MODERN
HOME BUILDERS
Issue 119A www.modernhb.com
BEST PRACTICE FOR INDUSTRY LEADERS
The family formula for success Many factors combine to form the foundation of Jurek Builders’ success, but its dedication to family and its personal approach are undoubtedly two critical elements
Prier When it comes to US-made plumbing products, the name Prier stands out for quality, reliability and service
Marnie Custom Homes The projects delivered by Marnie Custom Homes truly reflect its dedication to personal, creative and unique design
EDITOR’S LETTER Chairman - Andrew Schofield Group COO - Joe Woolsgrove Editor - Libbie Hammond Staff Writers - Daniel Baksi, Alex Caesari, Danielle Champ, Jessica Olley Editorial Administrator - Amy Gilks Managing Art Editor - Fleur Daniels Art Editors - David Howard, Paul Gillings Artwork Administrator - Rochelle Broderick-White Sales Director - Alasdair Gamble Business Development Director - Philip Monument Head of Global Media Programs Mark Cawston - mcawston@schofieldpublishing.com Operations Manager - Adam Blanch Research Managers - Michelle Fontaine, Natalie Griffiths, Jo-Ann Jeffery, Ben Richell, Basil Sharpe, Laura Thompson Editorial Researchers Victoria Burke, Mark Cowles, Jeff Goldenberg, Dan Harrison, Melanie Joyce, James Page, Wendy Russell, Richard Saunders, Kieran Shukri Advertising Sales Johanna Bailey, Mike Berger, Jessica Eglington, James Fuller, Will Gwyther, Alex Hartley, Michelle Hernandez, Reid Lingle, Sam Surrell, Markus Wellington Florida General Manager - Ryan Finn Boston General Manager - Joy Francesconi Custom Media Sales - Dan Bess Digital Sales - Mike Psimis
Hello and welcome to the July edition of Modern Home Builders. This month’s magazine certainly does cover a range of topics relevant to the sector, so I hope you find something that interests you and is relevant to your business. From human resources to hand tools – it’s certainly an eclectic mix! One of our lead features looks at affordable housing – an ongoing topic for homebuilders to contend with, especially as materials, labor and lot costs continue to increase. Author Jerry Konter, the 2022 Chairman of the Board of the National Association of Home Builders, says that housing affordability in the United States is at its lowest for a decade, and that this will remain a significant challenge for some time. “That’s why NAHB continues to advocate on behalf of our members and the consumers we serve to bring about increased lumber production, reduced or eliminated tariffs on Canadian lumber, sensible land-use regulations, and effective training for the next generation of skilled construction trades professionals,” he states. As home buyers and renters continue to be affected by this problem, it’s certainly one that needs to be taken seriously – NAHB is calling for ‘real change from policymakers, financial institutions, suppliers, and other stakeholders.’ We also feature so many fascinating homebuilders in this issue, it’s tough to know which to highlight; it’s like choosing a favorite child! I will start with directing your attention to
Subscriptions - i.kidd@schofieldpublishing.com Administration - Natalie Fletcher, Rory Gallacher
Jurek Builders – a real family business. Henry Jurek III, Vice President, Sales and Operations at the company, gives us an insight into its operations and the luxurious properties it constructs. The true family ethos behind the business really shines through. Another stand out feature in this issue is Marnie Custom Homes. We speak to company
© 2022 Schofield Publishing Ltd Schofield Publishing - Corporate Head Office Cringleford Business Centre, 10 Intwood Road,
founder Marnie Oursler, to find out the secrets behind her success. Building is not only in her blood but it’s her passion, and she prides herself on delivering on schedule, exceeding clients’ expectations, solving problems and ultimately creating dream homes. It’s a
Cringleford, Norwich, NR4 6AU, U.K.
fascinating journey that she continues to navigate, and as a woman in a male-dominated
T: (312) 854-0123 T: +44 (0)1603 274130
business, she really is a trailblazer!
Libbie Hammond Finelight Media LLC 2240 West Woolbright Road, Suite 402 Boynton Beach, FL 33426
EDITOR
lhammond@finelight-media.com libbie@schofieldpublishing.com
T: (561) 778-2396 Please note: The opinions expressed by contributors and advertisers within this publication do not necessarily coincide with those of the editor and publisher. Every reasonable effort is made to ensure that the information published is accurate, and correct at time of writing, but no legal responsibility for loss occasioned by the use of such information can be accepted by the publisher. All rights reserved. The contents of the magazine are strictly copyright, the property of Schofield Publishing, and may not be copied, stored in a retrieval system, or reproduced without the prior written permission of the publisher.
MODERNHB.COM
1
INSIDE THIS
ISSUE
28
FEATURES 6 TOOLS How the residential construction industry is evolving and the best ways for builders to modernize their jobsite to boost productivity
10 HUMAN RESOURCES With the homebuilding industry facing labor shortages, it is vital that companies utilise a number of approaches to attract workers
40
50
14 CASE STUDY A small garden doesn’t have to be dull – one UK homeowner have transformed their outside space into a cosy and welcoming environment
16 AFFORDABLE HOMES Jerry Konter, Chairman of the Board of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), discusses how the Association is working to address the issue of housing affordability
MARNIE CUSTOM HOMES
18 CASE STUDY How a lakeside 1970’s cabin has been restored to new heights of beauty thanks to the use of Kebony wood and a visionary renovation project
62
TOP TEXAS HOMEBUILDERS SPOTLIGHT
22 PARKING Automated parking systems can contribute to the health, safety and wellness of city residents, and deserve consideration when planning new projects
24 CELEBRITY HOMES A Long Island mansion that has appeared on the big and small screens and one of the US’ most expensive listings are revealed in this issue
2
MODERNHB.COM
BOURN CUSTOM HOMES
68
36
0
8
PRIER
JUREK BUILDERS
58
KARP ASSOCIATES
TOP TEXAS HOMEBUILDERS SPOTLIGHT
PENCSAK BUILDERS
TOP TEXAS HOMEBUILDERS SPOTLIGHT
BAYLESS CUSTOM HOMES
72
ROCKLYN HOMES MODERNHB.COM
3
...CONTENTS CONTINUED
78
5TH AVENUE CONSTRUCTION
104
82 BLACKPINE COMMUNITIES
108
MODERN HOMES IRELAND
124
130 BEACHWALK HOMES
144
MODERNHB.COM
SCHMIDKE CONSTRUCTION AND CONTRACTING
150 VAS CONSTRUCTION
4
CRX CONSTRUCTION
ATLANTA FLOORING DESIGN CENTERS INC
90
96 GREAT PLACES HOUSING GROUP
WHITE OAK
114
120 CAMERIO BUILDERS
136
J. HALL HOMES
140
CENTERLINE DEVELOPMENT
156
AMERICAN TIMBER WORKS
160 BALD HEAD ISLAND BUILDING GROUP
CRAVATH HOMES, LLC MODERNHB.COM
5
Tools
of the trade How to fuel productivity through a modernized residential jobsite
T
he last two years have seen
productive equipment than ever before.
rapidly evolving. Contractors are seeking ways
unprecedented changes and
Allison Nicolaidis shares insights on how the
to improve productivity against ever-rising
growth in the US housing
residential construction industry is evolving
costs and global supply chain challenges. The
market during which new trends
and the best ways for builders to modernize
demand for housing has reached new heights
their jobsite to boost productivity.
exacerbated by existing labor shortages, rising
for home builders have emerged with higher demand for faster, safer and more
6
MODERNHB.COM
The residential construction industry is
material costs and the overwhelming need
TOOLS productivity is to modernize. Modernization means taking advantage of the latest innovations in construction equipment and technology. Being at the forefront of a leading global tools and storage manufacturer for nearly 25 years, I can attest that the pace of innovation that is bringing efficiency to the residential construction industry has been fasttracked in the past few years, with some of the most groundbreaking developments coming to market in just the last few months. Here are the key elements of a modernized jobsite that any builder prioritizing productivity should carefully consider.
Embrace a cordless jobsite Cordless power tools have transformed the jobsite over the last 30 years and have increasingly become most builders’ equipment of choice. Back then, times were simpler, builders only needed powerful cordless tools with great accessories and storage to get the job done. Now however, modern technologies are moving into the industry delivering game-changing solutions that completely replace hoses, gas tanks and cords in favor of a cordless platform. Consider that in 1992, DEWALT offered two cordless tools – a 9.6V and 12V drill. Today, there are more than 300 tools available and platformed across battery systems ranging from 12V to 20V and even flexible platforms enabling tools to deliver 60V performance. New technology is extending that capability and convenience in a wide range of applications such as framing, carpentry, concrete construction and finishing trades, giving residential construction builders the performance of a corded product, with the freedom and convenience of a cordless tool. Those that have made the transition to cordless incur several benefits that contribute to productivity.
Greater portability – In the early home building phases, builders spend hours just bringing in power and an array of equipment to perform a few tasks. From lugging in a generator and compressor, getting AC to make jobsites safer and more efficient.
indoor air quality (IAQ), builders are pressured
cords plugged into the generator, and then
On top of a construction industry vexed
to accelerate their own modernization of the
connecting hoses from the compressor to
with complex issues, the future is already
jobsite and bridge the gap between what a
heavy-duty corded nailers and large diameter
here. With emerging trends like software
residential jobsite looks like today versus what
12-In. sliding miter saws – a worker’s set up
solutions, remote worksites, mobile access,
it needs to be, and how it needs to operate.
and break down process is exhausting and
smart devices, drones, energy efficiency and
To put it simply, the solution to improving
time consuming. With a cordless platform, MODERNHB.COM
7
builders are now more efficient than ever.
pack. Cordless tools are also advancing with
Cordless technology has advanced to not
features that assist users in staying efficient; for
Unlock efficiency with high-power technology
only make even the largest construction
instance, indicators that inform users when it is
To help drive customer productivity,
tools portable, but capable of more run time,
time to reload, mechanisms that help reduce
manufacturers are not only prioritizing the
less downtime, faster application pace, and
downtime by quickly clearing jams, and
expansion of their cordless tool systems,
overall better performance than a corded
automatic depth adjustments for precise nail
they are also laser focused on improving the
tool. Without hoses, cords and tanks, workers
placement. Battery life and assistive product
battery technology that powers them. The
can freely move about the jobsite, and from
features give workers an advantage in staying
trend in the power tool industry has been
jobsite to jobsite, without relocating all
on task, for longer.
about increasing battery capacity – as high
their auxiliary equipment, contributing to
8
as15Ah – enabling widespread conversion
enhanced productivity and ultimately, overall
Safety enhancements – Perhaps one of
to cordless in categories traditionally
project cost savings.
the most important benefits of cordless tools
thought to never reach end-to-end cordless
is the safety that comes with eliminating
solutions like rotary hammers, miter saws
Improved runtime & worktime - The
hoses, tanks, and cords, which increase the
and table saws, to name a few. Today, the
extended runtime and consistency of
likelihood of tangling and tripping hazards.
majority of the industry relies on cylindrical
battery-operated tools provides prolonged
When cutting applications are involved, users
cell technology. This means more power
uninterrupted work time. A new DEWALT
don’t need to worry about keeping cords
capability typically comes with increasing
23Ga. nailer that hit shelves last month [at
out of their blade line or busy walking paths
the size of the cell or increasing the number
time of writing] drives, on average, 2,000 nails
on the site. Cordless tools have also made
of cells in the pack. As a user then, whenever
per charge maximizing continuous work and
significant strides as it relates to user safety,
you need more power and runtime, you’re
even providing days if not weeks of firing nails
particularly those performing heavy-duty
making a trade-off between performance
without swapping or charging a new battery
applications.
and size/weight.
MODERNHB.COM
TOOLS
This past fall, DEWALT was the world’s first
benefits of more recently available items like
example in several valuable use cases.
major power tool brand to offer power tool
connected products and software solutions, as
batteries using pouch cells, a new technology
well as take stock of advances in accessories,
to every tool and technology category a
versus the cylindrical cells used over the last
storage and lifestyle products, which can
worker might have in their toolbox. Power tool
several decades in cordless tools. These pouch
greatly improve worksite operations.
accessories like bits, blades and screwdriving
cell packs, known as DEWALT POWERSTACK™
Just one residential jobsite may operate
Innovation for the modern jobsite extends
attachments, have shown vast improvement
20V MAX* Compact Batteries, are designed
with hundreds of tools and pieces of
in performance with benefits provided by
and optimized for the construction
equipment, all worth tens of thousands
innovation across materials, coatings and
environment and its applications, marking a
of dollars. Keeping track of these tools is a
manufacturing processes. Storage, another
new era of cordless power tool performance.
common challenge. Asset management
emerging and dynamic space offering
Pouch cell batteries are dramatically smaller
technology connects tools providing location
organization to users like never before, is also
and lighter, and in my experience have
and inventory management data on a
imperative and plays a role in productivity,
delivered approximately 50 percent more
software platform where users can seamlessly
tool protection, and maneuverability in
power with less weight, smashing the industry
monitor, assign and manage jobsite inventory.
workspaces of all types. Finally, the jobsite is
notion that more power or run time had to
Many tools have QR codes and can be
not complete without lifestyle products like
mean larger size packs toted on tools. Think
connected through a quick, economical, and
radios – the first of which was launched by
about how mobile phones have gotten
easy addition of a Bluetooth beacon on the
DEWALT for the construction environment
smaller over the decades but their storage
tool. This allows equipment data to be read
more than two decades ago – coolers, and
capacity has expanded significantly while
by mobile devices or gateways for larger sites.
fans that work to create a better workspace for
operating experience is faster and faster.
Often times, data is collected, transmitted
everyone on the job and round out the family
We’re making similar strides in power tools by
and easily stored via an app making it simple
of battery-operated products used every day
changing the industry-standard cylindrical cell
to locate each item on your jobsite, as one
in construction. F
construction to flat, rectangular pouch cells. Flat, stacked pouch cells neatly align like sticks of chewing gum in a pack, maximizing the limited space within compact battery housing.
Simplify with end-to-end, connected solutions While power tools and battery systems have seen astounding innovation in recent years, builders should also evaluate their full
Allison Nicolaidis is President of the Power Tools Group at DEWALT. DEWALT, a Stanley Black & Decker brand, is obsessed with how users work in the real world and is relentlessly pursuing total jobsite solutions. By incorporating its latest technology and industry innovations, DEWALT is leading the charge for the jobsite of the future. DEWALT products. GUARANTEED TOUGH®. https://www.dewalt.com/total-trade-solutions
ecosystem of equipment to consider the MODERNHB.COM
9
Talent
competition How home building companies are adapting in the face of labor shortages. By Pamela Rader
10
MODERNHB.COM
HUMAN RESOURCES
MODERNHB.COM
11
A
s it has done across many fields
which spells out certain goals and tasks that
We listen to our employees and value their
of work, the Covid-19 pandemic
should be accomplished within a timeline. This
feedback. Surveying your team through an
has caused labor shortages within
allows the employee to see the expectations
annual engagement survey and other short
the home building industry. This,
for their role and empowers them to achieve
surveys throughout the year helps leadership
coupled with a high amount of people retiring
them. Having this structure and proper
keep a pulse on overall morale within the
from trade work, has created an immense need
training in place not only helps with overall
organization.
for workers within the industry. Now more
job satisfaction, it ensures our employees feel
than ever, it is vital that companies emphasize
comfortable and supported as they settle into
culture helps employees feel tied to the
recruiting and training, investing in their staff
their new roles.
organization’s mission and purpose. When the
and adapting to the needs of today’s workforce.
company’s culture is inclusive, inviting and
Investment in staff
puts the employees’ needs first, the chances
Recruitment and training
Investing in our staff is crucial; it allows us
of creating a bond of loyalty increases.
Organizations are moving away from
to foster a positive company culture, retain
Employees want to feel valued and a part
recruiting talent based solely on experience.
our current talent and fill open positions by
of the greater picture. Additionally, work-life
Rather than waiting to find the person with
promoting internal candidates. With current
balance and flexibility are top priorities in
the ‘right’ skills and experience, companies
labor shortages, companies are focusing on
today’s workforce. Companies have to ensure
are recruiting people who are capable of
investing in the talent they have in an effort to
their culture embraces these aspects and
being trained to do the job. Additionally, it is
hopefully retain their staff.
promotes these benefits to their employees.
imperative that recruiters and hiring managers
12
Promoting a positive, strong company
At Drees Homes, we invest in our people
Investing in developing your employees is
are transparent about all aspects of the job
by showing them we care, which earned
critical. Management development programs,
so that employees fully understand what to
us a spot on the 2022 U.S. Best Managed
career path discussions and other training
expect in that role.
Companies list. We extend simple gestures of
opportunities are important to today’s worker.
Once an employee is hired, their first 90
appreciation, publicly express recognition and
It is key for companies to help employees see
days are crucial for their success. At Drees
gratitude and provide employees with regular
a path for success and future growth within
Homes, we implement a 90-day action plan,
bonuses based on company performance.
the organization. Tuition reimbursement
MODERNHB.COM
HUMAN RESOURCES
programs and student loan assistance are
has been simplified and streamlined, which in
Gone are the days when people believed that
also ways for an organization to show they
turn helps attract new talent.
construction is a job exclusively for men.
are invested in their employees. Offering non-
Building relationships with trade schools
The need for more labor in home building
and conducting outreach with students
training might open doors employees never thought were possible and show them you
The demand for more workers in the home
Associations such as the Building Institute
care about their future within the company.
building industry is unprecedented. In
Association (BIA) and the National Association
traditional career path opportunities and cross
early on is more important than ever before.
order to increase workforces, it is vital that
of Home Builders (NAHB) are focused on
How to make the sector more appealing
companies emphasize recruiting and training
investing in efforts to draw students to
minorities and women. Organizations must
trade schools. There is a vital call to action
Offering flexibility, promoting the use of
actively work to shatter the antiquated ideas
happening now, given the workforce
technology and building connections with the
of what a construction worker looks like.
shortages. F
new generations entering the workforce helps make home building a desired industry to work in. Moving away from pre-pandemic work environments and offering flexible schedules, remote work opportunities and work-life balance will help attract talent to the industry. It’s imperative to show Millennials and Gen Z that they can make a difference in their community through home building. Making those connections for them to feel they are contributing to something great will help attract this new generation to the construction field. Promoting advanced technology used in construction today will help minimize the stereotypical ideas of the industry. The use of advanced scheduling tools, collaboration tools between trades and builders and bringing
Pamela Rader is Drees Homes Vice President of Human Resources. Pamela has worked in the Human Resources field for more than two decades and has served in various positions from strategic planning, to talent acquisition, to her current role of vice president at Drees Homes. Family-owned and operated for nearly 95 years, Drees Homes has earned the title of ‘America’s Best Builder’ (twice) from Builder Magazine, ‘National Builder of the Year’ from Professional Builder Magazine, as well as the ‘National Housing Quality Award’ from the National Association of Home Builders. This is known as the prestigious ‘Triple Crown’ of national home building awards. Headquartered in Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky, Drees operates in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, Cleveland, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Nashville, Raleigh, Washington D.C., Austin, Dallas and Houston. The company operates as Drees Custom Homes in Texas. www.dreeshomes.com
iPads to the field illustrates how the process MODERNHB.COM
13
New life
New build gardens can be lifeless, but one UK homeowner has transformed what was a dull space into a stunning outdoor lounge
14
MODERNHB.COM
CASE STUDY Photo credit: Insidesixtythree
O
utdoor living is a key trend for
work, enjoy cocktails with friends at the
selected lighting, comfortable furniture and
2022 and research has shown
weekend, and spend quality time with our
perfectly placed composite decking, which
that the inside-outside trend
loved ones during the holidays.
is durable and will ensure any spillages or
has featured in 11 percent of
“Investing in the decking space has meant
stains are easily removed; allowing the space
the top images under the #gardeninspiration
that we don’t need to spend so much money
to remain looking like new for many years to
hashtag in the last 12 months, according to
on going out at the weekend as we can enjoy
come.
Luxury Rattan.
most social activities from the comfort of our
Ash, a product designer from Derbyshire and his partner, Tom transformed their
own home!” Carefully laid in the corner of the garden to
“I work for a design consultancy specializing in sustainable packaging design and innovation so being environmentally
patchy, lifeless new-build garden into a cozy
attract the most sunlight, Composite Prime’s
conscious is something that is really important
outdoor lounge space. The pair have created
HD Deck® 150 in silver is positioned under an
to me. It struck me that Composite Prime®
an extension of the home, with interior and
aluminum Nova Outdoor Living pergola and
products are produced using sustainable
exterior decor working together in harmony,
complemented by a chic sofa set. The area
materials, with each square meter of
to allow them to entertain outside, all year
also features a minimalist charcoal floor lamp
composite decking containing the equivalent
round.
and stunning fire pit, which brings the ‘lounge
of more than 3,000 plastic bottle caps or 280
vibe’ to life.
plastic bottles. It’s also the most authentic
Chronicled on Ashley’s Instagram account, @Insidesixtythree, the garden ‘glow-up’ is complete with a projector screen set, a luxury,
Ashley continued: “We achieved our outdoor living room look through carefully
timber alternative we spotted during our research.” F
weather resistant pergola and sustainable, slipresistant Composite Prime® decking. Commenting on the garden renovation, Ashley said: “We loved the property, but as is the case with many new builds, we found the garden to be really uninspiring and wanted it to really reflect our personality. One thing that was so important to us was to create the feeling of outdoor living in the evenings,
Composite Prime® is the UK’s leading brand of sustainable composite decking and flooring products. The Yorkshire-based brand manufactures its unique products from FSC 100 percent certified quality oak wood fiber and recycled plastics. In the seven years of operation the brand has saved the equivalent of 176 million plastic milk bottles from landfill and over 1.8 billion bottle top caps. www.composite-prime.com
where we could relax and watch a film after MODERNHB.COM
15
The need for
change
Jerry Konter discusses why housing affordability remains a major challenge
H
ousing affordability in the United
moderate-income families will remain a
building materials, as well as products like
States is at its lowest level in a
significant challenge for some time. In
appliances, windows, and cabinets. These high
decade. Supply chain disruptions
response, the National Association of Home
costs are pushing up the price of new homes
are driving up the price of lumber
Builders (NAHB) is working to address these
and apartment rents.
and other key building materials. A shortage
issues and to protect our industry.
of skilled labor is affecting production
construction are up more than 20 percent year over year, according to the US Bureau of
regulations are increasing the time – and cost
High lumber costs are driving up prices
– of developing buildable lots. And now, rising
Supply chain challenges during the Covid-19
are up more than 30 percent in just the past
inflation threatens to affect more home buyers
pandemic have been the biggest contributor
three months and nearly 80 percent since
and renters.
to rising home prices. Many builders and
their most recent trough in September 2021.
remodelers have reported higher prices and
At one point this last year, high lumber costs
months-long delays on lumber and other
were adding $30,000 to the price of a new
schedules and costs. Burdensome land-use
These factors suggest that production of housing that is affordable to low- and
16
Prices for goods used in residential
MODERNHB.COM
Labor Statistics. Softwood lumber prices alone
AFFORDABLE HOMES that the seasonally adjusted rate of sawmill
reported the overall supply of developed lots
output in September 2021 was 1.2 percent
in their area was low to very low, a record
higher than in September 2020. However,
since NAHB began collecting the information
output in Q3 2021 was 1.3 percent lower than
in the 1990s. The previous record was 65
it was in Q3 2020.
percent recorded in 2018. Land use policies
On a recent virtual meeting with White
that enable existing residents to slow or
House officials, I urged President Biden and
block new housing development, and zoning
his administration to increase domestic
that discourages higher-density housing,
production of timber from federal lands and
contribute to the problem.
to work with Canada on a new softwood
And finally, the construction labor market
lumber agreement that will eliminate tariffs.
remains tight, with the number of open jobs
I explained that housing can only create
in the field up about 80,000 from a year ago.
jobs and help lead the economy forward if
Without a strong skilled labor force, the cost
policymakers address chronic production
of home building will continue to increase,
bottlenecks that are causing record-high
making it more and more difficult for families
prices in lumber and other building materials.
to afford a new home.
Higher interest rates affect mortgage costs
arm, the Home Builders Institute (HBI), projects
To curb inflation, which sits near a 40-year
need 2.2 million new hires over the next
high, the US Federal Reserve Board of
three years to keep pace with growth and
Governors in mid-March announced the first
attrition. The skilled labor shortage is adding
of many expected increases in the short-
to construction delays and further crippling
term federal funds rate. This move will lead
housing affordability.
A recent report from NAHB’s educational the residential construction industry will
to higher mortgage interest rates, which will exclude even more American families from
Building safe, desirable homes
the market for a new home.
NAHB members are committed to building
Analysis by NAHB economists shows that
safe, desirable homes at reasonable prices.
87.5 million households, or roughly 69 percent
Supply-side constraints are making that
of all US households, are already unable to
difficult.
afford the median-priced ($412,505) new
We believe it is time to see real change
home. For every $1,000 price increase, 117,932
from policymakers, financial institutions,
additional households will be priced out of
suppliers, and other stakeholders. That’s why
the market.
NAHB continues to advocate on behalf of our members and the consumers we serve
Costs of lots and labor on the rise
to bring about increased lumber production,
Supply of building lots is also on the decline,
reduced or eliminated tariffs on Canadian
and that diminished supply is pushing up
lumber, sensible land-use regulations, and
prices. A survey of NAHB members late
effective training for the next generation of
last year found that 76 percent of builders
skilled construction trades professionals. F
home. With lumber prices on the rise, home builders and remodelers are having trouble locking in prices for their customers. Home builders recognize that several unforeseeable factors have affected lumber prices, including an unusually strong wildfire season last summer in the western United States and British Columbia. Central to the rising prices, however, is the failure of US sawmills to boost output at a pace sufficient to meet strong and consistent consumer demand for newly built homes. Data from the
Jerry Konter is 2022 Chairman of the Board of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). NAHB is a Washington-based trade association representing more than 140,000 members involved in home building, remodeling, multifamily construction, property management, subcontracting, design, housing finance, building product manufacturing and other aspects of residential and light commercial construction. NAHB is affiliated with 700 state and local home builders associations around the country. NAHB’s builder members will construct about 80 percent of the new housing units projected for this year. www.nahb.org
Bureau of Economic Analysis demonstrates MODERNHB.COM
17
Renovation by the lake
18
MODERNHB.COM
CASE STUDY
Once an early 70s kit home, the Minne Stuga House is now a weekend retreat and vacation rental bathed in natural light and clad in sustainable Kebony wood
MODERNHB.COM
19
H
idden away in one of Minnesota’s
Grand Marais-based Taiga Design+Build, who
futureproofing the retreat for the next
many lakeside forests, the Minne
helped maintain the cabin’s timeless feel,
generation.
