How to Talk About What You Want When You Don’t Know What It’s Called

How to Talk About What You Want When You Don’t Know What It’s Called

You know what you love when you see it. You’ve saved the Pinterest boards, scrolled the home tours, and walked into a few spaces that just felt right. But when it comes time to actually describe what you want in your custom home, it’s easy to get stuck.

Not everyone speaks “builder.” And that’s okay.

Here’s the good news: you don’t have to have the perfect words, design terms, or technical language to explain your vision. In fact, many people start their custom home journey with only a feeling, not a floor plan.

So how do you communicate that feeling in a way your builder can turn into real, livable space?

Let’s talk about it.

Start With the Feeling, Not the Finish

Instead of worrying about naming specific styles or features, describe how you want the space to feel. Do you picture quiet mornings in a sunlit breakfast nook? Do you want your home to feel open and welcoming when friends drop by? Or peaceful and tucked away when you need to unwind?

Words like calm, connected, open, easy, light, or warm are incredibly helpful starting points. The feeling gives the framework.

Use Examples, Even if They’re Not Perfect

Photos are your friend. So are screenshots, saved reels, and even real estate listings that just “click.” Don’t worry if you don’t love every detail, just be ready to say what you do like.

One great photo with a quick note that says, “Not this couch, but love the flow of the room” goes a long way.

Talk About How You Live

Sometimes the best design ideas come from your daily habits. Let your builder know what your mornings look like. Do you carry laundry across the house? Need a quiet spot for video calls? Want to cook while helping with homework?

Describing how you live now (and how you want to live) helps your builder design a home that works with your life, not just your wishlist.

Ask for Help Translating Your Vision

You’re not expected to have all the answers. A great builder listens for the vision behind your words. They’ll ask questions, make suggestions, and help connect the dots, even when the picture’s still forming.

That’s part of the process. You don’t have to speak the language of design. You just have to share your thoughts honestly.

Your Home, Your Way (Even If You Don’t Know the Words Yet)

Designing a custom home isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about creating something that fits your life in a way that feels right. And that begins with conversation, even the imperfect kind.

So bring the mood boards. Bring the notes. Bring the “I don’t know what this is, but I like it.”

We’ll take it from there.

Ready to start the conversation? We’re here to listen, translate, and help you bring your vision home.