--- title: "L Design/Build, LLC — Design-Build Firms | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/l-design-build-llc-pfvwus-pf~562046547 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~562046547.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "L Design/Build, LLC" category: ["Design-Build Firms"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/e7c3d4640787cd97_0677-w400-h400-b1-p10--.jpg address: "1736 Holden Road, Youngsville, North Carolina 27596, United States" latitude: 36.0078 longitude: -78.4412 phone: "(919) 422-2543" website: https://ldesignbuildllc.com rating: 5 review_count: 9 best_of_houzz_awards: 3 followers: 43 last_updated: 2026-09-23 --- # L Design/Build, LLC > Raleigh's Preferred Design-Build Firm: Bringing Design to Construction Original Houzz profile: [L Design/Build, LLC](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/l-design-build-llc-pfvwus-pf~562046547) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Design-Build Firms - **Location:** Youngsville, NC - **Serves:** Raleigh - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (9 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2019–2021), for Design. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Star Houzzer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves - Verified Hires ### Business highlights - 1 Verified Hire Lida Carlson is the owner, designer and licensed contractor of L Design/Build. Robby Carlson works on the site supervision and material flow to make sure that each project runs smoothly. She and her husband work together to turn their client’s vision in to reality. Since 2000, L Design/Build, formerly known as Wakefield Builders, has been the most trusted design build firm in the North Raleigh and portions of Wake Forest areas. In the beginning, focused efforts on Wakefield Plantation and Wakefield Estates, were the basis for the strong design/build firm known today as L Design/Build. Lida is very hands on from the beginning planning phase, to designing, all the way through to the completion of your project or your new home. Lida’s goal is to make every client feel comfortable and excited about the design and construction process. She is there from start to finish to achieve her clients’ visions. After a successful career in clothing design while raising her 2 boys, Lida started her business in new construction homebuilding and has been in the business working on all forms of renovations/additions/new construction for more than 25 years. L Design/Build is different than most design/build firms in that Lida can take your desires and needs, draw them up, then work with an incredible team while using Robby’s vast experience from both the construction and inspections portions of the process … making L Design/Build the contractor that gives you the expertise needed to make the job right and look good at the same time. L Design/Build feels strongly that home building and renovating should be a good experience and aims to make it so for every client. ### Services Provided - Home Additions - Home Extensions ### Areas Served - Raleigh ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | L Design/Build, LLC | | Address | 1736 Holden Road, Youngsville, North Carolina 27596, United States | | Phone | (919) 422-2543 | | Website | https://ldesignbuildllc.com | | Followers on Houzz | 43 | ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [L Design/Build, LLC](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/l-design-build-llc-pfvwus-pf~562046547) - **Website:** https://ldesignbuildllc.com - **Phone:** (919) 422-2543 ## Credentials - **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2019–2021), for Design. ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 9 reviews** ### All 9 reviews **★★★★★ — Maria Fields, March 2018** > Lida is an incredible builder. She has such an eye for detail. She is able to tune into each individuals style and customize the home specific to the home owner. Truly makes the whole process fun. I can't imagine a better experience. **★★★★★ — Mary Prange, Oct. 2017** > L Design/Build undertook an extensive renovation to our 1950s ranch home, requiring us to move out for 7 months. We started with a 1500 square foot home and ended with an updated 2500 square foot new home. First, we met with Lida to discuss our list of needs and ‘nice to haves’ over many face to face meetings. Lida listened and advised us throughout the design phases of the project, taking into consideration our wishes. Lida’s design input during this very important planning phase is obvious in the result of our completed home renovation. > During the building of our home, her coordination and timing of sub-contractors and city and county permitting made the process run smoothly and on schedule. Even the unexpected buried oil tank in the back yard was handled with little disruption to our schedule, as she was able to source the appropriate people to remove and remedy this unplanned hiccup. Having Robby, her husband, on site each day was also an asset during the building process. Robby and Lida know all of their sub-contractors and have established long-term relationships that made the construction of the home go very well. > Lida also has strong relationships with local companies for fixtures, lighting, tile, stone, countertops, etc. Her design background was a huge asset when we had to make decisions on every detail of our renovation project. She gets to know you and can help you with selections – taking into account your style preferences, the home itself, and your budget. Lida is hands