Modern Home Builders Issue 117 May 2022 by Finelight Media Group

MODERN

HOME BUILDERS

Issue 117 www.modernhb.com

BEST PRACTICE FOR INDUSTRY LEADERS

Streets ahead

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

Affordable homes The cost of housing is increasing and change is needed to help lowand moderate-income families afford their own home

Parking Automated parking can positively impact urban communities by increasing driver safety and reducing emissions from vehicles

EDITOR’S LETTER Chairman - Andrew Schofield Group COO - Joe Woolsgrove Editor - Libbie Hammond Assistant Editor - Will Daynes Staff Writers - Daniel Baksi, Alex Caesari, Danielle Champ, Jessica Olley Managing Art Editor - Fleur Daniels Art Editor - David Howard Advertising Designer - Paul Gillings Sales Director - Alasdair Gamble Business Development Director - Philip Monument Head of Global Media Programs Mark Cawston - mcawston@schofieldpublishing.com Research Managers - Michelle Fontaine, Natalie Griffiths, Jo-Ann Jeffery, Ben Richell, Basil Sharpe Editorial Researchers Adam Blanch, 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, Alex Hartley, Michelle Hernandez, Reid Lingle, Sam Surrell, Gregory Waller Florida General Manager - Ryan Finn

Hello and welcome to the May edition of Modern Home Builders. I have to admit I have not given much thought to the issues that arise with parking when creating new communities in urban environments. I think this made Drew Johnson’s feature on page 10 even more interesting, as it brings something quite mundane into the spotlight and combines it with state-of-the-art technology to create something that not only sounds space-age, but also is safer and greener than other options. I love being shown a new approach that I’d not considered before – and also the fact that the US contains an estimated two billion parking spaces is pretty impressive! I also was pleased to highlight another successful project that uses Kebony – MHB has focused on the material before and the final results are always stunning. Take a look at page 6.

Boston General Manager - Joy Francesconi Custom Media Sales - Dan Bess Digital Sales - Mike Psimis Subscriptions - i.kidd@schofieldpublishing.com Administration - Rory Gallacher, Ibby Mundhir

Libbie Hammond EDITOR

lhammond@finelight-media.com libbie@schofieldpublishing.com

ON THE COVER This issue’s cover story highlights the

HOME BUILDERS

BEST PRACTICE FOR INDUSTRY LEADERS

activities of Jurek Builders. Approaching

Cringleford Business Centre, 10 Intwood Road,

its 50th anniversary, this high-end home

Cringleford, Norwich, NR4 6AU, U.K.

builder has evolved from a literal mom and

T: (312) 854-0123 T: +44 (0)1603 274130

Issue 117 www.modernhb.com

MODERN

pop business into a construction company working with elite athletes on multimillion pound projects. However high its

Finelight Media LLC 2240 West Woolbright Road, Suite 402

aspirations, the business will never stray from

Boynton Beach, FL 33426

its dedication to both family and quality. To

T: (561) 778-2396

hear more from Henry Jurek III, VP Sales and

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

Streets ahead 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

Operations at the company, turn to page 18. Affordable homes The cost of housing is increasing and change is needed to help lowand moderate-income families afford their own home

Parking Automated parking can positively impact urban communities by increasing driver safety and reducing emissions from vehicles

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.

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INSIDE THIS 6

ISSUE FEATURES

4 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

6 CASE STUDY

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

10 PARKING Automated parking systems can contribute to

the health, safety and wellness of city residents, and deserve consideration when planning new projects

14 CELEBRITY HOMES From a private hunting compound to an LA mansion, May’s celeb homes show the spectrum of what multi-million dollar budgets can buy

SCHMIDKE CONSTRUCTION AND CONTRACTING

NEWS 12 UPDATES News and information from the construction and home building industry

VAS CONSTRUCTION 2

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COVER STORY

JUREK BUILDERS

CENTERLINE DEVELOPMENT

AMERICAN TIMBER WORKS

ATLANTA FLOORING DESIGN CENTERS INC

BALD HEAD ISLAND BUILDING GROUP MODERNHB.COM

The need for

change

Jerry Konter discusses why housing affordability remains a major challenge

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

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

Renovation by the lake

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

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

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

Parking

made safe Drew Johnson explains the value of automated parking systems and how they positively impact urban communities

