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

    1d ago

    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!

    9 min
  2. If I Were Building My Own Home Today: Paul's Dream Build

    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!

    8 min
  3. We Are Hiring! Help us spread the word and grow the LR3 team!

    May 6

    We Are Hiring! Help us spread the word and grow the LR3 team!

    LR3 Development is growing!  Paul's looking for just the right person to join the team as an experienced Residential Construction Project Manager.  In this episode, Paul shares more about the role, what it entails, and what it takes to succeed in luxury custom home building. We get into why this is more than just a job; it's an invitation to grow your career and be part of a team that stands by quality and refuses to cut corners.  Please help us spread the word by sharing the episode with someone you know who might make a good fit. Think that person might be you? If so, please send your cover letter and resume to Paul@LR3Development.com  Link to Indeed.com Listing: https://bit.ly/LR3ConstructionPM 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 min
  4. Then vs. Now: Building in 2026

    Apr 22

    Then vs. Now: Building in 2026

    The home-building industry has changed a lot in the past twenty years, but some principles have remained tried-and-true.  In this episode, Paul shares from his two decades of construction experience as we take a look at what’s actually different, and what hasn’t changed a bit between then vs. now.  Listen to hear:  How long Paul has been in the industry, and what it was like when he started, vs. where it is today The biggest shift in how home construction has changed over the last two decades What clients now LOVE but that didn’t exist or wasn’t available 20 years ago How technology has changed the building process and homes themselves Which trends have made a resurgence, and which have stood the test of time 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!

    11 min
  5. Materials Matchmaking: Choosing Materials that Make the Perfect Pair

    Apr 8

    Materials Matchmaking: Choosing Materials that Make the Perfect Pair

    While some materials go together like cheese and wine, not all materials play well together so nicely!  The difference between a cohesive custom home and a chaotic one often comes down to thoughtful material selection.  In this episode, Paul breaks down his approach to pairing finishes, textures, and tones that create harmony throughout a home. From mixing modern and rustic elements to balancing aesthetics with durability, this conversation reveals why some combinations sing while others clash.  In the episode:  Where to begin with material selection and narrowing down the endless optionsHow to seamlessly mix modern and rustic to create a cohesive look Common material pairings (and clashings to avoid) Balancing textures to create warm, cozy spaces How to blend warm and cool tones in your custom home The material trends that result in timeless finishesAnd 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. When to Walk Away Before You Begin: Builder Red Flags Not to Ignore

    Mar 25

    When to Walk Away Before You Begin: Builder Red Flags Not to Ignore

    How do you know before breaking ground whether or not a builder is the right one for YOUR custom build? In this episode, we get into the earliest red flags so you can identify when to walk away before getting in too deep.  We shine a light on vital cues to listen for when choosing the right luxury builder for your project.  Inside the episode:  What are the earliest red flags for a client looking to work with a builder who understands their vision? How to know whether or not your vision aligns with the builder's expectations Why transparency and communication are vital in the builder-client relationship What happens if trust gets damaged along the way 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!

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

    Mar 11

    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
  8. 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
See All (49)

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
    49
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Craft of Custom
  • Show Website
    The Craft of Custom

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