Home: The Second Story

Sheri Scott, Taylor Davis, Marilyn Moedinger
  • 5.0 (7)
  • DESIGN

Everyone ​talks ​about ​how ​hard ​it ​is ​to ​do ​a ​major ​renovation ​or ​custom ​home ​building ​project, but we are here to take the guesswork and fear out of it. Join three veteran residential architects: Sheri Scott of Spring House Architects, Taylor Davis of TPD Architect, and Marilyn Moedinger of Runcible Studios, as they sit down with folks who have been through the renovation or building process. Our guests will offer their best tips and tricks, and answer the key question: "What do you know NOW that you WISH you'd known when you started?"

  1. 4D AGO

    New Orleans Garden District: A Family Renovation

    In this episode of Home: The Second Story, we sit down with Martin, a homeowner from New Orleans who recently undertook a full gut renovation of his early-1900s home. What started as a kitchen and bathroom update turned into a complete interior overhaul, taking the house down to the studs. Martin shares how his historic neighborhood, building codes, and local governance shaped what he could and could not do with his 120-year-old home.  This includes the HDLC, which luckily for him, did not apply to his side of the street. We learn about the impact of local knowledge. Martin’s team — his architect, contractor, and interior designer — all brought vital expertise, not just in design but in navigating the humid, termite-prone climate of New Orleans. He explains how important it was to plan for moisture, termites, and drainage, and how ignoring those realities can spell disaster later. The conversation reveals how Martin’s house went through decades of additions, from a porch removal to a spiral staircase that eventually forced a rethinking of the entire layout. Removing that staircase alone triggered cascading design changes that ultimately transformed the scope of the build. Martin admits that while his architect’s attention to detail made the project possible, he underestimated the importance of involving a landscape architect from the start. The lack of one led to frustrating misses, like concrete planters that didn’t quite fit and last-minute improvisations for utilities. He underlines the value of a clear budget from day one — not having one wasted time and caused sleepless nights as costs rose and scope shifted. He urges future homeowners to anchor their dreams to a realistic budget early and to be prepared for the emotional ups and downs that come with any major renovation. We follow Martin’s path through a contractor switch — a tough but necessary move when the first builder couldn’t align on a clear estimate or timeline. He emphasizes how crucial it was to find a contractor experienced with historic houses in his specific neighborhood. Trust and local reputation made all the difference, ensuring the project stayed aligned with local techniques and challenges. Despite the anxiety and stress, Martin circles back to the reward: walking into a home that truly works for his family. He paints a picture of the foyer with its local art, the intentional smell that greets visitors, and the kitchen that brings people together — the real heart of their home. As he tells it, the payoff is that snapshot of friends and family gathering, the kids growing up in a home designed with care, and a renovation that, in the end, feels worth every bit of chaos. Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us!  admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Taylor: TPD Architecture and Design: https://tpdarchitect.com Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 1m

  2. SEP 23 · BONUS

    Contracts: Get It In Writing! (Snack Sized Episode)

    In this snack-size episode of Home: The Second Story, we dive into the world of construction contract structures—a topic many homeowners find confusing but absolutely essential to understand. We break down the two main contract types: fixed price (or stipulated sum) and cost-plus (often referred to as time and materials), exploring how each affects cost, transparency, and risk. From Marilyn’s background as a contractor, we hear that contracts are essentially about who carries the risk. In a cost-plus setup, the owner takes on the risk—and reaps any potential savings if material prices drop. In contrast, a fixed-price contract shifts that risk to the contractor, who may build in a cushion to protect against unexpected costs. We talk about markup structures and how they vary between contractors. A critical point we emphasize is that not all percentages are created equal—one contractor’s 12% markup might include overhead and profit, while another’s 18% could only reflect profit. This makes it essential to ask what’s included in the markup when comparing bids. Another key topic is allowances in hybrid contracts. These are line items for unknowns—like what's behind a wall during renovation—and act as mini cost-plus agreements inside a fixed-price contract. Interestingly, while allowances often cover things like tile and appliances, Marilyn notes she always wished they’d be used for unknown site conditions instead—since tile choices can be made upfront. We also highlight control estimates, which provide a baseline for cost-plus contracts. They’re not binding but offer owners a framework for budgeting. Marilyn reminds us these estimates are often required by consumer protection laws, not just construction best practices. In terms of billing, fixed-price contracts result in streamlined invoices showing progress against the agreed amount. Cost-plus contracts, on the other hand, provide detailed receipts for every purchase and expense, which architects or owner’s reps typically review before payment. We touch briefly on change orders, clarifying that in cost-plus contracts, they don’t exist—the contractor builds as directed. In fixed-price arrangements, change orders formalize any scope changes, whether due to material availability, homeowner decisions, or contractor requests. We suggest keeping a change order log to track who initiated each one. Lastly, we stress that asking questions is not only allowed—it’s encouraged. Homeowners should feel empowered to understand where their money is going but should also respect the realities of construction work. The success of any contract, we agree, depends on clear communication, realistic expectations, and detailed upfront planning. Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us!  admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Taylor: TPD Architecture and Design: https://tpdarchitect.com Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    18 min

