In this episode, we welcome Halina Mark, Lead Designer of DJK’s in-house design team, Refined Design, to explore the heart of our custom home design process. With design services being one of the most exciting—and often overwhelming—parts of building a home, Halina explains how her team helps clients make confident decisions that bring their vision to life.

From partnering directly with project managers to guiding clients through the difference between simple selections and full design services, Halina shares how our team ensures every detail is cohesive, functional, and tailored. We’ll also dive into why elements like smart lighting, curated finishes, and thoughtful inspiration boards can make or break the process.

Whether you’re starting with a blank canvas or looking for guidance to refine your style, this episode shows how Refined Design helps homeowners avoid pitfalls, maximize potential, and achieve a home that feels truly one-of-a-kind.

From selections to success—Refined Design is the key to unlocking the full custom-home experience.

Learn more & connect with us!

Website: https://www.djkhomes.com

Contact: (630) 369-1953

Follow us on social!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djkcustomhomes/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DJKCustomHomes

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@djkcustomhomes1988

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/djk-custom-homes/

Houzz: https://www.houzz.com/pro/djkhomes

Pinterest: ⁠https://www.pinterest.com/djkcustomhomes/_pins/

Follow our show for more behind-the-scenes stories, building tips, and community insights. Don’t forget to rate our show and share!

Check out the rest of The DJK Podcast Series! { https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLorHXTRD7u0NY4dxZupFlCVUCr3UaN75n }

Chapters:

0:00 Intro

0:10 Opening Thoughts

0:56 What Are Design Services?

3:45 Designers Working With Project Managers

5:09 Expert Guidance: What Works vs. What Doesn’t

7:19 The Initial Partnership With Refined Design

9:00 When Does the Visionary Meeting Happen?

10:36 Client Responsibilities

12:06 The Pinterest Board Trap

12:53 Finding the Right Inspiration

13:44 Choosing Design Services vs. Selection Services

15:40 Selection Services: Guidance Without Full Design

18:02 The Truth About Skipping Design Services

19:50 The Most Common Room to Start Design In

20:36 Why Smart Lighting Is Crucial

21:17 Unlocking Full Custom Potential With Design Services

22:17 New Refined Design Studio in Downtown Naperville

24:35 Advantages of an In-House Design Team

25:56 Sharing the Same Vision

26:38 Building as One Family

27:21 Final Thoughts

27:38 Outro

OUTRO: “Happy” by Lukas Got Lucky Licensed via { https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/a1d7IEUyVY/ }