The Craft of Custom

Paul LaRoche & Emily Aborn
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Design
  • Updated Weekly

Whether you’re dreaming of building a forever home, looking to create a custom vacation getaway, or looking for a home that supports your lifestyle, this podcast is for you!  Join us as we provide behind-the-scenes insights and advice for intelligent homeowners looking to renovate or build a dream home in the Monadnock Region. We’ll get into the art and science of the custom home-building industry and help you know everything you need along the way!  Cohosted by seasoned NH Builder, Paul LaRoche Owner of LR3 Development, LLC, and Emily Aborn (whose main job is to keep him from chasing shiny objects), we hope you listen, laugh, and walk away with even more ideas and dreams for your luxurious future home! 

  1. 1d ago

    Monadnock 101: Your Guide to Becoming a Local

    We're having some FUN in this episode and sharing the unwritten rules of the Monadnock Region that every newcomer should know.  Disclaimer: Many of these, Paul and Emily don't even know the answer to despite growing up here, so don't stress too much about how to pronounce "Contoocook" or what to call the local dump.  Black fly season survival tips, hiking mishaps, the Dunkin' versus Starbucks debate, winter preparedness, and what to consider when deciding between Shaw's and Market Basket. It's all in this episode!  If you're thinking about relocating to New Hampshire or you just arrived and want to understand the culture, this conversation is your crash course in becoming a real Monadnock resident in no time.  Resources & Links:  Deerfly Patches: The only sure-fire way to keep them from attacking.  www.deerflypatches.com Rebecca Rule's Book on NH Trivia: Get ready to know more than the locals in no time! www.nhhistory.org/Store/Books/History/New-Hampshire-Trivia Connect with LR3 Development Email: paul@lr3development.com Phone: 603.320.0337 Instagram: Instagram.com/LR3Development Website: www.LR3Development.com About Host, Paul LaRoche, Owner & Founder of LR3 Development, LLC Architecture and design are in Paul’s DNA. When Paul was a young man, he had the opportunity to learn about the trades from firsthand experience and watch the process for himself. He learned about building, design, and construction. He developed an impeccable appreciation for style, decor, and quality. Inspired by his family, he attended Boston Architectural College, where his professional training began. After working for other firms for years, Paul wanted more autonomy in the building process to better provide the quality and innovative solutions he believed in. After 20+ years in the construction industry, he opened LR3 in 2020 and never looked back! A true industry leader, Paul’s created luxury markets where others have said it couldn’t be done. His work has won multiple awards, including the “Home of the Year” for the State of New Hampshire.  About Cohost, Emily Aborn, Copywriter & Podcaster Emily Aborn is a Small Business Copywriter, Content Marketing Consultant, and Podcast Host of Small Business Casual. She’s been an entrepreneur for over a decade, with experience running brick-and-mortar and online businesses. Emily works with Paul as a cohost, project copywriter, and other write-ups (like this one) that Paul would procrastinate on without her help.   Visit Emily's website at emilyaborn.com to learn more and connect!

    Monadnock 101: Your Guide to Becoming a Local

  2. Aug 5

    Design Myths to Stop Believing

    Is open concept always better? Should you design with resale in mind? Is custom building as expensive as you think?  There are certain design "rules," that many people believe as hard-and-fast truths... but are they actually?  In this episode, Paul debunks the myths holding your design decisions hostage.  From the resale value obsession to the fear of standing out, he gets honest about which design beliefs are based on reality and which ones are just noise. If you're feeling stuck between what you think you should do and what you actually want, this conversation is for you. Listen to learn: Whether open concept is actually as essential as everyone claimsThe truth about designing for resale value versus designing for your lifeWhich design choices people regret and which ones they brag aboutHow to be brave with your home without feeling recklessConnect with LR3 Development Email: paul@lr3development.com Phone: 603.320.0337 Instagram: Instagram.com/LR3Development Website: www.LR3Development.com About Host, Paul LaRoche, Owner & Founder of LR3 Development, LLC Architecture and design are in Paul’s DNA. When Paul was a young man, he had the opportunity to learn about the trades from firsthand experience and watch the process for himself. He learned about building, design, and construction. He developed an impeccable appreciation for style, decor, and quality. Inspired by his family, he attended Boston Architectural College, where his professional training began. After working for other firms for years, Paul wanted more autonomy in the building process to better provide the quality and innovative solutions he believed in. After 20+ years in the construction industry, he opened LR3 in 2020 and never looked back! A true industry leader, Paul’s created luxury markets where others have said it couldn’t be done. His work has won multiple awards, including the “Home of the Year” for the State of New Hampshire.  About Cohost, Emily Aborn, Copywriter & Podcaster Emily Aborn is a Small Business Copywriter, Content Marketing Consultant, and Podcast Host of Small Business Casual. She’s been an entrepreneur for over a decade, with experience running brick-and-mortar and online businesses. Emily works with Paul as a cohost, project copywriter, and other write-ups (like this one) that Paul would procrastinate on without her help.   Visit Emily's website at emilyaborn.com to learn more and connect!