Stuga House is surrounded
retaining 90 per cent of the original structure.
by local pine and cedar trees
20
Within the house, the interior is lined
Where the original cedar siding was
with the original, 50-year old western red
with secluded waterfront access. Clad in
rotting, Taiga replaced it with Kebony, a
cedar panelling, bringing the character of
sustainably sourced Kebony wood, the
global leader in the production of sustainable
the forest into the home, which it marries
cabin’s sharp lines, tight peaks, and sweeping
wood. The Norwegian company uses a
with a radiant, welcoming warmth. Roof
roof are a dramatic addition to the forest
patented technique to turn sustainably
& Board was tapped for interior furniture,
landscape, with the wooden features and
sourced softwoods into environmentally-
and the original roof was replaced by Taiga,
earthy tones providing a natural appearance.
friendly Kebony wood, with hardwood-
adding structural insulated panels for heat
Originally built in the 1970s, the A-frame
like qualities such as high durability and
and energy efficiency. Awaken Skylights
cabin was renovated by Minneapolis-based
dimensional stability. Kebony takes on a rich
were integrated to provide extra natural
designer and lifestyle blogger Melissa
brown colour that has helped preserve the
light, completing the cabin’s 21st century
Coleman – The Faux Martha – alongside
original aesthetic, keeping the cabin in close
transformation. With its rustic Kebony-clad
her husband Kevin, a child psychologist.
harmony with the surrounding landscape.
exterior and homely interior, the cabin is
Renovation of the cabin was undertaken by
Kebony also requires very little upkeep,
a cosy sanctuary during Minnesota’s cold
MODERNHB.COM
CASE STUDY
winters, where it averages 12 inches of snowfall in January.
When asked why Kebony was selected for the project, Taiga
The Minne Stuga House now opens out
Design+Build Principal Anton Moody
on to a gorgeous decking area, which was
explained: “I turned the Colemans on
built with Kebony wood and furnished with
to Kebony, which performs better
Loll Designs. From the decking it is a short
over time than cedar. It’s ageing and
path through the trees to the shore of Devil
weathering nicely.”
Track Lake, where guests can fish, kayak or
Melissa Coleman, Owner of the Minne
have a quick dip. As spring turns to summer,
Stuga House added: “We’re still pinching
the cabin bathes in natural light and the
ourselves to believe we found this place.
lakeshores become the perfect warm retreat.
It’s our hope that our kids still have this
The Colemans use the Minne Stuga as a
cabin 70 years from now.” F
periodic weekend getaway for themselves and rent it out the rest of the time as a fully
For a list of the sources used in this article,
appointed vacation property through
please contact the editor.
www.theminnestuga.com.
www.kebony.com MODERNHB.COM
21
Parking
made safe Drew Johnson explains the value of automated parking systems and how they positively impact urban communities
T
he United States contains an
from its drivers, to building owners, to
both the drop-off and retrieval of vehicles
estimated two billion parking
investors. Investing in an automated parking
with a secure central transfer location. Thanks
spaces. With a population of
system (APS), with either a retrofit or new
to technology like mobile apps, drivers can
329.5 million, this seems like an
build, ultimately adds value in promoting
remotely schedule pick up and track their
overzealous approach to parking. Coupled
the overall safety and quality of life for
vehicles in real-time throughout the retrieval
with that statistic, some estimates claim that
communities in four impactful ways:
process. Automated parking ultimately
Western Europe hosts about 300 million
1) A contactless experience
and the need for attendants to manage the
global trend of dedicating a tremendous
As a consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic,
garage.
amount of land to parking alone.
minimizing face-to-face interaction and the number of touchpoints in day-to-day
2) Positive environmental impacts
controlled traffic and waste management)
activities has become the new standard. With
Not only are automated parking systems
spending is expected to reach $327 billion by
pay kiosks, stairwells, elevators, and valets,
safe for users, they are also the most
2025, so many cities, municipalities, multi-
reducing human interaction and the spread
environmentally sustainable parking option
family unit owners, and business owners
of germs is nearly impossible in a traditional
available, significantly contributing to net-
should consider investing in automated
parking facility.
zero carbon goals. After all, transportation is
With smart city technology (like AI-
parking technology. These systems offer a plethora of benefits for entire communities–
22
reduces the time spent in parking garages
parking spaces, demonstrating a worrying
MODERNHB.COM
Automated parking systems, on the other hand, ensure a contact-free experience in
responsible for a fifth of all global emissions. Automated parking systems address this
PARKING to live in cities by 2050, land use will continue to play a key role in the quality of life and sustainability of future cities.
3) Improved driver safety Twenty percent of all car accidents happen in parking lots and garages each year. And many of these accidents are due to distracted driving while navigating parking facilities. With an APS, there is no need for drivers to park their own cars. They simply park their vehicle in the transfer area, then ensure their car is ready to be parked by using the Kiosk or mobile app. Once this process is done, the vehicle is parked in its designated storage position with no human intervention.
4) Crime prevention Something that seems as benign as parking infrastructure actually has direct impacts on the economic vitality and crime rates of entire communities, too. Traditional parking garages are the third most likely setting for violent crime compared to all other commercial facilities including bars and nightclubs, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Oftentimes, parking garages are open to the public, meaning little to no control over potential vandalism, robberies or assaults. Automated parking systems eliminate the need to physically navigate garages and do not allow open access entry, essentially eradicating the possibility of parking crime. Overall, automated parking systems should be a major consideration when it by eliminating the need to cruise through
communities, and automated parking systems
comes to the health, safety, and wellness of
several levels of a parking garage – reducing
contribute to prolonged sustainability and
city residents. The future is health-conscious
emissions by 80 percent compared to
less use of natural resources. Considering that
and sustainable, and the way we park should
conventional parking garages. Well-designed
nearly 70 percent of all people are expected
be, too. F
automated parking systems also utilize electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, a must-have as many countries and manufacturers begin mandating the use of EVs. Automated parking garages are spaceefficient, as well. Compared to a traditional parking facility, they can fit twice as many cars in the same footprint. This space consolidation opens up valuable land for green space and solves issues like traffic and urban sprawl in highly populated areas. Consequently, preserving urban green space is linked to improved health and wellness (like
Drew Johnson is Business Development Associate for Westfalia’s Automated Parking Systems. Leveraging the expertise and experience of Westfalia Technologies, Inc. and Westfalia Logistics Solutions Europe GmbH Co. KG, Westfalia’s new parking solution is paving the way for innovation in the automated parking industry. By capitalizing on existing core competencies in warehouse automation and materials handling, Westfalia’s parking solutions specialize in cutting-edge, time-tested fully-automated parking systems for businesses, cities and municipalities, hotels, and residential properties for the Americas, Europe and Middle East. www.WestfaliaParking.com
reducing stress and encouraging exercise) in MODERNHB.COM
23
Photo credit: Courtesy of Douglas Elliman
Picture perfect This month’s luxury properties highlight a famous location and one of the USA’s most expensive listings
S
ometimes it’s not the owner of
player in the thoroughbred race horse business
entertainment complex with an outdoor
the property that’s a celebrity –
and the listing includes a 15,000-square-foot
kitchen, heated-saltwater pool, waterfall
sometimes it’s the house itself! A Long
home and ten-stall horse stable.
and koi pond, several patios, and year-round
Island mansion and equestrian estate
Located about 30 minutes from New York’s Belmont Park near Manhattan and the
television programs, including Wolf of Wall
Hamptons, the Mill Neck property includes the
century saw mill business, is one of the
Street with Leonardo DiCaprio, is for sale at $10
six-bedroom home on five acres of pasture,
most expensive zip codes in the United
million. The property has been a prominent
lawn and trees, an apartment and tack room,
States consisting mostly of large homes on picturesque lots. It is often compared to the
About 100 race-winning
Hamptons and is just a few minutes from
horses have trained at the
President Teddy Roosevelt’s home in Oyster
facility.
Bay.
home with its impressive turret and steep-pitched roof
MODERNHB.COM
Mill Neck, named after a seventeenth-
paddocks and a riding ring.
The French-chateau style
24
gardens.
that has been a film site for several movies and
The estate is listed with Regina Rogers of Douglas Elliman.
is set at the end of a long
Luxury location
driveway past a courtyard
One of the country’s most expensive listings
and lush landscaping. Home
was recently released on the Los Angeles
features include wood-and-
market. Priced at $150 million, the brand new
marble floors, six fireplaces,
Bel Air contemporary includes almost 21,000
extensive woodwork, wine
square feet and 360-degree views from the
cellar, mahogany bar, fitness
city and ocean to the mountains. The seller is
center, hot tub room, poker
George Raun, who co-founded the internet
room, and a theater room. In
coupon-clipping company, Honey, which sold
the backyard is a resort-style
to PayPal in 2020 for $4 billion. Raun purchased
CELEBRITY HOMES Photo credit: Courtesy of Aaron Kirman Group at Compass
the nine-bedroom, 14-bath home unfinished in 2020 and completed the home with LAbased architectural firm Woods + Dangaran. With some of Southern California’s most dramatic views and prestigious location, the open-concept floor plan highlights the homes contemporary flair and top-quality finishes, including walls of glass, modern museum-like entrance, Miele and Gaggenau appliances, canvas-ready walls and beautiful flooring. Additional home features include closets with marble accents, professional gym, infinity pool that adjoins a sunken fire pit, outdoor kitchen, cabanas and big terraces. There is also a one-bedroom guest house with its own pool and three separate staff quarters with laundry and kitchen. Secluded in Bel Air’s hilly area, the home is a quick drive or bike ride to world-class dining and Rodeo Drive for shopping. The neighborhood has long been a popular place for celebrities, including Jennifer Lopez, Tony Curtis, and Sonny and Cher. More recently, Jennifer Lawrence, Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus have made their homes in Bel Air. F
For details of these houses and other celebrity homes, please visit: www.topTenRealEstateDeals.com https://toptenrealestatedeals.com/weekly-ten-best-home-deals/home/wolf-of-wallstreet-equestrian-estate-asks-10-million https://toptenrealestatedeals.com/weekly-ten-best-home-deals/home/honeyfounders-150-million-bel-air-mansion
The home is listed with Aaron Kirman of the Aaron Kirman Group at Compass. MODERNHB.COM
25
JUREK BUILDERS
Streets ahead Approaching its 50th anniversary, Jurek Builders remains proud of its continued status as a true family business
28
MODERNHB.COM
MODERNHB.COM
29
JUREK BUILDERS
O
perating out of Clarence, New
mom and dad founded the business in 1972,
York, Jurek Builders is on a
and it began almost by chance. At the time,
business,” he continues. “Fast forward 50
mission to deliver high-end,
my dad was an interior finish remodeler. Ever
years, and the business is still going, which is
bespoke home building without
the hard worker, he got ahead of the builders
impressive. My parents didn’t go to college,
comprising on quality. In any given year,
he was working for by around five jobs. The
and they weren’t building anything like what
the company will complete more than ten
builders simply couldn’t afford to pay him. What
the company is building now. These were
homes, each one ranging from 6000 square
happened? They traded for a piece of land,
small houses, each around 2000 square feet
feet to 10,500 square feet.
which would be the seedbed for Jurek Builders
in size.”
At the center of the company, as the name
“Soon, they had a profitable, family-owned
to grow and blossom. Working as a team, my
That was then. Now, as Henry highlights,
suggests, is a family. “We are a complete family
mom and dad built a house on that land, and
things are moving faster than ever: “Currently,
business,” says Henry Jurek III, Vice President,
then bought another piece of property on the
we have at least 15 plans being drawn up
Sales and Operations at Jurek Builders. “My
same street – and then another.”
by architects. The minimum price for these
84 Lumber For nearly 65 years, 84 Lumber has been building on its legacy of creating, shaping, and maintaining the American dream for professional builders and passionate do-it-yourselfers. As the nation’s largest privately held building materials supplier for single- and multi-family residences and commercial buildings, its 250 locations nationwide offer the highest quality lumber, name-brand windows and doors, custom millwork, kitchen and bath design, turnkey installation services and more. 84 Lumber’s Orchard Park location is proud to have a longstanding relationship with Jurek Builders and congratulates them for a momentous 50 years in the building industry. “Jurek Builders and 84 have a fantastic partnership that is mutually beneficial to both parties,” boasts 84 Lumber Area Manager Tyler Golub. “At 84 Lumber, we pride ourselves on maintaining the highest standards, and we know Jurek Builders does the same. Their reputation for completing jobs, both big and small, with unparalleled service, perfectly aligns with 84 Lumber’s mission.” As with all its customers, 84 Lumber’s outstanding customer service and ‘nothing is impossible’ mindset is apparent in its relationship with Jurek Builders. “We treat all of our customers like family, and Jurek Builders is no different,” says 84 Lumber Orchard Park’s Outside Sales Representative Colin Mcintosh. “Whatever materials they need to get the job done, we try our best to get them quickly and at the best price. Jurek is a family-run operation with excellent people, and we look forward to working with them for many years to come.” 84 Lumber’s Orchard Park location is known to specialize in both new construction and remodeling alike. No project is too large or too small. From supplying windows and doors for multi-million-dollar homes to supplying deck packages and materials for the everyday homeowner – 84 is just one call away from helping with your next project. For more information, visit 84lumber.com or join us at Facebook.com/84lumber and linkedin.com/company/84-lumber
30
MODERNHB.COM
JUREK BUILDERS worked his way up from the bottom. “I still get out of the office and run bulldozers, loader machines, and mechanical excavators called backhoes,” explains Henry. “Mostly, though, I meet with the customers, calculate the pricing, and get everything ready for sale, walking through our properties with homebuyers and answering any questions they might have. Unfortunately, we lost my mom last year to cancer. She was a huge part of our team, running the entire office. So, naturally, it was a tough transition. But we remain a family business. My dad runs the jobs; I run the office.”
Personal touch For its construction of high-end and bespoke homes in the Western New York region, Jurek Builders has been awarded Builder of the Year by the Buffalo Niagara Builders’ Association (BNBA) twice, once in 2013 and again in 2017, proving that the strong family partnership at the heart of the firm is certainly a productive one. Even with the arrival of Covid-19, the company kept building. “We really didn’t notice the pandemic that much,” Henry admits. “The only time we had a decline during the Covid-19 crisis was when, in the state of New York at least, regulations said that just one construction worker could be on site at any one given time – even if one was a painter working indoors, and the other was running a bulldozer outside. You’d be fined anyway. However, four-to-five months later, regulations eased as those who had set them realized it wasn’t entirely safe to allow only one person on site. If anything were to happen, not a soul would know! “Otherwise, I think the pandemic made people realize they needed more space,” he adds. “That suits us: more and more people are now finishing their lower-level basements; they are putting in additions; they are requesting to build bigger homes. We can help them. Of course, there have properties will be between $2 million and
32
The family-run company has become
been negative knock-on effects. For instance,
$5 million. In terms of site work, we have
renowned for its high-end interior trim work,
it’s still sometimes hard to acquire materials:
five houses under construction and one
making it one of the leading luxury home
garage doors have a 50-to-60-week lead time;
awaiting a building permit. Two of these are
building businesses in the Western New
windows must be ordered way in advance.
for professional athletes, a popular career
York region. Now 43 years old, Henry has
It’s crazy. To compensate, we tried to help
choice within our client base, and the other
spent the best part of his life working with
our customers financially. As an example, we
host of plans are for the bulk of our target
Jurek Builders. Beginning at just ten years
were able to lock in the pricing of lumber by
demographic: doctors, lawyers, and various
old, he was employed as a sweeper for the
paying for it upfront and storing it in our own
business professionals.”
company’s string of properties. He proudly
warehouse. Ultimately, this meant we could
MODERNHB.COM
JUREK BUILDERS can watch their kids play basketball from above. You see, we are always happy to accommodate the needs of our clients.”
Exciting development Why do these famous athletes and customers with incredible designs keep coming to Jurek Builders to see their dreams realized? The answer, according to Henry, lies in the company’s traditional philosophy to work and materials: “We are very old school, and when I say that I mean we use all plywood for two-by-six construction – no particle boards, strictly plywood. We also use copper water the Buffalo Sabres hockey team and features
lines instead of weaker plastic alternatives. In
incredible workmanship on our part. Indeed,
all projects, we only use the highest quality
to clear, the New York-based company is
one area in the lower level of the building
materials, which is what we have come to
intent on cracking on with business. Currently,
contains a golf simulator, the required head
be known for. We are very transparent, and
it’s breaking ground on the second biggest
room for which meant we had to dig an
I can honestly say we are friends with every
house the company has ever built. “In total,
extra 2 feet further down into the basement
person we have built for. That includes other
the house covers over 10,500 square feet,”
floor. Another client is putting a half-sized
builders in the area. They have employed us
highlights Henry. “It’s a really special bespoke
basketball court inside the house, and we’ve
to build their personal homes, which is pretty
project being carried out for a member of
included a viewing platform so the family
unheard of!”
keep costs much lower for clients.” As the hazy shade of the pandemic begins
34
MODERNHB.COM
“Another thing that sets us apart from our competitors is that we pass our discounts on to the customer,” he continues, proudly emphasizing the importance of good company-client relationships in a successful business. “At the end of every month, we provide the customer with invoices so that they always know precisely where all their money is going. In terms of suppliers, Jurek Builders makes sure that it pays all bills early. Furthermore, recently I spoke with Anderson Windows, and they have partnered with us on their new Excellence Program. Not only will we receive materials sooner, improving our efficiency, but Jurek Builders will also appear
of New York, including the Rochester area.
fortunate to work with him each and every
on their website as a partnered brand, which
Ultimately, I want to do what my parents
day at Jurek Builders.” F
we think is huge.”
did. When dad retires, I hope my wife will
Adding all these factors together, Jurek
come and run the office – just like my mom
Builders really does find itself streets ahead.
did for us. I want that tradition kept alive
“The most exciting development we have
because it was so successful. That will be a
on-the-go right now is Serenity Court, a street
while, though. My dad is 73 years old and
bought by our company within Spaulding
doesn’t want to retire any time soon. But I’m
Green Development. Since we have the
glad! I will always consider myself incredibly
Jurek Builders www.jurekbuilders.com Services: High-end home builder
whole street to ourselves, we are going to build 13 beautiful houses – just our houses on that one street, it’s incredible! We recently started infrastructure works and plan to break ground on the houses in July. My dad and I will be working on site. We’re not drive by builders; we’re hands on.”
Family feel Jurek Builders shows no signs of slowing down. Luckily for its clients, the future looks bright, and the business is keen to continue adapting and evolving with the times. “Keeping an eye on what’s around the corner is fundamental to staying relevant,” says Henry. “For instance, the interior designer that we work with stays up-to-date with the latest trends by attending various conferences and design shows. The NAHB International Builders Show (IBS) is also important to our long-term strategy. Every couple of years we attend, excited to learn about new materials, trends, and ideas within the high-end home building space. “As Western New York’s premier custom home builder, it’s a necessary part of what we do,” asserts Henry. “And it’s just the beginning. With these professional athletes on board, their teammates are also becoming interested in our work. We’ve employed more people to keep up with demand. At some point, I want to expand into other parts MODERNHB.COM
35
PRIER
P-118
Build
with purpose With over 140 years of experience, Prier has become the go-to manufacturer of high-quality, easy-to-install, US-made plumbing products that truly stand the test of time
E
stablished in 1881, there have been
plumbing parts. As an industry trailblazer,
many memorable moments in the
the firm became increasingly revered for its
commercial, and ground hydrants,
history of Kansas City-based plumbing
robust plumbing parts, including freezeless
manufactured from heavy cast brass patterns,
parts manufacturer Prier. So, let’s start
faucets and hot and cold wall hydrants, and its
copper tubing, stainless steel and aluminum;
steadfast mantra: build with purpose.
angle sill faucets, featuring cast brass black
at the beginning. Set up by a German immigrant, Anton
flanges and female step caps for increased
Prier, the business that took his name began
Prier acquired the plumbing brass division of
durability; and plumbing brass, draining
manufacturing a variety of products, from coach
Mansfield Plumbing Products, and it has since
products, and specialty valves, among other
lanterns to household goods. Prier continued to
fostered successful relationships with most US
parts, which utilize red brass to ensure each
grow over the years, and production started to
retailers and wholesale suppliers like Ferguson,
individual component stands the test of time.
scale during subsequent periods of war. During
Winsupply, Menards, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and
World War II, for instance, the company pivoted
Ace Hardware.
its manufacturing operations to create specialty
More recently, Ferguson, the largest plumbing
Unlike yellow brass, which is chosen by many importers due to its much lower initial cost, red brass is more resistant, more durable, and has
products for the US Navy, and in the 1950s, Prier
wholesaler in the US, brought in Prier’s products
a higher copper content. All these products –
shifted its operations once more to support the
for nationwide distribution. The move stands
and more – are manufactured at its facilities in
US military in Korea.
as a testament to Prier’s status as a leading
Kansas City, Missouri.
Moving into a lengthy peacetime period, Prier zeroed in on its niche: heavy brass
36
Things haven’t slowed. In 2007, for instance,
Today, Prier is recognized for its residential,
MODERNHB.COM
manufacturer of essential plumbing products – not just in Missouri, but across the US.
But what truly separates Prier’s products from the competition? Matt Lemke, Vice
C-144
President of Sales and Marketing at Prier, sat down with Modern Home Builders to provide us an answer. “It’s simple: we lead on quality and innovation,” he states. “Our engineering team keep their ears to the ground and remain focused on doing things right – not just doing them quickly. That means we can produce high performance goods. Speed is important but manufacturing quality is paramount. To lead on quality, we begin the whole process with our research and development (R&D) team, coming up with new ideas, innovative designs, and ways to improve products we have previously released. We know we can always find ways to be better ourselves and improve our products. “Another thing that sets us apart from the competition is that we listen to our customers,”
manufacturing processes, from the beginning
mentions Matt. “We hear what they’re saying
to end of operations, using quality materials,
that Matt believes demonstrate the uniqueness
Two products from Prier’s Signature Series
and act on those things we can improve. After
quality methods, and quality people to get the
of the brand are the P-118 TrueTemp/P-114
that, it comes down to employing best-in-class
job done.”
CoolTemp Single Temperature Hydrant and MODERNHB.COM
37
PRIER P-6IV Heavy Duty Irrigation Supply Valve. Let’s begin
P-6IV
with the former. The Prier P-118 TrueTemp provides a year round source of tempered water in areas that are subject to freezing temperatures. The hydrant valve is connected to the supply piping in the heated portion of the structure, reducing the possibility of freezing. The temperature is controlled by the dial inset on the handle, while the handle itself controls the flow of water. “The P-118, is truly a unique, single handle hot/cold,” says Matt. “The P-114 came about to match the P-118 for a single temp option.” The P-114 is a perfect marriage between style and quality, pairing a satin nickel-plated or oil-rubbed bronze design with Prier’s signature CoolTemp technology to ensure a consistent supply of water in every season. Even in the harshest of conditions, the P-114 won’t freeze; each valve is made from a solid brass body and is air-tested to guarantee
P-114
superior, leak-free quality. Turning to the latter, Prier’s P-6IV is an innovative solution for irrigation, particularly for sprinklers in areas that experience extreme weather changes. When cold weather sets in, Matt informs us, lower quality valves often become frozen in place – and that means a costly fix. The new valve, which was launched last year, is installed on building exteriors, enabling a professional (and homeowners) to winterize the system without needing to enter or for the owner to be present. Not just a convenient, time-saving piece of kit, the P-6IV also features Prier’s triple seal positive shut-off system and a solderless, non-ferrous design to guarantee a longer life span.
Mission for total quality “Picking up on those supply chain issues, we really saw a disruption in our processes,” commented Matt. “In 2020 and into the following year, Covid-19 severely impacted procurement. We hang our hats on a simple fact: we will ship an order within eight working hours of entering the PO; however, disruptions to the supply chain really interfered with that promise; we began to experience lead times of six-to-eight weeks. That’s simply unheard of! With everything that was going on at the time, though, our customers were very understanding. We pivoted to alternate suppliers and within a few months were back to our eight-hour standard and we continue to fulfill that promise. “In all, the pandemic was a double-edged sword,” he adds. With most people stuck at home, suddenly there was no better opportunity to fix that leaking faucet that had been bugging people all year. Then you have the other side, which was very difficult.
38
MODERNHB.COM
We didn’t get a break on that front; we couldn’t
brass and copper. Our machines drill out
Program (GAP), and Harvesters Community Food
ship everything completely on time – but,
those materials, generating a lot of scrap in
Network.”
without a doubt, we were better than most. I’m
the process. We probably use about half of the
proud of the efforts Prier took to care for both its
initial brass rod sold to us by our supplier – a
life, it intends on continuing to innovate and offer
employees and its customers. Part of that comes
portion must be bored to allow water through.
expert solutions across its increasingly diverse
down to our deeply ingrained mission statement.
However, instead of discarding all the scrap, we
range of plumbing products. “To that end, we’re
Having one is not uncommon. But ours isn’t
send it back to our supplier. They melt it down
releasing several new products, including a
some dusty plaque on a wall. It’s something we
and sell it back to us. The whole thing becomes
lead-free line of garden valves and a sanitary bury
live by every day, and it revolves around doing
a cycle – and saves a lot of brass in the process.”
hydrant. And, as always, it is all about serving the
In the past year, Prier recycled 150 tons of
customer. During the pandemic, we couldn’t see
the right thing, operating under the will of God
As the company moves into post-pandemic
for our people and our planet, to make a profit.
brass, six tons of copper and other metals,
many customers. So, moving forward, we want to
Put simply, that mission statement is our guiding
and over 25,000 cubic feet of cardboard. By
reconnect with them.
light and part of our culture.”
promoting a circular economy, more than half
To significantly cut its carbon footprint and
“We will always be there to solve any issues
of materials used in Prier’s products are taken
– whether you’re a plumber, contractor, or just
fulfil the environmental aspect of its mission
from recycled sources. Apart from obvious
wanting to do some DIY,” he concludes. “We
statement, Prier recently installed solar panels on
quality improvements, being made in the US
make products of the highest quality, market
each of its buildings in Kansas City. On top of that,
also offers profound environmental benefits: no
them at a fair price, and offer a service that is
all existing bulbs were substituted for motion-
importation and minimized transportation of
second to none. Therefore, within five years,
detecting LEDs across its warehouses and offices.
goods means much less carbon emissions.
we want to keep growing our connection
As a result, the manufacturer now saves more
“Our sustainability drive also includes the
to local communities across the US. I see us
than 330,000 kilowatt hours annually – enough to
local Kansas City community,” Matt adds.
establishing ourselves as a partner rather than
power 30 houses for more than a year.