  3. SEP 16

    No Need to Move, Just Do a Thoughtful Renovation!

    In this episode of Home: The Second Story, we talk with Kelly Settle about her home renovation journey in Springboro, Ohio. Kelly initially planned a modest kitchen update, simply new cabinets and an island. But as we dug into the space with her, the scope evolved into a transformation that redefined how her family uses their home. Working with Sheri, Kelly was able to go beyond surface updates and create a space that works with the way she lives. This was a renovation in a standard development home. Kelly and her husband had been there for over two decades and were at a crossroads: sell or stay. With a tough market in 2021, they chose to invest in their existing home. What began as a simple kitchen update turned into a full reimagining of the first floor, including integrating unused rooms into the kitchen layout. The original dining room was repurposed, the pantry enlarged, and they added a substantial island for entertaining and everyday use. Kelly’s journey highlighted the importance of collaboration. Sheri brought creative ideas that initially surprised Kelly—like moving the refrigerator to the old dining room space—but ultimately improved function dramatically. They incorporated a sentimental butcher block table into a coffee bar, anchoring the design around a meaningful piece. We also discussed how her budget grew from the initial estimate but stayed disciplined once the full scope was set. One challenge was the delay in flooring due to supply chain issues, which left them living on plywood for weeks. That experience underscored the importance of anticipating the unexpected in renovations. Kelly offered advice she wished she'd had—like taking architectural plans to the appliance store to explore better equipment options. A bigger stove would’ve been a smarter choice with the space they had. She also emphasized how the design now supports how they want to live: cooking more, entertaining more, and staying in the home longer than they originally planned. By rethinking their space rather than expanding it, Kelly’s family has gained functionality and beauty. The renovation turned what could have been a simple update into a lifestyle upgrade. Her story is a clear example of how even “just a kitchen” renovation can have deep, lasting impact when guided by thoughtful design. Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us!  admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Taylor: TPD Architecture and Design: https://tpdarchitect.com Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    34 min

  4. SEP 9 · BONUS

    What's for Dinner? Designing Kitchens for Real Life (Snack Sized Episode)

    In this snack-sized episode of Home: The Second Story, we dive into evolving kitchen trends from our own architectural practices, focusing on the functionality, creativity, and customization homeowners increasingly desire. Kitchens are adapting to the daily needs of families. Kid-specific beverage fridges, dog food stations, and innovative trash and compost systems are all on the table as we explore how kitchen layouts can support different household rhythms. One standout trend is the return of the pantry — not just as storage, but as an auxiliary kitchen. From walk-in pantries that serve poolside snacks to hybrid pantry-mudroom setups in tight urban homes, we’re rethinking how to maximize space. We share strategies for incorporating Costco closets, “kitchen attic” storage for infrequently used items, and cleverly hidden paper towel dispensers that maintain clean counter aesthetics. We also tackle the nuance between entertaining and cooking-focused kitchens. We recount creating custom storage solutions for clients’ specialty appliances and delve into how regional differences shape kitchen priorities — like silver storage in the South or salt-stained boot lockers in New England. Our design philosophies differ slightly on dining rooms, but we all agree on the value of tailoring kitchen openness based on family dynamics and privacy. From generational preferences to layout sensitivities like avoiding direct views of the kitchen from the front door, we highlight the importance of adapting design to lifestyle. Ultimately, we reinforce that while trends come and go, the most successful kitchens reflect the unique needs of the people using them. Whether you're storing heirloom silver or building a nook for your Vitamix, it’s all about making the space work for you. Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us!  admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Taylor: TPD Architecture and Design: https://tpdarchitect.com Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    17 min

