Ceci Bates Custom Homes and Remodeling

Ceci Bates Custom Homes and Remodeling Ceci Bates Custom Homes designs and builds custom homes that inspire the imagination.

In many custom home projects, structural engineering is tackled through two-dimensional drawings. Blueprints depict how ...
09/02/2026

In many custom home projects, structural engineering is tackled through two-dimensional drawings. Blueprints depict how elements come together, with loads calculated on paper, then handed to the builder. This method, while competent, often lacks an integrated view of how a structure supports itself as a cohesive system.

Since joining Ceci Bates in 2020, Bogdan Taut has elevated the structural design process significantly. Working in ArchiCAD, a sophisticated modeling environment, Bogdan designs structures in three dimensions, integrating directly with the architectural model. This holistic approach means that every column's dimensions, whether six-by-six or six-by-twelve, are carefully calculated based on the axial loads they must support. This precise detailing extends to every beam, ensuring that lumber specifications are exact, resulting in materials arriving exactly as needed.

Steel members, essential for areas requiring additional structural support, are designed and visualized in 3D, allowing the team to anticipate how they will fit within the structure before fabrication begins. In his comprehensive methodology, Bogdan also crafts HVAC ductwork in 3D, ensuring it integrates with the structural framework rather than competing with it. Thus, the entirety of a Ceci Bates home’s structure is thoughtfully planned out before construction proceeds.

The structural integrity of a home rests on the foundation of meticulous planning, where loads are considered in detail before the first board is sawed. To explore more about our team and their expertise, visit us at cecibates.com.

Lake Texoma rests comfortably between two states, yet the landscapes it presents on either side are distinctly unique. T...
09/01/2026

Lake Texoma rests comfortably between two states, yet the landscapes it presents on either side are distinctly unique. The differences are not just about geography or shoreline; they extend to practical elements that potential homeowners consider when deciding where to build.

The Texas side of Lake Texoma presents a more rugged terrain. With its hilly, wooded areas and rockier cliffs, this side offers breathtaking vantage points ideal for those seeking dramatic views. However, these steep landscapes often mean limited beach access, challenging certain waterfront desires.

In contrast, the Oklahoma side, notably around Kingston, offers a different kind of interaction with the water. The land here is flatter, granting longer stretches of accessible beach and a more intimate, practical relationship with the shoreline. Kingston is an active building scene for Ceci Bates, providing waterfront opportunities unheard of on the Texas side—open shorelines and easier entry into the water create a different homebuilding experience.

Choosing between these two sides of the lake involves more than just the geography. Differences in state regulations and terrain mean that practical design considerations vary greatly, and our team at Ceci Bates is well-acquainted with these nuances. Whether it's navigating the regulatory environment or adapting homes to the specific conditions and lifestyle each shore offers, our experience on both sides of the lake ensures informed guidance.

Homeowners contemplating their perfect spot must weigh numerous factors—views, community atmosphere, access to destinations, and the lake experience itself. In helping clients decide, Ceci Bates offers honest assessments rooted in decades of building on both shores.

Finding the right side of a lake to build on reflects the lifestyle priorities of the owner. If you are contemplating a home on Lake Texoma, we invite you to explore our insights and the unique attributes of the region at cecibates.com.

When designing lakefront homes, much of the discipline required comes from external sources. Covenant boards specify acc...
08/31/2026

When designing lakefront homes, much of the discipline required comes from external sources. Covenant boards specify acceptable materials. Review processes ensure designs align with community standards. The surrounding homes provide a visual narrative that guides new constructions. However, on a fifty-acre tract near Honey Grove or a ranch property south of Bonham, the responsibility shifts. There are no such external guides. Instead, all design decisions rest with the owner and the Ceci Bates team.

This lack of external structure increases the importance of a rigorous process. With no covenant board to shape the framework, the internal discipline practiced by Ceci Bates becomes paramount. Architect Roberth Jordan dedicates the same meticulous analysis to rural acreage projects as he does for lakefront developments. Before any designs are sketched, he examines the land thoroughly. How does the sun traverse the property throughout the seasons? From which direction does the wind generally blow? He identifies significant views, whether it's a treeline, a creek, or open pastures. He studies water drainage patterns that will impact the foundation and site work. Even the driveway's route and length are considered, all details often managed by development infrastructure in more urban settings, are the responsibility of Ceci Bates in rural Fannin County.

Without this careful study, a home may fit well on paper but fail to engage with the land meaningfully. Ceci Bates' approach to building homes on rural properties ensures that each structure is intrinsically connected to the land it occupies. The architectural design responds to the property's unique characteristics, creating homes that stand in harmony with their environment.

The most successful homes in open rural landscapes are those crafted with a level of scrutiny as if observed by a discerning review board. We invite you to explore how Ceci Bates Custom Homes builds thoughtfully in Bonham, Honey Grove, and the broader Fannin County landscape at cecibates.com.

