Construction & Process

Design Center

Also known as: Selection Center, Studio, Design Studio

Definition

A showroom where new construction buyers select their home's finishes, fixtures, and upgrades — such as countertops, flooring, cabinetry, and paint colors. Selections made here become part of your purchase agreement.

Detailed Explanation

After signing a purchase agreement for a to-be-built home, you will typically have a design center appointment where you choose the finishes and upgrades for your home.

The base price of your home includes "standard" selections. Upgrades from the design center cost extra and are added to your total purchase price. These costs can add up quickly — it is common for buyers to spend $20,000 to $50,000 or more in design center upgrades.

Your design center selections become part of your contract through a design center addendum. Once you sign off on your selections, changes may require change orders with additional fees.

In Your Contract

Look for a "design center addendum," "selections addendum," or "upgrade agreement" attached to your purchase agreement. This document should detail every selection, its cost, and the total upgrade amount.

Key Points

  • 1Where you choose finishes, fixtures, and upgrades.
  • 2Base price includes standard selections; upgrades cost extra.
  • 3Upgrade costs can add up to $20,000-$50,000+.
  • 4Selections become part of your contract — changes may incur additional fees.
  • 5Set a budget before your appointment and stick to it.

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This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in your state before making legal decisions.