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–

reduces the time spent in parking garages

parking spaces, demonstrating a worrying

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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

Developer recognition

One to watch

Toll Brothers Apartment Living®, the

CBH Homes, Idaho’s largest and voted 2022 Best Home Builder by Idaho Business Review, is

rental division of Toll Brothers, Inc.,

celebrating 30 years of building homes in Idaho in one of the hottest markets in the nation.

the nation’s leading builder of luxury

“Watching this community grow for the past 30 years is a dream. I’ve loved every minute of it. The

homes, has been named one of the

technology, culture, and businesses that are now here, it’s awe-inspiring. There is no better place to

largest multifamily developers in

be,” said Corey Barton, President/Owner of CBH Homes.

the US by the National Multifamily

Boise was named 4th in Promising Housing Markets for Homebuyers by Daily Magazine and it’s no

Housing Council’s (NMHC) 2022

mystery that the Boise housing market is booming. The area has seen three national homebuilders

NMHC 50, the annual ranking of the

join in the past year and this local Idaho builder, after 30 years, is still dominating.

nation’s largest apartment owners,

CBH Homes is staying more competitive than ever before and bringing cutting edge technology to

managers, developers, builders, and

the industry. From home buying tools such as being able to tour a home without an agent with Tour

syndicators. Toll Brothers Apartment

Now to buying a home online with the click of a button, CBH is on the forefront in the homebuilding

Living is now ranked as the 11th

industry working

largest multifamily developer in the

to provide

US with 3,621 units started during

homeownership on

the year of 2021.

every level.

Said Charles Elliott, President of

“This is a new era of

Toll Brothers Apartment Living:

CBH. We’re bringing

“This ranking underscores the

not only homes to

extraordinary results of our national

Idaho, but rentals,

growth strategy, helping us to attract

commercial spaces

and retain the very best from the

and more,” said

multifamily industry throughout

Corey. “These are

many of the key markets in which

places meant for

we are expanding.”

families to grow, work, and play.”

New community for Texas LGI Homes, Inc. has revealed that Terrata Homes has opened a new

Acquisitions run

community in the Dallas-Fort Worth,

The Bascom Group, LLC (Bascom) has continued its acquisition run in Texas acquiring a 150-unit

Texas market - Van Buren Estates. Van

apartment community in Houston, marking its fourth Houston acquisition in nearly 12 months.

Buren Estates offers homebuyers an

Windwater at Windmill Lakes is a 150-unit community, built in 1999 and located in the southeast

array of new construction homes

Houston submarket. The acquisition marks Bascom’s 39th multifamily property closed in Texas.

with spacious layouts and innovative

floorplans with original

acre homesites.

construction features ideal for

Ranging in size from 3,042 square

upgrades. The existing amenity

feet to just over 4,000 square feet,

space offers sufficient opportunities

homebuyers will appreciate the

for enhancement to better serve

bright, open spaces, added flex

the needs of existing and future

rooms, oversized garage, chef-ready

residents. With 100 percent of the

kitchen and large, covered patio

units in original condition, this

with a built-in outdoor kitchen.

acquisition presents an attractive

Fully equipped with a multitude of

opportunity to physically reposition

luxury upgrades, all included at no

the asset.

additional cost, the homes feature

The apartment community is very well maintained, offering functional, spacious interior

interior finishes, all situated on one-

Jason Hanna, Senior Vice President

quartz countertops, white cabinetry

of Operations, commented: “We are excited to acquire a property that offers characteristics, like large

with crown molding, wood floors and

floorplans and ample community space, that are desired by today’s renters. We can elevate the interior

professional front yard landscaping.

design to match current modern standards and offer a boutique rental product for the submarket.”

