They won the contest, but more important, they are building their unique homes for two needy Raleigh families. The houses are scheduled for completion this month.

Marich, a 2002 NC State graduate and current architectural designer at The Freelon Group in Research Triangle Park, won the contest. Mehlman, a project manager and designer at Maurer Architecture in Raleigh and a 1999 graduate of NC State, was the first runner-up. Both designs were chosen for construction in the Biltmore Trace Development in Southeast Raleigh.

Since construction began in January, Marich, 28, and Mehlman, 34, have been on site nearly every Saturday. They’ve called on suppliers for donations for upgrades like high-dollar concrete countertops from Meld USA to go in the kitchens, or for high-quality windows. They’ve persuaded friends and coworkers to come bearing hammers and gloves, ready for work. They’ve gotten to know their homeowners so well, they might be mistaken for family. They’ve driven nails, laid shingles, and made friends with every square foot of their creation. It’s their passion.

“This started as ‘design houses for a competition,” said Mehlman, who left New England and a career in the television industry to pursue architecture, “but it has become completely different.”

A week at a time, his house on Lot 17 grows closer to the day when it will become the Davis residence. Homeowner and regular volunteer Stephanie Davis, along with her cousin and daughter, await the August completion like children await Christmas.
Mehlman, meanwhile, can’t wait to turn the keys over to the Davis family.

Sherry William’s house has been the beneficiary of sponsors and steady volunteers from White Memorial Presbyterian and First Presbyterian, as well as generous efforts from Marty Miller Remodeling. But no one has been more willing to help than homeowner Sherry Williams, who is anticipating life in the new home with her daughter.

Mehlman says, “I want the Davis family to move into their new house and say, ‘This is my home, and I love it, and I don’t want to give it up for anything!’”
The house designs and pictures of the construction are available at www.erik-anna.com.