Bill and Kim Patrick work in a community that is one hour from Baltimore, one hour from Philadelphia, and three hours from Washington, D.C. They say their sophisticated clientele has high expectations for design and service that can only be satisfied with the design/build concept. "They value the process of concept to completion," Bill says.

Bill acts as head designer, but he considers design a truly collaborative effort with the homeowners. He recently hired a lighting designer who literally helps highlight the best of his projects. "Nothing affects a space more than light, whether it's natural or artificial," Bill says. "Now I notice if something is not lit well."

Last year the company purchased and remodeled a house on the main street of Bird in Hand. The Patricks are going to use it as a showroom and office. It will also have a selections/design center to make it easier for customers to choose products.