    Design Myths to Stop Believing

  3. Jul 22

    Landing the Lot: Selecting the land for your dream home

    Your lot isn't just where your home sits... it's part of the design itself.  Topography, views, sun exposure, setbacks, soil conditions, utilities, and more. These constraints either limit your options or become creative, inspiring opportunities.  In this episode, Paul walks us through how he evaluates land and transforms lots into a sense of place with distinctive features.  Whether you're still searching for the perfect property or you already own land and want to understand your options, this conversation reveals how the ground beneath your feet shapes everything that happens above it. The first things to evaluate when assessing whether a lot is right for your visionHow difficult terrain and tricky topography become design advantagesThe relationship between lot size and home size (bigger isn't always better)What questions to ask before buying land or starting your design processConnect with LR3 Development Email: paul@lr3development.com Phone: 603.320.0337 Instagram: Instagram.com/LR3Development Website: www.LR3Development.com About Host, Paul LaRoche, Owner & Founder of LR3 Development, LLC Architecture and design are in Paul’s DNA. When Paul was a young man, he had the opportunity to learn about the trades from firsthand experience and watch the process for himself. He learned about building, design, and construction. He developed an impeccable appreciation for style, decor, and quality. Inspired by his family, he attended Boston Architectural College, where his professional training began. After working for other firms for years, Paul wanted more autonomy in the building process to better provide the quality and innovative solutions he believed in. After 20+ years in the construction industry, he opened LR3 in 2020 and never looked back! A true industry leader, Paul’s created luxury markets where others have said it couldn’t be done. His work has won multiple awards, including the “Home of the Year” for the State of New Hampshire.  About Cohost, Emily Aborn, Copywriter & Podcaster Emily Aborn is a Small Business Copywriter, Content Marketing Consultant, and Podcast Host of Small Business Casual. She’s been an entrepreneur for over a decade, with experience running brick-and-mortar and online businesses. Emily works with Paul as a cohost, project copywriter, and other write-ups (like this one) that Paul would procrastinate on without her help.   Visit Emily's website at emilyaborn.com to learn more and connect!

    Landing the Lot: Selecting the land for your dream home

  4. Jul 15

    The Renovation Conversation: When Tearing Down Costs More Than Building New

    Thinking about renovating your current home instead of building new?  For many homeowners, it seems like the practical choice, but the numbers often tell a different story.  In this episode, Paul breaks down the hidden costs of renovation, the deal-breaker discoveries that happen once you start tearing into old homes, and when renovation ends up costing more than building from scratch.  If you're on the fence between preserving what you have and starting fresh, this conversation is for you! The telltale signs that a renovation project is about to become a financial nightmareSpecific examples of hidden issues discovered during renovations that change the entire scopeThe tipping point where renovation costs exceed new construction in today's marketWhen Paul actually recommends renovation over building newConnect with LR3 Development Email: paul@lr3development.com Phone: 603.320.0337 Instagram: Instagram.com/LR3Development Website: www.LR3Development.com About Host, Paul LaRoche, Owner & Founder of LR3 Development, LLC Architecture and design are in Paul’s DNA. When Paul was a young man, he had the opportunity to learn about the trades from firsthand experience and watch the process for himself. He learned about building, design, and construction. He developed an impeccable appreciation for style, decor, and quality. Inspired by his family, he attended Boston Architectural College, where his professional training began. After working for other firms for years, Paul wanted more autonomy in the building process to better provide the quality and innovative solutions he believed in. After 20+ years in the construction industry, he opened LR3 in 2020 and never looked back! A true industry leader, Paul’s created luxury markets where others have said it couldn’t be done. His work has won multiple awards, including the “Home of the Year” for the State of New Hampshire.  About Cohost, Emily Aborn, Copywriter & Podcaster Emily Aborn is a Small Business Copywriter, Content Marketing Consultant, and Podcast Host of Small Business Casual. She’s been an entrepreneur for over a decade, with experience running brick-and-mortar and online businesses. Emily works with Paul as a cohost, project copywriter, and other write-ups (like this one) that Paul would procrastinate on without her help.   Visit Emily's website at emilyaborn.com to learn more and connect!

    The Renovation Conversation: When Tearing Down Costs More Than Building New

  5. Jul 1

    Is the Upgrade Worth It?

