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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Craig Wynia
First Impressions Start at the Curb
When people think about home improvements, they often picture kitchens, bathrooms, or interior renovations. But one of the most impactful upgrades you can make is something everyone sees first, your home’s curb appeal.
The exterior of a home sets the tone for the entire property. Wellmaintained landscaping, clean walkways, and a defined entry help create a strong first impression while showing the care that has gone into maintaining the home. These elements don’t just improve appearance; they also support the overall value and longevity of the property.
Improving curb appeal doesn’t always require a major renovation. Small updates can go a long way. Fresh mulch, trimmed shrubs, and seasonal plantings can add color and structure to a yard. Outdoor lighting along pathways or highlighting architectural features improves visibility and gives the home a finished look after dark.
Investing in a home’s exterior can also provide long-term benefits. Updating siding, replacing aging roofing, or upgrading exterior materials can dramatically improve the look of a home while helping protect it from the elements. Even simple improvements like modern house numbers, updated lighting, or a new garage door can provide a clean, refreshed appearance.
The front entry is another key focal point. Updated lighting, durable walkways, and a well-defined entry help create a welcoming approach while highlighting the craftsmanship of the home.
HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
President: Craig Wynia, Jeren Homes/Red Rock Builders
Vice President: Kyle Cosand, Cosand Construction
Second VP: Ryan Brouwer, Choice Builders, Inc
Associate VP: Ruth Ann Scott, The Living Door
Secretary: Julie Redlin, Rainbow Restoration
Treasurer: Jim Dunham, Jim Dunham & Associates
Past President: Cory Hjellming, Hjellming Construction
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Adam Balding, Budget Blinds
Austin Katje, Veldhouse Construction
Daniel Glammeier, Glammeier Homes
Jason Whiting, Falls City Construction
Josh Johnson, Houston Engineering
Nick Mimmack, 1J Homes
Peter Ronning, Ronning Companies
Sabrina Meierhenry, Land Title Guaranty
Call us today at (605) 361-8322
Monday - Friday (8:30AM - 5:00PM)
6904 S. Lyncrest Place, Sioux Falls, SD 57108 hbasiouxempire.com
Executive Vice President: Teddi Mueller
Government & Safety Director: Todd Anawski
Director of Member Engagement: Lisa Contreras
Communications Director: Marissa Bertram
Curb appeal is about more than appearance; it reflects the quality and care put into maintaining a home. Thoughtful exterior improvements help create a welcoming property while strengthening the value and character of the neighborhood.
When you’re ready to begin your own curb appeal updates, visit HBASIOUXEMPIRE.COM scan the QR code below to connect with trusted professionals who can help bring your vision to life.
Makenzie Jorgenson
By Joseph Cottle
Photography by Radiant Roofing and Siding
Radiant Roofing and Siding didn’t begin with a grand business plan. It started with experience, frustration, and the realization that doing things the right way sometimes means starting over.
Both Gunner Gilbertson and Matt Davis came into the exterior industry from different directions, but they arrived with the same perspective: they had seen enough to know how they wanted to treat people.
Gunner’s introduction started young.
“In high school, I worked for a construction company, and ran a roofing crew as a lead when I was 18 until about 20,” Gunner explains. From there, he tried a power line career, moved into gutters, and eventually launched his own small company with a two-man crew. Over time, he shifted into the sales side of the industry, where he crossed paths with Matt.
Matt’s course was longer and less direct. He entered construction retail at age 18 with Menards and spent about a decade climbing through nearly every level of the company’s leadership, from department roles all the way to general manager of an $85 million store. The scale taught him operations, people management, and customer expectations, but it also reshaped his priorities, including the idea that culture matters more than volume.
“You want to find somebody that has the same drive, the same type of work ethic, and the same values as you do,” Matt shares. “So, we started Radiant, trying to take care of homeowners, take care of our people, and grow this into something that we’re proud of for our families.”
Radiant Roofing and Siding officially launched in October 2024, but in many ways, it represented years of accumulated lessons. Both Gunner and Matt had seen aggressive sales tactics, hidden costs, and contractors chasing storms from town to town. They chose the opposite.