In the modern world of architecture, where every line and curve is digitally rendered before a structure takes form, the...
08/28/2026

In the modern world of architecture, where every line and curve is digitally rendered before a structure takes form, the act of drawing on paper has become a lost art. Computers have streamlined the process, transforming the once-tactile experience of design into an entirely virtual one. Yet, at Ceci Bates Custom Homes, the tradition of hand sketching finds a passionate proponent in Roberth Jordan, the architect whose pen and paper serve as the starting point for every home.

Roberth's practice of commencing each project with hand sketches embodies a philosophy that lays the foundation for all that follows. His work is not merely artistic nostalgia; instead, it's a fundamental approach to design exploration. Before any digital model is created, Roberth patiently crafts the initial concept with pencil on paper. This method, rooted in contemplation and direct engagement with the medium, allows Roberth to explore nuances and possibilities that might be lost in a strictly digital process.

A story still shared among our team is of a project at Rock Creek that nearly came to an abrupt end. The client was on the verge of withdrawing when Roberth sketched a new design overnight, entirely by hand. The next morning, as he presented this plan, the client's wife, recalling her years in an architect’s office, recognized the authenticity in Roberth's technique. “This is a real architect,” she stated, “This is how architects struggle.” Her appreciation illuminated the depth and authenticity of Roberth's work, redefining their decision to stay, and paving the way for a successfully completed home.

Hand sketching for Roberth is second nature, not sentimentality. In those initial moments of creation, the pencil glides faster than a cursor, capturing instinct and intuition in ways digital methods cannot replicate.

Roberth's discipline of beginning each design by hand is a testament to the thoughtful craftsmanship that defines a Ceci Bates home. We invite you to explore our team and processes further at cecibates.com.

In the realm of custom home building, it's common for clients to be presented with a budget fleshed out by estimates for...
08/27/2026

In the realm of custom home building, it's common for clients to be presented with a budget fleshed out by estimates for various components. The flooring line is merely a figure. The tile line, another. These numbers often represent assumptions rather than actualities. Clients are asked to commit financially to abstractions, with little understanding of what those figures truly encompass in terms of materials and quality.

At Ceci Bates Custom Homes, we believe that this is not a satisfactory approach for our discerning clients. Our philosophy is simple: when a home is bid, our clients have already interacted with the materials that will fill their spaces. Heather Shields, our seasoned interior designer, ensures this by guiding clients through a hands-on journey of material selection. Clients have the opportunity to touch actual flooring samples, test the texture of the tile, and scrutinize the finishes of cabinetry. Each choice reflects a tangible product with a definitive price tag.

This process transforms the bidding phase entirely. When the budget is assembled, each line item is based on selections the client has seen and approved. If preferences change down the line, adjustments can be made—anticipated and accommodated. However, the foundation of the original budget remains firm, grounded in real choices rather than speculative figures. Scott Bates, one of our founders, encapsulates this philosophy: clients should have something tangible in their hands when putting together the bid.

The distinction between a reliable budget and one prone to deviations often lies in this difference. It's the gap between perceiving a number on a page and handling the material it represents.

We invite you to learn more about Ceci Bates' approach to material selection and how it can positively impact your custom home experience by visiting cecibates.com.

The best custom homes are often reduced to just two words, capturing their essence with simplicity. For “The Welcoming G...
08/26/2026

The best custom homes are often reduced to just two words, capturing their essence with simplicity. For “The Welcoming Grandiose Lakehouse,” elegantly nestled in Rock Creek, Lake Texoma, those words were 'grandiose' and 'welcoming.' This vision inspired every aspect of its creation.

Set within the picturesque Rock Creek development on the Texas side of Lake Texoma, The Welcoming Grandiose Lakehouse epitomizes a refined approach to entertaining and life on the water. The owners envisioned a home that's not only spectacular in scale but also inviting—a place where gatherings and leisurely days by the lake meld seamlessly.

Architect Roberth Jordan infused this vision into the design, centering the home around a monumental back patio. This feature serves as the heart of the house, seamlessly connecting the master suite, game room, living room, kitchen, and bar. This architectural choice fosters a natural flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing each room's function while inviting the calm beauty of the outdoors inside.

The bar area, in particular, deviates slightly from the home's understated elegance with a touch of lively flair, offering an engaging spot for hosting group events or quieter evenings by the lake. Meanwhile, interior designer Heather Shields cultivated a palette of gentle contrasts, ensuring that the architecture itself captivates. This thoughtful design achieves both grandeur and serenity, accommodating gatherings with ease without ever feeling overwhelming.

Often, the initial words that shape a client's vision—like 'grandiose' and 'welcoming'—culminate in a creation that expresses them best. Explore more of Ceci Bates' masterful homes by visiting cecibates.com.

