Building Forever
Your home is your prized possession – a place to laugh, relax, connect and create lasting memories. But what happens when it no longer feels like you? As lifestyles evolve, many homeowners choose to rebuild, crafting spaces that reflect their current needs while ensuring their home lasts for generations. With countless design options available, deciding between a custom build or a standard project home can be overwhelming. Join Western Australia Home Design + Living’s, Josephine Day, as she sits down with Chanelle Galante, CEO of Beaumonde Homes, to explore the pros and cons of each approach and help guide your decision.
Galante is no stranger to the construction industry, with Beaumonde Homes deeply rooted in her family heritage. The company was founded in 1986 by Elio Galante, who recognised a gap in the Perth market for bespoke two-storey homes. With a background in architecture and hands-on trade experience, Elio built a business that fused design innovation with superior craftsmanship.
Over the years, Beaumonde Homes has grown to represent luxury, quality and timeless design. “We specialise in custom homes, designed to suit individual lifestyles, unique block shapes and evolving needs,” Galante says. “From our early beginnings to today, we’ve remained a proudly family-run company with an unwavering commitment to quality, detail, and the relationships we build with our clients and trades.”
THE KEY DIFFERENCE
As you embark on your home-building journey, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed by the endless decisions, such as what style to choose and materials to use. But before diving into the finer details, it’s essential to understand the fundamental difference between a custom home and a standard project home. Galante explains, “a custom home is entirely tailored to the client – it starts with their vision and is shaped around their lifestyle, preferences and block. Every detail, from the floor plan to the finishes, is considered and personalised.” In contrast, a standard home begins with a pre-designed layout, offering limited flexibility and often favouring efficiency and volume over uniqueness.
There’s more decision-making involved, but also more satisfaction as every detail reflects their lifestyle. The timeline is often longer, but the end result is entirely theirs.” On the flip side, a standard project home appeals to those seeking a faster, more cost-effective solution. “The designs are pre-approved and well-tested, which reduces decision fatigue and accelerates approvals. For some clients – particularly first-time builders or investors – this predictability and simplicity is exactly what they’re after,” she states.
Galante continues, “with a custom build, the journey is highly collaborative. Clients work closely with our design and construction teams to bring their ideas to life.
FROM BLUEPRINT TO REALITY
More clients are leaning toward custom builds because they offer the freedom to design a home that reflects their specific lifestyle, site conditions and personal vision. “Clients often choose a custom build when they have a clear vision, unique site constraints, or specific lifestyle requirements that a standard home simply can’t meet,” Galante states. “They’re looking for individuality, quality, and the freedom to create= something truly personal – whether that’s a home designed around multigenerational living, a love for entertaining, or capitalising on ocean views.”
A common misconception is that custom homes are always expensive or stressful. In truth, with the right team, the process can be both enjoyable and managed within a budget. Whilst standard homes are often seen as rigid, Galante notes that many builders allow some customisation in finishes and layouts. You may be able to extend a room, modify cabinetry or upgrade fixtures, but structural changes can often come at a high premium. Regardless of the path chosen, both custom and standard builds can face similar delays due to council approvals, weather and trade availability.
AVOIDING DISAPPOINTMENT
Guiding clients through the custom home process involves balancing creativity with functionality. “Part of our role as a custom builder is to balance vision with practicality,” Galante explains. “While we’re always excited by creative ideas, we also bring our expertise to the table to ensure the home remains functional, cost-effective and compliant.” This includes gently steering clients away from over-styling choices that may compromise livability, budget or construction feasibility.
When facing the challenges that come with custom builds, Galante emphasises the importance of clear communication and careful planning.
“Managing expectations around timelines and ensuring all trades align to execute a highly detailed design can be complex, but it’s also what makes the result so rewarding.”
These complexities aren’t limited to custom builds; similar issues arise with standard homes. Galante explains that changes made too late in the process are often not possible to implement. “These restrictions can be disappointing if homeowners hadn’t fully considered how the design fits their lifestyle or site. There can also be limitations with orientation, energy efficiency and site-specific optimisation.”
YOUR HOME, YOUR WAY
When planning your home, it’s important to remember that different styles suit different types of land. “Irregular, sloping, or narrow lots are generally better suited to a custom build, as they require a tailored approach to maximise the site’s potential,” Galante explains. “Conversely, flat, rectangular lots are often well suited to standard homes where the design can be easily replicated without adjustment. All types of blocks can present challenges during site works, so careful planning and experienced supervision are key, regardless of the approach.”
Choosing the right path for you and your family means thinking about your current and future priorities. “Speak with both a custom builder and project builder,” she advises. “Each will offer different insights, and those conversations will help clarify what’s most important to you.” She adds, “one of the biggest benefits of working with a custom builder like Beaumonde Homes is the personal connection. You’re not just a job number – you become part of the family.”
As your design journey begins, Galante offers key reassurance. “Whether you choose custom or standard, the key is partnering with a builder who listens, understands your goals and shares your commitment to quality.”
Images courtesy of Beaumonde Homes