on during the entire process. She dedicates her time and crew to your home and you. She is available and communicates throughout the project about status, what’s next, when decisions have to be made, etc. Building a new home was a new experience for us but with Lida’s style, communication, and professionalism, we were extremely happy with the result! **★★★★★ — Garde Kramer, Aug. 2017** > Lida designed and coordinated a turnkey kitchen makeover for us. She was a delight to work with and took the extra steps to ensure the project stayed on schedule and budget. The finished design is beautiful and current. We could not be happier with the results and experience. **★★★★★ — Christy Karmanos, Aug. 2017** > I truly cannot say enough good things about working with Lida. Over the years, she helped us renovate our entire house, and we added on as well. She handled every single detail from the design process to seeing that our projects were completed beautifully and in the most timely manner possible. I promise that you will never find someone who pours her heart into her work the way she does. She's just incredible - honest, reliable, hardworking, organized, fair, and she has an amazing eye for design. The contractors she uses are carefully chosen so that homeowners are not only pleased with their quality work but also comfortable having them in their home. Lida is constantly mindful of the fact that it's hard to live through a renovation, especially for a family with young kids. She always bent over backwards to be sure that we were as comfortable as we could be as we lived among the chaos of a major project. Unfortunately, we had to move recently, and it was heartbreaking to leave the dream house that Lida helped us create. I wished I could have taken Lida with us to help us work on our new home a few states away! I already appreciated her, but once I was working with a different company and other contractors, I realized just how lucky we had truly been to have had the pleasure of working with someone as special as Lida. She is simply the best there is! **★★★★★ — Holly Boyd, Aug. 2017** > Lida & Robby are tremendous! Lida goes out of the way to really understand and design for the specific person and space! She made the design process so easy for my husband Brian and I and went OVER THE TOP to always answer texts/calls anytime/anywhere! All of her help is incredible, we truly became "friends" with all of them and everyone was so professional! I work from home and sometimes it can be intimidating for people working all of your home, but not Lida's crew... they were all so friendly and a true pleasure to be around... It's was sad to see them go :) Lida took our 1990's inspired interior and transformed it to a contemporary space my husband and I wanted! Lida took the guess work and stress out of renovations (which is almost impossible) and made the entire project enjoyable! We totally recommend her and her crew for any job! **★★★★★ — Mike Fields, Aug. 2017** > Solid builder with a unique design/build eye for detail. Really enjoyed working with Lida. So much, that she has built two homes for us. Says a ton to be a repeat customer for a custom builder. This project was truly a collaborative effort. Thanks Lida! **★★★★★ — Julia Milstead, Aug. 2017** > If there's such a thing as a "house whisperer," then Lida is it. My husband and I have very different tastes, but Lida was able to find the "sweet spot." In designing and building our house, Lida listened to our ideas, got to know our personalities and incorporated the best of them into our home. She is easy to work with and knows how to guide you effortlessly through the project. Lida's designs are clever and unique and thoughtful. Our home was done on schedule (slightly ahead!) and within budget! > > Since our home was complete, we've had random strangers stop to ask us if we were interested in selling! (Not on your life!) And a neighbor fell in love with Lida's work that they delayed their major renovation for a year until Lida was available. All of that should tell you, she's doing something right! She's the total package. **★★★★★ — alexisloiacono, Sept. 2016** > I have enjoyed working with Lida so much! A truly wonderful design build concept plus organization and scheduls that are hard to come by. **★★★★★ — Carolina Custom Kitchen and Bath, Dec. 2013** > We have worked with Lida for years and highly recommend L Design/Build. She does an excellent job and we look forward to continuing working together. ## Selected projects - [Raleigh - Farmhouse - New Construction Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/raleigh-farmhouse-new-construction-home-pj-vj~1873419) - Location: Raleigh, NC - Photos: 19 - [Raleigh - Transitional - Whole Home Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/raleigh-transitional-whole-home-renovation-pj-vj~1873429) - Location: Raleigh, NC - Photos: 4 - [Wake Forest - Traditional - Entire Home Design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/wake-forest-traditional-entire-home-design-pj-vj~1873402) - Location: Wake Forest, NC - Photos: 5 - [Raleigh - Traditional - Complete Home Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/raleigh-traditional-complete-home-remodel-pj-vj~1873412) - Location: Raleigh, NC - Photos: 4 [See all 4 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/l-design-build-llc-pfvwus-pf~562046547) ## Frequently Asked Questions **Do you manage permitting and approvals?