In this episode of Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect, Stefani Thatcher sits down with Meg Billings, owner of Meg & Co. Designer Homes, who went from building her own home out of necessity to becoming a certified master builder.

Meg shares how stepping into construction without a roadmap shaped the way she runs her business today—from building strong trade relationships to creating systems that improve communication with clients. Her experience highlights what really makes a project successful beyond just good design.

They also dive into one of the biggest gaps in the industry: what builders actually need from floor plans. If you’re a residential designer, this conversation will shift how you think about documentation, collaboration, and delivering plans that truly work in the field.

What You’ll Learn

✅ Why strong trade relationships are critical to project success

✅ How communication systems reduce mistakes and client stress

✅ What builders actually need (and don’t need) in floor plans

✅ Why documentation matters: “If it’s not on paper, it’s not happening”

✅ How weekly client meetings improve clarity and trust

✅ The role of feedback in refining your design process

✅ Why simplifying language helps clients feel more confident

Chapters

00:00 – Meg’s Path from First Build to Business Owner

06:12 – The Power of Trade Relationships

11:17 – Why Building Isn’t a Commodity

18:19 – Learning Through Her First Projects

24:01 – Handling Feedback & Improving Processes

28:02 – Client Communication & Weekly Meetings

33:05 – What Builders Need from Floor Plans

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In this episode of Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect, Stefani Thatcher sits down with Don Titus, founder of Haven Architecture Studio. With over 25 years in the field and nearly two decades running his own business, Don shares a unique perspective shaped by both unlicensed and licensed experience.

They dive into the realities of the licensure journey—what it actually takes, where people get stuck, and why persistence matters more than perfection. Don opens up about failing multiple exams, stepping away for years, and eventually finding the support and strategy he needed to follow through.

They also explore the value of community, the importance of aligning budget with expectations, and what it looks like to design homes that truly serve the people living in them. If you’ve ever questioned your path—or your pace—this episode will give you clarity and encouragement to keep going.

What You’ll Learn

• Why the path to becoming an architect isn’t always linear
• How to stay motivated after repeated setbacks or failures
• The role of community and accountability in achieving big goals
• What licensure actually changes (and what it doesn’t) in your career
• How to qualify clients and align budget with expectations
• Key challenges in remodel and addition projects
• Why honesty and guidance are essential in client relationships

Chapters

00:00 – From Childhood Inspiration to Architecture

04:25 – Understanding the Licensure Process

10:01 – Starting a Business During the Recession

17:30 – Failing the ARE and Losing Momentum

20:46 – Licensed vs. Unlicensed: Pros and Cons

25:58 – Specializing in Remodels and Additions

36:55 – Final Advice: Persistence and Finding Support

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In this episode of Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect, Stefani Thatcher sits down with Cole Hamilton, licensed architect and founder of Hamilton Home Design. With a non-linear path into architecture, Cole shares how he built a business focused on designing homes that truly reflect the people who live in them.

They unpack the realities of the residential design industry—from confusion around titles to gaps in quality and service—and why clear communication and strong processes matter more than trying to impress with “perfect” design.

If you’re an aspiring residential designer or working in the custom home industry, this episode will help you design with more clarity, confidence, and a stronger client-first approach.

What You’ll Learn

• Why designing for real people matters more than impressing with a portfolio

• How to help clients find the right designer (and be the right fit)

• The importance of asking better questions before starting a design

• How to balance guiding clients without overpowering their vision

• Why clear processes improve both design outcomes and client experience

• How ongoing learning and code knowledge can set you apart

• The role of honesty and communication in building trust with clients

Chapters

00:00 – From Accidental Architect to Residential Design

02:31 – Cole’s Path to Licensure

09:55 – Starting a Business Through Opportunity

13:14 – The Gap in Residential Design Services

16:50 – How Clients Can Choose the Right Designer

24:56 – Communication, Revisions, and Client Expectations

40:49 – Systems, Process, and Final Advice

Want to Be a Guest?

Do you want to be a guest on Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect or nominate someone?

👉 https://www.dostudios.co/contact