Diversifying Designs in Dallas-Fort Worth

Highland Homes demonstrates success through a customer-centric approach at Mosaic

Texas-based builder Highland Homes has amassed decades of experience with a focus on putting the customer first. Founded in 1985, the 100% employee-owned company builds new single-family homes throughout major Texas markets including Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio.

“Forty years strong and still growing, Highland Homes stands as a testament to doing things the right way,” said Highland Homes President Aaron Graham in a statement to Builder and Developer. “Our success has always been rooted in a people-first culture—one that prioritizes both our customers and our employees.”

One notable project is Highland Homes’ contribution to the master-planned community of Mosaic in the Dallas-Fort Worth town of Celina, Texas. Currently in the works, the neighborhood is projected to be completed in Spring 2025.

Mosaic stands out for the Highland team as it highlights the builder’s customer-centric approach. At Mosaic, Highland Homes has designed distinct products built across four lot sizes: 40 feet, 50 feet, 60 feet and 70 feet. With this approach, the builder ensures its ability to meet the needs of a diverse range of buyers, broadening its buyer pool to include someone from every stage of life.

Merchandising its products for Mosaic has been a strength for Highland, utilizing a creative strategy that extends beyond decor. Each of the four model homes’ designs were inspired by one of the four seasons: spring, summer, fall and winter. Additionally, the 11 offered floorplans were designed with maximum livability in mind. Traffic flows, light patterns, room placement and storage space were all among aspects considered when designing within this community.

Forty years strong and still growing, Highland Homes stands as a testament to doing things the right way. Our success has always been rooted in a people-first culture—one that prioritizes both our customers and our employees.” – Aaron Graham, President, Highland Homes

The Highland Homes team continuously works to refine its construction process with providing a rewarding buyer experience as the constant remaining goal. Communication is at the forefront of these efforts. To keep the buyer always “in the know,” the builder utilizes the power of communication technology with the Highland Homeowner app, offering real-time insights into the various construction stages and the specifics of each step to the customer.

In addition to customer experience, Highland Homes also places a focus on quality product superiority. These building practices include the use of upgraded materials such as deeper 14-in. floor joists compared to the typical 11 ⅞-in. joists, closer 19.2-in. on-center joist spacing instead of standard 24-in. spacing as well as elevated fasteners for increased durability. This is on top of the incorporated mold-resistant shingles, upgraded brick ties for structural stability up to the roofline and other thoughtful elements.

With Mosaic almost 100% built out, Highland Homes looks to trends for the year ahead, seeing higher density and intentional design on the rise. 

“By creating new products tailored to achieve more efficient use of space and land, we can meet growing demand while addressing attainability challenges,” wrote Highland Homes Dallas-Fort Worth Senior Vice President of Sales Amy Jones to Builder and Developer. “This requires intentionality to enhance not just livability but also functionality and flexibility.” 

Within designing intentional spaces for evolving lifestyles are flexible floorplans. Highland Homes reports its buyers prioritizing plans that cater to multigenerational living, remote work and personal wellness. 

“Dedicated home offices, adaptable living spaces, and rooms designed for fitness or relaxation are no longer luxuries—they’re expectations,” Jones wrote.

Increasing its trajectory, technology continues to revolutionize homes and the homebuying experience. Customization and pricing tools enable buyers to explore options and pricing in real times, furthering transparency and convenience. Additionally, Jones shared that smart features and energy-efficiency innovations continue to become client must-haves. 

Highland Homes continues to improve on its energy efficiency standards and technology incorporation. All Highland homes are built to ENERGY STAR requirements, including the certification program’s rated appliances and highly efficient HVAC systems. The company also offers its Smart from the Start package, giving homeowners a customizable smart home experience.

Further looking into this new year, the Highland Homes team has identified three primary industry challenges: land cost, lot supply and skilled labor access. By taking a proactive approach to these challenges, the homebuilder is confident in its ability to deliver exceptional homes and buyer experiences.

Embarking on the next decade of growth, Highland Homes remains committed to its customer-centric approach. This involves not only exceeding homeowner expectations during the buying process, but long after they’ve moved in as well. 

“We will continue to prioritize building homes of exceptional quality while designing spaces that adapt to how people live through multiple life stages,” Jones wrote. “As the industry evolves, our dedication to innovation, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction will ensure we stay at the forefront, creating homes where memories are made for years to come.”