“In line with our mission statement, each
just a supplier within the national scene.” F
“All our buildings are fitted with the latest
year we donate ten percent of our profits
photovoltaic technology,” Matt reveals. “We are
to worthy causes through Prier’s charitable
energy neutral at my office, and that means
organization, managed by the Greater Kansas
we can sell excess energy back to the city. In
City Community Foundation, which serves
other places, we offset our carbon. Another
those in the nearby region. Some of our
important aspect of our sustainability strategy
favorite charities include United Way of Greater
is our recycling of scrap. For our valves, we use
Kansas City (United Way), Grandview Assistance
Prier www.prier.com Services: Plumbing products
MODERNHB.COM
39
MARNIE CUSTOM HOMES
Unbeatable design Delivering houses across the Bethany Beach oceanfront, Marnie Custom Homes is making a name for itself thanks to a creative, client-first approach to homebuilding
Marnie Custom Homes team
40
MODERNHB.COM
Photography credit - Dana Hoff
MODERNHB.COM
41
MARNIE CUSTOM HOMES
M
arnie Oursler’s journey to
years, before eventually saving up enough
she knew. After a quick turnaround, Marnie
becoming a professional
money to buy a house seven blocks from the
sold the property just nine months after she
home builder is not what you
beach,” she laughs. “It was a tear down, but I
purchased it, securing a healthy profit in the
might describe as typical. Her
went ahead and fixed it up anyway.”
process. From there, she didn’t turn back,
first introduction to the industry came at the
The daughter of a successful builder, this
age of 23 when she began working for a real
passion for home improvement runs deep in
estate agent in Delaware’s Bethany Beach. It
Marnie’s blood. “I grew up cleaning houses in
“I loved everything about it,” Marnie insists.
was there that Marnie, who was fascinated
the subdivisions where my dad was building,
“Managing the project, the creativity, making
by the town’s homes and the majesty of the
doing everything from forming-up concrete
decisions, working with subcontractors,
Atlantic Ocean, discovered her dream: to live
to punch-out, interior trim, sweeping out
and more.” The project, beyond a source
in an oceanside community.
houses, and anything else that needed to
of personal enjoyment, also turned out
be done,” she comments. But it wasn’t until
to be a prime advertisement for Marnie’s
whatever money she could. “Literally, I was
Marnie came to work on her own house
home building capabilities; with her work
eating peanut butter sandwiches for two
that it dawned on her precisely how much
on full-display, she was approached by a
To realize her dream, Marnie started saving
purchasing one more beach-side lot, and starting work on her first ever custom home.
Jennifer Gilmer Kitchen & Bath, Ltd. For 25 years Jennifer Gilmer Kitchen & Bath, Ltd. have been designing kitchens for our discerning clients all over the country. Our staff is intimately involved in every detail of our projects to ensure that the execution and completion of the work goes smoothly. Most importantly, we’ve perfected our ability to listen and to understand our clients’ tastes and needs. Each one of our designers takes great pleasure in making these dream kitchens come to life. We are on top of all of the latest trends and take pride in the fact that we are able to introduce new ideas by thinking outside of the box and by utilizing new technology. From incredibly detailed plans to a triple check system our clients are pleased with how smoothly their projects proceed. We understand the value of excellent customer service and will bend over backwards to ensure that our clients are happy for years to come. From traditional to transitional to contemporary designs our clients can rest assured that the end result will be timeless.
42
MODERNHB.COM
Photography by John Cole
“I had a wonderful experience working with JGKB. They made our kitchen renovation project fun and easy, and it was completed on time! They were able to find a perfect place for everything and helped supply us with top-notch appliances, cabinets & countertops. The kitchen’s incredible new beauty is truly 3 notches above top; all of our friends & caterers marvel about it! I highly recommend working with Jennifer Gilmer Kitchen & Bath for your kitchen remodel.” Mike A. & Kristen C.
6935 Wisconsin Ave. Chevy Chase, MD | 1 East Dover St. Easton, MD | 44050 Ashburn Shopping Plaza #175, Ashburn, VA Contact us for your complimentary consultation 301-657-2500 ext. 206 | info@gilmerkitchens.com | www.gilmerkitchens.com
MARNIE CUSTOM HOMES
I benefit from a fantastic team of devoted and dedicated employees, every one of whom has a passion for homebuilding. We also have a phenomenal team of subcontractors, many of whom I’ve worked beside for more than 15 years, digging ditches, picking up trash, finishing homes, and solving problems together
Beach Builds for two seasons in 20172018 and HGTV’s 2018 Dream Home. The company has since grown in terms of both size and capability, as that 2500-square-foot initial project has morphed into regular oceanfront builds up to 13,000-square-feet in size. Commenced in the fall of 2019, one such project is ‘Kan’t Beat the View,’ a 6800-square-foot oceanfront beach house located in North Bethany Beach, which includes a clear line of sight to the
local couple, keen to secure her services
going to cost, with a spreadsheet a couple
ocean from front-to-rear. Beset by initial
for the tear-down and rebuild of their own
of pages long. They said yes – and with that, I
planning delays, and further impacted by
home. “They invited me to bid on their
started a company.”
the arrival of the Covid-19 pandemic, it was
house,” Marnie recalls. “So, I did. Line by line, I showed them how much the house was
Marnie launched Marnie Custom Homes in 2007 and also hosted DIY Network’s Big
an intense build for Marnie, who managed nevertheless to deliver the project on
84 Lumber From coast to coast, 84 Lumber operates more than 250 stores, component manufacturing plants, custom door shops, custom millwork shops and engineered wood product centers. 84 Lumber also offers turnkey installation services for a variety of products, including framing, insulation, siding, windows, roofing, decking and drywall. The company was founded in Eighty Four, Pennsylvania and is currently the nation’s largest privately held building materials supplier. 84 Lumber in Clarksville, Delaware proudly works with Marnie Custom Homes building beautiful custom homes in the area. The 84 Lumber team in Clarksville and the team at Marnie Homes have seen so much success together because of the way they work hard for each other. Whether it’s someone taking a phone call after 5:00 p.m., or someone else ensuring everyone is looped in on changes, the relationship is one that 84 Lumber strives to create with all custom home builders across the country. 84 Lumber understands that with custom home builds, there’s always something. The plans are ever-changing and extremely detailed. Whether it’s cleaning up job sites on the weekends or moving materials at any time of day, 84 Lumber makes it happen because that’s what partners do. 84 Lumber is the only supplier that recognizes the detailed process of building a custom home from the ground up, and it is the best supplier to partner with on any job. Contractors and professional builders can expect personal service from 84 Lumber. Each of 84 Lumber’s 250 stores has its own personality, but each also understands people who build for a living. At 84 Lumber, professionals trust us. From sun up to sun down, our associates will spend time with you and answer your calls. To find an 84 Lumber near you, visit www.84lumber.com
44
MODERNHB.COM
MARNIE CUSTOM HOMES schedule. “Late start or not, the completion date doesn’t change,” she comments. “We had to hustle and hustle for the whole nine months, being strategic in our approach to organize all the moving parts.” It was in recognition of Marnie Custom Homes Project Manager Dustin Burkett’s work on Kan’t Beat the View that Marnie nominated him last year for Pro Builder’s Forty Under 40 Class of 2022. The award seeks to celebrate the home building industry’s brightest young talents and next-generation leaders and innovators, with recipients selected from more than 100 nominations across the US. That Dustin was one such recipient is a credit to his hard work on Kan’t Beat the View, and serves to further underscore the company’s achievements.
Innovative approach Kan’t Beat the View wasn’t the only project to present Marnie Custom Homes with a challenge. Two additional projects, Surfside and X-Ta-Sea, which began in 2019 and 2021 respectively, each saw disruption, as the initial pandemic gave way to months of supplychain disruption. “There was nothing else to do but work, so we worked,” Marnie says. “Seven days a week, we were finishing these houses. Everything was moving so fast, I set up an online platform for my internal team so we could discuss and update each other regarding deliveries, in-house schedules, and other critical information. I would go and inspect houses off hours to limit my interactions, and send videos to our clients to keep them informed. It was whack-a-mole every day.” Nevertheless, Marnie continued to deliver her projects on schedule, a fact that she attributes to her own and her employees’ innovative approach to homebuilding. “What we hear from our clients is that we’re more creative in every aspect, from design to completion, and even in terms of scheduling,” Marnie says. “There are a lot of rules we have to follow and to account for when building on the oceanfront. Not only do we have to factor in hurricane winds and other risks, but we also have to consider how we can make the house look amazing, how to accommodate all our clients’ wants, how to deliver it at the cost they request, and how to finish it on time. “What sets us apart is that we do all of those things,” Marnie continues. “I benefit from a
46
MODERNHB.COM
fantastic team of devoted and dedicated
pandemic is set to shape the company’s
moving forward, in terms of how we work
employees, every one of whom has a passion
practice moving forwards. “Every day we
through any new challenges, how we get
for homebuilding. We also have a phenomenal
learn,” she insists. “Especially in our field,
our systems in place, and then begin to
team of subcontractors, many of whom I’ve
process is important: we’re building homes
perfect them.
worked beside for more than 15 years, digging
that have never been built before. We
ditches, picking up trash, finishing homes, and
typically start houses around Labor Day, with
building these houses, and we’re at the
solving problems together.”
the goal of having them finished by June,
point where we’re all working in a way
in time for the summer season. It’s a small
that’s high functioning,” she goes on. “We
Team-oriented mindset
window in which to build,” Marnie adds.
still meet in person once a week; although
Reflecting on the last two years, Marnie
“During the pandemic, we became very
we’re not always physically together, we’re
is confident that her experience of the
organized upfront, and that’s now helping us
in sync.”
“There are 11 people involved in
Atlantic Millwork & Cabinetry Since 2011, Atlantic Millwork & Cabinetry have partnered with Marnie Custom Homes to supply first-class materials for their grand designs. We proudly supply all of the TruStile Doors and Windows by Marvin for their custom creations, providing superior beauty, durability, and energy efficiency. Their designs often incorporate a unique shiplap paneling in the interior, which emits modern style. Atlantic Millwork & Cabinetry have been an independent distributor serving professional contractors, builders, and homeowners since 1991. As a highly-acclaimed coastal builder, Marnie Custom Homes seeks only the best for its clients. Our business relationship continues to grow from the mutual goal of providing superior customer satisfaction. The last decade has been genuinely rewarding, with our ‘Made in America’ products, showcased in their region’s most remarkable new homes. We congratulate Marnie and the team on their 15 years in business and look forward to the next project.
Erik Olmsted - Personalized Contractor Relationship Specialist
MODERNHB.COM
47
MARNIE CUSTOM HOMES
In honing these systems, Marnie Custom Homes benefits from a strong and inclusive company culture, with a team-oriented mindset, inspired in part by Marnie’s own love for sports. “I played a number of sports and follow a lot of teams,” she reveals. “As a division one college athlete myself, I understand how functioning teams should work. “At Marnie Custom Homes, we have our own players who are very good at certain positions, and we rely on them,” she says. “As the leader, I’m the one who says: ‘I’m here for you. I’m standing next to you for support. Don’t hesitate to ask me for help’. One of the biggest and most unique elements of our culture is that at every meeting we ask for support and express our gratitude – whether it’s for our colleagues in the room, or for something in our lives. Likewise, if an employee doesn’t understand something, there’s an openness: they can ask me or a team member, and it will be reviewed until everyone is on the same page.” As Marnie, like everyone, looks to put the two years of the pandemic behind her, the future for her company is positive, with a series of new projects in the pipeline. “We’re currently finishing a number of projects, and they all are truly amazing,” she confirms. “A large number
48
MODERNHB.COM
and effectively with our subcontractors and vendors. If we do so, I believe we’ll be in the best position we can be. We just need to stick to what we know and learn from our
Marnie Custom Homes www.MarnieHomes.com Services: Oceanfront home building
mistakes, and hopefully the future will be very bright.” F are oceanfront, with a couple oceanside. All of them are special because of our clients, whose homes are personal, creative, and unique. For us, that’s fun – although they might share similar features or a comparable style, no one house that we build is the same, and no client is the same. It makes for an exciting and enjoyable experience. “Our coming year will then begin in the fall,” she adds. “Once again, we’ll be starting work on several new properties across the oceanfront, oceanside, and bayfront. That’s always very exciting, because it means different views, different light, and different designs. For our team, it’s set to be a busy year!” As we conclude our discussion, Marnie is keen to reiterate the importance for continual improvement – both for the company, and for each member of the team – as she looks to drive and maintain the company’s high standards of homebuilding. “Looking ahead to five years from now, my goal is to simply get even better at what we do,” she concludes. “I know that I personally am going to continue on that path of exploring, ‘How can we get better every single day?’ I want to see that happen individually, as a team, and in terms of how we deliver for our clients, and work closely MODERNHB.COM
49
KARP ASSOCIATES
An eye for
design
50
MODERNHB.COM
Karp Associates is celebrating its 40th year in business with the recent completion of its VUE New Canaan multi-family development, with yet more custom home and multi-family projects to come
W
hen Arnold M Karp got the “real estate bug”, it changed his life forever. Already having forged a successful career as a New York
financier, Arnold moved to Connecticut to take up a new position as CFO for a company that owned real estate, radio stations, and an insurance subsidiary. “I decided that real estate was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life,” he reveals, looking back at that time, and the period that led to the launching of his own homebuilding business, Karp Associates Inc. The company started with construction of renovations and additions, before expanding its repertoire to encompass custom homes, consulting services, project management, and multi-family housing projects. “We’re a multi-faceted construction firm, specializing in distinguished custom homes and first- rate renovations, construction management, multi-family housing, real estate consulting, and project rescue,” Arnold confirms, when speaking to Modern Home Builders. “We have seen so many different projects in our time. We’ll build anything the client wants, but we’ll also challenge them to make sure they’re getting the best project and design possible, before delivering that special project built on-time and on budget.”
Meeting clients’ needs In 2022, Karp Associates is celebrating an impressive 40 years in business – still, according to Arnold, “there’s always a twist and turn” when it comes to homebuilding. One of the company’s recent projects offers a prime example. “We’re currently building a custom home for somebody on the water,” Arnold tells us. “But just after we started the project, a big storm arrived, drawing all the dirt that we’d just moved out, back into the building foundations.” It’s not just the current challenges of building, with supply chain and weather disruptions, labor shortages can prove to be difficult as well, “Our clients and their professionals are extremely creative and exacting,” Arnold adds. “Not only are the living spaces important to clients, but special features MODERNHB.COM
51
KARP ASSOCIATES such as large garages with multiple car lifts
“When I first ventured into the business years
require high design and execution to make
have become a major feature. Similarly, there’s
ago, clients would ask for a simple sliding glass
them function properly.”
barely a house we work on these days that
door,” he reflects. “Now, most of our projects
doesn’t have either an elevator, or the option
feature oversized multi slide glass door panels.
under his belt, Arnold is particularly sensitive
for an elevator in the future.
We’re building features that are interesting and
to the wants and needs of his clients. This
Now with decades of homebuilding
knowledge has served Karp Associates well
VUE New Canaan
during the completion of its recent project: VUE New Canaan, a luxury multi-family home development located in Fairfield County. Vue New Canaan is situated just steps away from the village of New Canaan, which features destination shopping, dining, and recreation, along with expedient transport links to New York City. “What makes VUE New Canaan unique, is that it sits right in the middle of New Canaan,” Arnold tells us. “The site was largely comprised of old housing stock built during the 1930s, including mostly brick buildings with no light or air, and relatively small apartments. After we purchased the property, it took us approximately two-anda-half years and a total of $2 million to secure approval for our plans.”
Eye for design VUE New Canaan is the largest construction project to-date in the town of New Canaan, and has been accompanied by an investment of $80 million by Karp Associates. “The development consists of 59 rental units, along with 40 condos ranging in size from 1000-to2800-square-feet,” Arnold says. “We have a very nice group of people, from younger families all the way up to active seniors.” With private balconies and terraces, and half of the plot dedicated to green space, including a natural playscape and zen garden,
A.P. Construction Company A.P. Construction Company (A.P. Construction) is a construction management and general contracting firm, headquartered in Stamford, CT. For over four decades, the company has developed extensive experience with commercial buildings, educational facilities, private clubs, healthcare and municipal facilities, and multifamily and senior living properties. A.P. Construction’s approach and attention to detail has established a reputation of integrity, quality, efficiency, and savings for its clients. Based on a foundation of high standards for quality work, comprehensive skills, and outstanding safety performance, A.P. Construction’s average annual construction volume is over 140 million dollars, with 80+ projects per year. As a division of The Ashforth Company, a diversified real estate operating company founded in 1896, A.P. Construction provides a unique owner’s perspective, with a complete understanding of not only how buildings are built, but also how they are maintained and operated. Among accomplishments over the past 15+ years, A.P. Construction has completed more than 50 education projects, 1,000+ multifamily units, 200 commercial projects, 35 private clubs, and eight senior living projects. All undergone with its strong and long-term relationships with architects, owners, tenants, subcontractors, and suppliers, and has resulted in over 70 percent of projects coming from repeat clients. Celebrating the milestone of 40 years of business, the company is particularly proud of its strong, trusting and collaborative culture, commitment to giving back to the community, the long tenure of many of its employees, and its long-standing client relationships, indicating A.P. Construction is a great place to do business, and a great place to work.
52
MODERNHB.COM
AP
Congratulations to Karp Associates for 40 Years in Business. A.P. Construction is proud to be part of the Karp team that successfully constructed The Vue.
Construction Management • General Contracting COMMERCIAL • EDUCATION • HEALTHCARE • MULTIFAMILY PRIVATE CLUBS • SENIOR LIVING RELIGIOUS • NONPROFIT • MUNICIPAL 203.359.4704 • STAMFORD, CT • APCONST.COM
APC Karp Assoc The Vue Ad.indd 1
7/1/22 11:10 AM
KARP ASSOCIATES
the development at New Canaan is a credit
“Architect by training, and a builder by
“At the same time, we need to work with
to Karp Associates’ commitment to innovative
vocation, Robin has a great eye for design,”
our clients,” he continues. “I often joke that
design. For Arnold, that’s partly due to the
he says. “We’re always on the lookout for new
when we’ve finished a project, very rarely
unique ability of Robin Friedman Carroll, the
ideas. When a new magazine comes into the
does anyone say everything was perfect. Our
company’s Director of Design & Residential
office, we’ll pass it around, then we’ll discuss
goal is to make the experience of building a
Construction, who helped ensure features and
the designs that interest us, whether it’s a
pleasurable process and to work throughout
style important to buyers and renters were
cantilevered wall, or a completely unique
the project to create a finished product that
incorporated.
building.
meets our clients’ needs, and enhances their quality of life.”
High-caliber craftsmanship It’s been a difficult couple of years for businesses throughout the construction industry, as the Covid-19 pandemic brought projects to a halt nationwide. But amid difficult circumstances, Karp Associates and its COO, Paul Stone, demonstrated its resilience. “We continued to pay everyone, and retained all our staff,” Arnold states. “We fortunately had a few commercial projects ongoing, where businesses sought to make the most of their temporary closure by inviting us to renovate or alter their office space. In one case, we managed to add a nursery and preschool to an existing community center. “As an employer, however, we had a responsibility to stick with our employees, even though we didn’t know whether the market was going to bounce back,” he argues. “What we found was that outside of major metropolitan areas, and once the pandemic was under control, people began to make strategic changes in living – moving from apartments in New York to homes in Connecticut. Our team communicated with our clients about what they wanted to do, in order to make sure we could realize their dreams as quickly as possible.” Although not over, the impacts of the pandemic have taken on a new shape during
54
MODERNHB.COM
the last year, characterized by lengthy supply
is pricing,” he goes on. “Most of our vendors
them. At the same time, we also can’t afford to
chain shortages, and associated project delays.
and suppliers will keep their quotes good for
undercharge them, so it’s about trying to be
“It’s been challenging,” Arnold admits. “Paul
a week or so, but with the cost of everyday
as flexible as we can to make sure every deal
Stone (Karp Associates COO) has us ordering
materials changing so rapidly, we’re constantly
is fair. It’s really caused us to adapt to source
windows six months in advance. We used to
having to reassess. For our clients, that means
and pay for materials earlier, storing them in
order hardwood flooring prior to sheetrocking,
we’re having to return to those who have asked
our warehouse or on a job site to ensure that
we’re now ordering the same flooring before
for a locked-in price, and explain to them that
we’re always one or two steps ahead. It’s a
we’ve even installed the foundation.
it’s no longer possible. Instead, we can provide
completely different way of thinking about
a range – otherwise, we risk overcharging
projects and time frames.”
“For 2022, the biggest challenge we have
County TV & Appliance County TV & Appliance is an essential partner to the building community. Providing an unparalleled personal experience, with a standard of excellence, reliability, and dependability are just a few reasons top industry professionals, like Karp Associates, trust County TV & Appliance with providing the appliances for their projects. Located in Stamford Connecticut, the company services residents in Connecticut and New York, across the Fairfield and Westchester Counties. County TV & Appliances has been providing appliances of all types to builders, developers, contractors, and homeowners for over 70 years, and carries an exceptional variety of the best reputable brands, and the latest in smart home appliance technology. Our knowledgeable employees guide each client through their entire appliance purchasing journey, assessing each project with meticulous care. Big or small, there is no project that goes beyond the expertise of County TV & Appliance. Our ability to work at the pace needed to accommodate the customer is our specialty. County TV & Appliance has had the pleasure of a long-standing relationship with Karp Associates. It has been an honor to work with them and facilitate all their appliance requirements for all size jobs. The relationship we have created together allows a seamless finished result, ensuring each project is met with perfection.
MODERNHB.COM
55
KARP ASSOCIATES
Rick’s Plumbing Service Rick’s Plumbing Service is honored to have had the pleasure of working with Karp Associates for nearly 30 years. This business relationship has given Rick’s Plumbing Service the opportunity to work on many unique custom homes, as well as high-end larger scale developments. What sets Karp Associates apart from others is its commitment to top-notch quality. It sets exceptional standards, communicates well, and the end result is always exquisite.
56
MODERNHB.COM
For the rest of the year, the focus for Karp Associates is on the continued delivery of projects for clients who purchased homes during the pandemic. The company is also waiting on approval for a series of new multi-family projects, as it looks to build on the impressive work at VUE New Canaan. “In doing so, we benefit from the long-term relationships that we’re able to establish with our clients,” Arnold says. “We
Interstate + Lakeland Lumber For over 100 years, builders, architects and homeowners have turned to Interstate + Lakeland Lumber (IL Lumber) for all their building needs. With yards in Greenwich, Stamford, Westport and Newtown, CT as well as in Shrub Oak, NY, IL Lumber is perfectly positioned to serve the building community across Fairfield and Westchester Counties. It offers much more than just lumber though. IL Lumber offers full lines of top-quality windows, doors, decking, siding, trim, millwork and more. Its molding and millwork, custom-made in the company’s Bethel Millshop, is some of the highest quality and most sought-after work in the region. Since 1995, IL Lumber has been proud to supply Karp Associates with lumber and millwork. “It’s been an honor and a privilege to be associated with one of Fairfield County’s premier builders,” says Sheldon Kahan, IL Lumber’s President and CEO. IL Lumber is currently focused on its new window and door design center in Westport, CT. This multi-story space, which will showcase the highest quality and most advanced building products, is expected to open this autumn.
place a real emphasis on the importance of high-caliber craftsmanship as an accompaniment to the taste and lifestyle of our clients. At the same time, we’re determined to give accurate budgets and timeframes. We have lost projects where a client has demanded the completion of a project in a window that’s simply not possible. In those situations, it’s about identifying the right client, the right architects, and the right set of professionals to work with.” Looking beyond, Arnold is hopeful that Karp Associates can continue to post impressive growth, with an even greater range of interesting projects. But equally, he’s well aware that he won’t always be the one to steer the ship. “As I get older, I’m starting to look to the younger generation of employees we have on board,” Arnold admits. “That’s been a major shift in our strategic planning recently that we never really had to consider until now. “We’ve recently had a few family members of the next generation join the firm. They are transitioning from other professions, such as law, because they find our business both interesting and challenging. We’re trying to bring them up to speed. While I love what I do and I never see myself retiring entirely, I would like to work fewer hours. I’m hoping that we have good people who decide that they want a chance to move the business onwards and upwards in the years to come.” F
Karp Associates www.Karpassociatesinc.com Services: Luxury homebuilding
MODERNHB.COM
57
BAYLESS CUSTOM HOMES
Every house
is a milestone
58
MODERNHB.COM
TOP TEXAS HOMEBUILDERS SPOTLIGHT
For over 45 years, Bayless Custom Homes has built houses and forged relationships that not only have a strong sense of purpose, but also withstand the test of time
I
n Tyler, East Texas and San Antonio, South Texas, the Bayless name has become a marker of quality; those distinct areas are covered by Bayless Custom Homes (Bayless), which is itself
split into two companies: one headed by Gary Bayless and the other by his son, Clint. As coowners of the titular business, the pair make quite a team, building a vast range of custom homes, from cottage-style to Victorian. With each project, Bayless seeks to infuse traditional design with upto-date finishing and technology. Founded by Gary some 45 years ago, family was always going to be a central factor in the business. “Clint began working with me very early on,” he explains. “He would often join me after school and at the weekends, conducting trim work and other small tasks. He effectively grew up in construction, and eventually joined the business full-time. We’re still working together today, delivering the finest service for our brilliant clients.” Similarly, Clint fondly remembers his early years. When asked about company milestones, he’s quick to return to those long summer evenings and weekends at work with his dad. “A key milestone that comes to mind is when my father first taught me how to use a saw,” he says. “I must’ve only been 12 years old at the time. By 17, I was already a framer! I’m grateful for all the knowledge that he’s since passed down to me. He made certain that I understood every facet of the building industry. “However, we consider every house to be a milestone,” Clint continues. “Above all, we concentrate on detail and quality throughout the build process. Indeed, our slogan is ‘Building for Purpose,’ and that purpose is for people to truly love their forever-homes. To that end, we work closely with our architects and designers, and then we provide best-in-class building and general contracting services to get the job done. Moreover, for us, building for purpose means not taking on too many projects at once. We don’t spread ourselves thin; we only build five-to-six homes at a time because we want to be on-site every day. Handing work off to a superintendent might be efficient, but it’s not optimal. If you work MODERNHB.COM
59
BAYLESS CUSTOM HOMES
with Bayless, then you’ll always work with us – not someone else.” Over the decades, Bayless has amassed an arsenal of solutions to combat common construction problems. From the initial land purchase to the final build, Bayless has its customers covered. Even after the house is complete, the firm offers a host of after-care services such as touch-up lists and one-totwo-year warranties on its products. In this sense, the services that Bayless provides can be understood as being resoundingly holistic in nature, covering every aspect of home building with a robust attention to detail that puts clients at ease during what can typically be a stressful time.
Attention to detail Bayless specializes in historic renovations like camelbacks, single and double conversions, complete home remodeling, and preservation services for older buildings and brickwork. In addition, Gary and Clint have carried out comprehensive storm repairs, numerous kitchen and bathroom remodels, as well as a plethora of outdoor living arrangements like custom-built pergolas and fine wrought iron gates. One particular project that they remain proud of is the Goana Residence, an incredible $2.5 million luxury custom home. “In particular, that was a tremendous milestone for the company,” says Clint.
