Spoiler: longer than you think, but 100% worth it.
We’re asked all the time: “How long will it take to build our home?” And the truth is—it depends. There’s no quick answer because building a custom home isn’t a straight line. It’s a layered, evolving process with a lot of moving parts. But with the right team from the start, it’s a journey you’ll actually enjoy.
Whether you’re building in Boca Raton, Palm Beach, West Palm Beach, or anywhere in Florida, timelines can vary—but the principles stay the same.
Step 1: Architecture – Where It All Begins
This is the dream phase—where your ideas are sketched into reality. It’s exciting, creative, and full of possibilities. But it also takes time. Depending on complexity and how many revisions you want, this can take a few months to 6 months (or more).
At Nikki Levy Interiors, we believe the interior design team should be involved from the very beginning. While your architect focuses on structure and layout, we make sure your lifestyle is thoughtfully layered in. From how you’ll move through a space to where your morning coffee lives, we work hand-in-hand with your architect to ensure your home is functional and personal from the inside out.
Step 2: Engineering – Making It Work
Once the design is set, engineers step in to make sure everything functions—safely and properly. This includes structural, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing plans. This phase often runs behind the scenes and can take a few months.
Tip from Nikki Levy Interiors: Keep momentum going during this time by finalizing interior selections—stone, flooring, cabinetry, lighting—so you’re not rushed later.
Step 3: Permits & Approvals – Hurry Up and Wait
The least glamorous but most necessary step. Submissions, reviews, zoning… every city has its own pace, and this step can take 1–6 months.
We always guide our Florida clients, especially in places like Boca Raton and Palm Beach, to use this time wisely—refining layouts, furniture plans, and finishes so we’re ready to move as soon as permits are approved.
Step 4: Construction – Where the Magic (and Mess) Happens
Framing begins, walls go up, it starts to look like a home! Construction on a custom home in Florida—particularly in high-end markets like West Palm Beach or Palm Beach—usually takes 12–18 months, depending on complexity, weather, and supply chains.
Tip: Be ready for surprises. Delays happen. A strong builder and a collaborative team—like the one we build with at Nikki Levy Interiors—will manage the pivots and keep your vision intact.
Step 5: Interior Design – Life Gets Layered In
Design isn’t an afterthought—it’s integrated from day one. But this is when it all comes to life: millwork, furnishings, textiles, art, and finishing touches. Nikki Levy Interiors, based in Boca Raton, handles every detail—from custom pieces to styling the last throw pillow—so you walk into a home that feels complete.
Pro tip: Custom takes time. We plan ahead to ensure your furniture and finishes are ready when your house is.
So, What’s the Total Timeline?
In general, plan for 18–24 months from the first meeting to move-in day. Larger or more detailed homes? Up to 3 years isn’t unusual—especially in areas like Palm Beach or West Palm Beach, where permitting and design complexity can add time.
It’s a big commitment—but so is creating a home that reflects how you live. With the right architect, builder, and Nikki Levy Interiors involved from the start, the process runs smoother and the results are beyond anything you could’ve imagined.
Design matters. Details matter. And the right team makes all the difference.
At Nikki Levy Interiors, we don’t just make it beautiful—we make it yours. Whether you’re building in Boca Raton, Palm Beach, or anywhere across the US, we’re here to help you bring your vision home.