  5. SEP 2

    Let's Talk Real Costs...and What We'd Do Differently Next Time

    In this episode of Home: The Second Story, we sit down with Paul and Rebecca Sinopoli to unpack the lessons they learned from designing and building their custom, multi-generational home in Dayton, Ohio. Together, we revisit the full journey — from the first spark of an idea to the reality of moving into a house that balances contemporary design with practical living for three generations, on a hill, under one roof. We begin by hearing how Paul’s military background and Rebecca’s desire to put down roots shaped their decision to build new rather than renovate. A key driver for the project was creating a duplex-style setup that would allow Rebecca’s mother to live independently but close by — an arrangement that offered privacy while bringing family together. Early on, they purchased a lot on a steep hill, a decision that would add significant complexity and cost down the line. Working with Sheri, they quickly realized that siting the house to capture sunsets meant embracing engineering challenges. Paul’s desire for a contemporary, trimless interior added more layers of detail. We discuss how the hill required extensive retaining walls, careful grading, and a heated switchback driveway to make winter life manageable. A major theme throughout the conversation is the unexpected cost overruns and scope changes. Paul and Rebecca share candidly how budget expectations ballooned from an initial $850,000 to over $2 million, driven by hill work, custom design choices, and ambitious finishes. They reflect on the importance of staying closely aligned on budget tracking and the reality that early design decisions lock in costs that are hard to change later. Paul’s deep involvement as an owner-builder brought benefits and frustrations. We talk through how switching general contractors multiple times impacted momentum, and how Paul’s hands-on work sometimes clashed with trades expecting a traditional GC-led site. Rebecca highlights moments where trusting outside “experts” — like an aggressive lighting vendor — added costly complexity she would avoid next time. In hindsight, they would stick closer to the architect’s lighting plan and question lavish upsells. We also dig into the emotional side of the build. Both share how living in a 95% finished home tested their patience, but the tradeoff was getting the unique spaces they envisioned. They offer advice to future homeowners: consult an architect early, bring in an interior designer for finishing details, and keep an open line of communication with each other to monitor costs and expectations. Closing out, we reflect on the unique joys and headaches of building a fully custom home on a challenging site. Despite budget shocks and unfinished trim, the Sinopolis stand by their choice to create a space that truly fits their family. Their story is a clear reminder that every decision — from picking a plot to final paint — shapes not just a house, but how life is lived within it. Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us!  admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Taylor: TPD Architecture and Design: https://tpdarchitect.com Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    35 min

  6. AUG 26 · BONUS

    How To Get Started With Your Project (Snack Sized Episode)

    In this snack-sized episode of Home: The Second Story, we explore the importance of engaging with an architect early in the planning process—before decisions are locked in and before the path feels fully formed. Too often, people delay reaching out, believing they need to have clarity before contacting us. But the reality is, the earlier we’re brought in, the more value we can offer. Whether it’s helping clients evaluate sites, interpret zoning regulations, or make sense of feasibility and investment, our input at the beginning can shape smarter outcomes. We talk about how life transitions—empty nests, new additions to the family, or retirement—often trigger these conversations. And in those transitional phases, clarity and confusion frequently show up together. That’s where we step in—not just to design, but to listen and guide. Many clients feel embarrassed for not knowing where to start, but we make it clear that’s not a flaw—it’s the starting point. Whether the challenge is a modest remodel or a full new build, our job is to bring structure to the unknown and to offer options, not prescriptions. We also walk through the less glamorous but essential early steps in project planning. Depending on where you live, these might include ordering a site survey, conducting a septic test, or navigating complex zoning and energy regulations. In cities like Boston, zoning is usually the first big challenge. In rural settings, it often begins with confirming if a site is even buildable. We stress that these aren't steps homeowners should face alone. Early involvement lets us identify risks before they become roadblocks. The episode also tackles a sensitive but critical topic: budget. We understand people hesitate to talk money—they think their number is too low or too personal. But without a financial target, we can’t align expectations around scope or design. We’re not asking for their bank statements; we just need a ballpark to help guide the process. No matter the project size, everything hinges on shared goals, honest dialogue, and mutual trust. Our core message in this episode is clear: Don’t wait until everything is figured out. Don’t shoulder the process alone. Reach out early—when your ideas are still unformed. That’s when we can be most useful. We’re not just here to design—we’re here to partner with you in making your home work better for your life. Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us!  admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Taylor: TPD Architecture and Design: https://tpdarchitect.com Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    19 min