60
MODERNHB.COM
“I’ve always wanted to build a truly modern home and that’s the first one that I consider to fit the bill. I’ve built a lot of contemporary residences, but none like this: it featured a basketball court, a putting green, and a whole suite of other unique features. Even something as rudimentary as the air conditioning vents were premium; we had them manufactured right here in San Antonio so we could create the perfect look for our client. That’s the level of detail we’re talking about. We also sourced the finest teak wood wrapping for the white stucco façade, built a swimming pool, laid
also built Hope Haven’s new 6500-square-foot
are stood there, completely finished, except for
engineered hardwood and polished concrete
foster home for teenage girls pro bono, raising
the fact that they don’t have any windows!
floors, and imported stunning Mexican tiles
over $2 million for a truly worthy cause. The
for the countertops. In short, it was a beautiful
dormitory-style facility will provide long-term
construction industry in Texas has taken a hit,
house to work on.”
housing for up to 16 teenage girls that need
and it’s been quite slow to recover following
care and a safe place to stay.”
the Covid-19 crisis,” he concludes. “However,
As Gary points out, though, that’s just one home in a long list of greatest hits. Remember,
Since then, Bayless hasn’t slowed down. As
“As a knock-on effect, the health of the
we’re projecting strong growth in the future,
at Bayless, every house is a milestone. “A few
Clint remembers, the business only worked
especially since lots of new businesses like Tesla
years ago, we built a custom home for a client
in a reduced capacity for about a month or
and Samsung are moving here to build their
who happened to be incredibly wealthy, and
so when Covid-19 first hit, with things quickly
factories and workspaces. Until then, we’ll just
that was exciting a building point of view
picking up soon after.
keep on trucking and doing what we do best:
because he had one instruction: just make
“One major challenge we’ve dealt with
building for purpose. We aren’t in any rush to
it look cool!” he laughs. “The house fronts a
surrounding the pandemic is the lack of
grow; we’re more than happy where we are
stunning lake and therefore we built rounded
available materials,” he says. “Though we’re
and with the excellent services we provide.” F
bedrooms to offer beautiful views from all
easing into a post-pandemic period, those
sides. We fitted a bespoke swimming pool, an
issues still haunt us today. In fact, just before
expansive balcony, and a volleyball court. It
this interview, I was told that a project would
turned out really well – and others thought so,
be delayed by another two days. Windows are
too! The house was awarded first place at the
incredibly hard to procure, for example, and
Parade of Homes in 2019, which was just the
we’ve had to order them in advance. Lead
cherry on top.”
times of three weeks have turned into three
Bayless Custom Homes www.baylesscustomhomes.com Services: Home builder and general contractor
months – or more. Across the country, houses
Work with the community Other significant projects include Bayless’ appearance on the Emmy Award-winning reality television show, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, which saw Gary and Clint take on the challenge of building a new custom home in just one week for a deserving family. “For us, it’s important to be involved in the wider community,” says Gary. “By giving generously, it’s incredible how our company can bless so many people through projects like these. Indeed, we’re committed to social responsibility, and as an example of that, we founded Widows in Need, a charity program that organizes help for widows in the local church community. It could be as simple as bringing in someone to change an air filter at their home, or just something that they wouldn’t otherwise be able to do alone. We MODERNHB.COM
61
BOURN CUSTOM HOMES
Bourn
out of adversity In its first year of business, Bourn Custom Homes had to contend with an unprecedented global health emergency – however, it has now found itself in a stronger position because of it
62
T
he story behind Bourn Custom
formally established the business in 2019,
lots of different custom home builders in a bid
Homes (Bourn) isn’t exactly
this journey started around seven years ago,”
to create our dream home. But we never really
conventional – but that’s what
begins Gary Bourn, President at Bourn Custom
found a perfect match. Therefore, my wife, Jill,
makes it so special. “Though we
Homes. “At the time, we were meeting with
and I decided to take the task on ourselves,
MODERNHB.COM
TOP TEXAS HOMEBUILDERS SPOTLIGHT
and we built our very first home together as a
schoolteacher,” he adds. “After selling our first
grew, we welcomed new people into our team,
husband-and-wife duo.
custom home in 2019, that all changed; the
and that brings us right up to today.”
“Before that, I was working as a fulltime strategic consultant and Jill was a
wheels were firmly set in motion, and we chose to continue with the business in earnest. As we
Though not necessarily a comprehensive company history, Bourn has already begun MODERNHB.COM
63
BOURN CUSTOM HOMES between Gary and Jill. “We were high school sweethearts,” explains Gary. “We were married at 19, and we’re still best friends. Jill has a very unique set of skills that I don’t have, and vice versa. She carries out all the design work, communicates with the clients, and holds everything together; whereas, I’m the one out and about, running the jobs, making sure the trades are showing up, and keeping our sites in immaculate condition. Coupled together, these wonderfully diverse skillsets mean that timescales are shortened and build times are reduced. There’s a constant flow between us; we’re continuing to grow together alongside the business, and there’s no sense of slowing down. Indeed, we’re up for some pretty big awards within the San Antonio and wider Texas area this year, so we’re really excited to see where things to carve out a strong reputation in Bulverde,
place, and each pair of house keys proudly
Texas for its beautiful, 100 percent bespoke
presented to a client.
are headed.”
A different experience
homes. In that sense, its history continues to
At the heart of that history, though, will
be written with each custom-designed floor
undoubtedly remain the core relationship
In hindsight, establishing a commercial business
plan drafted, each beam carefully slotted into
underpinning the entire business – the one
in 2019, just months away from the unforeseeable arrival of the pandemic, was an incredibly risky venture. In fact, as Gary jokes, it was probably the worst thing he and his wife could’ve done. As we slowly ease out of the Covid-19 crisis, moreover, a host of other challenges have appeared, including skyrocketing energy prices, rising interest rates, and global supply chain issues. “However, establishing Bourn in the months prior to all this was also a blessing,” reveals Gary. “Since we were so new, we didn’t have an ageold blueprint that we had to stick to; for many companies, it was hard to detach from practices that had been ingrained over decades of work. In contrast, Bourn was highly adaptable; we kept rolling with the ever-changing times in an unprecedented period of uncertainty with vigor. That meant we also started planning ahead: if a project began in June, then we ordered the lumber in April; and if we needed windows for a new build, then we ordered them as soon as the contract was signed. As a result, we’ve consistently outperformed our competitors; while build times can be as high as 18 months elsewhere, ours haven’t risen above 12. “With the tremendous adversity we faced in our first year of business, there was no choice but to be incredibly organized and detail-orientated,” he continues. “In turn, that’s enabled us to provide a different experience when it comes to a custom build. For instance, we’ve embraced technology, viewing it as a source of power to
64
MODERNHB.COM
improve and enhance our services, rather than an obstacle to overcome. Once we’ve started a project, we update our clients with the latest progress every single week. To do so, we use an application called Trello, which is quite common, but we’ve built it out in a way that allows us to keep our clients accurately up to date, without having to constantly go back and forth via text or email. We post progress pictures, answer client questions, create materials lists, and so on. It offers our customers a sense of continuity and calm throughout what can sometimes be a stressful period of time; if they need anything, then they know where to find it. We also capture drone footage of the build process and upload it to the app, creating what we like to think of as a scrapbook for our clients, which they can then fondly look back on at the end of the whole process.”
interwoven services, supporting families and
the Texas Hills Country-based builder works
accommodating their various needs as they
diligently to make individual dreams become
build, and putting those elements together to
change over time. Whether an idyllic cottage
mesmerizing realities – time and time again.
create a unique house that clients can happily
fronting a serene pond or a mammoth estate
Bourn is also partnered with the National
call home. Bourn is proud to carry out these
with all the latest smart home technology,
Finding a perfect location, designing a dream
Association of Home Builders, the Greater
MODERNHB.COM
65
BOURN CUSTOM HOMES
San Antonio Builders’ Association, the Texas Association of Builders, and incorporates its own rigorous quality control standards and assessments. The relative youth of the firm offers other various unspoken benefits. Indeed, Bourn is spearheading its very own gender equality drive, and Gary it determined to put a voice to it. “In this company, Jill plays an integral role,” he asserts. “Yet sometimes, because of the gender bias within the industry, people often see my name on the paperwork, and they assume that I’m the one doing all the work. That’s certainly not the case. People don’t realize all the challenges that women face in this industry. It can be as simple as a vendor asking her to put them in contact with the actual builder. In reality, she’s the one on that building site and she knows it inside out. “People see a successful company led by a husband-and-wife team, and they typically assume that the husband must be doing a great job,” Gary adds. “We run this company in a completely equal way, and that’s what I attribute all our success to. Jill is unbelievably talented, detailed, and does not miss anything on-site. She’s in boots and beat-up jeans, getting stuck in and getting dirty; she’s not just sitting comfortably away somewhere going through the books. Being a woman in the
66
MODERNHB.COM
home building industry is extremely difficult,
As our interview has made abundantly clear,
complacent, and we’ll continue to develop
and as a company we’re determined to change
that’s not entirely surprising. “Going forward
internally, becoming more focused on building
that for the better.”
with the business, we’re going to be even more
the best homes that we can within our rapidly
selective with our clients,” concludes Gary. “In
evolving market.” F
Last year, Bourn entered its Parade of Homes Project for 2021 into the Builders’ Association
the same way that people want to find a great
Awards. Needless to say, the attention to detail
builder, we want to find excellent clients. We
and capacity for bespoke design that we have
intend to maintain the size of the company
since covered was immediately recognized. The
because it works extremely well as it is; people
company won the People’s Choice Award, Best
applaud the build process, the communication,
Outdoor Living Space, Best Water Feature, Best
and the best-in-class execution. But that’s not
Interior Design, and Best Overall Home – almost
to say we won’t grow. We refuse to become
Bourn Custom Homes www.bournhomes.com Services: Custom home builder
a clean sweep. “Being awarded all those accolades was huge for us,” admits Gary. “It showed people that Bourn is not just a simple mom-and-pop shop that can only build certain homes, but instead that it can build high-end, luxury houses to custom specifications for a diverse range of clients. Jill designed the project, creating a home that could be multi-generational, accommodating the needs of children and grandparents in the same setting. She also incorporated elements of outdoor living to reflect what our country is best known for. It was a traditional farmhouse; we used a lot of reclaimed wood, antique furniture, and big tables which could seat more than ten people at a time. “One feature that received a lot of attention was our use of an auxiliary preparation kitchen,” he explains. “You do all your messy work and cooking in there, and they you bring it out to the main show kitchen to serve, where everything is nice and clean. When you step outside, moreover, you are greeted by an infinity edge pool, allowing you to swim while looking out at the beautiful Texan landscape. The mixture of deep blue water and vibrant leafy greens is stunning. It’s small things like that which set us apart from the competition.” More recently, Bourn created a waiting list for its design and build work – it’s just that popular. MODERNHB.COM
67
PENCSAK BUILDERS
Boutique
means better
68
MODERNHB.COM
TOP TEXAS HOMEBUILDERS SPOTLIGHT David and Angela Pencsak
Formed in 2012, Pencsak Builders has enjoyed a steady growth trajectory, culminating in its recent work in the San Antonio and surrounding areas. A boutique home builder has the added benefit of a higher standard of customer service
D
avid and Angela Pencsak haven’t always been homebuilders. Before the husband-and-wife pair joined forces to found Texas-based Pencsak
Builders (Pencsak) in 2012, David had forged a successful career designing, owning, and building restaurants for 35 years, while Angela has been awarded the title of ‘San Antonio’s Photographer of the Year’ an impressive four times consecutively, alongside her 15 years owning and operating a photography studio. Today, the Texas-based outfit is a boutique builder, specializing in the construction of luxury homes. For both, it was a largely seamless progression. In his work, David is able to draw on a rich experience of designing, organizing, and creating spaces as he considers the flow and functionality of each of Pencsak’s home projects. As he puts it: “The level of coordination required in owning, operating, and staffing a restaurant is much more complicated than that of typical home construction. I would also select the architects, and work with them to design restaurants in conjunction with interior designers.” Likewise, Angela cites a familiarity with “color, harmony, light, and creating a mood” as crucial factors in her own contribution to Pencsak’s success. “How is that space going to make you feel? Where does the sun come in? How can we add simple sconces to a space to create a mood?” she says, before admitting that her favorite part of homebuilding are the relationships it helps to create. “We prefer to work with clients from the beginning, locating the land, matching the designer and architect with our client’s needs, and working as a team to design each home,” she continues. Angela being a realtor is also a perk for their clients, whether it be finding the land or helping them sell their current home. The last few years have not been without their challenges, but despite the restrictions imposed by Covid-19, Pencsak has continued to MODERNHB.COM
69
PENCSAK BUILDERS
and heating systems, and LED lighting. David comments: “All these components of our building will dramatically cut the cost of our clients’ monthly electricity and water bills, while providing managed, clear air throughout the home. We continue this throughout the exterior of the house as well, using a Huber post strong growth. It’s a trend that’s set to
some of the most beautiful high-end homes
Zip System to make the home airtight and
continue. As Angela points out, with the rise of
in the area.”
waterproof.”
working from home, it’s now more important than ever to have a space that’s more
development, they’ve decided to move in
Boutique status
comfortable for everyday life and work.
themselves. “We bought 13 acres, on which
Client relationships aren’t the only kind that
we plan to build another home with some
Pencsak is keen to cultivate, however. The
because we’ve had to replace some of the
very unique features,” Angela confirms. “At the
company also places a strong emphasis on
sub-contractors that we have used for years,
same time, we also hope that it will serve as
community involvement, fostering close ties
simply because of the way their business didn’t
a model project, showcasing the full range of
with the local high school. “We have four kids,
really pan out,” she notes. “We really care about
our capabilities for people in the area.”
and the memories that their school has given
“The pandemic does remain a challenge,
keeping the bones of the home of a high
For David, each project represents its
them are unbelievably impactful,” Angela says.
quality, so we need to make sure we’re receiving
own challenge. “All the homes we build are
“We had two on the varsity dance team, a
the highest-quality materials and labor.”
different in their own way,” he insists. “One
cheerleader, and a varsity basketball player. As a
project that we’re particularly pleased with
company, and new empty nesters with our four
work on ‘The Estates at Zaccaria Ranch’. As part
is one for which we won the ‘Best Specialty
dogs, we still make donations to the teams.”
of the development, the company is helping
Room, Custom Builder’ award at the Greater
transforming 278-acres of land into a luxury
San Antonio Builders Association’s 2021
a busy year in store for the homebuilding
20-lot neighborhood. “The land has been
Summit Awards. As a spec home, it was so
couple, who reveal that they have a model
owned by the Zaccaria family since the 1960s,”
impactful, leading to a number of new builds
home under construction, and two other
David reveals. “The lots themselves vary from
and real estate transactions.”
speculative homes in the design process,
One recent project for Pencsak has been its
five-to-17 acres. It will feature a private gated
70
Such is David and Angela’s passion for the
Sustainability is a big focus for the
Returning to Pencsak and its projects, there’s
which is an important part of their marketing
entrance, and include its own wine bar and
homebuilding couple, whose projects feature
process. Angela comments: “We have always
entertainment center for the residents. We’re
spray foam insulation, some of the highest
had a model/spec on the ground so that
proud to be the preferred builder for what are
energy efficient windows and efficient cooling
we can showcase our design and quality of
MODERNHB.COM
construction to our clients. It is something we
up early and now we have to store product
his contributors from architects, builders, and
enjoy and allows us to get really creative!”
for a while, but it’s better than waiting and it
the trades, like Steve Baczek, Jake Bruton, and
keeps the build on track.
Zak Dettmore,” adds Angela. The couple also
“There’s a lot to come!” David confirms. “We have multiple new client builds in the area
“We’ll continue to be on top of the newest
noted their admiration for Brad Leavitt of AFT
under construction and in the pipeline for
and best practices,” he goes on. “In November
Construction, Nick Schiffer of NS Builders, and
next year that are absolutely stunning.”
we will attend the contractor coalition summit
Morgan Molitor of Construction 2 Style for
and we always attend the International
their content on social media.
Turning to the long-term, Pencsak is intent on maintaining its boutique status,
National Builder Show, where we have and
something which David and Angela believe is
build relationships with other custom home
concludes. “As new products come out, we
key to preserving the company’s exceptional
builders and our vendors. This is so important
continue to educate ourselves – since we first
standards of customer service. Angela says:
for our company.”
started building homes, we’ve continually
“We really love to have one-on-one time with
Being part of a community of builders is
“We always strive to improve,” Angela
improved our capabilities. Over the next five
our clients, and to be able to provide the
very important to both David and Angela, as it
years, we will continue to maintain good
service that we do.”
is a great way to boost everyone’s success. “A
practices, integrity, transparency and highest
rising tide lifts all boats,” agrees David. He also
quality for our clients.” F
“When you have numerous subcontractors putting their hands on your home, it takes
noted how the business is keen to continue
a lot of supervision and coordination,” David
to learn and improve. “We are especially
adds. “You have to be a master scheduler. For
thankful to builders, architects and designers
instance, with supply chain issues we have to
who share their experience and knowledge
deal with today, we are ordering appliances
through social media; Youtube, Instagram,
and windows before the slab is poured.
Tiktok, and Facebook. You gain knowledge so
Selections have to be chosen and ordered
quickly,” says David. “We have some favorites,
earlier than ever before. Sometimes they show
such as The Build Show with Matt Risinger and
Pencsak Builders www.pencsakbuilders.com Services: Residential luxury homebuilding
MODERNHB.COM
71
ROCKLYN HOMES
Creating communities With more than 100 years of combined experience across its award-winning team, Rocklyn Homes has surely found the formula for success: building expertly designed homes at the best value in the most desirable of locations
72
W
ithin the greater Atlanta
communities. As one of the most recognized
metropolitan area, Rocklyn
builders in the region, Rocklyn has been
were presented by the Greater Atlanta Home
Homes (Rocklyn) is building
awarded numerous accolades and prizes for its
Builders Association and the Atlanta Sales and
an intricate map of
exceptional new builds.
Marketing Council, Rocklyn won gold awards for
MODERNHB.COM
At the 2021 OBIE Awards, for instance, which
‘Best Building Design: Single-Family Attached,’
of other accolades given in recognition for its
‘Best Building Design: Attached Model, $299,000
homes and employees. It was also recently
company is Jack Brewster, President at Rocklyn
Offering an insight into the award-winning
and Under,’ and ‘Best Merchandising: Model
named a top-five home builder by the Atlanta
Homes. “We are a family-owned company that
Home, $299,000 and Under,’ as well as a slew
Business Chronicle.
was founded in 2009 by David Jenkins, who MODERNHB.COM
73
ROCKLYN HOMES formerly owned and operated Winmark Homes until the market downturn of 2007. Though he decided on using the same people, he wanted a fresh start. So, a different name for a new company was chosen – that name was Rocklyn Homes. Before the home building business, David owned and operated a paving company until he was inspired to use a family piece of land to start building homes. We’re grateful he did! Here at Rocklyn, we are a full-service home building company, and that means we develop, design, and build all our own neighborhoods, creating distinct individual communities in the process. This fact sets us apart from the competition; it enables us to move quickly through all parts of the development and building process, allowing us to adapt to new scenarios with confidence. “At the heart of the business is people,” he continues. “In fact, our people are the only reason we are in business. The pandemic certainly created challenges on the personal side of things, so we try to arrange plenty of team building activities throughout the year to keep people in touch and bring them together, especially those who wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to see or speak to each other. However, Rocklyn’s conception of its people also naturally extends to its customers. To that end, we run a simple but beneficial referral program, allowing homeowners to refer friends and family to our services. When they fill these forms out and refer someone, they are then given certain credits and prizes for doing so.”
Why Rocklyn? Moving away from the myriad accolades and awards the company has won, another prominent way that Rocklyn is making its name known is through a high-profile partnership with the Atlanta Falcons. The popular NFL team, which competes in the National Football Conference, is not only an instantly recognizable name for those in the Atlanta area, but it also carries a certain kind of cultural weight. Indeed, not every company will be approached to partner with a conference-winning football team. “We are avid Atlanta Falcons fans – as individuals and as a company,” Jack comments. “We were approached by the Falcons’ marketing team to become their exclusive builder. That means we can promote our company at games and use their logo on our print material. As a result, this has allowed us to display our continued, passionate support of the home team, which in turn offers
74
MODERNHB.COM
us a platform to show our commitment to the
can fall in love with for a lifetime. Rocklyn also
buyers very soon: Hawthorne Station, Spring
greater Atlanta community.”
makes it easy for first-time buyers to step onto
Valley, and Beverley Heights, all of which will
the property ladder, guiding them through
offer a variety of homes within the $200,000 to
build beautiful and well-constructed homes at a
the entire process – from sales and design to
$400,000 pricing bracket and from 1400 square
reasonable price. By bolstering its builds with a
closing and post-closing.
feet up to 2000 square feet in terms of size.
Rocklyn was founded with a simple vision: to
keen passion for spacious interiors and attractive
In Atlanta, the company is known for many
As Jack makes clear, however, these
exteriors, the Georgia-based company draws
local developments, including Bentley Estates,
developments are just one string to Rocklyn’s
from the expertise of its knowledgeable team,
Cannon Trace, and Renaissance at South Park.
giant bow at present. “We are currently in the
strongly experienced in building, design, and
Three more developments are now in the
process of finalizing a video series we are calling
customer care, to create homes that customers
pipeline and will be available for prospective
‘Why Rocklyn,’ which will demonstrate our
MODERNHB.COM
75
ROCKLYN HOMES
commitment to the company’s culture and
the challenges we have seen in the supply
its build quality,” he details. “We are hoping to
chain since the pandemic. Fortunately, we
commit to taking on larger orders.
finish the series within the next few weeks.
have a large purchasing power dynamic,
family-operated firm with the ability to make
But we’re also exploring new ways to combat
and that means, unlike many others, we can
decisions quickly, especially when it comes
“As mentioned previously, we are a small,
to product changes,” Jack adds. “In turn, these factors help us to adapt and switch products on the move, particularly when we are hit with supply chain constraints or when a part is specifically requested by a customer. We are also welcoming more customers into our design studio – an amazing 5000-squarefoot space that allows buyers to come in and customize their homes. It gives them an opportunity to see and touch the materials that will end up being installed in their dream build.” That final point is one worth pausing on since, as anyone who has done so before will attest, there are few experiences like selecting all the different options and upgrades that will be incorporated in your new home. Tailoring it to individual wants and needs, choosing everything from the flooring to the faucets, the whole process is an opportunity that many homeowners will never get. Fortunately, Rocklyn’s own design studio offers new buyers a stress-free and seamless experience, offering soon-to-be homeowners the confidence and ability to personalize their purchase, turning it from a new house into a familiar home. Visitors to the design space, which is located just outside of Atlanta in Duluth, Georgia and is staffed by two full-time professional interior designers, can expect a detailed and ordered process. Buyers can examine exterior options (brick, stone, paint
76
MODERNHB.COM
colors, and other features) and investigate
As it turns towards life after the pandemic,
expect to generate more of the same growth we
imaginative interiors (over 75 options of fixtures,
Rocklyn is ready for a future of continued
are currently experiencing and expand into new
railings, appliances, wood treads, carpeting
growth. “We are building and developing
markets across the southeast.” F
choices, and kitchen fitting options are available).
as quickly as we can to keep up with the
In the tile section alone, there are over 160
incredible demand that we are seeing,” explains
selections to choose from, indicating that this is
Jack. “We may not have a record-setting year
a truly bespoke experience. The on-site interior
because we have sold through our inventory
designers efficiently guide customers through
quicker than we have been able to develop,
the process, meaning that any concerns can be
but we are preparing for another great year.
addressed quickly and with care.
Looking further ahead, in several years’ time, we
Rocklyn Homes www.rocklynhomes.com Services: Home builder
MODERNHB.COM
77
5TH AVENUE CONSTRUCTION
Inspired by design Defined by its sophisticated and timeless homes, 5th Avenue continues to create stunning communities where no project is the same
78
MODERNHB.COM
F
or 5th Avenue, homebuilding is about more than just houses. The company continually strives to create thriving communities based on quality,
craftsmanship and creativity. Known for its adaptability, hands-on approach and wealth of homebuilding experience, 5th Avenue now looks to expand its geographical reach, and provide even more buyers with the opportunity to make their unique vision a reality. Founded on the desire to provide buyers with the highest level of quality construction available in the custom market, 5th Avenue has seen ongoing success since its inception. As Vice President of Sales, Alexa Dimperio details: “It’s been a real journey since starting 5th Avenue Construction. The company was founded in 2009, building custom single-family homes in Lemont and Naperville, where we still do much of our work today. “Fast forward 12 years and we have a number of communities in Lemont, Plainfield and Naperville. We completed over 90 homes in the Glens of Connemara and are currently wrapping up 30 single-family homes in the Estates of Montefiori. At the moment, our remaining community is Derby Pines - an eight-lot cul-de-sac community in Lemont off of Archer Road. Our communities are made up of single-family homes that buyers can customize and upgrade according to their wants and needs. “We have always been focused on building homes that buyers can retreat to and build a life in,” she confirms. “People come to us with a vision, and our objective is bringing that MODERNHB.COM
79
5TH AVENUE CONSTRUCTION
vision to life. We have a range of services in our
communication, which means we are adept at
portfolio, including custom teardowns, new
cross-collaboration, both with our home buyers
developments, and renovations.”
and with other members of the team.”
As a boutique home builder, 5th Avenue is
“That being said, we don’t want to overwhelm buyers. We’re here to listen to their needs and then use our industry insight and
run by a tight-knit group of experts. “Our work
Working in partnership
expertise to provide them with information on
is incredibly niche. We offer a more intimate,
The smooth synergy between everyone at
what is possible, what constraints are in place,
personalized service, which means that our size
5th Avenue allows the company to provide
and how we could go about achieving their
can often work to our advantage. Our team
buyers with a flexible, informed, and effective
goals in a practical manner.
takes a hands-on approach in an effort to build
service from beginning to end. As Alexa
and maintain strong relationships with our
discusses: “One thing that makes us unique is
very in-depth planning and selection process.
buyers that extend long after closing.
flexibility for customization. Buyers who come
If someone signs a contract tomorrow,
to us for a home can really do whatever they
we can start getting plans drawn up with
Everyone is confident and experienced in
want, whether that means moving walls
our architect and engineer that same day.
their role, which means they are capable
around and reworking a plan we already
Everything at 5th Avenue is done in-house,
of being autonomous and independent,
have, or starting entirely from scratch and
so it’s not as if buyers are bringing in their
whilst working together to achieve our goals.
working off square footage. Buyers aren’t
own plans or architects. Instead, we form
We are dedicated to totally transparent
necessarily locked into option A, B, or C - their
a partnership with our clients, working
“Our team works incredibly well together.
80
choices are pretty much endless.
MODERNHB.COM
“Additionally, we are known for having a
collaboratively to create a comprehensive
that information, we can build a budget around
plan for their home.
them.”
“Once the plan is 100 percent complete, our
With numerous other exciting projects
buyers come in for the selection process. They
nearing completion, the next few months are
meet with our designers and go through all
full of opportunity for 5th Avenue, as Alexa
of the materials and design elements of the
confirms: “We have properties, in progress,
home. We allow our buyers to take as much
available for sale in Naperville. We also have a
time as they need for the selection process;
brand-new townhome development, Reilly’s
whether that’s two months or six months. It’s
Meadow, in Lemont that is set to break ground
all about their timeline and how quickly they
this summer. The site will be comprised of 20
want to get things done. After all, building your
townhomes, which will be released in phases.
own home is supposed to be an exciting and
We aim to release the first round in July of 2022.
fun process, we don’t want to rush them. In
These are perfect for buyers who are looking to
addition, the more time we spend in planning,
downsize or are looking for change, so that’s a
the more we can guide our buyers and help
very desirable, opportunistic parcel.
them get the most out of their build.”