Matt explains it simply: “We’re not using shady sales tactics. We realize at the end of the day that people’s hard-earned money and their number one investment is their house.”
Gunner adds the operational side, noting that Homeowners can reach us seven days a week, late into the evening. Pricing is transparent, and we always make sure to take care of the client and ensure that they are happy with the end result.
That commitment to excellence extends to every detail, including cleanup, across hundred of jobs they have an outstanding safety record, a testament to their
meticulous process. For them, a truly finished job means leaving every customer with complete peace of mind.
Their core values sound less like a marketing slogan and more like a checklist: do it right, take pride in the finish, follow through, treat people like neighbors, build things to last, and leave the house better than they found it.
Those values became the foundation for a remarkable second year.
Radiant has grown into a multi-million-dollar company with a leadership team of just three people. In 2025, the team set an ambitious goal for the year and ultimately finished at nearly double what they originally projected, marking their best year to date and putting them roughly three to four times ahead of many roofing companies in their market.
What matters most to Matt isn’t the number itself, but how they achieved it. Rather than relying on storm damage as many roofing companies do, Radiant positioned itself as a full exterior company offering siding, windows, doors, and remodeling services, so homeowners still call even in calm weather years.
“We want to be recession-proof and storm-proof,” Matt explains.
Growth followed that stability. In just two years, they opened locations in Watertown, Huron, Omaha, Aberdeen, and Fargo, with plans for several more. But their expansion strategy isn’t about becoming a national chain. They deliberately pursue smaller communities.
“We’d rather be the big fish in a little pond than a little fish in a big pond,” Matt notes.
Every new market comes with a requirement: hire locally and become part of the community. Gunner explains why, stating, “We want somebody from the community that cares about the people in the community, because that’s how we drive our company.”
That commitment shows up in practical ways. They join local chambers, donate to families, and have provided a full cow to a school lunch program fundraiser.
Their business model also avoids saturation tactics common in the industry. One Radiant representative handles
a neighborhood instead of multiple salespeople knocking on the same doors.
“We don’t want to flood ourselves in a market and get on people’s nerves,” Gunner adds.
Relationships matter because the company’s referral-based growth depends on them. A typical estimate appointment can last over an hour, not because of technical complexity but because their reps take time to connect. Gunner talks fishing with homeowners. Matt talks about football or cars. They learn families’ stories.
“We’re there learning about the customer, their interests, and their family,” Gunner states.
Those conversations often extend beyond business. Gunner invites clients to go hunting or fishing. Matt drives hours to coach his son’s football team and schedules work around family commitments. The same priorities carry into the company culture. They hire fewer people but ensure they can support their families without juggling multiple jobs.
Their faith also shapes their outlook. Matt believes hardships led to better opportunities and more wisdom around running a business.
“Nothing more gets put on you than what you can handle. It’s leading me to something bigger and better,” he says.
That perspective frames Radiant’s purpose: not just fixing houses, but giving homeowners confidence.
They know roofing isn’t glamorous. Most customers call during stress: leaks, hail damage, unexpected costs. Radiant tries to turn that moment into relief. Their goal, as Matt puts it, is simple: “Homeowners should look at their house and feel happy to be there.”
The rapid success of 2025 confirmed the approach works, but neither owner sees it as the finish line. They want steady expansion across the Midwest while staying local in each town. Radiant Roofing and Siding strives to achieve what is most difficult to replicate: a sense of
familiarity. The contractor whose name spreads through neighbors rather than advertisements. The crew that answers late-night calls. The business built on reputation before revenue.
For Gunner and Matt, success wasn’t just the revenue milestone. It was proof that experience, honesty, and community can still grow a company in an industry often driven by urgency.
They didn’t reinvent roofing. They just decided to do it the way they wished someone had done it for them.
By Tanya Manus | Photography by Harberts Media
An oasis of relaxation and recreation awaits you just minutes from the growing city of Brandon. One contemporary property combines the luxurious comforts of home with pastoral prairie views.