MODERNHB.COM

INDUSTRY NEWS

Every home secure

Online community

SimpliSafe®, creator of award winning

Constellation HomeBuilder

home security solutions, has raised in

Systems, North America’s largest

excess of $200 million of incremental

provider of homebuilding software

funding to support growth, while also

solutions and services, is excited to

refinancing its existing facilities. This

announce the launch its own online

funding was provided by the affiliates

community, CAMPUS. Intended to

of Capital One, N.A., HPS Investment

be an online gathering place for

Partners, Owl Rock [a division of Blue

homebuilders, it will allow industry

Owl] and Eastern Bank. With this round

professionals to connect and

of fundraising, SimpliSafe will continue to invest in the advanced technology and professional

communicate about any relevant

monitoring capabilities that can improve the safety and security of its customers.

topic from business to construction.

In the 15 years since its founding, SimpliSafe has expanded its competencies, products and

CAMPUS has been designed

services and now protects more than four million people. It has grown its subscriber base to

to be completely customer-

more than 1.5 million and expects that figure to confidently exceed two million over the next

centric, encouraging open,

three years. This news follows recent innovations to the company’s product suite, including the

honest communication that

launch of a Wireless Outdoor Camera and the creation of an owned-and-operated professional

builds relationships between

monitoring center in Richmond, VA.

homebuilders themselves, and

“SimpliSafe’s growth trajectory has been nothing short of impressive,” said Christian Cerda,

with the Constellation team.

Chief Executive Officer at SimpliSafe. “We transformed the home security industry and continue

Constellation sees it as an ideal

to penetrate the market. In order to continue delivering on our founding mission to make

opportunity to get to know and

every home secure, we must stay focused on delivering exceptional value to our customers. I’m

service its customers in a more

confident we will continue to find success in this next chapter, while staying true to the award-

communal way.

winning legacy we’ve established. I’m thankful to our financial partners for recognizing the enormous potential and opportunity in SimpliSafe’s future.”

Through CAMPUS, Constellation customers can gain answers to their most pressing building questions, share ideas, resources, and opinions

Services launch

on industry trends and products. It won’t replace normal means of

Homeowners of America (HOA), a property and casualty insurance provider and subsidiary of Porch

support; but will work in tandem

Group, Inc. (Porch) has announced the launch of services in Wyoming and Nebraska. This marks the

to increase the amount of support

Company’s fourth and fifth extension of services this year as part of its nationwide expansion plan.

and value customers gain from

Previous 2022 launches include Missouri, New Mexico, and Montana.

Constellation’s customer service.

As a leading vertical software company reinventing the home services and insurance industries,

“Constellation’s team is proud of

Porch is committed to advancing the national scale of HOA’s insurance products. Since Porch’s

this project and what it will provide

acquisition of HOA in 2021, its operations have expanded into 11 additional states, bringing HOA’s

for our customers,” said Dale Oviatt,

cumulative state total to 17.

Constellation HomeBuilder Systems’

“The introduction of Wyoming and Nebraska to HOA’s services reinforces our commitment to

Director of Customer Success.

the active, sustainable scaling of

Chris Graham, Constellation

homeowners insurance products

HomeBuilder Systems’ President

across the US,” said Matt Ehrlichman,

added: “We look forward to seeing

Porch Founder, Chairman, and CEO.

the open communication between

“We look forward to continuing these

users on CAMPUS and helping new

efforts to provide next-level service

relationships grow, that otherwise

to HOA agents and customers across

wouldn’t happen. Recognizing

the country. As we continue to scale,

collaboration is a greatly

our objective remains steadfast: to

overlooked aspect of successful

provide quality service as partners of

companies, we look forward to

the home throughout every stage of

CAMPUS becoming exactly what

the homeownership lifecycle.”

our clients need and want.”

MODERNHB.COM

Photo credit: California-Nevada Outdoor Properties

Glamor and comfort May’s celebrity homes demonstrate the spectrum of property transactions among the rich and famous this month – baseball maestro Buster Posey is selling his hunting compound, and British boyband royalty Robbie Williams has purchased an LA mansion

uster Posey was one of Major League

California hunting compound for $3.9 million.

room. Other structures on the ranch include

Baseball’s all-time greatest catchers.