“In the long run, our main goal is just to continue building the homes of our buyers’
Building dreams
dreams while supporting the communities in
A keen insight into contemporary housing
which they live. We are always looking for land,
styles has helped 5th Avenue to create
and in the next few years we plan to expand
custom homes that are inspired by modern
to South Florida where we can continue to
approaches. “Our home designs are influenced
grow our brand and prosper as a company,”
by market trends, and popular buyer
she concludes. F
5th Avenue Construction www.buildwith5th.com Services: Custom homebuilder
preferences. It’s really important that we understand what buyers are seeing value in currently, and what factors go into making specific designs more effective than others. “As a boutique custom homebuilder, we pride ourselves on building distinctive homes - homes that stand out in a neighborhood and really capture your attention,” says Alexa. One of the company’s most recent projects, 12891 Collina Lane, epitomizes 5th Avenue’s unique blend of contemporary style and bespoke charm. “12891 Collina Lane was an exciting project for us, so it was all hands-on deck for sure! The community was originally a large venue, which was then developed into the Estates of Montefiori, consisting of 35 single family homesites. “12891 Collina Lane was originally planned as a model home. We were open from 11am-4pm every Saturday and Sunday where prospects would visit, or I would hold buyer meetings. It’s not about selling that specific property, but more about showcasing the potential of the community and the kind of spaces we can build there. “Buyers go under contract at the base price of their desired floor plan, which includes the land itself. From there, buyers have the flexibility to upgrade options based on their preferences. What are their must-have design elements and amenities? What are their preferences? Using MODERNHB.COM
81
BLACKPINE COMMUNITIES
Ahome
that’s truly yours Mike Paris
Creating neighborhoods inspired by Sacramento living continues to spell success for BlackPine Communities as it takes on new markets and territories
82
MODERNHB.COM
Molly’s Walk
MODERNHB.COM
83
BLACKPINE COMMUNITIES
S
ince 2010, BlackPine Communities
cohesive sense of style, and a symbiotic
Since last being featured in Modern
(BlackPine) has been dedicated to
relationship to their surrounding towns
Home Builders, BlackPine has experienced
producing high-quality, bold and
and cities. Having successfully adapted to
considerable growth, and broken ground
sophisticated homes for buyers and
the changing market following Covid-19,
on some of its biggest projects yet. “We
renters across the Sacramento region. Driven
BlackPine now looks to extend its reach, and
have grown our team of associates and
by the belief that every home is a sanctuary,
continue work on a number of exciting and
partners, as well as our product diversity
the company builds communities with a
ambitious community projects.
and geographical reach. We have certainly elevated our financial capability, and our ability to take on larger projects. I think probably the biggest focus for us has been expanding the diversity of our product offering, and our top-notch team of associates has been the driving force in bringing new product to market. “We have continued to work in our downtown core area, as well as some inner-city locations, where we do a lot of infill projects. We have also moved to the suburbs. We recently decided to take our urban product and apply it to suburban areas, which has been really successful; we are doing a lot more conventional housing, as well as working with advanced rental communities where we are building singlefamily homes. One of our current projects, which we are now breaking ground on, involves retaining selected home sites
Molly’s Walk
84
MODERNHB.COM
BLACKPINE COMMUNITIES within each community for our LuxeLease
become an important part of the central
whether you buy or rent we want the
program.
downtown grid.
lifestyle to be the same all the way
“It’s going well. We have about 300
“The city is prioritizing housing in the
through,” offers company President and
units in the pipeline that we own, and
evolution of its central core, and ours is very
we are very excited about that. It’s in the
much an urban project, so we are in-keeping
Chief Operating Officer, Mike Paris.
rising Washington District in the City of
with that trend. It’s fun to not only build the
New expectations
West Sacramento, across the river from
homes, but go back and think of a concept
These accomplishments have been hard
downtown Sacramento in North California,
that can be executed across an entire
earned for BlackPine, as the company was
and we are really excited because it’s a newly
community. We are trying to make our brand
also faced with numerous challenges as
redeveloped region for the city that will
synonymous with the ‘single’ experience,
the result of Covid-19. “The pandemic definitely caused challenges for the entire industry. It was the same way for us on the West Coast as it was for builders on the East Coast, none of us really knew how to navigate what we were experiencing, especially at the beginning, when our fundamental operating disciplines were paused,” Mike confirms. “We knew that our number one priority needed to be making sure that our people were safe, and, as more information came out, we followed all of the proper protocols. We wanted to be certain that our people had enough time to spend with their families, especially with the challenges brought on by home schooling and the absence of daycare, so we were
Abbeys Gate
86
MODERNHB.COM
very flexible in terms of letting people work
that would take, and so we decided to be
build, and people really appreciated being
from home. That being said, a lot of people
entirely transparent with the home buyers; we
kept informed. Our customers were equally
still chose to come into the office, which
tried to communicate with them frequently
trying to juggle their own circumstances; it’s
was great because we had been deemed an
about any challenges that came up with the
been tough on all stakeholders.
essential business in California, and so we still needed our team working on site. “The second thing we focused on was our trades. The biggest challenge we faced there was the fact that our labor force was more or less decimated. We would have 25 houses that needed drywall installation, and only four people were available to hang it. The initial impact of this meant that our build times were doubled – we went from a seven-month building cycle, to 12 or even 13 months, more or less overnight. It was something we just had to work through, until conditions improve. “Thirdly, we made the decision early on to accept the ‘new normal’. We realized that there would be considerable effects on the industry, but that over time a new kind of equilibrium would be reached. We didn’t know how long
MODERNHB.COM
87
BLACKPINE COMMUNITIES 700 PARC
“The reality is that the world has changed. We are entering the third year of post-pandemic, and the business is different. We have adapted, and new expectations have been established on every level, and from every corner of our industry. I think our ability to stay nimble, and work under those challenging circumstances, has made us stronger today and positioned us to be strategically adaptable for the future,” he elaborates.
Unique vision The pandemic also prompted numerous changes across the housing sector, as more and more people started remote work. Keeping a keen eye on the market, and remaining flexible, allowed BlackPine to respond effectively to the shifting needs of consumers. As Mike discusses: “The ‘home’ has clearly been redefined over the past couple of years. “I think everybody in the world has re-evaluated the importance of their homes, and it has certainly had a direct impact on employers and workplaces. We are now seeing the home being utilized as a flexible work-from-home space, as well as a classroom for a lot of people. In response to these changes, we are now designing homes that have private spaces in them, for adults and children. We are also making homes more flexible for gathering
88
MODERNHB.COM
together, when those occasions arise.” The company also remains dedicated to Mike’s original vision, working to create genuine communities where people have the security and well-being to thrive. “One of the biggest things we have always been able to do is look beyond the house and find the home in it. People often purchase homes
“In five years’ time, I would love to see the
to manage. The pandemic really did
based on how they feel, and so we strive to
company continue to grow and prosper. We
accelerate a lot of things, and I think we
create entire areas that bring on a positive
haven’t had a strict forward-looking strategy,
will need to continue moving and growing
emotion. After all, our projects are about
however, for the years ahead, we fully
into new market areas – our brand is
the whole community, not just a single
recognize the importance in advancing our
scalable. Ultimately, our success lies in
house. That’s always been our belief, and it’s
fiscal planning and continued commitment
our ability to remain flexible, adaptable
something we have stayed true to as the
to building and working sustainably with the
and responsive to our customers and
company has grown.
community in mind. Furthermore, we aim to
the market as it continues to evolve,” he
continue being adaptable, and evolving with
concludes. F
“Our first community was built in Roseville, which is right outside of Sacramento. The project is called Molly’s Walk, after my daughter,
the market. “I think the next three-to-five years will
and it’s a single-themed village full of English-
be very interesting for BlackPine and the
inspired cottages. It turned out wonderfully,
construction industry as a whole. There
even though at the time people thought I was
will undoubtedly be continued economic
crazy. I always knew that people wanted to feel
and social effects from the pandemic, and
happy and safe when they came home from
there is still a lot of supply chain disruption
BlackPine Communities www.blackpinecommunities.com Services: Community developers
work each day, and that’s why the community was so well received. “Our offering is diverse, but consistent. We provide people with something uniquely different, and we stay true to that original vision. The company has now built a brand that brings value to the communities it builds. Not every home has to have the same style, we have moved further away from homogenous production housing into more personalized homes, but we still like to keep a sense of coherence throughout the community,” he asserts.
Moving and growing The prevailing belief in the power of community has helped BlackPine see enduring success. Today, the company continues work on a number of major projects, including 700 PARC on Main, an urban downtown development in the City of Vacaville, and two large communities in West Sacramento, called Four40 West and Five20 Fifth. It’s an exciting time for BlackPine, as Mike enthuses: “The company is at a pivotal point in its trajectory, and we are about to enter a new chapter. We’ve built great strategic relationships with a number of really highly respected companies, and in the next few years we will continue to expand on those very important and valued relationships. MODERNHB.COM
89
WHITE OAK
Signature service
In operation since 2008, White Oak has become a recognized name throughout the southeast US, having successfully built its reputation on an unwavering commitment to quality
90
MODERNHB.COM
W
hite Oak is the brainchild of Founder and Owner Finn Smith. A building industry professional since the year 2000, Finn worked for a number of home builders in the early stages of his career, building everything from production homes all the way through to custom
homes. After purchasing his first sub-division in his late 20s, things quickly took off: soon enough, Finn was building 350 homes for a large home builder. In 2008, the dawn of the financial crisis brought Finn’s work to a halt, but his ambition remained. So, he founded White Oak. “Originally, White Oak was formed to do anything under the sun,” Finn explains. “We did remodels, we bought a few infill lots and a couple of niche in-town communities around Atlanta, and we grew from there.” Today, the company consists of four principal divisions. White Oak Coastal Homes is responsible for the construction of beautiful homes along the Florida coastline and out along the US Panhandle, while White Oak Renovations operates in Atlanta and the surrounding metro areas, performing high-end remodels. Thirdly, the company’s home building division constructs custom and spec homes in the Atlanta Metro area, in locations including Brookhaven and Alpharetta. Last of all, is White Oak Interiors. The design and decorating team works closely with White Oak’s clients and project managers, managing selections of everything from tiles and countertops, to fabrics and furnishings. As Finn explains, it’s an essential component within White Oak’s turnkey offering.
MODERNHB.COM
91
WHITE OAK “In most home builds, clients have to go
they first receive a plan from an architect, and they continue to spitball ideas at finish level,
chain issues and price increases with
will then take responsibility for the interiors,”
and look for ways to improve the space.”
inflation, we recently secured a warehouse
Finn states. “At White Oak, we’re able to handle
For the industry as a whole, the issues facing
that would allow us to purchase stock
that at the same time. In light of the supply
supply chains throughout the last couple of
ahead of time and keep it in storage,”
chain issues we’re currently facing, it’s worked
years are well documented. However, White
he adds. “Now, if there’s a delay, we’ve
really well in helping our clients to have a
Oak, with a footprint that spans multiple
often ordered so far in advance that our
comfortable experience, in which they can
markets, and a large volume of homes, has
clients won’t ever be impacted. We can
trust in us to deliver everything under roof,
proved itself better than most at weathering
set priorities, too: even if a client has a
efficiently and on-time.”
the storm.
decorator that they’ve used for years, when
Vendor relationships
with an obstacle, expect their customers to
team can shift the focus to tile selection,
Underpinning White Oak’s customer
understand and accept that obstacle too,” Finn
because that’s where the delays are in the
proposition is a relentless commitment to
reflects. “At White Oak, we haven’t taken that
market, and it’s the biggest need.”
its core values of honesty, integrity, passion,
approach. Instead, we thought to ourselves,
teamwork, serving others, and a commitment
‘Yes, this is here, but how can we overcome
key for White Oak to keep abreast of the
to never settle for less than the best. “When
these obstacles and do better for our clients?’
latest developments. “Thanks to a close
a client says, ‘You would have thought you
As such, if a project in Florida is suddenly hit
relationship with our vendors, we do get
were building your own personal home’, it
with the delay of a plumbing fixture, we’re
notified of price increases ahead of time,”
blows me out of the water,” Finn says. “That’s
able to identify that potential delay for every
Finn outlines. “At that point, we can contact
probably the greatest compliment we receive.
other home we’re building, and move that
our clients to inform them, and suggest that
Our teams on the ground get so excited when
item further up in our priority.
we make a certain order straight away.
“There are a lot of builders who, when faced
92
“Knowing there were going to be supply
and source the decorator themselves, who
MODERNHB.COM
they’re discussing paint colors, our design
In such a volatile environment, it’s
“Outside of our project managers and our team, our vendors are one of the largest parts of our success,” Finn insists. “We treat them like clients, and in return, that puts us at the top of their priority list. When supply chain issues arise, they call us first – and that benefits our clients more than anybody. These relationships are the ones people don’t see, but they really make a huge difference in our ability to continue to give our clients an exceptional experience in the home building world.”
Future projects White’s Oak’s extensive list of recent projects includes building homes and the clubhouse/ amenities in the Sugar Sand Development, a very large, private gated community, located along Florida’s Mexico Beach. Without running electricity at the time of the build,
in Georgia, and in the city of Johns Creek, work
White Oak used generators alone to build the
continues apace on large remodels in the Country
and beyond when it comes to realizing its
As ever, White Oak isn’t afraid to go above
community’s new clubhouse, complete with
Club of the South, a private, gated community
clients’ dreams. “We’re currently undertaking a
fitness club and swimming pool. Meanwhile,
encompassing 900 acres, and 745 homes.
$3m-plus remodel for a repeat client, gutting
MODERNHB.COM
93
WHITE OAK
94
MODERNHB.COM
the main house, and building a detached
talking about you’. We have really become a
to protect your reputation,” he admits. “We’re
garage with living space, an office, a wood
community name: people will say, ‘We want a
not able to accommodate everyone, and our
shop, and an outdoor pool and pickleball
White Oak home’. To become an adjective like
past clients – along with their referrals – will
court,” Finn indicates. “The client was initially
that, it’s credit to what we’re able to do.”
always come first, bar none.
getting rejected for their building permits on
As thoughts turn to the future, White Oak’s
“Nevertheless, to realize the White Oak
account of some ordinances, but thanks to
outlook is firmly positive. “For our interiors
experience, we have to find the personnel that
our good reputation in the community, I was
division, the sky is the limit,” Finn insists. “The
align with our values,” Finn insists. “We want
able to personally meet with the head of the
city of Alpharetta, Georgia, is set to be a big
people who are 100 percent confident: yes, this
local municipality’s building department, walk
one for us this year. The planning department
is where I want to be; yes, serving others is vital;
them through the project, and explain why
has done a great job turning the downtown
yes, it’s important never to settle. By adding
it’s suitable. I can’t tell you how excited we are
into an attractive live-work environment, and
more of these individuals to our team in the
about that project.”
we’ve purchased a number of tear-down
coming years, we’ll be able to accommodate
lots within walking distance, with a view to
more clients, while continuing to deliver our
that customers tend to return to White Oak.
building $3m-plus homes in the coming
signature service.” F
“Almost 100 percent of our business consists
year. We’ve just received a couple of new
of repeat customers,” Finn reveals. “It’s a huge
permits, so we ought to have sticks in the
source of pride for me. There aren’t many
air in the next month or two. It’s such a hot
people who have the opportunity to build
market, and we’re excited to bring to it some
or remodel multiple homes in their lifetime,
awesome designs.”
With such a project in mind, it’s little surprise
but when they do, they realize that they want
For Finn, perhaps the biggest challenge will
that experience again. Otherwise, it’ll be a
be managing White Oak’s inevitable growth.
referral. We’ll get a phone call saying, ‘You built
“In this business, the hardest thing is to say ‘no’,
my friends’ home, and they haven’t stopped
but it’s often the thing that’s most necessary
White Oak www.whiteoaksignaturehomes.com
Services: Custom, commercial, and residential home building and interiors design
MODERNHB.COM
95
GREAT PLACES HOUSING GROUP
Building
the future As one of the largest house building associations in the North, Great Places Housing Group provides affordable social housing for the UK. Working in some of the region’s most diverse neighbourhoods, the company works relentlessly to meet the differing needs of the communities it serves
96
MODERNHB.COM
Great Places Head Office
G
reat Places Housing Group (Great Places) is the result of six different mergers that have taken place since the company’s inception. Each new arm has brought a lasting
cultural impact to the organization and its operation. The latest merger found the business teaming up with Equity Housing Group, which was formed in 1963, and subsequently added an extra ten years to Great Places’ history. “The work we do can be traced back to different organizations,” begins Matthew Harrison, the company’s CEO. “We’ve got quite a bit of stock over in Blackpool for example, where we merged with Windmill Housing Association. Another one was with First Peterloo Housing Association in 1996. That business was a specialist in supported housing, and that is now an aspect that has MODERNHB.COM
97
GREAT PLACES HOUSING GROUP become intrinsic to what we do here at Great
in society. However, this is only one of the
concept of the project is not unique, we are
Places,” Matthew highlights.
myriad sectors that Great Places supports. “If
one of maybe two other businesses that run
I’m being honest, our work ranges across the
it on a ‘wet house’ philosophy. This means that
activity focuses on establishing independence
A significant proportion of the business’
spectrum of the housing market. We run a
those with a tenancy do not have to abstain
and wellbeing for its customers, particularly for
supported housing scheme for people with an
from drinking, because otherwise they often
those considered to be the most vulnerable
alcohol addiction in Manchester. Although the
prefer to live on the streets, and we wouldn’t be able to help them,” shares Matthew.
Cranford, Stockport
“We also currently run Housing First in Greater Manchester, where we work with other organizations to get people off the streets, and help them sustain their tenancy. We provide homes for older people too and have our General Needs accommodation, which is most of the work that we do, and consists of housing for families, couples and single folk that just need affordable accommodation. “Finally, we also support housing for sale. This aspect is managed through Plumlife, and our market sale is conducted through Cube Homes, which has recently completed a project where the homes sold for over half a million pounds each. So, as you can see, we really tackle the entire range of the market,
Arkwright Place, Gorton
TN Robinson With a history built on service, value, and trust, TN Robinson is an independent electrical wholesaler, celebrating its 100th anniversary next year. Owned by the same family for four generations, we are proud of the reputation we have gained within our industry. For seven years, we have been supplying Great Places Housing Group with a huge range of electrical and water heating products to their distribution centre in Trafford Park. Keen to build relationships with tradespeople and businesses owners, our constantly updated stock ranges mean we offer the very latest products to market from quality brand manufacturers. We’re able to offer competitive prices on a massive range of electrical products thanks to our relationship with ANEW, Europe’s largest electrical purchasing consortium. We have more than 50,000 individual product lines in stock for same or next day delivery. TN Robinson – electrical expertise you can rely on
98
MODERNHB.COM
Proud to support and supply
Buy direct and SAVE £££s! • LED Lighting • Lamps and Tubes • Decorative Lighting • Wiring and Distribution • Heating and Ventilation • Workwear and PPE • Cable Management • Tools and Fixings • Security and Fire Detection • 11 branches • Open 6 days a week • Excellent value and choice • Same day delivery • Great deals, every day
www.tnr.co.uk
Electrical wholesalers Open to the trade and public Local people with NATIONAL POWER GreatPlacesA4Advert.indd 1
14/06/2022 10:20:05
GREAT PLACES HOUSING GROUP working on a ‘profit for purpose’ basis,” he says. Matthew continues to elaborate on
owns a small market-rented portfolio. With this, we then steer the conversation
“In a similar vein, we’re also involved in Park Hill, Sheffield, which is a Grade
Plumlife and Cube, and how they both
towards the various projects Great Places has
II-star listed apartment scheme. Our role is
successfully contribute to achieving the
fulfilled. As we can imagine, the company’s
mainly concerned with phase one, where
business’ goals in tackling the housing crisis.
portfolio is highly impressive, and Matthew
we own a number of homes and manage
The former specializes primarily in shared
highlights that there are a few of which he
the block - we’ve also got an office there.
ownership and leasehold management.
is particularly proud. “We’ve been involved
The building is internationally renowned,
“We even manage a marina in Manchester
in some very interesting regeneration
which, again, is a great thing to be
through Plumlife. We are one of the largest
projects. We got involved in New Islington,
associated with,” Matthew shares.
organizations operating this kind of activity
Manchester, where 20 years ago, we were
in the north of England.” Complementing
selected to be the organization that provided
Consistency of delivery
Plumlife is Cube Homes, the company’s
homes for people whose properties were
Most notably, Great Places has been
commercial developer division. As Matthew
being cleared. Today, we’ve got two more
successful in its bid to become a Homes
referred to, this arm develops housing for
schemes in that area, which we’re very
England strategic partner, through which
market sale. It is entirely market facing and
pleased to be involved with.
£241m of funding will enable Great Places to develop 4,920 grant-funded
Parkhill, Sheffield
homes across the North by 2028. “It’s obviously a significant undertaking for the organization, and it definitely has the majority of our attention right now. We have to establish the necessary resources to complete this work, and it is by far the single biggest project that we have ever been a part of. We are working incredibly hard to gain real momentum, but we are also so proud of our track record, which has helped establish the reputation we have to be trusted to deliver a programme of this scale. The top of our priority list is to commit everything we have to fulfil those contractual obligations.” A project of this size requires a reliable and hard-working team, which, for Matthew, is the essence of what makes Great Places the exemplary business that it is today. “We’ve built a strong set of stakeholder relationships based on consistency of delivery. One of the best messages that we get back from our stakeholders is that the organization has a reputation for delivering on its promises. We believe strongly in fantastic customer service, and we want to be recognized as
Shorrock Lane, Blackburn
a business that supports a social purpose that everyone can relate to.
Powell Hardware Powell Hardware is proud to be a valued supply partner to Great Places and take part in this wonderful editorial. We have been supplying Great Places for five years with a large array of products. Whatever their needs, we can be trusted to source and supply Ironmongery and associated items. Andrew Melia (Powell Hardware General Manager) said, “We have a fantastic relationship with Great Places. We deliver several full van loads to their warehouse every week, and even stock a range of more specialist items just for them.”
100
MODERNHB.COM
GREAT PLACES HOUSING GROUP Islington Square, New Islington, Manchester
102
MODERNHB.COM
“Our business model is predicated on the
example, which we all know has been at
“I think the housing market is going to
notion of being financially resilient, and if
the top of everyone’s priority following
experience a continuous restructuring as
we maintain that, then we will be able to
the Grenfell catastrophe. We need to be
we go forward, which means that when it
continue to deliver on all the projects that
cognisant of the resources issues, both
comes to balancing financial stability and
we want to. This also depends hugely on
human and financial, to guarantee that we
close-customer relationships, finding that
the team that we have; without them, we
complete our work on time, and that our
sweet spot for many companies will be
couldn’t do this work. I cannot emphasize
customers are safe.
difficult, but I know we can do it.” Despite
enough that at every level, our goal is to
“Although the market right now is
these ever-growing challenges, Matthew
support our social purpose and persevere in
turbulent, and there is still a great demand for
concludes by adding that his biggest hope
the work we do,” shares Matthew.
our housing. We have to ensure that in every
for Great Places is to remain an influential
project we are providing excellent homes,
voice in the market place, which will only
regardless of the difficulties that we run into.”
happen if the Group stays true to its social
He also shares that he cannot talk about the organization’s social responsibilities without including its drive for a greener
For Matthew, the highest priority is for
purpose. With this, he feels the business
future. At the moment, the business is in the
customers of Great Places to be well looked
will maintain its position as a key player in
process of navigating eco-friendly waters to
after. As the conversation turns to the
the UK’s housebuilding industry for many
ensure accurate execution, as some of the
future, we ask him what his hopes are for his
more years. F
homes it owns will be difficult to move to
business as it tries to mitigate the current
net zero. “Over the last two years, we have
issues surrounding the house building
been developing a strategy to get our Net
industry. “We have to remain resilient to these
Zero goals off the ground, but this is proving
challenges. They aren’t going to go away any
to be a bit tricky. For example, we own over
time soon, which means that we need to do
1,000 pre WW1 terrace houses and, as you
our level best to ensure we can rise above
can imagine, those present a number of
them, and provide for our customers.
Great Places Housing Group www.greatplaces.org.uk Services: Home building association
challenges with regards to their sustainability potential, because of the era in which they were built.
Influential voice “Our policy right now is to be driven by data, and try to ensure that we have as good a dataset as possible to make informed decisions about how to move forward. We’re working towards our EPC C as a minimum standard by 2028, and we are well on our way to achieving that. This is the first step on the journey to achieving our Net Zero targets,” he shares. Today, the reality of the house building industry in the UK is riddled with challenges; from supply chain issues, to the increased cost of living, and each of these plays their role in elevating the current housing crisis. For Matthew, the future of the business will be to ensure that its customers are able to depend on secure and affordable housing, through an organization that takes pride in its responsibilities to the community. “We’re part of a consortium called OSHA (Off Site Homes Alliance), which looks at developing modular housing options, so that we can provide capacity to meet the growing demand. Furthermore, we also have to ensure that all our stock is surpassing industry standards, such as fire safety, for MODERNHB.COM
103
MODERN HOMES IRELAND
Quality, efficiency, and speed In less than a decade, Modern Homes Ireland has managed to disrupt the residential construction sector in its home country with an innovative, game-changing offsite volumetric build process – now the pioneering home builder is looking for a new challenge overseas
104
E
stablished in 2015, Modern Homes
focused on low-rise residential building, it soon
certified by the National Standards Authority of
Ireland (MHI) has completed more than
transitioned to mid-rise residential units like
Ireland (NSAI), the Ballyjamesduff-based builder
650 homes and 2,500 modular units.
apartments and duplexes. Moreover, as the
has recently begun constructing ten-story
Though the fledgling business initially
country’s only volumetric housing provider
residential units up to 30 meters in height.
MODERNHB.COM
studying the unique home building system as implemented in parts of the UK, Europe, and the US. Building on the benefits of the process and mitigating its limitations, MHI soon established its own pioneering volumetric building methodology, investing heavily in technology, people, and the required facilities. With the backing of Dutch construction giant, the Royal BAM Group, MHI has since gone from strength-to-strength despite recent challenges in the global economy. Discussing offsite volumetric building in innovation was amplifying the rising issue of
more detail is Micheál Keohane, Director at
Cavan, MHI was born out of a gap in the wider
Operating out of a small rural town in County
Ireland’s housing crisis. Motivated to address
Modern Homes Ireland, who offers an insight
home building market. As the company saw
this apparent gap, MHI conducted in-depth
into the groundbreaking process behind the
it, the sector’s relative lack of technological
research in offsite volumetric manufacturing,
company’s year-on-year success: “To begin MODERNHB.COM
105
MODERN HOMES IRELAND with, we take a roll of standard, light-gauged raw steel product, and then we use our computer editing CAD/CAM software to program an in-house design for the project. We input that design into our roll forming and bending machines, which then process the raw steel into elements for our modules. The machines will give each element a unique manufacturing code, which our team will then use throughout the factory production process. The bespoke, highly-specialized CAD/CAM process sets us apart from both the competition and results in about an 80 percent reduction in waste compared to traditional construction methods. Furthermore, since everything is made in a factory-controlled environment, we’re able to carry our 48 different quality control stages for each individual module – eight times more than you could possibly make on a construction site. “From an environmental perspective, the reduction in waste from offsite volumetric building is significant,” he adds. “As a company, we’ve been able to reduce our embodied carbon by more than 40 percent. With high performance standards and a streamlined manufacturing process comes speed, and with speed comes less energy demands. In four short hours, we have the capacity to install a standard house via six different modules, make them weathertight, and finish them to about 90 percent completion – all without compromising on quality. The only challenge of this process is the initial rapid-fire design required. While foundations are being dug, we’re already selecting which door and window handles to use! Ultimately, however, we see this an additional strength of the overall process; it means we can have up to 60 modules on the factory floor at any one time, allowing our architects and engineers to witness the build materialize and enabling them to carry out further checks on top of our already well-established quality control methods.”