    Premium appliances, smart home systems, luxury finishes, high-end HVAC, the options during a custom build are endless... and the price tags can be too!  But which upgrades actually deliver long-term value, and which ones are just expensive, shiny distractions?  In this episode, Paul gets honest about what he recommends without hesitation, what depends entirely on how you actually live, and what he actively steers clients away from.  This conversation helps you separate genuine investments from overpriced hype. If you're trying to figure out where to spend and where to save, consider this your insider's guide to making decisions that matter most.  Listen to learn:  Which upgrades Paul recommends to nearly every client based on proven long-term payoffWhere mid-tier options perform just as well as premium versionsHow to evaluate smart home systems and HVAC upgrades for your actual lifestyleThe luxury features that sound appealing but don't hold up or get used as often as you might think Connect with LR3 Development Email: paul@lr3development.com Phone: 603.320.0337 Instagram: Instagram.com/LR3Development Website: www.LR3Development.com About Host, Paul LaRoche, Owner & Founder of LR3 Development, LLC Architecture and design are in Paul’s DNA. When Paul was a young man, he had the opportunity to learn about the trades from firsthand experience and watch the process for himself. He learned about building, design, and construction. He developed an impeccable appreciation for style, decor, and quality. Inspired by his family, he attended Boston Architectural College, where his professional training began. After working for other firms for years, Paul wanted more autonomy in the building process to better provide the quality and innovative solutions he believed in. After 20+ years in the construction industry, he opened LR3 in 2020 and never looked back! A true industry leader, Paul’s created luxury markets where others have said it couldn’t be done. His work has won multiple awards, including the “Home of the Year” for the State of New Hampshire.  About Cohost, Emily Aborn, Copywriter & Podcaster Emily Aborn is a Small Business Copywriter, Content Marketing Consultant, and Podcast Host of Small Business Casual. She’s been an entrepreneur for over a decade, with experience running brick-and-mortar and online businesses. Emily works with Paul as a cohost, project copywriter, and other write-ups (like this one) that Paul would procrastinate on without her help.   Visit Emily's website at emilyaborn.com to learn more and connect!

    Is the Upgrade Worth It?

  6. Jun 17

    The Invisible Work: The elements that separate a good build from a great one

    Nearly 50-70% of a custom home's budget goes to work you'll never see: foundations, framing, plumbing, electrical, insulation, and all the systems that determine how your home actually performs.  In this episode, Paul breaks down why these invisible investments matter more than most people realize and where to prioritize your money for long-term comfort, efficiency, and durability.  This conversation shines a light on the hidden work that separates a good build from a great one. Listen to learn:  The breakdown of the home-building budget on visible vs. invisible work Why invisible systems can be some of the most important investments a homeowner can make What Paul would focus on first with the behind-the-scenes upgrades in his own home All the many moving parts and pieces that go into building a custom home And more Connect with LR3 Development Email: paul@lr3development.com Phone: 603.320.0337 Instagram: Instagram.com/LR3Development Website: www.LR3Development.com About Host, Paul LaRoche, Owner & Founder of LR3 Development, LLC Architecture and design are in Paul’s DNA. When Paul was a young man, he had the opportunity to learn about the trades from firsthand experience and watch the process for himself. He learned about building, design, and construction. He developed an impeccable appreciation for style, decor, and quality. Inspired by his family, he attended Boston Architectural College, where his professional training began. After working for other firms for years, Paul wanted more autonomy in the building process to better provide the quality and innovative solutions he believed in. After 20+ years in the construction industry, he opened LR3 in 2020 and never looked back! A true industry leader, Paul’s created luxury markets where others have said it couldn’t be done. His work has won multiple awards, including the “Home of the Year” for the State of New Hampshire.  About Cohost, Emily Aborn, Copywriter & Podcaster Emily Aborn is a Small Business Copywriter, Content Marketing Consultant, and Podcast Host of Small Business Casual. She’s been an entrepreneur for over a decade, with experience running brick-and-mortar and online businesses. Emily works with Paul as a cohost, project copywriter, and other write-ups (like this one) that Paul would procrastinate on without her help.   Visit Emily's website at emilyaborn.com to learn more and connect!

