How Divco Homes’ new design philosophy has fueled growth
One of the leading custom home builders in Southwest Florida, Divco Custom Homes (Divco) last appeared in the pages of Modern Home Builders in 2023. Over the past two years the business has evolved considerably, so we sat down with Dave Chernin, Executive Director of Design & Business Development, to learn more about the company’s recent successes across Florida.
“We’ve completed a new development containing three grand estate lots called Bailey Lane Estates,” begins Dave. “All three homes have been designed specifically for the lots and will garner significant attention due to their size and proximity to downtown Naples, Florida. Nothing like this development currently exists in Naples.”
The company has also recently implemented 3D virtual technology. Dave explains the benefits this has brought to Divco: “The 3D virtual experience has been overwhelmingly positive and transformative for our clients. It allows them to step into a fully immersive walk-through of their future home before construction even begins. This not only brings their vision to life in a tangible way but also enables them to provide feedback and make informed decisions about the design. Clients often describe the experience as exciting and eye-opening, as they can truly envision the layout, flow, and feel of their space. It’s a powerful tool that enhances collaboration and ensures their dream home is exactly what they imagined. The excitement of clients seeing their home for the first time is an invigorating experience for everyone involved.”
During this period, the company also embraced an innovative new design philosophy. Dave outlines how the process is advancing: “It’s progressing in a really positive way. Clients, real estate agents, and developers are perceiving the new design direction as an exciting path to luxury living. They have great enthusiasm for concepts that aren’t the norm, and they see how possibilities for their own builds open up. With their input, this creates a synergy that fuels both sides of the relationship. In the end, this leads to the creation of something beautiful, unique, and functional; a home that truly resonates with clients. It’s an exciting process.”
Seamless process
As Divco goes from strength to strength, the business is capitalizing on a growing demand for custom homes in Florida. “There is a significant uptick in the market. Many people are moving to the Sunshine State for the luxury lifestyle that exists here. I am currently working on ten custom projects, with more being added imminently,” Dave states.
He goes on to explain how Divco’s company culture has been a driving force behind successfully meeting the increased demand: “We have a team that has been in place for over 40 years. It takes teamwork to effectively complete jobs at such a high level. The company culture has evolved over the years; most people in the company have been here for between 20 and 40 years. Along with our strong relationships with consultants and subcontractors, this allows us to maintain a seamless process that fosters a unique culture of creating and building people’s dreams.”
Dave then highlights some exciting projects that are already demonstrating the benefits of the technologies and strategies that have been recently adopted: “I am currently designing new models for Miromar Lakes as well as for our new development at Bailey Lane Estates. This model will be based on the Poseidon property that was designed last year. It will feature a single-story layout, whereas the Poseidon was spread over two floors.”
Dave continues: “We are always looking for new innovative products and procedures in design and construction. One product is an ultra-thin stone veneer that was
recently launched in the market to a great deal of excitement. This product can be wrapped around circular columns and illuminated from behind. We hope to integrate this element into some of our new designs. Additionally, we have recently redesigned our second-floor design center to provide our clients with the facilities and tools to complete both the interior and exterior design phases while simultaneously choosing their color selections. This gives clients tangible examples of our design and craftsmanship.
“We have also recently hired a new designer and 3D visualization specialist, Santiago Cajiao, who brings over 20 years of experience. He has turned out to be a tremendous asset to Divco by developing unrivaled presentation imagery. Clients are inspired by the final product we present to them. His ability to design both interiors and exteriors sets him apart from others in the field.”
Positive momentum
These factors coalesce to help Divco stand out from the competition. Dave elaborates: “The fact that we design the home in the conceptual phase at no charge to clients saves them thousands of dollars. Our solution is also turn-key, eliminating the need to outsource different processes. This means a client can collaborate with us through the entire process – from site selection through to design, build, and ultimately moving in and enjoying their new lifestyle. Our homes provide resort-style living that feels like home.”
Divco’s unique turn-key process can be broken down into stages. First, the home design selection helps the team learn what qualities clients are looking for in their new home, such as the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, square footage, and location. Next, the chosen site is analyzed and surveyed to determine what is possible. Plans are then reviewed and revised to accommodate the site, which is subsequently shared with clients for assessment. Conceptual floor plans and exterior elevations are drawn up for review. Following this, all necessary permits that are required to begin construction are obtained before clients are welcomed to the design studio to meet the team that will be building their home. Color selections and other small details are finalized before construction begins in earnest. Homes built by Divco also include a warranty to reassure clients that the buildings will stand the test of time.
Dave concludes by outlining the company’s goals for the rest of the year and beyond: “We want to keep the positive momentum going. We strive to continue developing new, innovative, and unique residential designs that push the envelope. We aim to acquire more land to create unique environments for people to live, work, and entertain.”
Divco Custom Homes is not just about building houses; it’s about crafting bespoke homes that reflect the unique aspirations and lifestyles of their clients. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for creativity, Divco is paving the way for luxury living in Florida. As it continues to embrace new technologies and design philosophies, the future looks bright for Divco and its clientele.