"Great experience w Mark and the team. They installed two retractable awnings on our deck in Havre de Grace, MD. Communication was great from start to finish. Would highly recommend them."
Tom D., Havre de Grace, MD
Google review
About Us
Building Maryland's outdoor living spaces since 1994.
Custom Design & Build LLC was founded in 1994 and has served Maryland homeowners ever since, with Mark bringing 30+ years of outdoor living expertise to every project.
Our Story
Why we do this
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.
What Makes Us Different
Built differently. On purpose.
Local expertise
We know Maryland's permitting, climate, and soil conditions because we've been building here since 1994, with 30+ years of outdoor living expertise behind every project.
Authorized partnerships
Trex Pro Platinum, Sunspace, Azenco, Alutech. We're certified by the manufacturers whose materials we install.
Direct accountability
When you call, you talk to Mark. When we build, we own the work. No subcontracted middlemen.
Real warranties
Manufacturer-backed warranties on materials, plus our own workmanship guarantee.
Our Process
From first conversation to finished space
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.
1
Free Phone Conversation and Estimate
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.
2
One-Hour On-Site Consultation
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.
3
Scope Development and Exact Proposal
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.
4
Permitting, Building, and Finish
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
Reviews from Maryland homeowners
"Very pleased to deal with Custom Design and Build. They delivered from start to finish my 4 seasons solarium. On time.as agreed. Would sure use them again."
Talmadge R.
Google review
"Mark and his team at Custom Design and Build were wonderful. Mark walked us through the order process, kept us in the loop throughout the entire assembly process, and installed our Alutech retractable awning ahead of schedule. The finished product is perfect, exactly what we wanted and expected. Can't say enough about the experience. We highly recommend Custon Design and Build."
Joe M.
Google review
Ready to Build?
Let's talk about your outdoor space.
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 • 101 Google reviews • MHIC #91686 • Locally owned and operated