Gradwohl Construction, LLC | www.gradwohl.com
You began in the construction business at the age of 16 and have evolved into a boutique builder of luxury high-end homes. What are major takeaways from your experience?
Communication is key. It is crucial to have a full understanding of the goals desired by the client, architect and designer, and then surpass expectations. I’m passionate about the creative process as one must have an open mind to new ideas and challenges.
When you founded your firm, what were your goals? How have those evolved over time?
The founding focus of my firm was to build custom homes as if I were to live there myself. I have always been meticulous about quality and design and have never wavered from that long-term personal commitment.
How do you like to work with your clients?
I enjoy a personal, friendly approach to keep the project casual, and I’m always open to how we can make things better as we move forward.
You specialize in custom residential projects which undoubtedly offer a variety of build challenges. How does your knowledge benefit your clients?
I have an artistic background, which provides another layer of insight into the process which complements the project team and client. I started in commercial construction, which educated me in the ways of soil stabilization, pilings, and architectural concrete. These are benefits that now address and resolve difficult building sites, such as sensitive slope construction, and can ultimately save money for the client.
What does your process look like to accommodate budget, schedule and style?
I constantly monitor the job cost. Starting with the initial estimating process, I use actual subcontractor and supplier estimates to be as close to reality for cost. Every custom home is a moving target and therefore the critical path is always watched and adjusted for timeframe. This process shows milestones which are key for client decisions.
You are known for being a hands-on, natural team player, ever striving for perfection in your chosen art form. Share why this is crucial for home builds.
A custom home must be nurtured and watched over, in order to have a successful outcome. Excellent sub-contractors that rise to the challenges with a never-ending vigilance to perfection are what make our homes stand out from others. I build homes as if it were my own home.
You have many loyal clients, what keeps them coming back?
Repeat business is based on solid relationships, and the known factor that every endeavor will be on budget and will have guaranteed success.
Each of your projects is full of fresh and interesting ideas—how do you stay inspired?
My artistic sense is ever expanding; inspired by travel, nature, curiosity, and a desire to share my personal creativity in whatever I approach.
Favorite detail of your childhood home?
I loved living in a Northwest modern with expansive windows into the woodlands.
What’s next on the boards?
We are working on a woodland to beach property on a critical slope, it will be a modern glass and steel marvel!
