Your company focuses on building relationships. Why is this so important to you?
Steve: The house build is fun, but it is building long-term relationships that is most rewarding. The relationship transcends a single project, allowing us to help clients through different phases and needs in life.
Tony: This is the crux of who we are as a company. It applies to architects, designers, subcontractors, employees and clients. I enjoy connecting with people on a personal level and getting to know who they are outside of work.
You’ve been successful for over 40 years. What is the secret to your success?
We have great people, we’re dedicated to quality craftsmanship, and we’re team players. But, above all, we’re open and honest, without exception. We’ve never had a lien placed on a job, never been sued, and never been in litigation of any kind. That’s not as common in construction as it should be.
What is the advantage of clients working with a large company like yours?
Steve: We have the benefit of being able to add resources to a project in a pinch—and there is always a pinch.
Tony: We have decades of experience, and we tap into that experience daily. On the flip side, when you work with us, your project manager and superintendent are like your own personal builder.
You talk about building for the long term. What does this mean to you and your company?
We look at this in several ways, in terms of the quality of the build itself and who we serve. A large share of our work comes from repeat clients, including multi-generational families with whom we’ve worked for decades.
What are some major takeaways from building high-end custom homes?
Steve: Each project is unique, each team is different, so it never gets old. Love that. We get to work with amazing subcontractors, craftspeople and artisans who are the best at what they do.
Tony: There are always new challenges to meet head on.
What part of the process do you find most rewarding?
The most rewarding part is the people we work with and interact with every day, having a happy client at the end of a project, no matter its size or scope. Providing opportunities for 90 employees and for subcontractors and artisans to do great work, knowing that we’re helping them make a living to support their families.
What does generating creative solutions with a focus on cost control look like for your team?
Creative problem solving is one of the most rewarding aspects of what we do. Being able to understand the intent of a design—and finding ways to meet that intent with the best value is a challenge we embrace. We encourage everyone on the job site to speak up with suggestions for working efficiently and saving costs.
Three words that most appropriately sum up your approach to construction are…
Steve: Honesty, integrity, transparency, teamwork, passion—more than three!
Tony: In addition to Steve’s answer, I’ll add craftsmanship and client service.
What interests outside of work keep you motivated?
Steve: Spending time with my wife and daughters before our three daughters are off living their own lives.
Tony: Most important is spending time with our three sons, two juniors in college, one high school junior. Watching and coaching youth sports is something we enjoy as a family.