  7. Jun 3

    The Local Advantage: Why Building with Someone Who Knows the Area Matters

    Not all builders are created equal, and local expertise matters more than you might think.  In this episode, Paul breaks down why working with someone who truly knows the Monadnock Region translates to a better build.  From understanding New Hampshire's specific climate challenges and soil conditions to navigating local building codes with ease, regional knowledge shows up in ways that directly impact quality, timeline, and long-term performance. We also discuss how a network of trusted local collaborators and subcontractors makes projects run more smoothly. Plus, the critical details that come from years of building in this exact landscape.  If you've ever wondered whether "local" is just a nice-to-have or a genuine advantage, give this episode a listen.  Inside the Episode:  NH's specific climate and weather patterns that influence the home build Critical details like building codes and local regulations that add up fast for a smoother process How a network of reliable local subcontractors and suppliers impacts quality and timeline The regional materials that give the build a sense of place and a unique aesthetic Why local matters and the tangible benefits to the homeowner And more! Connect with LR3 Development Email: paul@lr3development.com Phone: 603.320.0337 Instagram: Instagram.com/LR3Development Website: www.LR3Development.com About Host, Paul LaRoche, Owner & Founder of LR3 Development, LLC Architecture and design are in Paul’s DNA. When Paul was a young man, he had the opportunity to learn about the trades from firsthand experience and watch the process for himself. He learned about building, design, and construction. He developed an impeccable appreciation for style, decor, and quality. Inspired by his family, he attended Boston Architectural College, where his professional training began. After working for other firms for years, Paul wanted more autonomy in the building process to better provide the quality and innovative solutions he believed in. After 20+ years in the construction industry, he opened LR3 in 2020 and never looked back! A true industry leader, Paul’s created luxury markets where others have said it couldn’t be done. His work has won multiple awards, including the “Home of the Year” for the State of New Hampshire.  About Cohost, Emily Aborn, Copywriter & Podcaster Emily Aborn is a Small Business Copywriter, Content Marketing Consultant, and Podcast Host of Small Business Casual. She’s been an entrepreneur for over a decade, with experience running brick-and-mortar and online businesses. Emily works with Paul as a cohost, project copywriter, and other write-ups (like this one) that Paul would procrastinate on without her help.   Visit Emily's website at emilyaborn.com to learn more and connect!

    The Local Advantage: Why Building with Someone Who Knows the Area Matters

  8. May 20

    If I Were Building My Own Home Today: Paul's Dream Build

    Ever wondered what a luxury custom home builder would build for himself?  In this episode, Paul gets personal and walks through his dream home from the ground up.  He chooses his ideal location, and we give him complete creative freedom to dream, splurge, and skip out on the stuff that doesn't matter!  This isn't just about Paul's dream build, it's a masterclass in values-based design.  Paul reveals:  The materials, features, and spatial choices that matter most after decades of building for othersRisks he'd take in his own homeHow lessons from hundreds of custom builds would shape his own spaceWhat a great custom home process looks like through the eyes of someone who knows it inside and outConnect with LR3 Development Email: paul@lr3development.com Phone: 603.320.0337 Instagram: Instagram.com/LR3Development Website: www.LR3Development.com About Host, Paul LaRoche, Owner & Founder of LR3 Development, LLC Architecture and design are in Paul’s DNA. When Paul was a young man, he had the opportunity to learn about the trades from firsthand experience and watch the process for himself. He learned about building, design, and construction. He developed an impeccable appreciation for style, decor, and quality. Inspired by his family, he attended Boston Architectural College, where his professional training began. After working for other firms for years, Paul wanted more autonomy in the building process to better provide the quality and innovative solutions he believed in. After 20+ years in the construction industry, he opened LR3 in 2020 and never looked back! A true industry leader, Paul’s created luxury markets where others have said it couldn’t be done. His work has won multiple awards, including the “Home of the Year” for the State of New Hampshire.  About Cohost, Emily Aborn, Copywriter & Podcaster Emily Aborn is a Small Business Copywriter, Content Marketing Consultant, and Podcast Host of Small Business Casual. She’s been an entrepreneur for over a decade, with experience running brick-and-mortar and online businesses. Emily works with Paul as a cohost, project copywriter, and other write-ups (like this one) that Paul would procrastinate on without her help.   Visit Emily's website at emilyaborn.com to learn more and connect!

    If I Were Building My Own Home Today: Paul's Dream Build
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Whether you’re dreaming of building a forever home, looking to create a custom vacation getaway, or looking for a home that supports your lifestyle, this podcast is for you!  Join us as we provide behind-the-scenes insights and advice for intelligent homeowners looking to renovate or build a dream home in the Monadnock Region. We’ll get into the art and science of the custom home-building industry and help you know everything you need along the way!  Cohosted by seasoned NH Builder, Paul LaRoche Owner of LR3 Development, LLC, and Emily Aborn (whose main job is to keep him from chasing shiny objects), we hope you listen, laugh, and walk away with even more ideas and dreams for your luxurious future home! 

Information

  • Creator
    Paul LaRoche & Emily Aborn
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    55
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Craft of Custom
  • Show Website
    The Craft of Custom