including Cypress, The Woodlands, and Tomball.

Why Local Experience Counts

• Builders who understand Houston’s expansive clay soils will recommend the right foundation type.
  
• Local familiarity with permit timelines and deed restrictions helps prevent avoidable delays.
  
• Established Houston builders often have strong relationships with inspectors, suppliers, and subcontractors.
  

Signs of a Strong Reputation

• A high number of positive Google and Houzz reviews.
  
• A professional website with recent project photos, case studies, and testimonials.
  
• Industry recognition or awards from groups like the Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA).
  

Communication & Process Transparency

Custom homebuilding is a journey—you’ll want a partner who makes the experience enjoyable and predictable.

Key Indicators of Strong Communication

• Access to a dedicated project manager who keeps you informed weekly.
  
• Clear scope documents and a phased schedule.
  
• Tools like online project dashboards, visual updates, and real-time messaging.
  

The Power of a Defined Process

You should know what happens from day one through move-in. This includes:

1. Design consultation and budget alignment
   
2. Permitting and approvals
   
3. Foundation and framing
   
4. Interior selections and construction
   
5. Final walkthrough and handoff
   

Having this structure eliminates confusion and fosters trust.

Quality Craftsmanship & Warranty Protection

The true test of a custom home isn’t how it looks on day one—it’s how it performs year after year.

What to Inspect

• Structural elements: Look at framing, foundation, and roof systems.
  
• Materials used: Is the builder using high-end finishes, smart systems, and sustainable options?
  
• Design details: Are cabinets custom-built or stock? Is the tilework precise? Are the transitions between materials clean?
  

Warranty Coverage

Ask what’s included in the builder’s warranty program. A reputable builder should offer:

• 1-year workmanship
  
• 2-year mechanical systems
  
• 10-year structural coverage
  

This not only gives you peace of mind, but shows the builder stands behind their work.

Style, Specialization & Portfolio

Your dream home should reflect your lifestyle and design vision. That starts with choosing a builder who understands your style preferences.

What to Look for in a Portfolio

• A diverse portfolio showcasing luxury kitchens, spa-like bathrooms, and innovative use of space.
  
• Homes that align with your design taste—whether modern farmhouse, Mediterranean, or transitional.
  
• Features like smart home tech, energy-efficient systems, or aging-in-place layouts.
  

Some builders specialize in specific home types or lot constraints, so make sure they’ve executed projects similar to yours.

Table: Style Fit Checklist

Factor	What to Look For
Architectural Range	Ability to design modern, traditional, etc.
Interior Finishes	Luxury materials, custom millwork
Outdoor Living Expertise	Covered patios, pool decks, kitchens
Smart Tech Integration	Voice-controlled systems, solar readiness
Aging-in-Place Experience	Wide doorways, curbless showers

Budgeting & Financial Peace of Mind

Cost control is crucial—but so is knowing where your money is going.

Key Budget Questions

• Does the builder offer transparent pricing or lump-sum estimates?
  
• Can they help you align design choices with your budget?
  
• Do they provide cost updates throughout the build?
  

Financing Considerations

Some custom home builders partner with lenders to offer construction-to-permanent loans. Ask if your builder:

• Has preferred lender partnerships.
  
• Can help guide you through financing.
  
• Is flexible with funding stages and draws.
  

And always plan for the unexpected. A 10–15% contingency fund is smart budgeting.

Insurance, Licensing & Liability Protection

You should never proceed without confirming your builder is properly licensed and insured in Texas.

Verify the following:

• General liability insurance
  
• Workers' compensation coverage
  
• Builder’s license with the state or local municipality
  

This protects both parties and ensures compliance with Houston’s evolving permitting requirements.

Don’t Skip These Final Steps

In addition to doing your research, take the following actions to ensure a smooth build:

• Get personal recommendations from realtors, architects, or friends who’ve built custom homes.
  
• Meet in person with your top choices. You’re entering a long-term partnership—make sure there’s chemistry.
  
• Review a sample contract in detail, and ask about conflict resolution processes.
  
• Walk through finished homes or active job sites. Seeing their process up close reveals a lot.
  

Conclusion

Choosing the right custom home builder in Houston is one of the most important decisions you'll make—and the right partner will make the process rewarding. Look for builders who combine local experience, excellent communication, and a clear design-build process with attention to detail and financial transparency.

For those seeking luxury, quality, and peace of mind, Keechi Creek Builders offers unmatched expertise. Located at 21175 TX-249 #328, Houston, TX 77070, they’re known for their award-winning craftsmanship, client-first philosophy, and turnkey solutions from concept to completion.

Call (281) 914-4951 or visit keechicreekbuilders.com to explore how your dream home can become reality.