As homeowners, the excitement of a new home or renovation often comes with a rush to see the process through. It’s tempting to barrel ahead, eager to move in and start living. But before you know it, there’s a for sale sign in the yard. That forever home wasn't exactly forever. Why is that?

Before beginning work on our own new home build on 15 acres, my husband and I approached things differently.

Perhaps it’s because we’ve both been in the industry for the past 2 decades—he’s a civil contractor, often the first person on-site excavating and preparing properties for construction, and I’m a home consultant and architectural designer, guiding homeowners through blueprints, plans and the process. We’ve seen countless projects unfold, and one thing always stands out: the pace of a project often determines the joy (or frustration) it brings.

Rushed projects often lead to regrets—whether in design choices, construction quality, or financial strain. On the other hand, we’ve watched families fall in love with homes that were designed and built intentionally. That’s why, when it came to building our own home, we embraced the idea of a slow home.

What Is a Slow Home?

A slow home isn’t just about the speed of the design or construction process; it’s about giving your home—and yourself—the time and space to create something meaningful.

Building or renovating a home is one of the largest investments you’ll ever make, both financially and emotionally. It’s not something to rush through. Yet, so often, the idea of “time equals money” drives the process, leading to shortcuts and hurried decisions.

The truth— that only applies to developers; and you know what their homes are like. Rushing can lead to mistakes, regrets, and homes that don’t feel quite right (learn our top 3 mistakes homeowners make here). A slow home challenges that mindset. It’s not about dragging your feet (or your hires dragging their feet)—it’s about making thoughtful choices that you’ll be happy with for years to come.

For me, a slow home is one where every detail has been carefully considered. It’s not just a house; it’s a reflection of who you are, how you live and what matters most to you. It’s about designing a space you’re proud of and creating a process you can actually enjoy, free from the pressure to hurry.

The Slow Home Movement

The idea of a slow home isn’t new. Architect John Brown coined the term in 2006 to advocate for more thoughtful and sustainable residential design, emphasizing quality over quantity, simplicity over excess, and intention over urgency. His vision was to encourage homeowners to slow down and create spaces that truly align with their needs and values.

But the concept has been around for centuries. Historical homes were often built with care and purpose, where every beam and stone was thoughtfully placed, and designs considered natural light, seasonal changes, and the surrounding landscape. 

This approach also has financial benefits. A friend once shared how her family in Lebanon embraced this philosophy, building or renovating only as funds became available rather than taking on unnecessary debt. By slowing down, they avoided financial strain while creating a home that grew with them over time.

A slow home is more than just a building—it’s an extension of the slow living movement, which values mindfulness, purpose, and connection. It’s about creating a space that reflects your priorities and supports your well-being, reminding us that good things take time.

The Benefits of Slow Construction

Taking your time with your home project has profound benefits, from reducing stress to increasing the quality of the end result. When you remove unnecessary deadlines, you gain freedom—the freedom to make thoughtful decisions, to adapt as needed, and to truly enjoy the process.

Here are some key benefits of slow construction:

• Fewer regrets: Rushed decisions often lead to compromises you may later regret. Slowing down gives you space to consider your choices fully.

• Intentional design: Time allows you to clarify your vision, ensuring your home meets your needs and reflects your style. The more clarity and detail, the better (and easier) the build.

• Better collaboration: Building strong relationships with your design and construction team leads to a smoother, more enjoyable process.

• Balanced life: Slowing down means you don’t have to put life on hold. Take trips, spend time with family, and let your home unfold naturally.

• Reduced overwhelm: The pressure of tight timelines can lead to stress and frustration. Slowing down brings calm and clarity.

5 Tips for Designing and Building a Slow Home

If you’re ready to embrace the idea of a slow home, here are five ways to make it happen:

1. Remove the rush.
   Set aside the unnecessary need for deadlines. The freedom of not rushing will relieve pressure and save you from impulsive decisions or costly mistakes.

2. Clarify your vision.
   Take time to understand your priorities, lifestyle, and financial position before making your first hire. This clarity will guide every decision along the way.

3. Vet your professionals.
   Get to know your designer, builder, or architect before hiring them. Observe their work, read reviews, and talk to past clients to ensure their style and process align with your expectations.

4. Plan ahead.
   Work with your design team to include as many details as possible in the plans and your contractor on the budget. The more decisions you make upfront, the fewer questions and surprises you’ll face later.

5. Romanticize the process.
   Celebrate each stage of the journey. Visit the job site with excitement, embrace challenges as opportunities for creative solutions, and take pride in the progress.

If you’re not sure where to begin or want a clearer roadmap, The Concrete Method was designed to walk you through the entire home project process — from vision and money mindset to planning, hiring, and design — so you can move forward with confidence and intention.

A Home Worth the Wait

Slowing down doesn’t mean delaying your dreams—it means building a home that truly reflects who you are and how you want to live. The process may take longer, but the results will be well worth it. 

So, take a deep breath, let go of the rush, and allow your home to unfold at its own pace. After all, the best things in life are worth the wait.