Inside and out, the home’s Modern Scandinavian style puts an updated twist on traditional style. Located at 1517 Autumn Circle, the home was built in a quiet, developing neighborhood.
Built by Kelly Construction, this two-story home, plus a fully finished basement, is designed with abundant space to unwind and enjoy life. The floor plan includes 5 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms in 3,500 square feet of finished space. The walkout basement offers a large family room, another bedroom and full bathroom, and access to a covered patio.
Inside, the home’s creamy neutral walls and quartz counters, white oak engineered hardwood flooring,
custom birch cabinetry, and crisp black accents create a mood of warmth and calm.
The main floor’s hub is a spacious great room with plentiful natural light. A gas fireplace with a natural stone surround anchors the living room, while the kitchen lies at the opposite end of the great room, with the dining room nestled between them.
“This floor plan is a little unique with how it’s all in one, with the dining room splitting the kitchen and living room,” shares Stephanie Vostad, interior designer with Kelly Construction.
The kitchen is one of Stephanie’s favorite places in the house because of its extra serving area.
“You have your island and the cabinets with the cooktop, and then you have the serving area with a set of lower cabinets with a beverage mini fridge. It’s fun, unique, and gives you a ton of usable countertop space if you want to use it for serving or food prep,” Stephanie adds.
Quartz counters and a full-height quartz backsplash complement the Birch cabinets. Storage galore awaits in the walk-in pantry with adjustable custom shelving.
Tucked between the kitchen and 4-car garage, a mudroom with a quartz counter and cabinets, hooks, and a bench is a perfect drop zone for mail, boots, shoes, and other items before you head inside.
In the dining room, glass sliding doors open to a covered, lighted screened-in deck that
could become your favorite room three seasons of the year. A gas fireplace on the deck with a natural stone surround will keep this relaxing retreat cozy on cool, crisp days and nights.
The luxurious primary suite, along with three additional bedrooms and a full bath, is located on the top floor.
“These surround a versatile bonus loft space that could be used as a play area, a hangout space for kids, or as a home office,” Stephanie notes.
Plenty of natural light and a huge walk-in closet are the star attractions of the primary bedroom. A zero-entry tiled shower, heated floors, a water closet and dual vanities offer space and, as needed, privacy as you’re getting ready for the day or winding down with some pampering.
Another bonus on the top floor is a laundry room conveniently located near the primary suite.
Another haven for entertaining and relaxing awaits in the finished basement. The focal point is a huge family room, complete with a third gas fireplace with a stucco-like surround. There’s ample space for a pool table, as well as seating around the fireplace. The built-in wet bar has room to add a mini beverage fridge.
The family room’s glass sliding doors access a covered, lighted patio with space to enjoy a glass of wine and the peaceful scenery.
For car collectors or busy families with teen drivers, an appealing part of this home is its four-stall, fully finished, heated garage, with one extra-deep stall.
“We’ve done a few floor plans with a four-stall garage. We’ve made it an option, and it’s gone over really well,” Stephanie notes. “We have a lot of people that have multiple cars, a teen driving, and they need that extra space for bikes or kayaks or whatever else.”
Kelly Construction builds homes in Sioux Falls and in Omaha, Neb. The company builds designer-curated spec homes, meaning they choose the floor plans and lot, and Stephanie adds all the finishing touches. Every completed home is well-made and beautifully designed.
“We really have great floor plans. We have what we call expertly designed homes with natural light and big windows,” Stephanie explains. “We always try to have a look that is appealing to a wide range of people, but still has standout features. And we’re fun to work with!”
Spring is calling—is your backyard ready? With warmer weather just around the corner, now is the time to prep your yard for a pest-free season. Whether it’s a quiet night on the deck or a special outdoor gathering, one of the secrets to comfortable outdoor living is the atmosphere. Check out these expert tips from Mosquito Shield to help you get back to what matters: enjoying the great outdoors.
Structural & Design Considerations
When building or renovating, certain design choices can help reduce pest presence and set the foundation for a more usable outdoor space.
