What You Will Learn
Builder partnerships can make or break a design project. Laurie shares best practices for building win–win relationships with builders, aligning on budgets, and creating smoother processes from start to finish. Attendees will learn how to turn what can often be points of tension into opportunities for collaboration that strengthen timelines, budgets, and client satisfaction.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify common friction points between builders and designers.
- Create systems for smoother builder/designer collaboration.
- Strengthen long-term builder partnerships for repeat work.
Featured Presenter
Laurie Coton
CEO, Broker, & Principal Designer, Coton House
Laurie Coton brings a dynamic, visionary perspective to luxury real estate and bespoke interior design, blending market mastery with an impeccable sense of style. As CEO, Broker, and Principal Designer of Coton House, she is the creative force behind one of the first firms to unite real estate expertise with full- service interior design under one roof. Her pioneering approach redefined industry standards, establishing her as a trendsetter for a more curated, elevated client experience.
A native Houstonian, Laurie holds a Business degree from the University of Texas at Austin and an Interior Design degree from the Art Institute of Houston. Early in her career, she purchased, renovated, and sold homes across Houston, recognizing the untapped power of merging real estate strategy with high- end design vision. Her leadership as Past President of the ASID Texas Gulf Coast Chapter further cemented her reputation as a respected authority in the luxury market.
At Coton House, Laurie and her team collaborate with elite builders, remodelers, and architects—offering plan reviews, curated finish selections, and visionary design guidance that streamline construction and remodeling. Following completion, the Coton House Design Studio delivers furnishings services, including bespoke drapery, hand-selected furniture, custom rugs, and layered styling to complete each home with effortless sophistication.
Laurie’s leadership extends beyond her firm through service on boards for the Houston Symphony League, GHBA, NKBA, and philanthropic organizations. Passionate about animal rescue, she also enjoys butterfly gardening, traveling, Houston’s culinary scene, and time with her family and pets.