Playing for the same team over the years

a caretaker’s house and a large two-story red

Having spent his entire career with

gave Buster the chance to frequently enjoy

barn that not only houses equipment but

the same team, Posey retired in 2021

the hunting property, located about 150 miles

also serves as an entertainment center with

at just age 35 and is moving back to his native

from the Giants’ home ballpark. Filled with

guest quarters. It houses a game room, five

state, Georgia, to be closer to family. After

wildlife, the ranch is flush with dove, quail,

additional bedrooms, mudroom, storage, a full

recently selling the family home in East Bay for

turkey, bass, catfish and blacktail bucks, easily

bath and a fireplace.

$9.28 million, Buster has now listed his Northern

making it a hunter’s/fisherman’s paradise. With

Ward of California-Nevada Outdoor Properties,

and a lake, each hunting or

Vacaville, California.

fishing expedition can be left

Source: www.theagencyre.com

fallow while other sections are being hunted. Built in 2008, the

MODERNHB.COM

Listing agents are Charlie Engs and John

large acreage, two creeks

Holmby Hills for Williams’ family

3,340-square-foot main lodge

After splitting from the popular British boy

is constructed of white cedar

band, Take That, Robbie Williams has become

with five bedrooms, two of

one of the all-time, best-selling British singer-

which are master suites plus

songwriters, selling over 75 million records

a bunk room for spill-over

worldwide. As most of the mega-wealthy

guests, and six bathrooms.

have been doing, Williams and his American-

The lodge is sited at the

actress wife, Ayda Field, have been sinking

edge of the property’s lake

their fortune of approximately $300 million

with vaulted ceilings and

into some of the most glamorous real estate

gabled glass walls offering

on the planet. The Faring Estate, their most

stunning views from the great

recent purchase, was the former home of

CELEBRITY HOMES Photo credit: Photos Courtesy of Compass

Fannie Brice, the original Funny Girl. Totally updated, and at one time listed as high as $70 million, Williams purchased the Holmby Hills home for $49.5 million. The main house, with an attached and two separate guest houses, is found behind the double-gated entry, located on just under two private acres. There is a circular motor court and a second gated motor court with a garage, which will accommodate 15 or more cars. The two-story house has a light-paneled foyer with a spiral staircase and inlaid wood floor. It opens into a large main living room,

grow organic, there is a brick-paved, raised-

his last home to Drake in early 2022 for $75

where many Old World artisan touches are

bed, vegetable-and-flower garden. There is

million - almost $43 million more than he

still evident. The formally paneled wide entry

also a long koi pond with tiny fountains along

paid for it in 2015 - he has now captured one

into the library currently shows its whimsical

the sides.

of LA’s most storied and lovely homes for his

side with a large piece of artwork hanging

The Holmby Hills mansion isn’t the first

between the two entry doors. The formal

US home Williams has owned. After selling

family of six. F Source: www.compass.com

dining room will seat 12 comfortably. Encompassing 18,925 square feet, the compound has eight bedrooms and 11 baths. There is a chef’s kitchen with breakfast nook, a book-lined study with views over the grounds and a comfortable family room with fireplace. In addition to a spacious lawn, the family will enjoy the pool and pool house with

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its fitness center. A game of tennis can be played on the court and for those who like to MODERNHB.COM

JUREK BUILDERS

Streets ahead Approaching its 50th anniversary, Jurek Builders remains proud of its continued status as a true family business

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JUREK BUILDERS

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

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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

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

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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

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“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

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

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SCHMIDKE CONSTRUCTION AND CONTRACTING

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

Additionally, Joshua expresses how the

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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.

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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

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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

CENTERLINE DEVELOPMENT

Planning the perfect home Leading custom homebuilder, Centerline Development, designs and builds dream homes for customers all across North Carolina

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,

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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

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

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

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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

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

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Gregg Scott Raffensperger

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

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

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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

VAS CONSTRUCTION

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Relationship building

A family business like none other, VAS Construction is making a name for itself among homeowners with an impeccable standard of service

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VAS CONSTRUCTION

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

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“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

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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

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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

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

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ATLANTA FLOORING DESIGN CENTERS INC

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

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

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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.

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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

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

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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

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

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.

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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

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

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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

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MODERN

HOME BUILDERS

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