• Smart Drainage and Gutter Systems: Ensure the property is graded to prevent standing water. Incorporate high-quality gutter guards to minimize debris buildup and stagnant water, as mosquitoes breed in even the smallest amounts of moisture.
• Airflow Design: Incorporate ceiling fans into covered porches or pergolas. Because mosquitoes are weak flyers, a steady breeze is an effective mechanical deterrent.
• Landscaping for Utility: While beautiful, overgrown vegetation provides cool shelter for mosquitoes. Maintaining a well-manicured lawn is essential for a usable outdoor area.
Strategic Outdoor Placement
When planning the layout of your backyard, where you place your primary living areas can significantly impact pest presence.
• Seek the Sun: Mosquitoes prefer shade. Designing your
By Mosquito Shield
primary seating or dining area in a spot that receives plenty of natural sunlight naturally discourages them.
• Avoid Water Sources: When planning the location of a patio or deck, keep a distance from low-lying areas, ponds, or birdbaths where water tends to collect.
• Prioritize Open Space: Overgrown vegetation provides cool shelter for mosquitoes. Ensure there is a buffer of well-manicured lawn between dense landscaping and your primary outdoor living space.
• Utilize Natural Repellents: When choosing plants for the perimeter of your patio, integrate species like citronella, lavender, and marigold to act as a natural deterrent.
Outdoor Dining & Kitchen Maintenance
For those with dedicated outdoor kitchens and dining spaces, proper maintenance is key to keeping pests at bay.
• Smart Waste Management: During the design phase, plan for integrated, lidded trash enclosures located away from the primary seating area.
• Prompt Cleanup: Wiping down outdoor countertops and cleaning grills after use removes the sugary residues and grease that can attract various pests.
• Storage Solutions: Utilize airtight cabinetry or bins for outdoor food prep items to ensure nothing is left exposed to the elements between gatherings.
The Professional Advantage
While smart design and hosting habits are a great start, professional mosquito control services offer the most significant advantage for lasting protection. Mosquito Shield allows you to reclaim your whole yard, turning your entire property into usable living space.
• Tailored Treatment Plans: A team assesses your specific yard and local mosquito population to create an optimized schedule based on weather and mosquito behavior.
• Advanced Application Technology: Treatments penetrate dense foliage and hidden breeding areas to create a lasting barrier that repels mosquitoes.
• Season-Long Coverage: Regular visits maintain the barrier throughout mosquito season, keeping your outdoor spaces comfortable all summer.
• Fast-Acting Results: Treatments are often effective within 24 hours, so you can prepare for gatherings without worry.
• No Contract Required: Try the service without longterm commitments, backed by a satisfaction guarantee and full refund after the first visit if unsatisfied.
Beyond mosquitoes, these professionals can also help control ticks, ants, spiders, and more. By managing your home environment and utilizing professional protection, you can ensure your next outdoor experience is comfortable and enjoyable for everyone.
GET BACK OUTSIDE!
For immediate help, contact your local Sioux Falls experts today! Call or Text: (605) 202-7645
Seykora Remodeling proudly uses:
By Tanya Manus | Photography by Tim Hanson Productions
Thoughtfully designed, the ranch-style residence at 1729 N. Hyssop Drive in eastern Sioux Falls delivers a rare combination of contemporary design, thoughtful functionality and room to grow. The five-bedroom, three-bathroom home spans 2,805 square feet across two fully finished levels and is situated in the East Prairie development within the highly regarded Brandon Valley School District.
The home’s exterior makes a commanding first impression. A dynamic multi-level roofline, expansive windows, a contemporary terracotta and gray color palette, and carefully placed stone accents establish an unforgettable impression that sets this property apart. Built by Nielson Construction, the residence was designed with both curb appeal and long-term livability in mind.
The main level centers on an open-concept living room, dining room and kitchen, an arrangement that promotes both daily comfort and effortless entertaining. Oversized windows flood the space with natural light while framing peaceful prairie views beyond.
