The Foundation Series
Learn what it really takes to plan for and build your dream home -
save time, money, and stress with insider knowledge that pays for itself!
An Exclusive 4-Part Virtual Series for Homeowners
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU ATTEND
THE FOUNDATION SERIES
Expert-Led Guidance – Learn directly from leading interior designer and Design Retreat founders, Susan Ferrier and Jillian O’Neill
Avoid Costly Mistakes – Discover the hidden pitfalls that can derail your project and how to prevent them.
Proven Framework – Get a clear, step-by-step understanding of the luxury homebuilding process from start to finish.
Insider Secrets – Access strategies, tips, and vendor insights not available to the general public. “ungoogleable” information!
Save Time & Stress – Streamline decisions and avoid endless back-and-forth with confidence.
High-Value Investment – Intensive programming designed to save you tens of thousands in missteps and delays.
PROGRAM DETAILS
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SESSION 1
Assembling the Dream Team
How to hire and manage the right architect, designer, and builder
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SESSION 2
Budget Like a Boss
Real talk about what luxury really costs—and how to avoid overages
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SESSION 3
Timeline & Process
Permits, phases, and living your life while building
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SESSION 4
The Details That Define Luxury
Finish choices, quality control, and timelessness vs trend
YOUR HOSTS
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SUSAN FERRIER
Susan Ferrier Interiors
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JILLIAN O'NEILL
Jillian O’Neill Interior Design
the details…
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Session 1
How to build trust, accountability, and clarity from day one
What to expect in fees and retainers—and how to budget wisely
The must-have agreements and documentation to protect yourself
Managing overlapping roles to reduce conflict and confusion
This session is about proactive leadership as a homeowner. You’ll walk away with a clear framework to build the team that will shape not just your home, but your experience for the next 12–24 months.
"The best projects don’t happen by accident—they’re built by aligned teams with clear direction."
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Session 2
A working budget framework you can adapt to your project
The most common budget overages and how to prevent them
How to phase your build intelligently—if needed
What luxury costs today (not 5 years ago)—with clarity, not guesswork
This session will leave you feeling financially prepared and strategically empowered, not overwhelmed. Because the most expensive mistake in luxury homebuilding? Not knowing what you don’t know—until it’s too late.
“Luxury is in the details—and so is your budget.”
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Session 3
A high-level project timeline you can adapt to your build
How to plan for furniture, landscaping, pool installation, and other final-layer details early
What to delegate, what to stay involved in, and how often to show up
Tools and routines to stay informed without being overwhelmed
This session gives you what few builders will: a full-picture view of the process and a strategy to manage the emotional and logistical complexity of a luxury build. Because success isn’t just getting the house done—it’s how you feel while it’s happening.
“Building a home isn’t a sprint or a straight line—it’s a season of life. Let’s make it one you’re ready for.”
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Session 4
How to create continuity across rooms and levels—even with layered design styles
Tools for tracking, approving, and verifying every spec (without micromanaging)
How to make intentional decisions under pressure—without compromising the vision
Avoiding the “shiny object syndrome” that derails cohesion and budget
This session is about discernment—and understanding that the feeling of luxury is not just seen, but felt. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of what separates a good house from an exceptional one—and how to make every detail count.
“Luxury is in the details. So is disaster. Choose wisely.”
Building your dream home is not for the faint of heart. It demands meticulous planning and communication, and most importantly, resources that are very difficult to obtain. We will equip you with the tools for a more confident, efficient, and gratifying experience. Our experts are here to provide you with unprecedented insights and inspiration.
spring attendee
“Impossible to name a favorite moment…the energy and authenticity - so rare, so special…so honored to have been part of this event. An “aha” moment for me was the importance and value of creating a team”
spring attendee