Sophisticated facilities One example of MHI’s trailblazing process stands tall in Dublin’s city center. As part of an affordable homes project with Clúid Housing (Clúid), a local not-forprofit Approve Housing Body, MHI constructed an entire block of 20 apartments through its offsite volumetric build process. Over 90 percent of the build took place in the company’s Ballyjamesduff factory, granting a 50 percent faster build time and offering significant cost savings. Indeed, the ingenious construction solution was crucial for the incredibly confined site; the planned apartment block was hemmed in by a listed building on one
106
MODERNHB.COM
side and a building just five meters away on the
certain projects paused until the market
for local authority housing and will also
other. To top it off, directly adjacent to the block
becomes less volatile, which only serves to
incorporate our offsite volumetric build process.
was a river. However, by lifting the 46 required
exacerbate the national demand for more
Looking further ahead, within the next five years,
modules over the four-story listed building, MHI
housing. That has, in part, led to our first project
I’d love to see MHI deliver over 1000 homes and
was able to fully install the modern block of
outside of Ireland: an exciting 254-home
apartments per year. To achieve this figure, we’ve
apartments in just over two weeks.
development in Blackridge, between Glasgow
begun to study robotics and automation as a
The logistical backbone of the entire MHI
and Edinburgh, called Redburn Meadows.
means to further increase our efficiency and
operation is almost as impressive as the offsite
We’re currently in the design process and
thus reduce our carbon footprint. Indeed, in
volumetric process itself. To achieve the
are expecting to move onsite this summer.
the same time frame, we want to demonstrate
company’s unrivalled efficiency rate, as Micheál
The project in Blackridge reflects a wider
a reduction of between 60 and 70 percent in
informs us, a mammoth facility fitted with the
goal of building more homes across the UK,
terms of embodied carbon and electrify our
latest technology is required. “We work out of a
particularly since the Royal BAM Group has
fleet as part of a wider company transition to
200,000-square-foot building,” he explains. “Our
unified its UK and Ireland division, allowing us
greener delivery methods. Coupling these two
unique manufacturing process requires a pretty
to grasp even more opportunities as they arise.”
intrinsically linked elements – automation and
large footprint: we have a moving floor system,
Quality, efficiency, and speed – the three
comprised of different work beds, which all our
tenets underpinning MHI’s pioneering vision.
modules sit on, facilitating the efficient delivery
As Micheál has made abundantly clear
of modules to different work zones – each with
throughout our interview, the company shows
its own materials, activity, and quality control
no signs of dropping its standards or of slowing
processes. We also utilize BIM 360, a construction
down. “We will be soon starting another project
field management software, to monitor quality
with Clúid in Ireland,” he concludes. “Located in
processes in the factory and take photographs
Gorey, County Wexford, this development will
and videos of commissioned tests.
be the first of the charity’s new 3D framework
sustainability – will be a big part of our future going forward.” F
Modern Homes Ireland www.mhi.ie Services: Modern home builder
“In terms of design, we’ve just implemented a software enabling us to deliver generative designs for apartments,” says Micheál. “That means, on the computer, we can pick a site, map it out, and then automatically generate up to 20 different designs for our apartments, all of which will be tailored to suit different customer requirements. Radio-frequency identification (RFID) also plays a big part in creating these tailored solutions. RFID trackers fitted to modules not only allow us to monitor every unit as it moves through our factory but also enables the end user to scan that RFID code and bring up an original operation and maintenance manual for the house or apartment. Many years into the future, then, homeowners will be able to accurately find out where each individual door, window, and handle is from.”
Automation and sustainability Despite challenges brought about by Covid-19 and Brexit, the acute attention to detail described by Micheál has ensured MHI’s year-on-year growth. Yet, as he also keenly observes, external market pressures have motivated the company to look for business overseas. “The Irish home building industry is in a difficult place,” he admits. “Inflation has caused materials to wildly fluctuate in terms of price, and that has meant some developments have become increasingly unaffordable. In fact, we’re currently seeing MODERNHB.COM
107
CRX CONSTRUCTION
Enjoy the
journey CRx Construction has become renowned for building beautiful beachside homes. With a preference for Delaware’s southern coastline, the company takes pride in its collaborative approach and attention to detail
108
MODERNHB.COM
MODERNHB.COM
109
CRX CONSTRUCTION
C
Rx Construction (CRx) began
homes, which led to the development of his
values, and we want to be a trusted partner
homebuilding with the intention
own homebuilding business. “There were some
for our clients throughout the process of
of creating memorable luxury
things I wanted to do differently, so I took the
establishing their dream home,” he begins.
homes along Rehoboth Beach and
best aspects from my previous experience and
Dewey Beach. In speaking with the company’s
introduced my own adjustments to areas that I
with the customer has led to admirable
President, Dion Lamb, we learn about the
felt could be improved.
innovation in home design. “We really do
importance of customer collaboration in
“When I started the business, I never
Under Dion’s leadership, working closely
follow the lead of our clients. Before we
bringing these projects to life, and how
understood why there had to be an adversarial
begin, our very first step is to discuss what is
the business has utilized this key factor to
relationship between builder and client, I
important to them, and the type of aesthetic
complete award-winning projects.
wanted our model to be focused on customer
they want. We have a detailed list of questions
advocacy, which led to what has become our
designed to provoke discussion to help us and
production builder in the custom home
Dion, who previously worked for a larger
collaborative process. At CRx, our primary goal
the client uncover what they really want. Only
division, quickly took to creating bespoke
is customer happiness; it is one of our core
once that has been finalized, do we bring in our expertise to make the project happen. We
We want to support everybody, and subsequently, we have created a flexible workplace where our staff are able to balance their work and personal life comfortably. If they need to be with their family, for example, for whatever reason, we try to make sure those things are taken care of, like a family should
are always on the lookout for better ways to operate, which is often achieved by working closely with our clients,” says Dion. He adds that CRx is also the type of business to draw inspiration from the latest trends in design, which means that the team is constantly observing its environment for innovative ideas regarding home construction. In addition to the value CRx places on its relationships with clients, the company is also
110
MODERNHB.COM
strategic about its projects, and ensures that
Despite the fact that CRx began building
with each contract, the team is engaged and
custom homes as recently as 2016, it has already
to deliver the vision we had at the start of
“When the new owner took over, we tried
dedicated to constructing the best home
been ranked number one on Houzz.com for its
the project. It was really special for that one
possible. “We don’t take on an excessive
work across the Rehoboth Beach and Dewey
to come together as beautifully as it did. It’s
amount of work at once because we want to
Beach region. “Our first award-winning home
a gorgeous house that is both classic and
make sure we don’t spread our resources too
was an extremely modern house, for which we
modern, with large overhangs, tons of glass,
thin. This allows us to invest a high level of
received the ‘Best Luxury Custom Home Design’
and a lovely courtyard and pool area that looks
focus for our clients,” he says.
from The Builders & Remodelers Association
like it has always been part of the surrounding
of Delaware. That project had a lot of ups and
landscape. There, you’ll find a stand-alone
Client experience
downs, the most significant being the fact that
screened porch area that looks out to the pool,
Our conversation then arrives at the crux of
the original owner of the house fell sick and
as well as an outdoor kitchen space and bocce
today’s discussion: the company’s projects.
sadly passed away.
ball court behind it.
Fireside Hearth & Home Homebuyers consistently rank fireplaces as a top ten home feature. Fireside Hearth & Home, the largest fireplace distributor in the US, is the best partner to help you gain a competitive advantage, and set your homes apart by giving homebuyers more of what they want. Since 1951, we have collaborated with builders, developers, architects, and designers on residential and commercial projects to offer the industry’s top brands, combined with unmatched reliability and best overall cost. We also provide post-install support and service for your clients so that they can enjoy their fireplace for years to come. Whether your plans call for gas, electric, or wood, and whether you need a standard or custom solution, we can help. Let us bring your fireplace vision to life with unique and innovative specifications, plus the best sales, installation, and service experience.
MODERNHB.COM
111
CRX CONSTRUCTION
award-winning projects. “We want to support
is important - but for us, it’s about whether
works at the moment as well. We have an
“We have some fantastic projects in the
everybody, and subsequently, we have
they enjoy the journey, and the team we have
ocean-front house we are working on in
created a flexible workplace where our staff
appreciates and embraces that.”
Fenwick Island, and we are doing a large
are able to balance their work and personal
modern house overlooking the water in
life comfortably. If they need to be with their
Beautiful future projects
Lewes, which I am really excited about too.
family, for example, for whatever reason, we
This sort of unity and family spirit served the
Furthermore, we are also getting ready to do
try to make sure those things are taken care
business well during the pandemic when
a personal home for the architect, who does a
of, like a family should.
being onsite proved to be difficult, and the
massive amount of our design work, and that is going to be a real show piece,” Dion highlights.
team had to depend on each other to work
with our corporate philosophy, because
through unexpected disruptions. “We did
we want to make sure that everyone here
fantastically to be honest. Fortunately, we were
size and detail are actually brought together by
understands why we prioritize the client
allowed to continue working, but we took the
a fairly small team at CRx. However, according
experience. For us, this work is not just about
necessary precautions, of course. Our project
to Dion, the closely-knit group is precisely
the end of project, or whether the client
timelines were extended slightly, but we also
why the company is able to complete its
likes the look of the house - obviously that
noticed that everyone adjusted to the changes
It may come as a surprise that projects of this
112
“We don’t hire anyone who is not onboard
MODERNHB.COM
Our conversation then draws to a close on
trajectory, so we will continue to expand in the
the topic of the next five years. Dion hopes
ways that I think will serve us well, so that we can
that within this time frame, CRx will expand
keep creating these stunning high-end luxury
pretty quickly. The pandemic also brought in a
by approximately 25 percent. This growth,
builds for our clients.” F
great deal of projects for us as clients chose to
however, will not only see an increase in the
make the most of working from home, which,
size of its team, but also in its expertise to
in our area, was right next to the beach. We
remain a leading name in the Rehoboth and
saw a heavy influx of business as a result of this.
Dewey Beach area. “We like the ability to stay
Our team was diligent and dedicated, and I
focused on specific sets of projects. Having
could not be prouder.”
said that, we risk the possibility of remaining
Dion shares that the company has now
CRx Construction www.crxconstruction.com Services: Luxury homebuilder
stagnant if we don’t push for any sort of growth
been primed for forward-thinking when it comes to ordering materials in advance to stay ahead of any possible delays. “We were the same as everyone else in that respect. We were so used to receiving our supplies as and when we needed them, which has made adjusting a bit tricky, but in the grand scheme of our work, I know it will serve us better in the long run,” he shares. Now, with a few projects in the pipeline, and a hardworking team, 2022 is set to be a promising year for CRx. “We have a very traditional Cape Cod-style, 6000-square-foot house underway right now that is going to be beautiful, and we will also be finishing an oceanfront house in August. Added to that, we have a really unique project with a client who holds two lots connecting between two different streets, with an existing house on one lot. So, we are doing a very large-scale renovation with a big chunk of it consisting of new construction that will tie the lots together. It is a very unique set up utilizing a C-shaped design to highlight a central courtyard and pool that will be visible from most of the home. The clients for this project are amazing. This project has also given us the opportunity to work with Weeth Home on the interior design which we have been looking for the right opportunity to do for a couple of years. We are super excited to see the final product,” Dion says. MODERNHB.COM
113
CAMERIO BUILDERS
Camerio Builders
Proudly improving lives since 2009, Camerio Builders is more than ready to take adapted housing to the next level by providing clients with beautifully bespoke custom living arrangements
114
MODERNHB.COM
Photography credit - Chandler Collier, Southern Aerial Perspectives
Travis Camerio President at Camerio Builders
... If more learn about it, then there will be even more hands to help those in need. Indeed, with the right team, focused on innovative living for people with disabilities, we will be able to help people live more comfortably, with a renewed sense of independence, for the rest of their lives
MODERNHB.COM
115
CAMERIO BUILDERS
I
have a unique situation,” begins Travis
mind, Lou developed several homes for people
Camerio, President at Camerio Builders. “I
with disabilities, knowing more than others
began what it does best: building homes,” he
grew up in the building industry. My father,
about the various but specific challenges that
adds. “We carry out workers’ compensation
Lou Camerio, was a track home builder and
come with having a disability. In a show of
claims for those who have suffered terrible
developer. He built homes for over 45 years.
appreciation, the Camerio family donated the
injuries, and we’re widely recognized for
One day, however, he suffered a catastrophic
proceeds to the Shepherd’s Center.
our homes that have been built for aging
spinal cord injury (SCI) while playing tennis.
in place and disabled veterans. Considering
I was only 14 at the time. He spent some
story of his father, as well as the hands-on
the latter, Vietnam veterans often suffer from
time in Atlanta’s Shepherd Center, a hospital
experience he had living with someone in
complications due to Agent Orange, from
specializing in injuries such as his.
need of assistance due to an injury, Travis set
Parkinson’s disease to amyotrophic lateral
“I’ll never forget the day he came home in
116
A unique situation, indeed. Inspired by the
“With this in mind, Camerio Builders
up Camerio Builders with a specific mission in
sclerosis (ALS), which means there are many
a wheelchair,” he continues, offering us the
mind. “In September 2009, I started Camerio
unknown factors at play – it’s difficult to
story behind the successful business he so
Builders, focusing on renovations for veterans
predict exactly what they will need. As an
proudly leads. “We had to figure out how to
through the Veterans Affairs’ Specially Adapted
approved contractor for Veterans Affairs,
get him into the house, and then into the
Housing program (SAH),” Travis says. “Yet, the
however, we’re always able to accommodate
bathroom. We needed to solve a number of
more projects I completed, the more I realized
for individual circumstances.”
challenges which we were unprepared to
there was a large demand for people like me.
However, disability can affect anyone –
take on at the time.”
That is, not only someone with a long career
regardless of age or occupation. Accessibility
Lou made a strong recovery. But he also
in the home building industry (I had already
is, moreover, a beneficial endeavor for all.
came out the other side with a unique point
worked with my father for over 20 years), but
In this sense, Camerio Builders is devoted
of view on the struggles of living in a domestic
someone who also knows the importance of
to building beautiful bespoke homes for
setting while recovering from a life-changing
gaining independence in the aftermath of an
anyone who is aging. Even if they are perfectly
injury. With this unique perspective firmly in
injury or because of a disability.
healthy, the home that someone wants
MODERNHB.COM
to live in for the rest of their life will need adapting eventually. Therefore, each home developed by the Georgia-based team is custom fitted with universal design features, accessible design features, and planning for the future, regarding any situation. Wider hallways and doorways, roll-in step-less entries and emergency exits, and curb-less roll-in customized showers are just the beginning of the list of features included in Camerio Builders homes. “We take pride in making our homes accessible, however appearing like regular homes,” said Travis.
The Dream Team These projects are not simple, they are beyond custom. Each person [client] is unique in their own way, and therefore the project will be custom to fit for them. Therefore, a team effort, buoyed by expert craftmanship, is required to meet the needs of each client. As Travis makes clear: “A builder should never attempt a specialized project for someone with a disability on their own. It takes multiple people who are specialists in their field to make these formulated the dream team. Our most recent project, the Perez project, was successful because we worked so well together. Functionality and client independence are our top priorities. We were all experienced in doing home assessments, designing for aging in place and for people with disabilities.”
© 2022 CAMBRIA || 812102_AD
types of projects successful. Therefore, we
The Dream Team began with Jane Norman who served as the rehabilitation and disability case manager and life care planner for the Perez project. “It was my job to find not just experts, but the right experts for this case,” said Jane Norman (RN). She is a Certified Disability Management Specialist (CDMS), a Certified Nurse Life Care Planner (CNLCP), and a Legal Nurse Consultant Certified (LNCC). The Occupational Therapist was Peggy Freedman, Clinical Director for The Freedman Group. It was her reports which were the foundation for the entire project. “During the process I was the individual who determined what modifications needed to be made and
WHITEHALL™
how the space should be constructed for function and safety,” said Peggy. “Our team had a great working relationship, and each one of them understood the skills and expertise of
DRAMATIC BY DESIGN American-made Cambria quartz surfaces.
each other so that the finished home would be perfect.”
CambriaUSA.com
MODERNHB.COM
117
CAMERIO BUILDERS
For Travis, there’s no better example
brilliant team, we were able to design and
the equipment and mobility specialist
to evidence the incredible team behind
build a custom home and a rehabilitation
for the Perez Project. Garol is a Certified
Camerio Builders than with the Perez project.
facility for Juan and his family.”
Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) and a
He tells us the life-changing story behind
Certified Home Adaptation Modification
the home: “While on a business trip in
conducive to his types of injuries, and it was so
Professional (CHAMP). Installing features
Amsterdam, the taxi in which Juan Perez sat
frustrating to see that and feel almost helpless.
such as the elevator, overhead track
in was hit by a tram which had derailed,” he
He now has a space where everything is tailor-
system and supplying the client with
explains. “He was on his way home from a
made for Juan’s needs, not just now but for
all the proper custom fitted specialty
corporate meeting. The accident left Juan
the future, and it makes our life as a family so
equipment such as power wheelchairs and
with severe injuries, including a fractured
much easier,” said Tracy Perez.
the proper hospital bed. “For me, it was a
shoulder, internal damage, and a traumatic
wonderful opportunity to collaborate with
brain injury. As a result, he needed many
to the main floor, zero-degree entries, bed
such an experienced team on the entire
modifications made to his home. That way,
rails, blackout motorized blinds, well-lit and
project working toward the best possible
he could live comfortably, surrounded
widened hallways, built-in furniture, grab
outcome,” said Garol.
by family once more. With the help of my
bars, touchless faucets, roll-in showers, as well
Garol Orr, owner of 101 Mobility was
118
MODERNHB.COM
“The facilities Juan was in were just not
Overhead track systems, elevator access
Sensory room
as safety systems like induction range and
new construction and has helped with many
Our clients have specific needs. Hence, our prices
rehabilitation features like an infrared sauna.
designs – those homes are beautiful because
need to be specific. To that end, we provide each
The list keeps on going. The myriad features
of her.”
client with a detailed estimate for the work, being
and functions of the house indicate an
In fact, as Travis informs us, the dream team
as thorough as possible, and offering them the
immaculate attention to detail – both in terms
is joining forces once again to better the lives
of the finish and the intricate, complex details
of those in need. “We are in the process of
Designing and building beautifully bespoke
of Juan’s injury and his needs.
formulating a new entity to work through
homes for people with injuries and disabilities is a
the most difficult cases for people who have
truly unique process. Changes are always on the
incredible work, Camerio Builders won two
suffered the most severe catastrophic injuries,”
horizon; new products are always being launched;
national awards from the National Association
he notes. “In this way, our dream team will
lives are always there to be improved.
of Home Builders (NAHB): Remodelers 2021
be a one-stop shop for home assessments,
Award for ‘Entire Home Renovation: Aging-
design, and construction, as well as services in
Camerio Builders continues to find new ways to do
In-Place’ and Best in American Living 2021
medical and mobility consulting, for people
what it does best. “I look forward to our company
Award for ‘Remodel Specialty Project’ – but
with disabilities and injuries who want to
growing, not least because we will then have
the plaudits doesn’t stop there. The team also
modify their homes. Our intention is to make
more time to educate others of this process. If
won two local awards from the Greater Atlanta
their transition back home as seamless as
more learn about it, then there will be even more
Home Builders Association for its superior
possible with all the available resources.”
hands to help those in need. Indeed, with the
The project was a huge success. For its
basement finishing and its addition of a groundbreaking sensory room.
The future is bright for Camerio Builders.
most up to date information as we can.”
Intending to stay at the fore of its industry niche,
right team, focused on innovative living for people
Among its other slated projects is a
with disabilities, we will be able to help people
development in Talmo, Georgia. Though
live more comfortably, with a renewed sense of
for Juan. We also designed it for the needs
still in the early stages of development, the
independence, for the rest of their lives.”
of his 24-hour care givers in mind as well, by
project looks very promising. “It will be a rural
adding a nurses’ bathroom, locker room, and
community of large acre tracks of land,” Travis
and other aging in place custom homes built by
separating the access to the main level of the
elaborates. “Each house will be designed and
Camerio Builders. F
home addressed multigenerational situations.
built to a custom specification by us for aging
We accomplished many breakthroughs
in place. We value the small-town appeal of
in the industry with that project – the
Talmo. It has a lot of character and, therefore,
implementation of a sensory room was the
we want to protect its integrity.
Travis Camerio - Travis@cameriobuilders.com Peggy Freedman - Peggy@thefreedmangroup.com Jane Norman - jnorman.pmr@gmail.com Garol Orr - GOrr@101mobility.com https://youtu.be/VpMxi2fW4Mk https://youtu.be/4wxaiqkNPZE
“Indeed, we didn’t just design this project
most stunning. Jane and Peggy spend a great
“But we will also be working on several
deal of time on the sensory room and picked
Veterans Affairs jobs, and we’re starting on
out some amazing features. We had several
those now,” adds Travis. “The only problem is
meetings to discuss in detail. It won an award
that we’re facing large challenges in the form
by itself for specialty room, and it serves as a
of increasing construction costs. They change
relaxing and therapeutic space for Juan,” said
daily. I had a building supplier tell me their
Travis. “For the awards, I owe a lot to my wife,
quote was only good for the next five minutes!
Heather Camerio, for instance. Her inspiration,
We’re doing everything we can to keep our
her patience, her support over the years. She
costs down: revising our numbers often in a bid
specializes in aging in place selections for
to remain as competitively priced as possible.
Check out the links below for the Perez project
Camerio Builders www.cameriobuilders.com Services: Custom Home Builder and Adapted housing specialist
MODERNHB.COM
119
J. HALL HOMES
Less is more
Putting quality above quantity for more than two decades, J. Hall Homes remains proud of its well-deserved recognition as Fredericksburg’s go-to custom home builder
W
e last spoke to J. Hall Homes
awarded ‘Builder of the Year for 2019’ by the
true floorplans like the Lauren II, the Hampton,
several years ago, before the
Fredericksburg Area Builders Association
the Kirkland, and the Hillsborough, as well as
pandemic disrupted life and
(FABA) and ‘Best of the Burg for 2019’ by
custom, bespoke homes tailored to the needs
work and shook-up most
the Free Lance Star, Fredericksburg’s local
of individual clients.
industries in the process. To catch up on all
newspaper, as well as being a named finalist in
Since 1999, Jeff has spearheaded the
that has transpired since then, we sat down
Viridiant’s ‘Building Sustainability Awards’. Then
company with a strong sense of purpose,
with Jeff Hall, President at J. Hall Homes, who
Covid-19 came along, and everything got put
intent on bringing a unique, green home
began with the short answer.
on hold. So that’s where we’re at today.”
building style, as well as quality and integrity,
“The pandemic,” he laughs. “That’s what’s
120
J. Hall Homes is one of Fredericksburg’s most
happened since we last spoke. It’s funny,
preeminent custom home builders. Across the
just before Covid-19, we were honored
state of Virginia, the company is well-known
with a slew of accolades. The company was
for its high-end, high-value offerings tried and
MODERNHB.COM
to the Fredericksburg area and its surrounding communities. “When the pandemic first started, our business didn’t really change,” Jeff continues,
now turning his attention to the long answer.
caused lead times to double and inflation
modelling,” Jeff explains. “We complete all our
“Virginia was considered an open work state,
triggered prices to skyrocket. If it takes 20
designs in-house, and then use 3D modelling
meaning that we weren’t shut down. In fact,
weeks to procure windows, then of course
to share plans with our clients. That way,
we actually had a backlog of clients seeking
you can order things way ahead of time. The
they can walk through the house before its
our design/build services. Despite the threat
problem is, though, that lead times were –
even built. We’re also utilizing virtual services
of Covid-19, we continued to go about our
and still are – constantly changing. A sudden
like Zoom to meet clients and hold design
business, wearing masks and practicing social
change will always cause problems. You have
consultations remotely. We’ve streamlined our
distancing; for the most part, we carried on
to be ready, and you have to adapt. If you’re
entire process. Technology is taking over the
as normal. Then people began to reassess
communicative, most clients understand.
custom home building industry, so this is part
everything, and the floodgates really opened;
Inflation is always hard. There’s only so much
of a wider trend we’re seeing.
it went crazy, inquiries about our building
you can absorb; there’s only so much clients
services went through the roof. People realized
can add to their budget. Currently, we’re
can FaceTime our team and propose solutions
they didn’t have to live near work or stick with
talking with trade partners and suppliers to
with the aid of CAD software, all while never
their normal commute. New ways of doing
circumnavigate these issues, adding some
leaving the office,” he details. “CoConstruct is
business were emerging, and people could
contingency cover within our pricing. It was
now at the core of everything we do: it’s an
begin to pick and choose where they lived
tough, having that much demand and not
all-in-one online construction management
and worked. Suddenly, people wanted to
being able to get things physically built.”
system that covers estimating, bidding,
build a new home in a different location or to accommodate a home office. “For a home builder, that sounds ideal,” he adds. “However, issues in the supply chain
The pandemic also brought with it another
“If there’s a problem in the field, then we
specifications, scheduling, order changes, client
interesting development for J. Hall Homes, one
and trade partner management, as well as
that’s catapulted the firm into the future of the
being seamlessly integrated with QuickBooks.
home building industry. “We’re now using 3D
These digital tools were always available, but MODERNHB.COM
121
J. HALL HOMES
122
MODERNHB.COM
not readily adopted. Now people are actually
As it stands, J. Hall Homes is building an
on who we work with comes down to execution
using these innovative tools, and they’re quickly
average of ten custom homes per year – and,
and quality. If they can’t bring that to the table,
proving essential, especially in the aftermath of
for Jeff, that’s enough. Less is more. As a strong
then we don’t work with them.
the pandemic.”
proponent of the old adage, he’s intent on
“In terms of projects, then, that just means
delivering high-quality homes that invite their
finding clients who are conducive to our
Continuous improvement
owners to fall in love with them, each and every
philosophy,” Jeff concludes. “A lot of the time
One recent build that utilized these
time they step through the front door. “We
people shop around for builders. However, after
technologies was the Ni River Retreat
don’t necessarily want to grow into this huge,
23 years in the trade and with the reputation
project, which began from scratch with a
staggering company,” he notes. “We just want
that we’ve garnered over that time, we’re able
unique, one-of-a-kind design. “We listened to
to sustain what we’re doing and get better at
to shop around for clients and find the right
what the client wanted,” says Jeff. “Then we
it. We’ll always focus on quality above all else.
ones for us. That’s the benefit of having a good
created a plan within their chosen budget.
