About Us
Custom Design & Build LLC has been serving Maryland homeowners for over 10 years, with Mark bringing 30+ years of outdoor living expertise to every project.
Our Story
Custom Design & Build was founded by Mark Szabo, a lifelong builder who grew up in Maryland and has spent his career designing and constructing outdoor living spaces for homeowners across the state. After years of working under larger firms, Mark started this company with one principle: every homeowner deserves a contractor who picks up the phone, stands behind the work, and treats the project like it's going on their own home.
We are not a national franchise. We are not a lead-buying middleman. We are a Maryland company building for Maryland families, and that local accountability is the foundation of how we work. When something needs to be made right, you call Mark, not a call center in another state.
We chose to specialize in outdoor living because it's where craftsmanship matters most. A sunroom, deck, or pergola lives outside in Maryland weather year-round. The details, framing, flashing, fasteners, materials, are what determine whether the space looks great in five years or starts failing. Generalists cut corners. Specialists get the details right.
That focus is why we've earned authorized installer status with Trex (Pro Platinum), Sunspace, Azenco, and Alutech. These manufacturers vet contractors carefully, and the certifications mean their warranties stand behind our installations.
Where we build
We work across Harford, Baltimore, Cecil, Anne Arundel, and Howard Counties, with regular projects in Bel Air, Forest Hill, Fallston, Towson, Elkton, and Havre de Grace. See all the areas we serve.
Mark Szabo & Team
Asset needed: team photo
What Makes Us Different
We know Maryland's permitting, climate, and soil conditions because we've been building here for over a decade, with 30+ years of outdoor living expertise behind every project.
Trex Pro Platinum, Sunspace, Azenco, Alutech. We're certified by the manufacturers whose materials we install.
When you call, you talk to Mark. When we build, we own the work. No subcontracted middlemen.
Manufacturer-backed warranties on materials, plus our own workmanship guarantee.
Our Process
With 30+ years of outdoor living expertise, we've refined a process that makes custom projects clear, predictable, and stress-free. Here's what working with us looks like.
Start with a free phone call where we learn about your space, your goals, and answer your initial questions. By the end of the call, we'll give you a price bracket so you have realistic expectations before any on-site visit. No pitch.
We come to your home for a one-hour design consultation. We take measurements, look at the space, bring material samples and color options, and discuss design ideas. Just an honest conversation about what's possible.
After the on-site visit, we develop the full scope of your project and give you a to-the-penny proposal. No vague allowances. No hidden costs. You see exactly what you're getting and what it costs, down to the dollar.
Once you approve the proposal, we handle everything: permitting and facilitation, engineering, materials ordering, scheduling, building, inspections, and final walkthrough. Our crew respects your home and your neighbors throughout the build.
What Homeowners Say
Google ★★★★★•Facebook ★★★★★•Houzz ★★★★★•Thumbtack ★★★★★•Porch ★★★★★
"Excellent experience with Mark and Custom Design and Build. Website was easy to use. Mark took care of the permits and the survey which sped things along. The builders were also very friendly and got the job done quickly, even with the grading. Highly recommend CDB!!!"
Daniel Sanborn
Verified Google Review
"Great company. Communication was amazing. We will refer them to everyone."
Rick Studley
Verified Google Review
"It was a pleasure working with Mark, Viola, and the entire team. All phases of the project from the initial phone contact to project completion were executed professionally and timely. We started with a wooden deck and screened enclosure that was rarely used and ended up with a beautiful composite deck and sunroom that we enjoy daily. We greatly appreciate the skilled craftsmen and specialty tradesmen brought into the project. We now have an additional living space to enjoy for years to come!"
Deborah Thomas, Rosedale, MD
Verified Google Review
"Custom Design & Build did a superb job on restoring my deck. The finished product exceeded my expectations. I am considering Custom Design & Build for future remodeling projects on my home."
Laverne Teshome, Forest Hill, MD
Verified Google Review
"We had a fantastic experience working with Mark Szabo and his team. Our deck of 35 years needed to be replaced and he came highly recommended. Mark was incredibly patient, walked us through every step of the process, and delivered a dream deck that exceeded our expectations. Communication was clear and consistent, and the deck was completed ahead of schedule and in less than a week's time. His crew was hard working, meticulous, and very respectful to us and our neighbors."
Marsha Cole
Verified Google Review
"Mark was fantastic to work with from start to finish. He's incredibly knowledgeable and took the time to explain everything clearly, which really put us at ease. The entire experience was smooth, professional, and exceeded our expectations. You can tell he takes pride in what he does, and it shows in the quality of his work and the way he treats his clients. Highly recommend Mark and his team if you want the job done right!"
Brandon Herd
Verified Google Review
Ready to Build?
Start with a free phone conversation. We'll learn about your project, answer your questions, and help you understand what's possible. No pressure and no pushy sales tactics.
4.9 stars on Google • 94 verified Google reviews • MHIC #91686 • Locally owned and operated