The best custom home clients often start envisioning their future home long before a contract is signed. They arrive not...
08/25/2026

The best custom home clients often start envisioning their future home long before a contract is signed. They arrive not with a checklist, but with a clear vision born from a year of purposeful contemplation and discovery. This period of exploration is invaluable, preparing them with insights that simplify the journey ahead.

The year before building is a time for gathering ideas. It is the season to collect images, details, and concepts that resonate deeply. As you explore various homes, you will notice certain elements consistently capturing your imagination. This is the groundwork for discerning between fleeting trends and enduring personal preferences—between what is popular and what truly fits your lifestyle.

Evaluating potential plots of land is another essential use of this time. Walking properties throughout different times of the day and seasons offers an understanding of the landscape's nuances, informing decisions about views, natural light, and privacy. This foundational knowledge guides future architectural decisions, ensuring the home aligns harmoniously with its surroundings.

Equally important are honest conversations among those who will reside in the home. Discussing how you wish to inhabit the space, the daily rituals it will host, and priorities each person holds dear illuminates what truly matters. Understanding what values and needs must be upheld—and what can be set aside—creates clarity in design.

This year is also an opportunity to learn about the custom home building process itself. Understanding the steps involved and recognizing the attributes of an experienced team instills confidence. It equips prospective owners with the right questions, making initial conversations with builders more productive and insightful.

Those who use the year before construction wisely often find that everything becomes simpler once building begins. At Ceci Bates, we appreciate the dedication that precedes the first meeting. When you're prepared to take the next step, we would be glad to hear what you have in mind. Explore our process in detail at cecibates.com.

The design of a custom home is often imagined as a singular act of creativity, a moment when vision meets reality. Yet, ...
08/24/2026

The design of a custom home is often imagined as a singular act of creativity, a moment when vision meets reality. Yet, in practice, it is a journey through distinct phases, each bringing its own purpose and dialogue with the client. At Ceci Bates Custom Homes, this journey under the guidance of our architect Roberth Jordan unfolds in three critical phases: concept, modeling, and drafting.

Concept Phase
Roberth begins by immersing himself in the essence of the site. He analyzes the lot's unique characteristics, maps its views, and studies the orientation to harness natural light and optimize living conditions. Early sketches emerge from this exploration, crafted meticulously by hand. This phase is where the client's aspirations first take form. Through feedback, these initial ideas are refined, ensuring alignment with the client's vision.

Modeling Phase
With the concept now a shared vision, Roberth advances to building a detailed 3D model using ArchiCAD. Here, every element is brought to life with real materials, lighting, and finishes. This three-dimensional rendition provides the client with an immersive preview, revealing spatial dynamics that flat plans cannot convey. Again, feedback plays a crucial role as clients navigate the virtual model, encouraging further refinement.

Drafting Phase
The final phase translates the creative into the technical. Roberth produces comprehensive construction documents, including room elevations, cabinetry details, the foundation plan, and the electrical layout. This technical blueprint serves as a guide for Ceci Bates to accurately bid and construct the home. While client feedback at this stage focuses on minor adjustments, the collaborative process ensures each detail is meticulously considered.

A home crafted through Roberth's methodical design journey is one shaped by the client's active participation. It is a testament to shared vision and careful planning. To discover more about how Ceci Bates approaches this thoughtful process, visit cecibates.com.

Some homes are designed first and engineered second. Others exist because engineering is seamlessly interwoven with desi...
08/21/2026

Some homes are designed first and engineered second. Others exist because engineering is seamlessly interwoven with design from the very beginning; the most ambitious architectural feats often emerge from this careful collaboration.

On a recent project on a thousand-acre property in Tushka, Oklahoma, the vision for a great room with the proportions and vertical reach of a small church took shape. This was not a space suitable for ordinary framing techniques. It demanded custom-built timber trusses, crafted from Douglas fir to exacting specifications. These trusses were constructed offsite, then transported and lifted into place by crane.

Leading our structural engineering, Bogdan Taut and his team ensured every aspect of the project was meticulously planned. They produced the calculations that confirmed the trusses' ability to support, detailing the precise connections for load distribution. This engineering groundwork meant the timber trusses were not just feasible but assured.

Once built, these substantial trusses made their journey to Tushka, carried by trucks before being hoisted into position. As the crane delicately directed each piece, the team installed them with precision, eventually framing the roof above and staining the interiors to match the rich hue of Douglas fir. The completion of this great room—a space that feels truly like a cathedral—depended on the seamless, synchronized efforts of design and engineering before a single piece was crafted.

The essence of this architectural moment is not visible from within the space. Yet, it stands as a testament to the quiet strength engineering brings to design. It reminds us that in custom home building, the most breathtaking elements are those that required engineering precision to make possible. To explore more about how Ceci Bates approaches design and engineering, visit us at cecibates.com.

Address

81750 Highway 289
Pottsboro, TX
75076

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm
Saturday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

+19037712225

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