Luxury modern farmhouse custom home at golden hour with warm stone facade, floor-to-ceiling windows, and mature oak trees in the Texas Hill Country
7-Year Award-Winning Builder
Texas Hill Country

Where Vision
Meets Craftsmanship

For over 30 years and three generations, we've been transforming dreams into extraordinary custom homes. Every detail, every finish, every moment -- designed with intention.

30+Years
200+Projects
7xAward Winner
Free Consultation

Start Your
Dream Project

Schedule a complimentary consultation and take the first step toward your dream space.

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Our Process

A Proven Process for a
Seamless Experience

From start to finish, we guide you through every step, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable building experience that meets your vision.

Step 01

Get to Know Us

Free Consultation

We start with a complimentary consultation to understand your vision, lifestyle, budget, and timeline. We listen closely because every great project starts with a conversation.

Step 02

Design & Planning

3D Visualization

Our team creates detailed plans, 3D visualizations, material selections, and a comprehensive scope of work. You see every detail before construction begins -- no surprises, ever.

Step 03

Construction Phase

Expert Craftsmanship

With permits secured and selections finalized, construction begins. You receive regular updates, transparent communication, and quality oversight at every phase of the build.

Step 04

Final Reveal

Move-In Ready

Your dream space is completed with a detailed final walkthrough, quality inspection, and our commitment that you love the result. We hand you the keys to your new life.

What to Expect

Our Commitment
to You

  • A dedicated project manager for your build
  • Weekly progress updates with photos
  • Transparent pricing with no hidden costs
  • Licensed, insured, and warranty-backed work
  • Clean, respectful job sites at all times
  • Direct access to Sonja throughout the process
As Featured In

Meet Sonja Read

Owner, partner, and the creative force behind every project we build.

Sonja Read, 3rd-generation general contractor and owner of L&M Custom Designs and Build
7xAward Winner
Featured Article

"Dreams only come true when you believe in yourself, take chances, and Trust God."

-- Sonja Read, Owner & Partner

I am the 3rd generation on my father's side of general contractors. I learned so much about home building at a young age that it only made sense to study the trade. My mother was an award-winning artist. Creativity came naturally for me. I fell in love with the interior design as well as the construction side of the field.

I was raised in Lubbock, Texas and studied at Texas Tech. Through life-changing events at age 50, I started my life over -- staying in the home building world where I created my own Design and Build custom home company over 11 years ago. It has been a rewarding 30+ years in this career, being blessed with the ability to win many awards in various areas including parade homes.

Now based in the Austin, Texas area, I continue to serve the beautiful Hill Country. Female builders are still somewhat rare in this industry. Through determination and the support of my family, I have been successful and blessed to build beautiful luxury custom homes for some amazing people across this beautiful region.

30+

Years Experience

7x

Award Winner

3rd

Generation Builder

2

Daughters, 5 Grandchildren

Credentials & Background

3rd-Generation General Contractor
Texas Tech University
Multiple Parade Home Awards
Interior Design & Construction
Licensed & Insured in Texas
Based in the Austin, TX Area
Read Full Story
Why L&M

Building Trust,
One Home at a Time

My philosophy is simple: listen closely, plan intentionally, and build with integrity. Every project deserves attention to detail, open communication, and a seamless blend of style and function.

"Dreams only come true when you believe in yourself, take chances, and Trust God."

Sonja Read, Owner & Partner

7-Year Award Winner

Recognized seven consecutive years for excellence in custom home building, including multiple parade home awards across the Texas Hill Country.

3rd Generation Builder

Over 30 years and three generations of hands-on construction expertise, design knowledge, and project management passed down through the family.

3D Visualization

See your project before it begins with photorealistic 3D rendering. Walk through every room, test finishes, and make changes before construction starts.

Personal Attention

Owner-operated and hands-on. Sonja personally oversees every project from concept through completion with unwavering integrity.

Design-Build Expertise

Combining an award-winning artist’s creative eye with a builder’s technical precision to create homes that are both beautiful and built to last.

Seamless Process

From initial consultation to final walkthrough, clear communication and a smooth experience every step of the way. No surprises, ever.

Client Stories

Trusted by Homeowners Across the Hill Country

Every project is a partnership built on trust, transparency, and a shared vision for something extraordinary.

$1.2M Custom Ranch Home project by L&M Custom Designs
$1.2M Custom Ranch Home

"Sonja took our vision and turned it into something beyond what we imagined. Her attention to detail and communication throughout the build was exceptional. We never felt in the dark about any step of the process."

MS
Michael & Sarah R.Dripping Springs, TX

Rated 5.0 across 200+ completed projects

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to the questions we hear most from homeowners considering a custom build or renovation.

Custom home construction in the Hill Country typically ranges from $200 to $450+ per square foot in 2026, depending on finishes, complexity, and site conditions. During your free consultation, we provide a detailed budget range based on your specific vision and lot.

Yes. We offer complimentary, no-obligation consultations for all project types including custom homes, renovations, outdoor living, and design services. Book online or call (512) 555-0180.

A typical custom home takes 8 to 14 months from groundbreaking to move-in, plus 2 to 4 months for design and permitting. We provide weekly progress updates with photos throughout the entire process.

Yes. L&M Custom Designs and Build is a fully licensed Texas General Contractor with comprehensive liability insurance, workers' compensation, and EPA Lead-Safe Certification.

We serve the greater Texas Hill Country including Austin, Dripping Springs, Wimberley, New Braunfels, San Marcos, Buda, Kyle, Bee Cave, Lakeway, and surrounding communities.

Our 3D visualization technology creates photorealistic digital models of your home before construction begins. You can virtually walk through every room, test materials and finishes, and make changes digitally instead of during construction -- saving time and money.

7-Year Award-Winning Builder

Let's Build Something
Beautiful Together

Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward the home you've always envisioned. 30+ years of expertise, three generations of craftsmanship.

Book Your Consultation