Building Dream Homes: How KED and MT Higgins Construction Create Luxury Spaces
Why the right interior design and contractor team matters
A successful home renovation or new build isn’t just about the final result—it’s about the process. At KED, we believe that careful planning, innovative design, and attentive client service are foundational to creating exceptional homes. Additionally, a strong collaboration between the interior designer and contractor can make all the difference in achieving a well-executed project. For our projects, we’re proud to partner with MT Higgins Construction, one of California’s premier general contractors, to ensure a seamless, high-end experience from concept to completion.
This month on the blog, we sat down with Michael Higgins, founder of MT Higgins Construction, and Kristen Fiore to discuss their working relationship, their recent modern home project, and the key insights every homeowner should know before embarking on a home construction journey.
The Power of a Strong Design & Build Partnership
What makes your partnership work well?
Kristen: Communication is the cornerstone of a good working relationship. Michael and his team do a great job keeping everyone in the loop, including the clients and the design team. MTH consults us on decisions large and small and we appreciate their attention to detail, their trust in our expertise, and their respect for our designs.
While we run different businesses at the end of the day, we are all on the same team. Our shared goal is a successful project and happy clients. Things happen in remodels that require patience, professionalism, and problem-solving, and we work together to find the best solutions.
Michael: We believe that a well-laid plan sets the foundation for a successful project. From the start, we align with KED to ensure all design elements are accounted for, which helps avoid delays and unexpected costs. Our team prioritizes open communication and transparency to ensure the client's vision is realized with precision and efficiency.
A Modern Home Transformation
You recently partnered on a stunning modern home project, tell us a little about the project and how you collaborated to bring it to life.
Kristen: Our clients in Loomis, CA, came to us to renovate their new home. Though the property was newly built, it lacked originality. Our clients wanted the home to feel like them—reflecting their style and personality. Our job was to create original, one-of-a-kind spaces that elevated the entire home.
We brought in MTH at the outset, knowing we wanted to work with a crew fluent in high-end design projects. The MTH team is open to new materials and ideas, values their craft, and keeps clients informed every step of the way.
The entire home was customized with sophisticated materials and design concepts. One showstopping element is a backlit, three-dimensional feature wall in the Primary Suite. This highly technical design required troubleshooting to execute correctly, and MTH worked through solutions to ensure it was visually stunning and cost-effective.
Another challenge we ran into was finding artisans who could create custom 100-inch-high inset glass doors for the Primary Living Room. MTH found the right team, ensuring every detail was executed flawlessly. We also appreciated their openness to reusing materials, like the pick onyx quartzite we repurposed as a countertop and feature wall in the Arcade/Game Room. The result was a beautiful, one-of-a-kind space that married sustainability with luxury.
This project exemplifies how thoughtful planning and a skilled team can successfully execute ambitious design ideas—seamlessly blending innovation, sustainability, and craftsmanship.
Michael: Transforming a design vision into reality is what we love most about our work. This project was a great example of how collaboration between design and construction leads to amazing results. Our role was to bring KED’s original creative vision to life while ensuring practicality and structural integrity. We embrace challenges like custom elements and unique materials because we believe in making every home as special as the people who live in it.
What Every Homeowner Should Know Before Building or Renovating
What should clients know before starting a home construction project?
Michael: If the client can be aware of a few key things in advance it helps the whole project run more smoothly. This includes having a clear understanding of the project timeline and schedule, confirming finishes early in the process, and prioritizing communication. When all parties are on the same page, projects move much more efficiently.
What common challenges do you face, and how do you handle them?
Michael: The biggest challenge is often a lack of planning before construction starts. We always encourage clients to invest time in detailed architectural plans and work with an interior design team. This allows for a more accurate budget, prevents ordering delays, and ensures that every design element is accounted for before construction begins. This is where working with a skilled interior design team, like KED has been an invaluable part of the process.
What’s the most common misconception you find in your industry?
Michael: One major misconception is that contractors often cut corners to save time and money. While that’s a common stereotype, in reality, quality craftsmanship is key to a successful project, most builders prioritize integrity, ensuring that every detail is up to code and industry standards. Education and open dialogue can dispel these myths and help build trust in our industry.
Sneak peek progress shots of the latest Kristen Elizabeth Design & MT Higgins Collaboration
The Passion Behind the Craft
Share a little about your story and how you got to where you are today.
Michael: I come from a long line of builders—my father was a builder, and my grandfather was a stone mason in Ireland. After working as a carpenter and project manager, I moved to San Francisco, where I worked on some of the most beautiful luxury homes in the Bay Area. Eventually, I launched my own company, and every project continues to be an exciting new challenge.
What do you love most about your job and what makes you great at what you do?
Michael: I genuinely love what I do. I don’t think everyone can say that and I feel very grateful that I can.
The best advice I ever received was to listen more than you speak. This simple insight has helped me understand my clients' needs, build great relationships, and ultimately create homes that truly reflect their aspirations. Listening opens doors to endless possibilities.
Our core values help me and my team produce great work. Craftsmanship, integrity, and a love for bringing dream homes to life are at the heart of everything we do. I prioritize clear and open communication, take a detailed approach to planning, and foster collaboration with our clients and partners. This allows us to build lasting relationships with clients, architects, and designers, ensuring that every project is completed with the highest standards of quality and care.
When you’re not working, what do you like to do?
Michael: I cherish moments with my wife Brianne and our golden retriever Fran, whether we are playing fetch in the backyard or exploring the great outdoors, our time together is priceless. I also love hitting the golf course at Del Paso Country Club or soaking up the beauty of the mountains and coast. Nature fuels my creativity and refreshes my spirit.
Bringing Your Dream Home to Life
Our collaboration with MT Higgins Construction shows that the best projects come from strong partnerships. At KED, our expertise in luxury interior design, combined with our dedication to superior client service, ensures that we not only meet but exceed expectations. We are committed to delivering personalized, high-quality designs that reflect our clients' unique visions and lifestyles.
If you’re considering a home renovation or new construction project, partnering with a skilled design and build team like ours guarantees a seamless, rewarding experience. Contact us today to embark on your journey to a dream home that epitomizes luxury and sophistication.
Ready to get started? Contact us today to discuss your unique project goals and needs.
