Michael Baudin of Legend Interiors and Jason Maenza of Precision Builders Discuss Their Collaborative Approach to High-End Residential Design
Meet Michael Baudin, Founder and Principal Designer of Legend Interiors, and Jason Maenza, Owner of Precision Builders.
Both Legend and Precision—names that speak to their unwavering dedication to craftsmanship and detail. Over the past 7 years, these two leaders have joined forces on numerous custom high-end residential projects, building not just homes but a powerful partnership. Their most recent collaboration, a stunning residence in Destrehan, earned the cover of New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles Autumn 2024 issue and was named New Build of the Year.
Michael, whose company specializes in creating cohesive, detailed designs for custom kitchen and bath cabinetry, countertops, tile, and millwork, works seamlessly with Jason, whose team excels in custom and spec home building. Together, Legend Interiors and Precision Builders have crafted a collaborative working relationship built on mutual respect, complementary strengths, and a shared passion for excellence.
HOW IT BEGAN
How did the two of you first start working together? What led to the initial collaboration between Legend Interiors and Precision Builders?
Michael: Our collaboration began on a personal project for a mutual friend and industry partner, Renee Becnel, Co-owner and Lead Interior Designer at Chrestia Staub + Board. Precision was contracted for the remodel, and we teamed up with Renee on the kitchen and bath design, handling the materials and installation.
What about your partnership clicked from the beginning?
Michael: There's always a learning curve when we start working with new builders, but Jason’s attention to detail and high standards stood out right away. I really value that, especially in builders, so I knew we’d create great projects together. Plus, we tackle problems as a team—it’s always “we” have an issue to solve, never finger-pointing.
Jason: Michael and his team showed the same passion for the details of their designs as I did for the construction. When Michael started explaining the reasoning behind his kitchen layout, I knew we were going to have a great rapport. They’re always considering the bigger picture, thinking through how certain design decisions could affect the overall project.
THE DYNAMICS OF COLLABORATION
How do you typically divide roles on a project? Describe how Legend Interiors and Precision Builders complement each other in the design/build process?
Michael: Even though we only provide cabinetry for most of Precision's projects, I try to approach every project from every perspective. It’s important to me to understand how each element impacts the next, and I think Jason values that about our team. We look at the project as a whole, not just what we are hired to provide.
Jason: I believe it’s Precision’s attention to every detail of a project that melds the relationship we have with Legend since they too share the same passion.
How do you handle creative differences or challenges that arise during a project?
Michael: Communication, and more communication. Whether it’s a quick phone call or a two-hour site visit, we do whatever it takes to get back on the same page and keep the project moving smoothly. We have a mutual respect for each other and each other’s ideas, so things typically work themselves out quickly.
THE PROJECT PROCESS
Walk us through the typical phases of a project— how does your collaboration evolve from concept to completion?
Jason:
Consultation – We begin by understanding our clients' goals and vision.
Design – Next, we bring their ideas to life on paper, translating their vision into a workable design.
Proposal – We ensure their goals align with their budget, adjusting as needed to achieve the best outcome.
Construction –Their dream home starts to take shape as we bring the design to life.
Move-In – Finally, we welcome our clients into their dream home!
NEW BUILD OF THE YEAR
Your recent collaboration on Audubon Place in Destrehan was named Project of the Year by New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles. What made this project stand out for both of you?
Michael: Oh man… So much stands out. First, the clients, Mr. Mike and Mrs. Alice, are two of the most appreciative and kind people I've ever had the opportunity to work with, which made all the hard work so much more rewarding. We started with an open layout that combined the kitchen, dining room, and bar area—a true blank canvas. Jason asked us to “get creative”, and that's exactly what we did. Rachel and I spent a lot of time fine-tuning those areas, making sure everything blended seamlessly yet still had distinct spaces. I think we nailed it. And the floating corner shelves! And the floating corner shelves—such a stunning focal point when you enter from the front! None of this would’ve been possible without Jason’s trust in our vision and ideas.
Were there any particularly challenging or rewarding aspects of this project that you’d like to share?
Jason: Who doesn’t love a good challenge! Our motto is, “If it were easy, everyone would be doing it!” This mindset helps set a Precision Builders home apart from the rest. Winning New Build of the Year was incredible, but the true reward is in seeing the smiles on our homeowners' faces when we walk them through their new home for the first time. That’s why we do what we do!
What design or construction features are you most proud of in this project?
Jason: The standout feature has to be the open kitchen, living room, and bar area, with custom cabinetry designed to create a seamless flow between each space—it’s definitely a showstopper. Another highlight we’re especially proud of is the car turntable in the showroom garage. It’s the first of its kind in the state, and incorporating it took careful planning from the foundation up. It truly adds a unique touch to the home!
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