Since a home is likely to be your biggest financial investment, every decision surrounding it is weighty. Is the neighborhood right? Can I see myself living here? Should I renovate or start over and build from scratch?

Home decisions are highly personal; no one can tell you how a particular home or neighborhood makes you feel. But experts can share their wisdom to help you make the most informed choices. And that is what the team at Michael Lauren Development does for its clients. The upscale custom builder, recognized as one of the top in St. Louis, is responsible

 for 13 elegantly completed projects in Clayton—and some very happy homeowners.

“Michael Lauren focuses on the relationship with the customer, starting with truly listening to their opinions and wanting to execute their vision,” says Suzanne Putnam, who is currently working with the developer to renovate her condo in The Plaza in Clayton. “We have built many homes in the past and know how important this quality is in a builder.”

That personal relationship is a hallmark of the firm, which meets “as often as it takes” to transform clients’ visions into the perfect homes for them, says president Michael Rechan. Long known as a builder of custom homes in established neighborhoods, Rechan has expanded to include high-quality renovations.

His firm is viewed as the premier custom builder in Clayton, where he has created homes for CEOs, executives and entrepreneurs. He says discerning clients are drawn to the MLD business model. “We are known for efficient floor plans and a highly personalized selection process that helps people create their ideal home,” he explains. “And our designs maintain the architectural integrity of the neighborhoods where we build.” MLD currently has a large lot in Clayton Gardens available for a custom home project.

As for renovating versus building, Lawrence Group principal Paul Doerner, who works closely with Rechan to design the homes, offers advice on how to answer that question. “Some of the decision has to do with budget, some with real estate investment,” the architect notes. “In my opinion, you get rid of a house when the balance of things you need to fix gets so extensive that it makes more sense to start over.”

Questions you might ask yourself include: Does your house already have a handsome facade? How flexible are youin terms of living with some less-than-ideal features? Doerner points out that certain well-conceived renovations can make all the difference.

“If you look at the homes we build now, they are more open, with better lighting and amenities than older ones,” he says. “If you hope to redesign your family rooms and kitchens in an open arrangement, you may want the master bedroom above it to be larger with a nicer bathroom and larger closets as well.”

Renovate or build—both are good options as long as you choose the right team to work with.

Michael Lauren Development LLC designs upscale homes for St. Louis’ most discerning customers. For more information, call 314.374.3846 or visit michaellauren.com. 

Cover design | Allie Bronsky

Photos | Suzy Gorman and Bill Barrett