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. Behind-the-Scenes in an Award Winning Home: 2025 Single Family Construction >$1M

    4D AGO

    Behind-the-Scenes in an Award Winning Home: 2025 Single Family Construction >$1M

    From initial vision to final awe-inspiring walkthrough, in this episode, we go behind-the-scenes to learn what goes into building an award-winning home.  Taking home the New Hampshire Home Builders’ Association 2025 “Best Single Family Construction >$1M” award, this custom home is set apart from the noise, boasting breathtaking views, quiet luxury, and bold beauty.  Modern luxury, intentional details, the homeowner's distinct personality, and the best of the Granite State come to life through every detail of this Monadnock Region-inspired rustic home. Step inside and be whisked away to a separate world.  Inside the episode:  The initial vision: What LR3’s clients were looking to achieve The challenges: Design challenges faced on the build and creative solutions Stunning features: a floor-to-ceiling Monadnock granite stone fireplace, and cozy living spaces with soaring ceilingsWhat makes a home stand out and sets it apart as a luxury buildAnd more!🏡 Check out the winning home HERE Connect with LR3 Development Email: paul@lr3development.com Phone: 603.320.0337 Instagram Facebook 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!

    10 min
  2. How Much House Do You Need? Breaking down the real numbers of square footage

    FEB 11

    How Much House Do You Need? Breaking down the real numbers of square footage

    We all know by now that bigger isn’t always better… but when it comes to building from the ground up, how do you determine the square footage sweet spot?  In this episode, we break down the truth of square footage and show you the real numbers behind the decisions to go big or go home (good news: you can do both!).  Let's talk square footage! Inside the episode, you'll learn:  What’s the ideal range for square footage for most families that LR3 works with? How Paul helps clients determine what they actually need What’s the difference between liveable square footage and total square footage, and how does it impact the bottom line? Can a small home feel just as spacious as a large one? TOP advice for deciding how big to build your dream home And of course, more! Connect with LR3 Development Email: paul@lr3development.com Phone: 603.320.0337 Instagram Facebook 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!

    11 min
  3. The ONE Question to Ask Your Builder Before Breaking Ground

    JAN 28

    The ONE Question to Ask Your Builder Before Breaking Ground

    Just like every home build client is unique, every builder is too! In this episode, we get into some of the special touches that set LR3 apart as a luxury home builder in the Monadnock Region.  From non-negotiables to balancing signature style with individual visions, this episode guides you in what makes LR3’s process distinct, and how to choose the right home builder for you!  In the episode:  How a builder’s aesthetic can influence your decision Design principles and values that should be non-negotiables for your custom build How to ensure your builder balances their signature style with your unique visionWhy quality matters (and what it really means to LR3) How to ensure your builder offers impeccable communication every step of the way The ONE question to ask your builder before you sign the contract And more! Connect with Paul at LR3 Email: paul@lr3development.com Phone: 603.320.0337 Instagram Facebook 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, 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!

    11 min
  4. The Psychology of Space & Color: How design impacts the way you live

    12/24/2025

    The Psychology of Space & Color: How design impacts the way you live

    Design isn't just aesthetic; it also impacts behavior. Good design has to align with functionality needs and work seamlessly for everyday life. In this episode, Paul explores how the spaces we create shape our daily patterns, from room flow that encourages family connection to ceiling heights that influence how energized or calm we feel. This conversation covers activity zones, the psychology of open versus closed floor plans, strategic natural light placement, and how to design for your actual personality (yes, introverts and extroverts need different things). If you've ever wondered why some homes just feel better, this episode has your answers. In the episode:  How flow affects the day-to-day function in a home The psychology behind open concept vs. defined rooms and where each works best The impact of ceiling height on feel and functionThe role of natural light and layered lighting for mood and comfort Elements that energize vs. elements that calm - what’s the difference? Connected spaces vs. spots for alone time And more! Connect with LR3 Development Email: paul@lr3development.com Phone: 603.320.0337 Instagram Facebook 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!

    15 min
  5. Primary Residences vs. Second Home: Considerations for each type of build

    12/10/2025

    Primary Residences vs. Second Home: Considerations for each type of build

    Primary residence or vacation getaway?  The answer changes everything about how you build. In this episode, Paul walks through the key considerations that separate vacation/second home design from everyday living.  Inside the Episode:  Differences when considering a primary home vs. a second homeFeatures for vacation homes, primary homes, and future forever homes Maintenance considerations for secondary residences Designing with rental income in mind Storage needs for vacation vs. primary homes And more! Connect with LR3 Development Email: paul@lr3development.com Phone: 603.320.0337 Instagram Facebook 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!

    10 min
  6. Keys to a Seamless Build with LR3 Client, Nathan Kono

    11/12/2025

    Keys to a Seamless Build with LR3 Client, Nathan Kono

    What are the keys to a beyond successful new build? Because you’ve heard plenty of our thoughts… we wanted to offer a fresh perspective on the matter! So, we brought in special guest, Nathan Kono, to share a peek behind-the-scenes as an LR3 client as his recent home build went seamlessly from concept to completion.  Inside the episode:  What made Nathan and his wife, Jackie, decide to build vs. purchase an existing home? How did they discover Paul, and what was the deciding factor for choosing LR3? The process of communicating a big vision Challenges and favorite parts of the building experience Must-haves and favorite features Exciting milestones to celebrateAdvice for those ready to build And more! Connect with LR3 Development Email: paul@lr3development.com Phone: 603.320.0337 Instagram Facebook 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! About Our Guest, Nathan Kono  Nathan is a data analyst and product strategist with over a decade of experience in global financial markets. He currently leads data analytics and strategy for Secured Financing at State Street, building tools and models that drive automation, efficiency, and business growth. Beyond his work in capital markets, Nathan serves on the boards of High Mowing School and the Celebrity Series of Boston, where he contributes to advancement, governance, and community engagement. Nathan was born and raised in Hawaii but now calls Peterborough, NH, home. He lives with his wife, two children, and two German Shepherds.  He loves spending time outdoors skiing and hiking with his family.

    18 min
  7. Renovation vs. New Build: Which is right for you?

    10/29/2025

    Renovation vs. New Build: Which is right for you?

    While LR3 doesn't focus on remodels and renovations, there are instances where they accommodate these projects.  In this episode, we get into what type of home remodels make a good fit for our team and how Paul helps homeowners decide between renovating or starting fresh.  In the episode, you'll learn:  When it's time to renovate and when to start fresh A renovation challenge people underestimate The difference in cost when considering renovating vs. new build The impacts of resale in making your decision Advantages of building over renovating When renovating might be the better choice And more! Connect with LR3 Development Email: paul@lr3development.com Phone: 603.320.0337 Instagram Facebook 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 min
  8. From the Jobsite: Lessons & Insights

    10/22/2025

    From the Jobsite: Lessons & Insights

    After years of experience in the world of home building, Paul’s seen A LOT. In this episode, we get his insights and lessons learned from job-site challenges and successes.  In the episode:  Unexpected problems with innovative solutions An on-site decision that changed the final outcome for the better Seemingly unplanned occurrences that come up consistently for clients (perhaps not so unplanned after all) How Paul decides whether or not to stick with the plan or pivot when a challenge arisesAnd how he turned a seemingly unfortunate situation into an even better design! Connect with LR3 Development Email: paul@lr3development.com Phone: 603.320.0337 Instagram Facebook 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!

    10 min
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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
    43
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Craft of Custom
  • Show Website
    The Craft of Custom