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The First Step in Building a Custom Home
December 18, 2025
The First Step in Building a Custom Home: Why the Lot Comes First
When building a custom home, many people assume the process starts with a floor plan. In reality, the most important first step is choosing the right lot. At Vitruvian Homes, we believe great home design begins with the land it is built on. Before walls are drawn or rooms are placed, the lot determines how the home can truly function. 
Our custom home builder, Frey Radfar, often explains that until a lot is selected, it is difficult to design a floor plan that fits both the property and the homeowner’s lifestyle. Here is why the lot matters so much in the custom home building process.
1. The Lot Shapes the Overall Home Design
Every lot comes with its own dimensions, orientation, and restrictions. The width and depth of the property influence how wide the home can be, how deep it can sit, and how outdoor spaces are designed. At Vitruvian Homes, we design each custom home to work with the land, not against it. This ensures the home feels intentional and well-balanced rather than forced onto the property.
2. Driveway and Garage Placement Depend on the Lot
One of the first design decisions affected by the lot is garage placement. Some lots work best with a front-load garage, while others allow for a side-load garage that enhances curb appeal. The depth of the driveway and the position of the home on the lot all play a role. These details are essential to both function and aesthetics, especially in luxury home design.
3. Floor Plans Cannot Be Finalized Without the Property
Many homeowners want to choose a floor plan right away, but without a lot, that plan may not be realistic. The lot determines setbacks, building lines, and usable space. Once the land is secured, our custom builder team can tailor the floor plan to fit the property while still reflecting how the homeowner lives day to day.
4. The Lot Influences Natural Light and Flow
Sun exposure and orientation matter more than people realize. The direction the lot faces affects where windows are placed, how natural light enters the home, and how indoor and outdoor spaces connect. Thoughtful home design considers these elements early, creating a home that feels bright, comfortable, and cohesive. 
5. A Better Lot Leads to a Better Custom Home Experience
Starting with the right lot makes the entire custom home process smoother. Decisions become clearer, timelines are more efficient, and the final design feels purposeful. At Vitruvian Homes, we guide our clients through lot selection so the home design can be tailored specifically to the property and their lifestyle.
Building with Intention from the Ground Up
As a trusted custom home builder, Vitruvian Homes believes that the foundation of a great home starts long before construction begins. Choosing the right lot allows us to design a home that fits the land, enhances functionality, and delivers timeless style. When the lot comes first, every design decision that follows feels natural and well planned.
If you are considering building a custom home in Oklahoma, our team is here to guide you from lot selection through final design and construction. At Vitruvian Homes, every detail matters, starting with the land beneath your future home. Contact us today and start your custom home journey.