5 Things I’m Taking Into 2026

A new year naturally invites reflection. It’s a moment to pause—long enough to look at what worked, what didn’t, and what’s worth carrying forward with more intention. In an industry built on long timelines and layered decisions, that kind of reset matters.

At Mark Phillips Construction, our work lives in the details: plans, budgets, schedules, materials, people, and the many small decisions that quietly shape the finished home. As we head into 2026, these are five things I’m intentionally bringing with me.

1) A detail-oriented mindset (as a system, not a personality trait)

In design and construction, being detailed is what sets you apart. The difference between “good” and “great” is almost always a series of small decisions handled well—consistently.

Take the note. Organize the note. Double-check the detail. Save the email and move the file into the right folder. Keep job photos organized. Document everything—mantel depth, paint color, the client’s wish list from the planning phase, pricing changes, selections, site conditions.

Because when you build custom homes, no two projects are exactly the same. And whenever I catch myself thinking, I’ll remember that, the truth is… I probably won’t.

So in 2026, I want our process to support the details—so being organized isn’t something extra, it’s simply how we work.

2) A growth mindset (and more curiosity in the field)

There’s always something new to learn in this industry. A new product, a new method, a code update, a better way to solve a problem—or simply a different perspective.

I want to keep asking more questions—especially with subcontractors and suppliers—so we get to the root of issues, understand complex situations, and make the best decisions for our clients.

Retaining information can be hard. Sometimes I learn something once, but it doesn’t fully stick until I explain it to someone else. So I’m leaning into that: making the most of meetings, staying present, thinking critically, and intentionally stepping outside my wheelhouse.

3) Refining our design process (and taking a stronger lead early)

While I’ve always been deeply involved in the design side of our builds, we’re continuing to elevate what we provide and take a more active seat at the table earlier in the process.

When we’re involved during the plan phase, we can identify opportunities sooner—how the home sits on the site, how rooms flow, where light enters, and how the home will actually live day to day. From there, we can carry that vision all the way through selections in a way that feels cohesive and calm—not rushed or reactive.

That means more intentional design support:

• clearer early direction

• client mood boards when helpful

• pushing a little further (in the right places)

• understanding trends, but applying them thoughtfully based on each client

  
  

The goal isn’t to complicate the process. The goal is to strengthen the outcome.

4) Less mindless scrolling, more trusted inspiration

Scrolling has started to feel a little… off.

I still find inspiration on Instagram, but it comes with a lot of caveats. Some images feel disconnected—and often it’s because they aren’t real. Fully AI-generated spaces can look beautiful, but they don’t translate to real materials or real homes. No wonder we can’t find that tile—it literally doesn’t exist.

In 2026, I’m intentionally seeking out inspiration that’s grounded and verified. Many designers I admire are writing long-form content on Substack, where ideas are shared with context, clarity, and real-world experience.

I’m also hoping to broaden my horizons in person—attending Parade of Homes in other metro areas, and potentially making it to IBS in Las Vegas and KBIS this year.

One design Substack I truly enjoy is W Design Collective. Their thoughtful approach inspired this post—and reminded me that meaningful inspiration still exists when you slow down enough to look for it.

5) Working in kindness and grace

The building industry can be full of big personalities and big egos. But the longer I do this, the more I believe this: almost everything can be solved. There is usually a way forward if you stay calm, pay attention, and keep working the problem.

The craftsmen who build our homes are human—and the work they do is exactly that: crafted. Framing, wood paneling, cabinetry, paint, stonework. That human touch is what makes a custom home feel special. When you step back and think about all the hands involved, it’s pretty remarkable.

A custom home is often the most significant investment a family will make. Getting it right matters. Holding the standard matters. But treating everyone on the job site with respect can’t fall away in the process.

Mark has taught me so much over the last five years simply by example—steady, direct, respectful. Mistakes might happen, but how you handle them is what sets you apart. And that mindset doesn’t stop at work—it carries into real life, too.

We’re not perfect. But here’s to trying—every day—to do better work and be better people. Learning from mistakes. Leaning into new information. Not missing the details. Improving the process. Staying curious. And doing it all with kindness and grace.

Here’s to 2026.