The Journal
Insights on building, remodeling, and craft.
August 4, 2026
Two Homes, Two Stories
A look back at our two 2026 Parade of Homes projects in Millcreek and Yalecrest, and the Best Interior recognition that followed.
Read →July 18, 2026
Welcome to the Citizen Builders Journal
A quick hello from the Citizen Builders team, and a look at what you'll find here: build insights, project stories, and straight talk on luxury home building in Utah.
Read →July 15, 2026
Why a Quiet Job Site Doesn't Mean a Quiet Project
A quiet job site rarely means a stalled project. Here's the behind-the-scenes work, bids, scheduling, lead times, inspections, that keeps a luxury remodel moving.
Read →July 6, 2026
The Sumner Project: A Whole-Home Transformation in Salt Lake City
An addition, basement extension, new office, and full kitchen remodel, and the months of city plan review it took to get one SLC whole-home project approved.
Read →June 22, 2026
Why We Build for Mold, Before It's Ever a Problem
Utah's climate makes moisture management critical. How we build for mold prevention from the studs out, the ZIP System, certified trades, and enclosure inspections.
Read →June 10, 2026
The Best Investment You'll Make Before Your Remodel Starts
The single biggest factor in a remodel's success isn't a design choice, it's the builder and the trusted team of trades behind them.
Read →June 2, 2026
How Much Does a High-End Home Remodel Cost in Utah? (2025-2026 Guide)
For Utah homeowners looking for the best option, not the cheapest, what the high-end remodel market actually looks like right now.
Read →May 12, 2026
Can You Live in Your Home During a Remodel?
Technically sometimes yes, but for large-scale remodels, here's why living elsewhere makes for a better experience.
Read →April 16, 2026
How Your Project Is Priced: Why Fixed-Cost Wins
The contract structure you choose impacts your budget, stress, and final result. Why fixed-cost pricing delivers clarity and control.
Read →March 6, 2026
Why Exterior Renovations Matter
Curb appeal, energy efficiency, and protecting your home from the elements, what to consider before an exterior renovation.
Read →February 9, 2026
Building with Intention: Our Jeremy Ranch Project
A behind-the-scenes look at our Jeremy Ranch project and what's ahead for Citizen Builders.
Read →November 16, 2025
Choosing the Right Countertop: Natural Stone vs. Modern Alternatives
How different countertop materials hold up over time, and how to choose for both style and durability.
Read →October 23, 2025
Sandy Remodel Update: From Demo to Rebuild
Bringing the vision to life, a progress update on our Sandy full remodel.
Read →October 6, 2025
Dialed In: The Final Step of Every Remodel
The finishing details that separate a good remodel from a great one.
Read →September 18, 2025
The Remodel Roadmap: A Step-by-Step Guide
A step-by-step guide to your home renovation, from first idea to final walkthrough.
Read →September 5, 2025
Building a Low-Toxic Kitchen: A Wellness-Centered Approach
A wellness-centered approach to kitchen design and materials.
Read →August 28, 2025
Choosing the Right Paint Sheen: A Guide for Your Home
Matte, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, how to choose the right paint sheen for every room.
Read →August 18, 2025
Breaking the HOA Remodel Myth: A Luxury Jeremy Ranch Transformation
How we delivered a luxury transformation within HOA guidelines in Jeremy Ranch.
Read →August 2, 2025
The Future of Citizen Builders: A Look at Our New HQ
A behind-the-scenes look at our new headquarters and what it means for the future.
Read →July 24, 2025
Your Dream Design Deserves to Be Buildable
Why vision without execution falls short, and how the right builder bridges the gap.
Read →July 17, 2025
The Essential Role of a Contingency Budget
Why a contingency budget matters in Utah luxury construction, and how to plan for one.
Read →June 15, 2025
Historic Renovations in Utah: Character Meets Code
How to preserve character and meet modern code in historic Utah renovations.
Read →June 1, 2025
When Should I Pick Out My Finishes? (Short Answer: ASAP)
Why selecting finishes early keeps your project on schedule and on budget.
Read →May 15, 2025
Why Your Builder Is Your Greatest Asset
The builder you choose is the single biggest factor in a renovation's success.
Read →May 1, 2025
Process Breakdown: From Vision to Reality
A breakdown of how we take your vision from concept to completed home.
Read →April 15, 2025
A Comprehensive Guide to Countertop Materials
Everything you need to know about countertop materials for style and durability.
Read →April 1, 2025
Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Invest in an ADU in Utah
The case for accessory dwelling units in Utah's current market.
Read →March 15, 2025
Innovative Living: Our Latest Two-Story ADU in Salt Lake City
Showcasing our latest two-story accessory dwelling unit in Salt Lake City.
Read →March 1, 2025
Common Remodeling Mistakes in Utah (and How We Avoid Them)
The most common remodeling mistakes in Utah and how we ensure a smooth project.
Read →February 15, 2025
Transforming Back Nine: A Golf Simulator Remodel in Lehi
A cigar-lounge-inspired golf simulator remodel in Lehi, Utah.
Read →February 1, 2025
Flooring Options for High-End Homes: A Comprehensive Guide
A comprehensive guide to flooring options for luxury homes.
Read →January 15, 2025
Building Excellence Starts with Exceptional People
Why our team is the foundation of everything we build.
Read →January 1, 2025
Top Building & Design Trends for 2025 in Utah
Where function meets flair, the top building and design trends for 2025 in Utah.
Read →December 15, 2024
Why Remodeling Might Beat Buying New
When remodeling your home is the smarter choice over buying new.
Read →December 1, 2024
From House to Dream Home: A Sugarhouse Full Remodel
Transforming a Sugarhouse property with a complete remodel.
Read →November 15, 2024
Unlocking the Potential of ADUs in Salt Lake City
A spotlight on Salt Lake City's unique approach to accessory dwelling units.
Read →November 1, 2024
What's the Deal with Building Permits? Do You Really Need One?
Everything you need to know about building permits in Utah.
Read →October 15, 2024
Popular Architectural Styles for Home Renovation in Utah
A guide to popular architectural styles for luxury remodels in Utah.
Read →