That being said, I do have some need for an interior designer/architect when I am doing additions or moving walls to create new spaces. 

In building a spec home, give yourself enough time to coordinate with your architect to insure that your preliminary plans for a home will work for the lots.

I follow an architect here on BP, @Jim Adrian and he usually has some creative and practical ideas for boosting curb appeal.Adding to what @Mike Hanneman advised, I don't think splitting the paint horizontally into two tones is serving any helpful purpose.  

We are builders, and our son does architectural renderings for us (he's not an architect) We just sold a new home off his renderings, before we even closed escrow on the land!

I realized after talking with several people (A friend who happens to be an architect, my Broker, and another investor) it was crazy to buy something like this, at that price point, without having the ability to do a full inspection and withdraw the offer.

I guess, The architect was being "creative" and at the time, we agreed.

Also if anyone has any contractor/architect referrals for an ADU in Denver they would be greatly appreciated.  

We like to use flat paint to dull the sheen and the color is more prominent than the texture.

I do this all the time for 8-5 job as an architect. 

Fact is, the print dictates what is or isn't to be done and with what material which likely has already been discussed between the architect and the owner.