“You're a good hand to hold. You have a lot of knowledge to bring to bear. We've hit you with a series of questions and you've always been able to share your expertise in a relevant and articulate way.”
Jordan
What clients, collaborators, and readers say
Testimonials
“It looks like it's always been there — and that's exactly what I wanted.”
Jessica, lakefront property
Over twenty-five years, more than a thousand homes. Here is what the people who lived in them, built them, and worked alongside them have said.
People who built or renovated
“Look no further! We had a great experience working with Talor! He takes a very thoughtful and thorough approach to architecture and project management. It has been a pleasure working with Talor and I would certainly do again!”
Eric Martin
“Talor listened well and did good work. It was a pleasure — no — a joy, to work with him.”
Linda Sax
“Talor helped me with my mother's waterfront property, as well as with my own home and investment properties. I have asked him to help me more than once because he is thoughtful, knowledgeable, and great to work with.”
Dave Rottenburg
“Talor does fantastic work. His attention to detail 100%. I highly recommend Vermont Home Design to help you with your project. You won't be disappointed!”
Justin
On what it costs, and what it's worth
“The house is so nice and the rooms flow together well. Thank you so much! Also, thank you for keeping the contractor honest! The amount he was going to overcharge us covered your entire fee! We feel like we received your thoughtful design services for free!”
Dr. Potti, MD
“You also designed something that we could afford to build. We've had experiences where everybody just goes off on a wish list, and before you know it, it's way out of your budget.”
Robert, lakefront property
“Talor is committed to helping people bring their dreams into reality while giving good advice about how to do it within their budget. He is a dear man — one you will be glad to know and work with.”
Mary Barnett
“Talor's work helped us create a property with increased rental income. This allowed us to upgrade our lifestyle immediately while also building something for the future.”
John Mosca
“Talor's work was very clever and he was willing to really push the envelope for the project. His creativity helped us secure funding for the work.”
Dan Dilworth
From the trades and the profession
The people who have watched the work from the other side.
“As a carpenter, I have worked with several architects and designers over the past 30+ years. I've learned one thing — many are trained to design but many have very limited experience in actual building. In the past, this has often created situations where the builder can't do a certain part of the project until a design issue is resolved. In many cases I have seen, if the architect actually knew something about building, many of these problems would never arise.”
“As a builder I'd say the biggest quality any architect could have is experience in the trades, actually building. With all that said — don't trust your design with just any architect. Talor has years of experience on the actual job site doing the actual work. He knows the process from both sides. He is a bright, kind individual and I believe anyone who hires him will be very satisfied they did.”
Brian Lewis, carpenter, 30+ years in the trades
“Talor blends his deep expertise in architecture and human wellbeing into a robust set of services that are accessible and approachable. If you are seeking a human-centric design process for your home, I recommend Vermont Home Design.”
Jacob Racusin, New Frameworks Natural Design/Build; Program Director & Instructor, Yestermorrow Design/Build School
“If you're a homeowner or a business owner looking to embark on an architectural project, then Talor is your guy. He will ensure your best interests. He will ensure that your money is well spent and the project comes in on budget and on time. He will serve as a good advocate for you while negotiating the contracts with the contractors, while coordinating with the engineers.”
Sangita Santhanam, Architect AIA, past collaborator
“Talor is a practical, heart-centered architect with real integrity. His planning process is thorough, thoughtful and carefully tailored with the priorities of each client. He listens so well and has a deep understanding of the importance of social and personal needs. Talor also has an amazing aesthetic! He puts special attention to creating beauty in the details along with the essentials.”
Patty Holton
“Talor is very knowledgeable and professional, and provides clients with detailed information to make the best decision for their optimal home design… He has several decades of experience and knows the ins and outs of design planning and implementation from start to finish.”
Jeffrey Gordon
“As a licensed architect myself, I found the main concept of designing homes that help people achieve their hopes, dreams, and goals to be truly inspiring. I very much appreciated the insightful consideration of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs when examining what it means to live a happier and healthier life.”
Sara Gloria Doria, Architect
Homes built around a life
“If we had just said 'what do you want in a house,' it would not have been so detailed. We probably would have gotten down the process and then realized — oh, I want this and you want that. We didn't even realize to talk about it.”
Shelby
“Before, I had been using my computer at my dining table. It is a hassle because I have to hide the computer away at meal time… Now, in addition to having a dedicated work space that I don't need to set up and tear down every time, I totally see the need for a little Nook where I can permanently keep my weights and weight bench, so I don't have to throw them in and out of my bedroom closet every time I want to work out — no setup, no time wasted, no friction — so helpful to maintain a consistent routine.”
Jim B, Skateboard Park Designer
“We run a busy, successful business in the city, and we needed a retreat where we could play hard and rest up in the beauty of nature… We appreciate how hard he worked to design space for our extended family to join us but still have enough separation for multiple generations to coexist happily and peacefully.”
Irene and Mike, mountain retreat
“Working through the Conscious Home Workbook was a transformative experience that not only improved the functionality and aesthetics of my home but also deepened my understanding of myself and my values. My living space now feels more aligned with who I am and supports my well-being in ways I hadn't imagined possible.”
Laura Walsh
“We are very pleased and happy with the project and listening to our preferences for styles and tastes. I especially like the way the sunlight comes into the meditation room in the morning — it is so uplifting and peaceful.”
Dr. Sankaran, MD, Pediatrician
“Don't ever worry that your work will be any less effective or beautiful or functional because some of the work happened remotely. Talor has a laser-focused mind that visualizes all the details and completes the picture.”
Mohan, four-acre property, California
Readers of Conscious Home Design
The book that started the Method.
“Whether you're renovating or starting fresh, this book gives you the questions you didn't know to ask. It helped me think about how each room affects our daily life and well-being. I only wish I'd read it sooner.”
Bruna
“I really love this book! I'm a doctor and a structural thinker but also pretty introspective, so was surprised and delighted to discover Talor's 'inside out' approach to home design. His advice helped me with changes due to the pandemic, especially regarding my bedroom, dining room, and workout areas that enhanced my day to day.”
Dr. Roy Vongtama, MD and actor
“This book completely changed the way I think about home design. It's not just about picking pretty furniture or layouts — it's about creating spaces that support your health, your relationships, and your overall happiness.”
Alex
“This isn't your typical design book. It's deeply thoughtful, focusing on how our homes shape our happiness and relationships. I felt guided, not overwhelmed.”
Paula Roma
“Bringing together wellness values with aesthetic values makes perfect sense as a way for individuals and families to find mental and physical ease and comfort in their homes. Talor has thoughtfully and skillfully captured this new architectural movement.”
Heidi Smith
“Talor is a true thought leader, his design approach is revolutionary. The ideas contained in the Conscious Home Design book will shape and serve humanity for generations.”
Autumn Barnett, Psychotherapist, MSW
“These ideas are sticky! After reading Conscious Home Design I find myself looking around my home and even my office at work trying to see how I can make them more 'conscious' and supportive.”
Amy Venman, Tocc'a Te Health Counseling
“You showed us what we really needed when we only thought we knew.”
Will and Marsha, forever home
Every project starts the same way: with a conversation about the life you're trying to build, before a single line is drawn.
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