Meet Liz Davies - The Woman Behind ATL’s Most Beautiful Homes
Liz Davies is the founder of ESD Homes, a boutique residential construction firm known for building some of Atlanta’s most beautiful and well-executed homes. As a seasoned general contractor, Liz brings deep expertise, a sharp eye for detail, and a clear, client-focused process to every project. She’s built a reputation not just for the homes she creates, but for the way she leads clients through the construction journey with confidence and care.
“In the early days of my career, I had to remember everything—every fixture, every tile, every delivery. As our team grew, I realized I was still carrying all the mental load. That’s when I knew we needed a better way to build.”
That realization led to the creation of ESD’s Precon Process—a thoughtful, front-end approach to custom building that prioritizes organization, clarity, and proactive decision-making. It’s where Liz and her team do the heavy lifting early: mapping out the details, asking the right questions, and putting a plan in place that sets the tone for the entire project.
“We’re going to push the limits of what we need to know about your project,” Liz says. “Designs are ever-evolving, and having a well-organized set of selections and plans helps us navigate change orders—which no one likes, but they are a reality.”
So how do you avoid those dreaded change orders and keep your budget in check? Liz’s advice is simple and clear: Plan, plan, plan.
That means making decisions early, even when it feels premature, and trusting the process.
“We ask a lot of questions upfront, and sometimes clients aren’t ready for them. But timely decisions really affect your budget. And truthfully, owners have more control than they think.”
If you’re thinking about starting a custom project, here’s what Liz wants you to know:
What to Know Before You Build
1. Every Decision Has a Ripple Effect
Even small design or material choices can impact your budget and timeline. It’s tempting to say, “We’ll figure that out later,” but “later” often brings added costs, delays, and stress. The more you decide upfront, the smoother your project will be.
2. Your Involvement Matters More Than You Think
“Clients often don’t realize how much control they have in the process,” Liz explains. “The clarity of your decisions directly impacts the clarity of your build.”
From lighting fixtures to cabinet layouts, your input keeps things moving. Delayed decisions can create scheduling conflicts, supply chain issues, and budget shifts—especially with materials that have long lead times.
3. Planning Is Protection
The Precon Process isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about protecting your investment. By documenting selections, confirming plans, and identifying potential issues before construction begins, you minimize surprises and gain peace of mind.
4. Change Orders Happen—But They Don’t Have to Derail the Project
While it’s nearly impossible to avoid every change order, many are preventable. When your selections are finalized early and the scope is clearly defined, you dramatically reduce mid-project pivots. And if changes do arise, a solid reference point makes it easier to understand the cost and schedule implications.
5. Communication Is Everything
Your builder should be a true partner—not just a contractor. At ESD, that relationship starts before ground is even broken. The goal is to create an open, communicative environment where everyone—from the homeowner to the trades—is aligned and informed.
6. It’s Okay to Feel Overwhelmed
Custom construction involves hundreds of decisions. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed. That’s why a structured process—and a steady, experienced hand—matters. Liz and her team are there to help you prioritize, problem-solve, and focus on what really matters.
At ESD, it’s not just about building a house—it’s about creating a smooth, empowering, and beautifully orchestrated experience. And that all begins long before the first nail is hammered.
When you take the time to plan well on the front end, the reward is more than just a stunning home. It’s a build process you can actually enjoy.