Since we’re a general contractor, we work with
reputation. In the next few years, we will bolster
In this business, you must work with financial
many subcontractors to get the job done. It’s
that reputation and continue to streamline each
restrictions. Put simply, you can’t have
hard to find good, qualified trade people amid
of our processes, becoming even more efficient
everything. You must be attentive to a client’s
all the post-pandemic labor shortages. It takes
and, as a result, in a better position to tackle any
wants and wishes, but you must also guide
more management on our end to achieve the
future struggles in the industry.” F
them pragmatically. Fortunately, this specific
same level of execution that we’ve come to
client had great ideas and we were able to
be known for. We see our subcontractors as
bring them to life. There now stands a beautiful
partners; we’re on the same team, and we like
house sitting along a reservoir, boasting a
to use them on all of our contracts, improving
180-degree lake view and incredible features
their familiarity with the company and technical
like an in-ground trampoline, an entrance to a
consistency, instead of, say choosing a new
hidden music room concealed by doors made
subcontractor each time. Again, our decision
J. Hall Homes www.jhallhomes.com Services: Custom home builder
to look like a bookcase, and built-in dog crates in the mud room.” While advanced building technology, 3D modelling, and visualization software has been a recent upgrade for J. Hall Homes, one aspect of the Virginia-based custom builder’s services is nearly as old as the firm itself. Since as early as 2007, Jeff has been leading the local green building cause, opting for higher quality materials and more sophisticated construction methods that stand to benefit both the enduser and the environment in the long run. “We started green building before most builders were even aware of it,” Jeff details. “At first, you’re doing things differently. Then it becomes a habit, and then it becomes the norm. People around you start to change, and that’s how the industry adapts over time. For us, green building means how we envelope the house, insulate it, and air-seal it, as well as the type of wall sheathing and mechanical systems we use. All this is easy to incorporate, but it offers a tremendous amount of value. If a client wants solar panels, then we’ll do that; however, as standard, our houses will always be very energy efficient. We’re doing something special, but we’re doing it all the time. It’s not an optional extra. We could cut corners and make it easier for us, but we want to better the lives of our customers, and that can be achieved through strategic, energy-efficient design.” MODERNHB.COM
123
BEACHWALK HOMES
Coastal construction made contemporary As one of Connecticut’s leading premier homebuilders, BeachWalk Homes combines its uniquely modern style with quality craftsmanship and a sea view
124
MODERNHB.COM
MODERNHB.COM
125
BEACHWALK HOMES
F
ounded on decades of experience
as President and Founder, Oscar Leal, discusses:
and transparent. These factors have continued
in the construction and renovation
“Since 2012, we have been involved in over
to separate us from other contractors. As
industry, BeachWalk Homes
100 new builds and renovations across coastal
an example, our custom clients receive
(BeachWalk) is known throughout
Fairfield and Westport. In the beginning, I
detailed reports on all expenses, and
Fairfield County, Connecticut, for its masterful
was doing the design, permitting, project
budget reconciliation reports, as well as full
craftsmanship and striking aesthetics. Each
management and any other non-carpentry
transparency on our project management fees.”
BeachWalk home is a celebration of hand-
work that arose. Today, we have someone
crafted, high-quality construction, motivated
dedicated to billing, three project managers,
foundation for BeachWalk Homes, as the
by creativity and personal style.
and an office assistant. We also have robust
company was recently awarded the HOBI
processes, and a strong working culture.”
(Home Building Industry) Award for best
Established in 2012, BeachWalk Homes was
126
These values have clearly provided a solid
a venture inspired by an enduring passion
The success of BeachWalk Homes is rooted
for bespoke, handmade construction. The
in three founding principles, as Oscar affirms:
first awards run. The accreditation celebrates
company specializes in superior quality
“When BeachWalk was formed, our goal was
BeachWalk’s custom design and build work,
shingle-style homes, whilst also managing
to achieve a higher level of professionalism by
something the company specializes in. “We
large-scale renovations on existing properties,
being extremely organized, communicative,
take on a wide breadth of projects throughout
MODERNHB.COM
spec house under $1.5 million, during its very
the company, however our primary focus is
Street, a small cul-de-sac in Fairfield that is just
architecture that characterized the street, and
new construction, where we both design and
walking distance from the beach. Over the
the end product is a gorgeous, light-gray home
build the project. Some of the homes we build
course of less than two years, we had built two
with sweeping lines and distinct black windows.
and sell, others are for custom clients. These are
new custom homes on that street, as well as
Stepping inside, the home is open, modern, and
typically coastal homes in the 3000-to-5000-
one major renovation. The opportunity arose
exudes coastal vibes without any of the kitsch
square-foot range,” Oscar details.
for us to acquire a lot neighboring our recently
one might associate with a ‘beach’ home.”
completed new home. We were excited to
These projects make up only a small portion
Forward-thinking approach
continue our improvement of this quiet, well-
of BeachWalk’s extensive and impressive
The company’s award-winning home, on Millard
located street with a new home of a distinct,
portfolio. Following on from its award-
Street, CT, is emblematic of BeachWalk’s stylistic
but complementary style to those we had
winning work on Millard, the company began
flair, and high quality, as Oscar enthuses: “We
previously completed. The design was very
construction on one of its most unique and
won the HOBI Award for our work on Millard
much in-keeping with the modern, shingle-style
creatively designed projects, at 161 Pratt Street.
East Haven Builders Supply “BeachWalk Homes, LLC has had a relationship with East Haven Builders since the very inception of the business. In 2012, when BeachWalk was just an idea, our sales representative, Robert Ciccarelli believed in our mission and approach and gave us his time and energy. Since that time, BeachWalk has steadily grown, as has the relationship. East Haven has always provided extraordinarily competitive pricing and insights into the supply chain, which is more important than ever in the current environment. Our sales representative and the in-house engineer at East Haven have proven to be valuable resources, researching answers for us and helping educate our team on products, product changes, and other arenas. They look out for our best interests and treat us as a partner. This is exactly the kind of supplier and subcontractor relationship we try to build, and East Haven has made it easy to do so.” Oscar Leal BeachWalk Homes, LLC
MODERNHB.COM
127
BEACHWALK HOMES
so that allowed us to be more creative and
our mission is a continuous focus on process
unconventional with the design. We brought in
improvement. This is related to almost every
before we even broke ground, an interested
some incredibly unique lighting, used splashes
element of our operation, from how we
and creative buyer asked us to work with them
of surprising colors, and had fun with some
communicate with clients, to checklists for
to tweak it to their style. The dark gray color,
ceiling treatments. The end result reflected our
monitoring the work being done, and the
metal roof accents, and mixed siding (board
client’s design sensibility incredibly well, and we
adoption of new software. We are currently
and batten and clapboard) were the result of a
all loved it,” he elaborates.
working on a new software package that
“It was a really fun project,” states Oscar. “It had been intended as a spec home and,
close design collaboration with our client. “The interior of this home was a lot of
128
Continuously seeking to innovate, and improve its operations, BeachWalk Homes
fun for us. We were working with a specific
takes a critical and forward-thinking approach
client, who had an adventurous design spirit,
to construction. “The most important part of
MODERNHB.COM
allows our clients to view progress photos, budgets, selections, and more, via an app. “We believe it’s incredibly important to be process-focused. There are a lot of moving
parts in the building industry and you must
No, we are buying existing homes in
end of the day, these efforts are designed
have clear processes, tools, and sufficient
existing neighborhoods close to town and
to make our clients experience as smooth,
professional staff to keep everything moving
redeveloping those lots. This is definitely a
enjoyable, and cost effective as possible.”
efficiently,” Oscar affirms.
more environmentally friendly way to build,”
These values are held by BeachWalk’s entire team. Working through shared values,
Oscar highlights. As Oscar suggests, the coming months hold
As BeachWalk Homes continues to grow, and establish its presence in neighboring coastal communities, it carries with it a belief in honest
and a mutual love of the craft, has fostered a
a great deal of potential for the company: “We
craftsmanship and high-quality construction.
positive and effective company culture. “It’s
are currently wrapping up on a larger home
Oscar concludes: “We produce one of the last
important that we work as a team so that we
than we traditionally do, which was quite an
large scale, handmade products in the world. We
can motivate and manage our sub-contractors
adventure. Additionally, we are working with
love the craftsmanship, natural variability, and skill
effectively, and offer a high-quality service to
a client on a modern single-story home with
that it takes to do this. In a world where more and
our clients.
sheets of glass, hemlock siding and unique
more things are mechanized, virtual, or factory-
roof lines. These forays into different areas
made we are very proud to produce a handmade
with people who take pride in what they do,
teach us a lot, bring us new supplier contacts,
product that requires the choreography of
and get along with each other. A team like
and further hone our skills.
hundreds of skilled craftsmen.” F
“My focus has always been on working
that shines, and our clients can’t help but be
“Our goals for 2022 are to continue
impressed, particularly when you couple that
growing at a measured pace, whilst also
with our ongoing focus on communication,
refining the processes that we have been
organization, and transparency,” Oscar reveals.
instituting since the start of the pandemic. We have brought our communication,
Handmade products
budgeting, and project management to
This sense of community extends to
the next level in order to handle the rapid
BeachWalk’s suppliers and subcontractors,
changes happening in our industry. At the
BeachWalk Homes www.beachwalkhomesct.com Services: Custom-built homes and renovation
as Oscar states: “We work very hard to let our suppliers know we view them as part of our team. We bring them in on the details of how we do things, treat them with respect, and are always grateful for their keeping an eye out for our best interests. Unlike many builders, most of our supplier and sub-contractor relationships are very long standing.” As a process-focused company, BeachWalk Homes uses its operational efficiency and precision to ensure its homes are energy efficient, all the way through the construction process and beyond. “As a team we are very focused on efficiency. When it comes to the environment and being green, energy efficiency has been our biggest focus. The hydronic heating systems we use have 99 percent system efficiency, and the sealing and insulation methods we use continually show our houses are remarkably tight. “By keeping our energy usage down we are saving our clients money, improving the value of their homes, and being kind to the environment. However, there are so many ways we are trying to be good stewards of the environment. For example, we mostly do what is called ‘infill’ building. We are not buying tracts of empty land further and further out from town and developing them, which is particularly harsh from an environmental perspective. MODERNHB.COM
129
SCHMIDKE CONSTRUCTION AND CONTRACTING
The essence of
bespoke building Since the age of 18, Joshua Schmidke has always had a passion for building. With his father as his mentor, he has scaled Schmidke Construction and Contracting into one of the most revered homebuilders in Southwest Michigan
130
MODERNHB.COM
All images ©2021 Norman Sizemore
MODERNHB.COM
131
SCHMIDKE CONSTRUCTION AND CONTRACTING
A
s a custom home builder in
a truly custom home builder. We pride ourselves
that customer service is extremely important
Southwest Michigan, Schmidke
as being boutique, and we make ourselves the
to the company. “Being able to develop the
Construction and Contracting,
single point of contact for our clients throughout
relationships that we have, not only with our
LLC (SCC) has established
the project. Once we start the project we
vendors but with some of the architects and
a reputation for superior quality in new
manage every aspect, including landscaping
other partners, is what drives our reputation
residential construction and remodels along
in order to make the process as seamless as
forward, and I like to think of our employees
the Lake Michigan shoreline and affluent
possible for all our clients,” Joshua says.
and our clients as family, which contributes to
communities across the region. According to
the entire building process. It is an experience
the company, project journeys are personal
company is ‘hyper focused’ on all details of
that really helps fortify who we are, and it
and each client is treated like family.
a project. “From the minute trim pieces and
is such an honor when someone who has
Not only does SCC build homes, the
finishes, to the handrails and everything
worked with us in the past is still inviting us
business builds lifestyles, and Joshua
between, we work with the designers and
over for dinner,” expresses Joshua.
Schmidke, the company’s CEO, discusses with
architects to make sure every part and piece
us the key specialisms with which SCC has
really looks beautiful, and the project is
shares with us two notable projects recently
become associated. “Our typical clientele is of
holistically complete.”
completed. The first, featured here in photos is
distinguished taste and lifestyle, and we drive our focus towards excellence in detail, making us
132
Additionally, Joshua expresses how the
MODERNHB.COM
All of those details are SCC’s passion, and as Joshua continues to elaborate, it becomes clear
To demonstrate these qualities, Joshua
a second home retreat that is situated about ¼ mile from the beach in a quiet wooded area
... I think that is part of what we deliver - the experience and the process. It’s not just a build, and it’s not about how quickly we can complete the work. Our clients appreciate a process where they can come up and touch and feel the materials, understand their surroundings and see what their future home is going to be like when it is completed. It also helps us tune in to what their real goals are for their home nestled behind a blueberry patch in Sawyer,
“Of course, there were challenges to
partners that we still enjoy working with and
Michigan. In addition to main home, it features
getting this done; when working on the
the clients are our friends now too,” he says,
an atelier used as an office, a detached bath
lake, for example, there are State and Federal
adding that these sorts of advantages make any
house, and a teepee (think glamping). The
regulations that we need to adhere to and
challenge on a project worth it.
second, also featured here is in Stevensville,
above that, access to the property is via a
Michigan. “The home sits on top of a huge
single lane dirt road. So, we had to think about
We love to deliver
dune that overlooks Lake Michigan. It’s right
concrete trucks, all vendors, and getting
For Joshua, it is one of the most rewarding
on the edge of the bluff. It features ten-foot
them on-site safely. It made it a little bit more
facets of the job; working with a client from
ceilings and a cathedral kitchen, three level
difficult, especially in the winter time to be able
blueprint to complete construction, and
staircases that go up to this ‘nest’ that overlooks
to access without any issues, but the finished
seeing their reaction as their dream home
the lake where we built a little seating area that
product was amazing. It has beautiful natural
is brought to life. “I think that is part of what
is absolutely gorgeous.
stone, and again, we worked with some great
we deliver - the experience and the process.
MODERNHB.COM
133
SCHMIDKE CONSTRUCTION AND CONTRACTING Waverland Path project
much as it is for them, and that is what
keeping our fingers crossed that it will level
we love to deliver; that experience for
itself out soon.
our clients.”
“Above that, we are younger than some of our counterparts and I feel that that
Focus on growth
will work in our favor when it comes to
Before we discuss future plans for the
competing on projects, but I also see it as
company, Joshua shares with us the
a challenge for the industry as a whole,
impact that the pandemic has had on
because we need more contractors. Perhaps
the business, and how SCC is looking
that may mean that we need to get out
to overcome certain challenges.
there and be proactive about informing
“There is a combination of factors at
kids about options in the construction and
the moment that the pandemic has
home building industry,” he says.
pressed the fast forward button on;
It’s not just a build, and it’s not about how quickly we can complete the work. Our clients appreciate a process where they can come up and touch and feel the materials, understand their surroundings and see what their future home is going to be like when it is completed. It also helps us tune in to what their real goals are for their home. “We actually had someone on a different project on the Harbor Shores golf course who was trying to explain what they were looking for. We were helping them on the design side for the railing system, and what he and his wife had in mind was quite tricky to translate; We gave samples and drawings, had much conversation, and when we finally put it together she came out the first time after the it was installed, and got quite choked up. That is absolutely something that you can’t exchange. It’s priceless for us as
134
MODERNHB.COM
In the coming months, and following
particularly regarding the way in which
into the rest of 2022, SCC is determined to
demand is outstripping supply. There
focus on growth. To complement this vision,
is a reset going on across different
the company’s strategy is to take on bolder
industries at the moment, and we’re
investments, and more challenging projects
that push its capabilities to the limit. “I think this
the level of success it celebrates today. Not
approach also speaks to where we want to be
only does he believe that the company
five years from now. We are actually looking to
is a true reflection of the excellent team
open and expand a second office and shop
that keeps it going, but he also has every
space, so we are in contract at the moment,
confidence that each member will be the
and working through a lot of our due diligence
reason SCC remains successful for many
to complete that shortly.
years to come. F
Schmidke Construction and Contracting www.schmidkeconstruction.com Services: Custom home builders
“This new space will be located a little further south, where most of our projects are, and our teams and management will be based there. It’s really exciting and a significant advancement for us. Steady business growth encourages us to scale our operations as well,” he explains.
Exciting new adventure In addition to that, Joshua highlights a further avenue that SCC is offering their clients: Properti Home Concierge. “This provides non-rental home management with a focus on home watch and lifestyle concierge services. We do home watch visits for second home clients that are away. Our walk-through consists of a visual inspection looking for obvious issues plus robust reporting with photos to give them peace of mind. Then, when clients are planning to be here, we offer concierge services to enhance their lifestyle. For example, some folks want to have their weekly grocery shopping done for them, they will send us a list by Tuesday, and we will have their fridge stocked for them before their weekend arrival. This is an exciting new adventure and is helping us deliver an even greater custom experience,” he shares. In conclusion, Joshua shares how proud he is of those who have brought SCC to MODERNHB.COM
135
CENTERLINE DEVELOPMENT
Planning the perfect home Leading custom homebuilder, Centerline Development, designs and builds dream homes for customers all across North Carolina
136
K
nown for its acute attention to detail
in creating homes that are warm, comfortable,
and quality craftsmanship, Centerline
efficient and personalized. Its dedication to
Centerline has flourished in the North Carolina
Development (Centerline) has thrived
customer service has remained unparalleled over
construction market. The company has been
for 26 years. The company believes
the last few years, even in the face of adversity.
based there for two decades, as its President,
MODERNHB.COM
As an unlimited building licensed company,
the business from the grass roots was a very valuable lesson, as it helped me to understand the importance of all trades. Whilst in college at NC State University, I continued to work in the construction industry, by owning a pressure washing service, and from there I grew Centerline Development.”
Strong relationships Today, Centerline specializes in custom designand-build projects. “Most of our homes are built for retirement communities, and we take great pride in designing and tailoring our product to meet the requirements of an aging lifestyle. Large doorways, zero curb shower entry, wider halls, handrails, limited stairs, elevators, and wider lanes in the kitchen are all part of the design for our customers. “Most of our clients live out of town, so we have a dedicated team member to communicate with each client during the build, to make sure we are building their dream correctly. Our website has a special area for homes under construction so the clients, as well as their friends and family, can follow the progress on our website. A picture is worth a thousand words, and this is very true for new homes. Clients have reviewed the pictures on the website and made changes using them as reference, which saves us lots of time and money,” Jeff discusses. Jeff Satterwhite, details: “We have been based in
“I started working for my father, Jack
Building strong relationships with clients
our office in North Carolina since 2001, working
Satterwhite’s construction company in high
and subcontractors is one way that Centerline
mostly with custom, single family homes, and a
school. There, I had the opportunity to work
Development ensures the success of all its
few light commercial buildings.
with a whole range of subcontractors. Learning
projects, as Jeff affirms: “The relationship MODERNHB.COM
137
CENTERLINE DEVELOPMENT between our team, our subcontractors and
One project is particularly close to home for
lights in the baths. Outdoor living was also very
the client is crucial to keeping the project
Jeff, as he reveals: “One of our spotlight projects
important, so we invested in a pool area and
on schedule and budget. We normally build
is Yacht Drive, on Oak Island. This project is
outdoor kitchen with a shrimp cooker.”
custom homes, so no one has built the floor
very special to my family, as it is our personal
plan. These plans have not been streamlined
home on the island. My wife Tara and I had
care with each and every personalized home.
over time and multiple builds, so clear
wanted a home on the water for many years
Knowing just how important it is to clients,
communication and cooperation between all
but could not find the right location. Finally,
Centerline is dedicated to all-around, industry-
parties is a must for a successful outcome.
in 2017, a house became available on the
leading customer service. “Outstanding
Intercostal Waterway in the Zone X flood zone.
customer service is an absolute must in the
Working responsibly
We purchased the home, and relocated it to
custom home business.
“During the construction of a custom home,
another lot close by, to remodel and sell it.
“At Centerline, good clear communication is
“After moving the old home off the lot, we
paramount. We communicate with all parties as
the client’s customer, the client is my customer,
could now build our dream home with a water
soon as possible about positive developments,
and the subcontractors are both our customers,
view. Designing and building the home was
as well as any challenges that come up, so that
so this means every person will need to give
not without its challenges, a small footprint,
everyone has the necessary information to
and get information and services to get the
impervious coverage, permits, and storm water
make informed decisions; iPads, phones, and
house right. For example, a client needs to
issues were just a few of the hurdles that had to
facetime are all used to get the information to
select the tile from our vendor in a timely
be overcome.
the right person at the right time,” Jeff confirms.
each party is the other parties’ customer. I am
matter, so we can order it, and then the tile
138
Jeff and his team take the same level of
“The house was completed in the middle
Socially and environmentally conscious
contractor needs to send the tile requirements
of Covid-19. Even with all the supply chain
construction is equally important to Centerline.
to the supplier so it will arrive in time for
problems we finally completed our dream
The company consistently works to Energy Star
installation. Everyone is everyone’s customer, or
home after a yearlong process. Tara wanted to
recommended standards, as Jeff comments:
the system does not work effectively.”
mix old and new items in the home to make
“We have been a part of the Energy Star
Over the years, Centerline has used its
it special, so we included 100-year-old pocket
program for almost 20 years. The program
impressive network of industry specialists to
doors in the office, vintage leaded glass in the
has changed over time, making it harder to
create dozens of gorgeous custom homes.
pantry door, and some 60-year-old nautical ship
meet the new standards. It is a fine line to walk
MODERNHB.COM
between staying on budget and meeting Energy Star standards on all projects.
“We also expect growth in the custom coastal market, and increased activity in the light commercial
“With the new regulations, larger square
area for Centerline. We are also seeing lots of interest
footage incurs a large penalty, so we offset it
in our cabinet division, where we sell and install four
with spray foam, tankless hot water heaters, low
lines of cabinets for a range of customers, so it’s going
emission windows and doors, thicker walls, slab
to be exciting to see where that takes us.” F
Centerline Development www.GoCenterline.com Services: Custom homebuilder
foundations, and solar panels. We all need to do our part to reduce energy consumption, so we build homes that are less costly to maintain and condition by selecting more effective products to put in the homes.” Working responsibly also means fostering a positive and supportive working culture. Centerline achieves this through regular training, and specialist support for team members with niche interests. “Without the right people, Centerline Development does not have a business. “We want our team members to grow and learn at Centerline. Training is very important; we have sent two team members to get their commercial driver licenses, and another team member was interested in cabinet design, so we sent her to CAD training to design cabinet layouts. This business is always changing so we support continued growth through training,” enthuses Jeff. These values keep Centerline focused on high-quality construction and mutually beneficial relationships. Despite the challenges brought on by Covid-19, the company continues to prosper, and is gearing up for major growth in 2023: “We believe next year will be major for the company, because the supply chain will be better and more domestic supply is coming online. MODERNHB.COM
139
AMERICAN TIMBER WORKS
Construction that’s up to
the challenge As a turnkey contractor, American Timber Works offers expert construction services to customers that are looking for a unique custom home
140
MODERNHB.COM
Gregg Scott Raffensperger
S
triving to create an unmatched building process from concept to creation, American Timber Works (American Timber) never shies away from a challenge. The company is known for building long lasting
relationships with its clients, as it supports them through the entire design and build process. With expert knowledge in architectural planning, project management, and interior design, American Timber continues to produce striking, large-scale structures that stand the test of time. The story of American Timber works begins with its owner and founder, Gregg Scott Raffensperger. Scott established the company straight out of college, as he explains: “I started American Timber works soon after graduating. I had worked in the construction industry throughout my teens, and really enjoyed it, so when it came time to graduate I knew that was the sector I wanted to work in. “I had been working for a local contractor, and with that experience I was able to start my own company, American Timber Works. We started off doing a lot of timber framing, partnering with other, larger companies that would use us as a subcontractor.
Customer connections “Timber framing was our main service for a while, which meant I was travelling a lot. We would take barns down and move them to new locations before rebuilding them as houses. It was hard work and I wanted to do something where I could settle down in one location and start a family, so I started to grow American Timber into a local construction company. Our background in MODERNHB.COM
141
AMERICAN TIMBER WORKS timber framing has always been an important
American Timber is known for taking on
Years of experience working on bespoke
part of the way we work, it has given me an
especially challenging projects, as Scott reveals:
designs in the luxury homebuilding sector has
appetite for challenging and different projects,
“We take on a lot of complex builds that other
helped American Timber Works develop a wide
which is one of the key things we focus on for all
contractors may tend to steer clear of. For
range of capabilities. Today, the company is a
our customers.
example, we recently worked on an endless
turnkey builder, as Scott discusses: “We offer the
pool project. A lot of people wouldn’t have
entire process, start to finish. We often work with
by creating long-lasting relationships with
taken that on, because it’s so different; it’s time
customers who have just bought their own land,
satisfied customers in the construction
consuming, and it’s definitely not a cookie-
and are looking for a builder to put their dream
industry. It’s important to us that we establish
cutter project. We spent a lot of time planning
house on it. We can provide that, working with
strong connections with customers, so that
and problem solving in order to get it just right
them from the design phase all the way through
they keep coming back whenever they need
– and we seek that kind of thing out because
to completion.
construction support.”
we enjoy the challenge.”
“Our overall mission is to grow the business
“We have recently started working with our first sub division, Owl Creek Estates. We are currently in the process of launching the operation, which will focus on high end and custom home building specifically.”
Planned approach It is no secret that custom homebuilding can be stressful for customers who aren’t familiar with the construction industry. In order to give customers the confidence they need, American Timber provides them with a clear five step program. “We use our website to simplify the process and make it as accessible as possible to customers,” Scott affirms. “We make custom homes, which means that everything we produce needs to be tailored to the individual. Our five-step process is there on the company website for people to look at and gain an understanding of the entire process. We find that it offers our customers a bit more confidence going into the project. “The first step is our initial meeting. Here we communicate with the customer and get a feel for what their vision is. Then, the second step is building a relationship. We get to know the customer, and gain their trust by being straight forward and transparent. Those are things we live by every day. We then go to step three, which is working on the design and making selections. It’s a careful process, we want to take our time and make sure every decision is the right one for the customer. “Step four is the actual construction process, and step five is the most
142
MODERNHB.COM
thinly by taking on loads of other jobs. “I like to keep the company focused on three to five projects at a time, because that way I can keep a handle on quality control. This year is definitely looking good for us in that regard. We have a couple of clients who have some really unique, high-end designs in mind, so we are looking forward to working with them in a few months,” says Scott. Looking ahead, Scott speaks enthusiastically about the future of American Timber. “As far as the long-term future of the company goes, you can never be sure. I don’t have a crystal ball, but I can safely say that I think the company is in a good position right now to continue growing and being successful for some time. “I would like to grow our team a little bit over the next few years, and maybe open up a separate division for remodelling. I think separating those operations, home building and renovation, would help streamline the business important: enjoy. Obviously, there are more complex elements to it, but for the customer
loves what they do,” Scott asserts. It is clear that American Timber values
and make sure both areas get the attention they need. Other than that, we will continue to work
that should be the natural progression of a
its customers, and that is no doubt one of
with our core values, honesty and integrity, at
project, straight forward with an end product
the reasons for its enduring success. As the
the center of everything we do,” he concludes. F
that is ready to be lived in,” he elaborates.
company continues to experience high demand, Scott and his team look forward to
Honesty and integrity
a busy year. “This is going to be an exciting
These efforts are central to American Timber
year for us, as we are pretty much booked out.