A restrained, high-contrast palette of creamy white walls, ceilings and fireplace surround is offset by matte black light fixtures, window trim and premium hardware. Warm-toned wood cabinetry carries through both levels, while luxury vinyl plank flooring provides the look of hardwood with the resilience suited to an active household.
The living room is anchored by a glass-enclosed electric fireplace that serves as an elegant focal point on cool evenings. In the gourmet kitchen, a generously proportioned island with quartz countertops accommodates meal preparation, casual dining and entertaining with ease. A walk-in pantry provides ample storage for food and small appliances.
Adjacent to the kitchen, the dining area is framed by two walls of windows and opens directly onto a covered composite deck; an ideal setting for outdoor entertaining. A distinctive spiral staircase
descends from the deck to a walkout patio and a spacious backyard, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living.
The primary suite is on the main level and features a tray ceiling and a generously sized walk-in closet. The en-suite bathroom is appointed with a custom-tiled walk-in shower, a dual-sink vanity, and warm wood cabinetry, creating an environment designed for both utility and relaxation. Two additional bedrooms and a full bathroom round out the main level’s sleeping accommodations.
A dedicated laundry room and a mudroom, complete with a built-in bench and drop zone, also occupy the main floor, providing the organizational infrastructure that busy households depend on.
The fully finished walkout basement expands the home’s versatility considerably. A spacious family room features a built-in wet bar with a beverage refrigerator, and sliding glass doors provide direct access to a partially covered patio and the backyard. The bright, open character of the space makes it equally well suited for everyday relaxation, entertaining or hosting overnight guests.
Two additional bedrooms, each with walk-in closets, and a full bathroom complete the lower level.
The three-stall garage is insulated, textured, painted and plumbed for both hot and cold water, with direct access to the mudroom, a practical amenity that underscores the thoughtful attention to detail found throughout this exceptional home.
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“Now we can all be in one area and enjoy it. Everything has its home and it finally works for our family.”
ON TREND
HOW TO GIVE YOUR HOME Curb Appeal
BY ARTICLE CITY
The exterior of a home is the first thing prospective buyers see, and that initial impression can significantly influence a property’s perceived value. Whether preparing to list a home or simply refreshing its appearance, targeted improvements to a home’s exterior can yield substantial returns. The following strategies offer practical guidance for enhancing curb appeal.
ON TREND
ADD PORCH FURNITURE
Furnishing a porch can transform it from a transitional space into an inviting extension of the home. Seating arrangements signal to visitors and potential buyers, that the space is livable and well-considered. Homeowners can opt for a classic, neutral palette or incorporate color to reflect their personal style. For additional privacy and visual interest, outdoor curtains are a functional and aesthetically appealing addition.
PRIORITIZE LANDSCAPING
A well-maintained yard is among the most effective ways to improve curb appeal. According to the National Association of Realtors Remodeling Impact Report, landscaping investments can return an estimated 267% of their cost, making them among the highest-yield home improvement projects available.
Homeowners who prefer lower-maintenance options can install window flower boxes, place potted plants on either side of the front door, or add small trees to create texture and visual depth. Even modest plantings can substantially elevate a property’s street presence.
ON TREND
REFRESH THE FRONT DOOR
The front door serves as a focal point of any home’s exterior. Replacing it entirely can dramatically alter a property’s character, but even a fresh coat of paint can make a significant difference. Bold accent colors, such as navy, yellow, or red, create visual impact, while classic whites and blacks offer timeless appeal.
Complementary hardware upgrades, including door knockers, knobs and kick plates, adds refinement without requiring a full replacement. Seasonal wreaths or other door accessories can further distinguish a home’s entryway.
ON TREND
UPGRADE EXTERIOR FIXTURES
Exterior lighting enhances both the safety and visual appeal of a home after dark. Homeowners without porch or entryway lighting should consider installing fixtures that complement the home’s architectural style. Those updating existing lights may find that a hanging lantern or wall-mounted sconce adds greater elegance than a standard overhead fixture.
Beyond lighting, additions such as a porch swing or decorative mailbox can reinforce a home’s character and enhance its street presence.
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