  7. AUG 19

    Phasing a Project: Taking Time to Get It Right

    In this episode of Home: The Second Story, we talk with Brian from Cambridge, Massachusetts, about his multi-phase renovation experience. Brian shares his journey from purchasing a dated, 1980s-style home to transforming it into a personal and functional space. We begin with Brian’s decision to prioritize location and outdoor space, knowing upfront that renovations would be necessary. His project, led by Marilyn, was completed in two phases: an exterior porch addition and a larger interior overhaul. Brian walks us through the reasoning behind starting with the porch—a structure in disrepair and home to a family of raccoons. This first phase gave him insight into the renovation process and served as a testing ground for team dynamics. While the project wasn’t without challenges, such as pandemic interruptions and zoning issues, Brian emphasizes the value of thorough planning and having a strong partnership with his architect.  He also spoke to the value of discussing the project with his neighbors, so they knew what to expect. As we move into the second phase, Brian explains the bold decisions they made, like eliminating a bedroom and reducing window count, to create a more functional layout. These choices prioritized how he lives rather than strict resale value, a strategy he now strongly recommends. The conversation also covers the importance of contracts and how switching contractors between phases ultimately benefited the project. We reflect on the lessons learned—especially the importance of making decisions early, planning for zoning requirements, and having the right contractual protections in place. Brian’s key takeaway is simple: plan everything you can, because unexpected hurdles will come. His favorite part of the renovation? The transformation of the entry experience—walking into an open, light-filled space that brings joy every single day. Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us!  admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Taylor: TPD Architecture and Design: https://tpdarchitect.com Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com

    37 min

  8. AUG 12 · BONUS

    Smart Tips for Designing Indoor-Outdoor Living Spaces (Snack Sized Episode)

    In this snack-sized episode, we dive into one of the most popular homeowner desires: creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. We each reflect on how this goal plays out differently depending on climate, lifestyle, and project constraints. In Ohio, Sheri notes that many clients initially want large sliding doors to open entire walls, but often back away due to limited usability and cost. In Alabama, Taylor highlights the prevalence and value of screen porches, which are usable much of the year and often include fireplaces, fans, and even TVs (for football of course). Meanwhile, in Boston, Marilyn shares how tight urban lots push the focus to roof decks and compact outdoor areas that extend livable space, especially during New England’s short summer. We discuss how climate fundamentally shapes these spaces—from needing shade and mosquito protection in the South, to maximizing even the tiniest outdoor spots in dense urban areas. Amenities like pools, outdoor kitchens, and storage needs (like for bikes or gardening gear) often influence how these spaces are designed. We emphasize the importance of future-proof planning, especially for features that might be part of a second construction phase, like pool houses or outdoor kitchens. Collaborating with landscape architects emerges as a recurring theme; they bring essential expertise in planning, aesthetics, and sustainability that complements architectural design. We also dispel a common myth: just because a space is outdoors doesn’t mean it’s cheaper. Features like screen porches or outdoor kitchens require high-quality finishes and infrastructure, which can make them just as expensive as indoor spaces. Lastly, we reflect on the diverse uses of outdoor spaces beyond entertainment—gardening, working on cars, pet management, or even quiet morning coffee routines on a balcony. The key is tailoring outdoor spaces to fit the homeowner's real habits and values, not just design trends. Have questions? Want to be on our show? Email us!  admin@htsspodcast.com Learn about our hosts: Taylor: TPD Architecture and Design: https://tpdarchitect.com Marilyn: Runcible Studios: https://runciblestudios.com SherI: Springhouse Architects: https://springhousearchitects.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    15 min
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Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Everyone ​talks ​about ​how ​hard ​it ​is ​to ​do ​a ​major ​renovation ​or ​custom ​home ​building ​project, but we are here to take the guesswork and fear out of it. Join three veteran residential architects: Sheri Scott of Spring House Architects, Taylor Davis of TPD Architect, and Marilyn Moedinger of Runcible Studios, as they sit down with folks who have been through the renovation or building process. Our guests will offer their best tips and tricks, and answer the key question: "What do you know NOW that you WISH you'd known when you started?"

Information

  • Creator
    Sheri Scott, Taylor Davis, Marilyn Moedinger
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    17
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    Home: The Second Story

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