Works’ core mission, as it seeks to build
We have a few houses that we are building in
sturdy, long-term relationships with all of its
the capital district that are pretty large scale,
customers. “A large percentage of our work
so we are trying not to stretch ourselves too
American Timber Works www.atwhomes.com Services: Full service construction
is with people we already know through previous jobs. A lot of it is on smaller scale projects, for example we will build a home for someone and then they will want us to come back and do a renovation or remodel. Although we are focused on large-scale construction, we feel that the remodelling side of things is just as important for building those lifelong relationships with customers. “We also remain in contact with numerous people that we did projects for years and years ago, and we consider each other friends. It’s not all about the money for us; we got into this because we enjoy it. We want to really focus on keeping every day exciting, and building a team here that really MODERNHB.COM
143
VAS CONSTRUCTION
144
MODERNHB.COM
Relationship building
A family business like none other, VAS Construction is making a name for itself among homeowners with an impeccable standard of service
MODERNHB.COM
145
VAS CONSTRUCTION
V
146
incent Sciarretta’s love-affair with
all roles that Vincent continued to enjoy even
construction began with his
as, in the early 1980s, he launched his own
today VAS Construction undertakes a variety
father, Serverino Sciarretta. Born
firm: VAS Construction.
of spec projects across its key markets of
and raised in Italy, the industrious
“I began by conducting masonry on my
With a deep roster of skilled tradesman,
Greenwich, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.
Serverino moved to the US without a dollar
own, while running projects for my father
“We buy property ourselves, build homes
in his pocket, before forging a career in the
focusing on interior office space,” Vincent
from scratch, and put them on the market,”
Stamford masonry trade. Vincent was 11
recalls, now Owner of VAS Construction.
Vincent confirms. “In terms of the service we
years old when he started visiting Serverino’s
“It was that decade that I built my very first
provide, we go above and beyond. We make
by-then large condominium projects, where
house in Stamford, working closely with
sure to hold our client’s hand – whether it’s
he swept the floors, and spoke at length
the homeowners. They loved it. Ever since,
through a plumbing supply house, lighting
with electricians, plumbers, and carpenters.
interior design has been important to VAS
showroom, or scrapyard. Even after a job’s
His induction continued in the years to
Construction. Picking out the fixtures, the tiles,
finished, we’ll always be available to them.”
come; from mixing cement to advancing to
and the trim work – we thrive in the detail,
his studies with architects and aiding into
working hand-in-hand with the client to
communication,” agrees Donny Panpada,
building and construction management –
achieve exactly what they want for their home.”
Project Manager at VAS Construction. “All of
MODERNHB.COM
“This business is built on relationships and
our clients have our cell phone numbers. Yes, we get calls late at night, or on Sunday afternoons – but as a boutique construction company, that’s what we’re about. We’ve worked with some of our clients for more than 20 years.”
Personal approach This longevity extends to the employees at VAS Construction, too. “Donny has been with me for 15 years, between this business and a former one,” Vincent reflects. “I have another employee who has been with me for 30. Even
We are only as good as our subcontractors. Unlike some other companies, we don’t change them from job to job – we use the same ones all the time. We pride ourselves on the quality of their work. A lot of our subcontractors are owneroperated, so they take pride themselves in the finished product. That’s very important for us
his brother and his son have worked for me for the last decade. We’ve made a name for
MODERNHB.COM
147
VAS CONSTRUCTION ourselves because of the respect that we have for our people.” Amid a glittering portfolio, Vincent picks out one of the company’s most cherished builds. “We bid on a lot of work, but the Tokeneke house is a special one,” he says. “Like 95 percent of our projects, this was a referral. During the permitting process, we were contacted by the husband with his wishes that we had the home completed as soon as possible, as he was given a prognosis of passing within the next five months to six years. “This was emotionally challenging for us, but we got our team together and had the project rolling almost immediately,” he recalls. “We made it a bit smaller than was originally intended, and we managed to have it built within just eight months. Sadly, about four months later, he passed away. To this day, his wife knows that if she needs anything, we’ll take care of it. It’s a relationship that truly speaks to the unique nature of our business.” Always busy, VAS Construction continues to explore exciting new projects. “Right now, Rhode Island is taking off,” Vincent reveals. “We just built a house down on the water, another in Westerly, and one that’s just starting in Watch Hill; in addition to three other projects. In Connecticut, we have approximately eightto-ten more, and we’re pricing out another half-dozen.”
Busy time Executing so many projects isn’t without its challenges. “It’s difficult to get appliances at the moment,” Vincent explains. “Jobs that are only supposed to be four months long are taking double that time because of a lack of supply. You really have to plan ahead. When you’re pricing a job out, that means explaining to the client that things aren’t going to come in the time frame you want. We do our best to schedule as accurately as we can.” In doing so, the company is bolstered by a reliable set of partners and suppliers. “We are only as good as our subcontractors,” Vincent reminds us. “Unlike some other companies, we don’t change them from job to job – we use the same ones all the time. We pride ourselves on the quality of their work. A lot of our subcontractors are owner-operated, so they take pride themselves in the finished
148
MODERNHB.COM
product. That’s very important for us. When I walk onto a job, whether it’s a spec home, a customer’s home, or a bathroom renovation, it’s got to be right. If not, we’ll rip it out and start again.” Despite the difficulty, business is booming for VAS construction, with the industry staging a strong post–Covid-19 recovery. “During the pandemic, we knew it was either going to be a disaster, in which we didn’t have any work, or it was going to be chaos,” Donny admits. “As it turns out, it’s probably the busiest we have ever been. If you drive around where we are in Lower Fairfield County, there’s building going on in every street. Is that set to change now that interest rates are rising? I don’t know, but it doesn’t seem to be stopping. By confining
to earn that trust with a client, they don’t want
everyone into their homes, the pandemic
to switch to anyone else.” With the support of
has made people want to redo their kitchen,
Donny Panapada, Denise Sciarretta, Melanie
or even tackle something in the back yard.
Sarantos and the rest of his team, Vinnie plans
Supply chain issues aside, that’s been good
to continue to move forward in his business
for us.”
demonstrating just that. F
VAS Construction www.vasconstruction.com Services: Boutique construction
Loyal customers As the company looks towards the long term, the plan is to keep driving forward. “It’s the only thing we can do,” Vincent argues. “I’m not sure when my retirement day is coming, but until then my plan is to keep working every day. The construction industry is just going up and up, and we’ve established ourselves as one of the most recognized names in Fairfield County, and in the surrounding areas of Connecticut. Ask any realtor or supplier in this area, or even just speak to homeowners, they’ll know the VAS Construction name and the quality in what we do.” When asked about the possibility of extending the business beyond its current areas of operation, Vincent emphasizes the importance of consolidating where business is already strong, capitalizing on the strength of VAS Construction’s impressive reputation. “If a client needs us to go elsewhere, we’re more than willing to do so,” he points out. “During my career, we’ve had clients in Darien who have moved out to Chicago, and requested our services for their new home. So, we set up shop in Chicago, and we renovated their house. Likewise, we’ve travelled to Maryland, and we’ve conducted work in both Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Once you take the time MODERNHB.COM
149
ATLANTA FLOORING DESIGN CENTERS INC
Built to be
better
With expertise for finely crafted flooring, and a heart for contemporary creativity, Atlanta Flooring Design Centers Inc is one of the best names in the industry
150
MODERNHB.COM
MODERNHB.COM
151
ATLANTA FLOORING DESIGN CENTERS INC
F
rom dark and rich colors, to rugged
foot humble beginnings in downtown Duluth,
we added various builder selection centers
and versatile tactile, Atlanta Flooring
Georgia, over the next few years, locations
in order to better serve our customers,”
Design Centers Inc (Atlanta Flooring) is
grew, as did the number of employees.
begins Company Founder and President,
a leading commercial and residential
The business also began expanding into
Donny. “Atlanta Flooring expanded across the
flooring contractor in the Southeast. As
commercial and single-family home sales.
Carolinas, Alabama, and most recently Florida,
today’s floor covering market becomes
In 1997, Frank Winter partnered with
with additional retail locations in Chattanooga,
more competitive than ever, customers are
Donny Phillips. Frank, who now serves as
developing even higher expectations, and
the company’s Vice-President, brought a
Atlanta Flooring is determined to provide even
wealth of technical and operational ideas
Professional services
greater accurate, on-time service. Its reputation
that allowed the company to move forward
Now, the company has established itself a
with the most prominent national and regional
beyond the Gwinnett County market. In 2007,
reputation for reliability and exquisite taste.
builders helps it serve much of Georgia, North
the company now known as Atlanta Flooring
“Our professional installers are available
Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Tennessee,
Design Centers moved into its new corporate
seven days a week to complete the job
Florida, and surrounding states.
location in Suwanee, Georgia. Over the next
correctly and on time. For projects that
Established by Donny Phillips in 1985 as
152
Tennessee and Buford, Georgia.”
several years, the space grew to include more
require special scheduling, we will work with
Atlanta Carpet, the business was built on
retail showroom space, builder facilities and
you or your company to accommodate your
service and relationships. From its 1000-square-
an office warehouse complex. “Additionally,
project needs. With daily deliveries from our
MODERNHB.COM
suppliers, we have the capability to ensure
includes our relationships with suppliers, by
needs and budgets. Our staff of onsite quality
that your material is ordered and installed
operating on mutual respect, we are able to
management professionals assure that projects
efficiently,” he shares.
evaluate product and work to assure the right
go smoothly and problems are reported on
application for the products is followed. Also,
the front end to avoid delays and report any
on top of all the flooring trends, which allows
working with suppliers, we can better navigate
concerns quickly,” he highlights.
the business to offer whatever fits the clients’
through some of the uncertainties and
needs, while being driven by long-standing
challenges of the supply chains in today’s times.
The company’s sales and design staff stay
moral values. These include listening to its
“Our retail, custom builder, and commercial
Donny then goes on to discuss a few of the business’s specialisms. “At the moment, there is a return to favour laminates, which is a
customers’ needs, then professionally providing
sales and design teams work with retail
fascinating product development. The cycle of
service and material at a great value. “Honoring
customers, facilities management, assisted
the flooring business to ‘race to the bottom’ has
God and always treating others as we wish
living facilities, end users and architects
in many cases hurt categories that if a product
to be treated, is our mission statement. That
to find products to meet their respective
has the right construction, it will perform
Cosmo Cabinets Cosmo Cabinets is a client-focused manufacturer, providing high quality products with maximum value. Its guiding principles are teamwork, collaboration and respect. These values apply to customer partnerships as well. Partners are valued and are an integral part of the product development process. As a growing company, Cosmo is agile and able to adapt to changes in the marketplace, respond to customer requests, and make innovations with end users in mind. Cosmo Cabinets is a proud partner of Atlanta Flooring Design Center. Together, the companies have been able to execute on the strategic sourcing vision of the talented and accomplished Atlanta Flooring leadership team. Atlanta Flooring’s kitchen and bath program provides high value to the marketplace and demonstrates their commitment to providing customers with greater accurate, on-time service.
MODERNHB.COM
153
ATLANTA FLOORING DESIGN CENTERS INC
well,” he says. According to Donny, the new
well as inventory management and sales
helpful in trying to identify voids in product
generation of RevWood type products are the
processes at its outlet. “We are also updating
offerings. Where we see an opportunity,
height of today’s trends and offer great value.
our online presence and working for greater
we reach out to suppliers for ideas and
exposure of stocking products for online
opportunities.”
Keeping in tune with the topic of variety, Atlanta Flooring is also well-versed in the ways in
sales. Multiple locations allow inventory and
which a home’s value can be improved through
selections to be available to our national
People-centric culture
flooring renovations, with hardwood being one
partners. Our footprint also opens up
A further example of how Atlanta Flooring
of the top contenders. While not every room
opportunities with its suppliers when they
helps its customers is through a cabinet
in your home needs hardwood flooring to
need a partner who can service national
program that it has introduced with Cosmo
improve in value, it does need to be consistent,
accounts in multiple areas,” Donny explains.
Cabinets. The business recently expanded its
The company’s relationship with suppliers
cabinet inventory to better supply customers
as prospective homebuyers will walk away from houses with a clutter of different flooring styles,
gives it opportunities to partner in the
who had been struggling with supply issues
especially if they’re all visible in the main areas,
development, testing and purchasing of
and lack of availability. The commitment to
like the living room and halls.
product. “The ability to be involved in the
inventory should pay huge dividends in this
color and construction process early on
new opportunity.
On the technology front, Atlanta Flooring
154
is working on projects to standardize its
allows us the first look at the product. The
showroom pricing based on bar coding as
interaction with our customers is also very
MODERNHB.COM
On the people side, Donny shares that the business’s success rests 100 percent on its
people. “If our culture does not promote a
relationships. Together with its employees,
strong desire to serve our customers, suppliers
customers and suppliers, Donny is adamant
and each other, we cannot be successful.
that the company will make fantastic growth
Understanding the many outstanding traits
happen, and we look forward to catching up
that make up the company, we work to
with the business in a few years’ time to see
recognize the effort they invest into their
how this time enabled Atlanta Flooring to
work and try to be sure that each person is
grow from strength-to-strength. F
Atlanta Flooring Design Centers Inc www.atlantaflooringdesign.com Services: Flooring design and installation
placed in a position to maximize their talents. A hire for one position may find opportunity in a different area and recognizing that is a challenge, but also an opportunity for growth,” he shares. During the pandemic, this attitude towards a people-centric culture proved vital to ensure the longevity of the business. “We offered opportunities for at-home working and found some of the departments were able to thrive in this. Now, as we return to a new normal, some positions will have more flexibility moving forward, and, added to that, we found that the cash-and-carry business is an area we see strong growth in as customers have been spending more time at home.” Now, looking towards the future, Donny is excited for what lies in store for 2022. “The economy is experiencing some changes that, in the long run, could have a negative impact on certain parts of the business, which is why, overall, we are looking at business areas, such as multi-family where we have not been actively involved, as well as looking at locations that make sense to explore so we can manage our growth in a reasonable way.” Atlanta Flooring is in a solid position to move forward with promise and great potential. Despite the impressive 37 years behind it, the opportunity for another 37year run lies in smart growth and excellent MODERNHB.COM
155
BALD HEAD ISLAND BUILDING GROUP
Outlasting the storm
Specializing in new home construction and custom builds, Bald Head Island Building Group is passionate about both the island in which it resides, and the homes that occupy it as it strives to deliver the best service for its clients
156
T
he only way to get to Bald Head
President of Bald Head Island Building Group,
colours paints the village. “It’s a place where you
Island, which can be found off the
the beautiful, pristine island is a place where no
make friends; it’s friendly and you don’t have
coast of North Carolina, is by boat.
tree over six inches can be cut down, no two
to get caught up in the crazy world of egos.
According to Rod Hyson Senior, the
houses are the same, and a vibrant palette of
Everyone gets along really well here,” he says.
MODERNHB.COM
our business opportunities enticed us to become a developer in Brunswick County, which, at that time, was one of the fastest growing counties in the US. There was a lot of new construction taking place as people were moving to the area from the north, so we joined in and started building condominiums and private residences,” he says.
Helping to rebuild Over the years, Bald Head Island Building Group became a major property management company, providing up to 55 homes for vacationers, as well as specializing in repair and maintenance on the island. Then, sadly, along came Hurricane Florence, which dealt 36 inches of rain, and gale force winds for seven days, inundating the island with major damage. “At that point, there were only 950 homes on the island, and at least 250 became uninhabitable. We took care of the homes we managed, and then national companies came in after the disaster and began tearing houses apart, stripping them down to the studs,” shares Rod. “There weren’t a sufficient number of home remodelers or builders on Bald Head, and owing to the fact that our homes were severely damaged - as were many of the properties - we decided to re-enter the construction business in a big way, which led “Over the next couple of years, we decided to
us to form Bald Head Island Building Group as
owner, and as time went by, the business
The residential builder began as a property
jump into the building phase with a partner.
a general contractor. During that period, we
dipped its toes into real estate, entering 1998
From 2000, we built 17 homes. Initially they
rebuilt about 15 homes, and began creating
as an independent management company.
were of steel frame construction, and then
individual residences for owners on Bald Head.” MODERNHB.COM
157
BALD HEAD ISLAND BUILDING GROUP Rod is incredibly proud of the homes that have been erected and restored under his company’s name. He mentions one home in particular that is blessed with breath-taking views of the island’s marshlands, as well as the ocean. “As a matter of fact, we are nearing the point of placing the sheeting on the roof. It will be one of our signature builds, as we are utilizing highly state-ofthe-art building materials. The home is a two-bysix exterior stud construction, with a metal roof, and foamed insulation throughout, which adds a lot of durability and strength to the structure, and, on top of that, it is located about an eighth of a mile from the ocean,” he says. Rod adds that the business has to ensure its houses are as sturdy as possible to stand in the face of storms that frequently hit the island. “It will be a great home; almost 3000-squarefeet, with decks throughout the exterior. We will also be building a crofter, which serves as a standalone part of the home, with a master suite in it, and where golf carts can be housed underneath,” Rod describes.
Employees first In order to bring together the success of projects like this one, Rod, with the help of his son Rodjr his business partner, have recruited a strong team of folks that share the same philosophy as the father-and-son duo. “We believe that if we take care of people, they will take care of us, and I feel that this is how our business has continued to succeed. We try to have fun, and we also try to make money, but most importantly we want to satisfy our clients. So as long as everyone is happy and doing what they love, then that’s what really counts. From my time working with this business, I can see that our operation has truly impacted Bald Head, and honestly, the time when that has been so evident has been during the pandemic. “You have to remember that the only means of transportation to get here is by ferry, and during a time where traveling was prohibited, we became an incredibly isolated community. On top of that, there was social distancing and all the supply chain issues we faced; it dramatically increased our cost. For example, what normally takes a half-an-hour boat ride to get to Bald Head, very quickly became two hours. So, we emphasized to our employees that we would pay them when they got to the ferry, not when they landed on the island. It slowed things down a little bit, but we managed to get through it, and fortunately, we didn’t lose any of our people, and that is all
158
MODERNHB.COM
owed to the fantastic culture that we try to create here,” Rod informs us. In the best interest of his crew, Rod encourages anyone who shows signs or symptoms that they don’t feel well, to feel secure and comfortable enough to go home and look after themselves. This, he says, has been a true testament to the company’s culture in which the business puts its employees first, no matter what. For the remainder of the year and beyond, Rod is looking to ensure that his company maintains an ethic of excellent communication with its clients in order to overcome any logistical issues that it faces to bring a project together. “When we began building homes with our partners in 2006, one of our concepts was to create a seamless process, especially since most of our clients are not residents on the island. So, we have to rely on the internet, and be able to communicate efficiently. Our goal now is to refine those capabilities and help folks pick out their lot, work closely with the architect, and, overall, meet their objectives as the home buyer. “Many of them rent out their homes, so having a company that can advise them on what makes their home attractive to renters is what will continue to keep us going. Ultimately, we want to minimize the need for them to be on-site so that when they do join us, we can spend that time working through the final details of the home, so that the job gets done a lot quicker,” he emphasizes. For Bald Head Island Building Group, its clients are friends. As Rod reflects on the possibilities of his company’s future, he wants to ensure that his friends receive the best experience in making their dream homes a reality. He concludes our conversation by noting how proud he is of the work his son and the business’ team have put into securing the success of being one of Bald Head’s favorite residential builders. “We’re going to continue to serve the property management and home building sector, and remain a premier builder that offers state-of-the-art services to deliver a quality product,” he concludes. F
Bald Head Island Building Group www.baldheadislandrentals.com/ bald-head-island-building-group Services: Residential builder
MODERNHB.COM
159
CRAVATH HOMES, LLC
Solutions,
not problems
Since 2004, Cravath Homes LLC has been imprinting itself upon the landscape of Minnesota with its custom homes, superior craftmanship, and immaculate attention to detail
160
A
large part of my job is problem
(Cravath). “We figure out what’s going on, we
solving, and that’s what we do on
find solutions to problems, and we always
it captures the positive, can-do attitude that
a daily basis,” begins Jon Cravath,
make sure things work out – regardless of
has come to define Cravath, a custom home
President at Cravath Homes, LLC
what’s happening in the global economy.”
builder operating out of Rochester, Minnesota.
MODERNHB.COM
That’s a good place to start with our interview;
From custom houses to multifamily townhomes,
As a result, the company has continued to
Cravath has garnered a strong reputation for
grow since its inception in 2004, when it was
under the name Cravath since the early 2000s;
As Jon explains: “We’ve been in business
delivering high quality finishing, good value
established off the back of another successful
however, before that I led another building
for money, and outstanding customer service.
residential building business.
business, which I sold to the family of a partner MODERNHB.COM
161
CRAVATH HOMES, LLC
so I could start my own company. We’ve
boldly returned to the market with its vast
moving in. Therefore, we had no problems
built in excess of 300 homes, all focusing on
Montgomery Meadows project. “We entered
getting people interested in our homes there.”
semi-custom, mostly mid-range houses in the
the pandemic in a strong position, but since
$300,000-to-$600,000 price range. Of course, in
our two partners have young children, it made
bespoke, energy-efficient homes, Cravath
the last couple of years, prices have gone up by
sense that we pulled back. We didn’t do any
has managed to set itself apart from the
approximately 50 percent, but that gives you
big projects for about two years; however, last
competition. For Jon, this boils down to
an idea of the homes Cravath is building.
summer we had an exciting opportunity with
those involved in Cravath’s projects and the
Montgomery Meadows, a mammoth 46-lot
level of attention to detail they bring to the
homes; but, following the 2008 financial crash,
subdivision with a further 55 acres available for
table. “Our people are everything,” he says.
we pivoted and focused more on remodeling
future development. There’s certainly potential
“Between myself and my two partners, we
as there was much less demand for new
for expansion. We began constructing the first
can do just about anything in terms of home
housing,” he adds. “We also catered for people
villa-style homes just under a year ago, and
building. But we also have an incredible
with accessibility issues, remodeling homes for
they’ve since sold. Now, we’re in the process of
team of subcontractors, many of whom have
aging-in-place situations and individuals who
building three more.
worked with us for well over a decade. In
“Initially, we started constructing single family
had sustained injuries in accidents. Following
fact, our subcontractors are so good that it’s
the crash in 2008, things started picking up
Rochester, and times are somewhat uncertain
simply a facet of the business we don’t need
again, and we began working on several
due to the economy,” explains Jon. “Though
to worry about. They know what we want; we
townhouse subdivisions. That building model
there will likely be a correction to the market,
know what they want; and although they’re
has continued to serve us well.”
we’ll anticipate it and use that as fuel to
not direct employees, they’re part of this
continue building excellent homes. Another
well-oiled team that we’ve managed to put
Attention to detail
example of a project we’ve been involved with
together.
Just before Covid-19 abruptly hit and
is our takeover of an existing development. As
discernibly changed the landscape of the
a casualty of the financial crash in 2008, only
through word of mouth,” explains Jon. “We
building industry, Cravath finished a landmark
22 of the planned 66 homes were actually
don’t really advertise. We just deliver a good
subdivision project. However, the company
completed. We happened to come across the
product with quality service before, during, and
scaled back its operations during the
project and bought up all the remaining lots in
after completion. That also means we’ve been
lockdown period to better assess the state of
2013. The development is on a good, desirable
contacted numerous times by the same clients
the industry going forward.
side of town; the location is experiencing a lot
to conduct repeat work. Part of the reason
of growth, with more restaurants and shops
why we’ve been asked to do that is because
That brings us to last summer, when Cravath
162
“The demand is falling off a little bit in
By working with customers to create
MODERNHB.COM
“The majority of our work is garnered
our partner team and subcontractors have an
throughout the entire build; we understand
Flexible approach
immaculate attention to detail. Trim work and
people’s thoughts will change, and to prevent
That’s not to say everything has gone smoothly.
mill work, the way cabinets are treated, and how
any unforeseen costs, we always ensure proper
As Jon tells us, global supply chain issues have
the tiles are laid – all of this and more receives
communication is made with the homeowners.
almost doubled lead times. “It takes us about
unrivalled care and consideration.
That’s a big thing in building, to have a good
six months to acquire windows,” he reveals.
reputation with no financial surprises. Indeed,
“They’re vital in a cold climate! To put that in
believe the quality and the custom design
“When people view our homes, they can’t
any time that you hear about builders having
context, we started building some villas last
process we offer,” he continues. “We’re not the
issues, it typically comes down to two things:
summer, but only received windows for them
type of builder to provide three floorplans and
lack of communication and poor financial
earlier this year. We put up plastic instead and
say: ‘This is what you get.’ We’re extremely flexible
control of the project.
continued to build inside, which was a hassle
MODERNHB.COM
163
CRAVATH HOMES, LLC correction in the market. Hopefully it won’t be worse than that. However, I think Rochester will be just fine; the economy is strong thanks to the Mayo Clinic and technology companies like IBM. If things slow down, then we’ll focus on remodeling, as we did back in 2008. If a construction project comes up, then we’ll focus on new builds. “The bottom line is that we’re flexible – and that’s essential in business today,” he concludes. “You must roll with the punches. We’re about solutions, not problems. We’ve built over 300 houses now, so it’s safe to say we’ve been doing this a while. Throughout the years you learn a lot, you begin to anticipate what’s coming, and you find ways to overcome obstacles.” F to deal with but ultimately necessary to adapt
back slightly to survey and analyze the
to these supply chain issues. There’s a process
landscape of the building industry, better
you go through when you’re building: you do
preparing the company for a prosperous
things in order. Now, we’re having to adjust
future. “We’re going to have to see how it all
and do things differently, but everything
plays out over the next couple of months,”
works out in the end.”
admits Jon. “We just need to be a bit more
As it did in 2008, Cravath is now stepping
164
MODERNHB.COM
cautious, especially since we’re due a slight
Cravath Homes, LLC www.cravathhomes.com Services: Home builder
Generation 7000 With More Innovation Than Ever Before Miele’s new Generation 7000 appliances feature refined design and pioneering technology. These intuitive appliances integrate purposeful innovation for a completely new kitchen experience. Miele. Immer Besser. | Discover more at mieleusa.com
MODERN
HOME BUILDERS
Increase your visibility with a Bespoke Exclusive Feature Prepared by our in-house writing & design teams, the Exclusive Feature will appear in the digital and printed version of the magazine.
Further value can be added through the creation of printed, hard-copy brochures, a digital flip book (provided as a link for you to share) PLUS the Exclusive Feature as both High and Low resolution PDF files and an e-blast to the magazine’s digital subscriber database. Your Exclusive Feature will be automatically included on the magazine’s website, with the option of a top of the screen leader board ad for your company that links directly back to your own site, guiding the readership to your company information.
Let’s build something great together
You can also create your own ‘As Featured In’ link on your website that connects directly to the story, making it easier for you to share the article online, and reach customers across the globe via online search and advertising opportunities. Bespoke article written for you – PLUS options for online advertising, printed brochures, digital flip book, high/low resolution PDF, and e-blasts to approx. 69,000 digital subscribers. For more information please contact Alasdair Gamble at: agamble@schofieldpublishing.com or call +1 312 625 8723 / +44 (0)1603 274144