Those lime green Landscape Details trucks we see daily on the road are synonymous with luxury landscapes — now we have learned that Michael Derrig, its founder, officially launched Building Details last Spring to dot our glorious region with stunning homes. We caught up with Derrig to learn more about why he scaled to such a monumental undertaking as becoming a Hamptons builder.
Michael, it has been an exciting development to see that you have launched Building Details!
I actually built my first home here in East Hampton over 20 years ago, for my family. As a landscape architect, I’ve always been passionate about design and construction. Landscape Details has grown to over 125 employees — and as we’ve expanded, with more construction. As our clientele has grown, they have become more aware of the houses I’ve built, and they have seen our office and showroom on Montauk Highway, and they’ve become aware of what we’re capable of. So — it’s been kind of organic. After 20 years, especially after I found the right person, Mark Sichling, to help me manage the business, it was time to make it official.
How would you describe the style of Building Details and what you offer to the luxury home industry?
I think we really understand how people live — we have a great sense of the history and architecture of this area. Of course, we source the best materials and we don’t build 20 houses a year, we do a handful so each choice is responsive to the owners and their vision.
What does Mark Sichling bring to the company?
He’s been in the building business for over thirty years, he knows the area and understands our clientele. His attention to detail is similar to myself and most importantly — I trust him. He’s a man of integrity.
How does one come to Building Details with their vision – is it through their architect or does the homeowner come directly?
That’s a great question. The answer is yes, both. Clients who my wife Dwyer and I have entertained in our home, or colleagues who’ve met in our offices come straight to us. And architects are now bringing their clients to us as well.
What are all the services that Building Details offers? Do you offer architecture, landscaping, interior design, maintenance, design/build?
We are a full service in-house building company offering property management as well.
We hear that design and architectural wants have changed since the pandemic. What are some of them?
During the pandemic the need to construct spaces for outdoor entertaining and living was off the charts. We were mindful of creating cohesive spaces for remote work and so families would have privacy as well as places/spaces to come together and enjoy the environment — whether that be building an outdoor kitchen, vegetable garden, home office, or a serene landscape.
Where do you find inspiration? What is inspiring you right now?
I’ve always been inspired by the light, the trees, and the natural beauty of the Hamptons. I’ve travelled extensively, I read design books and follow trends.
I’m fortunate enough to collaborate with some of the most talented interior designers and architects throughout the country and that is really gratifying.
What are some green building techniques or technology you are incorporating into your homes?
Right now, geothermal is really popular, in fact, we just completed two homes with geothermal systems in the Village of East Hampton. So are smart homes.
What are the advantages of working with Building Details?
Obviously, when you work with us, there’s a synergy with two symbiotic companies who can build, plan, and maintain both the interior and the exterior — the property in its entirety. Also, many of the people on my team have been with me 12 to 20 years, which means you have cohesive team with a lot of experience in the field and with each other. That’s how we can provide seamless and responsive service.
When you’re not building luxury homes, what do you do for fun?
I’m a very early riser and taking the dogs to the beach for sunrise is how I typically start my day. My wife and kids are the most important people in the world to me, so spending time together at our home in East Hampton or traveling on a new adventure is what we love to do.
To learn more about Derrig and Building details, visit www.buildingdetails.com.