** Yes, absolutely. As a comprehensive design-build firm, we manage the entire project from start to finish, which includes handling all necessary permitting and approvals. Our team, including Robby's experience with inspections, ensures a smooth process, allowing you to focus on your vision while we navigate the details. **Are you licensed and insured?** Yes, we are fully licensed and insured. Lida Carlson, our owner, is a licensed contractor, ensuring all our projects meet professional standards and regulations. We maintain appropriate insurance coverage for your peace of mind throughout the entire design-build process. **What does your design-build process include?** Our design-build process is truly collaborative and comprehensive. It begins with Lida understanding your vision and drawing up custom designs. From there, Robby oversees site supervision and material flow, ensuring smooth construction. We manage everything from initial planning and design to final completion, making the entire journey enjoyable and stress-free for you. **Do you handle both architectural design and construction?** Yes, absolutely. This is the core of what we do as a design-build firm. Lida Carlson, our owner, is both the designer and a licensed contractor. She personally handles the design phase, drawing up your vision, and then oversees the construction process with Robby, ensuring seamless integration from concept to completion. **Can you work on additions and large renovations?** Yes, we specialize in both home additions and large renovations. Lida has over 25 years of experience working on all forms of renovations, additions, and new construction. Our Houzz profile specifically lists Home Additions and Home Extensions as services, so you can trust us with your significant home transformation projects. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* ## Ideabooks - [Fiona concrete transitions with brick](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/102598699/list/fiona-concrete-transitions-with-brick) — 4 ideas - [Laura Ross sidewalk ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/23526120/list/laura-ross-sidewalk-ideas) — 2 ideas - [Medway porch rail](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/78691434/list/medway-porch-rail) — 4 ideas - [Holt steam shower](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/73642272/list/holt-steam-shower) — 3 ideas - [stacked stone fireplace](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/60948416/list/stacked-stone-fireplace) — 3 ideas - [limestone columns and spindles](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/48411450/list/limestone-columns-and-spindles) — 9 ideas - [wood kitchen island top](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/44469121/list/wood-kitchen-island-top) — 1 idea - [ceiling details](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/34017269/list/ceiling-details) — 9 ideas - [horizontal screening below covered porch and deck](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/33797813/list/horizontal-screening-below-covered-porch-and-deck) — 8 ideas - [G Wright ceiling beams](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/33728951/list/g-wright-ceiling-beams) — 3 ideas - [Boyd decking options](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/25590594/list/boyd-decking-options) — 2 ideas - [Milstead bathroom lighting](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/24771227/list/milstead-bathroom-lighting) — 1 idea - [window shape for Kelly](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/3083088/list/window-shape-for-kelly) — 21 ideas - [sara . wainscotting styles](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/18486342/list/sara-wainscotting-styles) — 7 ideas - [sara . leather top desks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/18456657/list/sara-leather-top-desks) — 4 ideas - [Baileys bedroom](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/10723096/list/baileys-bedroom) — 6 ideas - [Pirrung exteriors primarily siding with a touch of stone](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/7255595/list/pirrung-exteriors-primarily-siding-with-a-touch-of-stone) — 6 ideas - [Pirrung exteriors](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/7012723/list/pirrung-exteriors) — 16 ideas [See all 18 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/lidacarlson) ## Community Q&A **Q: what kind of blinds are are on these windows?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: These are roman shades. **Q: Can you share the exterior** *(in Photo Questions)* paint color? A: Exterior paint color is ... Pratt and Lambert . Strong White 2001. **Q: What size are the beams?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Beams are 8x12, posts are 10x10 ... both solid treated timber with a smooth finish. **Q: Love this chandelier.....who makes this?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Chandelier is called Jacqueline from Visual Comfort. **Q: What stain color was used** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Stain color used for the exterior of this home would have been a custom blend worked up for us by our local Sherwin Williams store. We had them work up a stain color to make each of the exterior woods used at this home look like the interior floor stain color. We would have had one custom stain color to match the Southern Yellow Pine of the posts and beams. A second custom stain color to match the Mahogany exterior doors. This is done due to each species of wood takes on stain differently. Color we were matching to is a MinWax 50% Dark Walnut / 50% Classic Gray stain blend on White Oak. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-23.*