How did you get started in the building industry?
With one of us having a background in design and construction and the other in finance, we decided to try our hand at flipping a home in 2006, and the rest is history. We have grown into a talented team of 12 and are fortunate to work with some of the best architects and designers in town. Chris and Ben still have the same passion for the industry today that they had at the start 18 years ago.
What sets your company apart?
Being fun! There are many fantastic build firms in town (we think the Twin Cities puts out some of the best homes in the country), and we do it all while having a good time. Building can be stressful, but there’s no reason you can’t laugh and have a good time while doing it. Becoming lifelong friends with our clients is the best part of the job.
What inspires and influences your work?
Our clients and their families. It’s truly rewarding getting to work on a completely custom home or remodel. We love designing and building a quality home, but getting to do it to a level that is unique to each client is beyond rewarding. If we can build a home that not only fits the design you want, but works perfectly with the functionality in how you live, that continues to inspire us.
How would you describe your team’s approach to a new project?
Casual at first — we want the process to be fun and exciting. We focus on design and budget, taking these into consideration while putting the entire team together. It’s amazing how different goals can be from client to client, so we like to take time learning what our clients really want. This allows us to finesse the team and sets us up for success throughout the project. It truly is the team you put in place upfront that allows for a successful project!
How do you bring a client’s vision to life?
Listening and asking why. We can build a beautiful home, but we want to know the “why” behind the want so that we can ensure we truly bring it to life. Sometimes, choices are made because clients think they are supposed to want those. We want to know why so we can truly build what the client wants and ensure their vision is timeless.
What are the most important elements of a successful build team?
Organization. With the supply issues and limited workforce, organization is, without question, the number one element of a successful build. A team that is focused on the finish line at the start is the only way to be successful in the construction industry today.
What do you enjoy most about building custom homes?
Standing in the kitchen having a cocktail with our clients, laughing and talking about the process.
What are some of your favorite trends and styles in new construction?
Quality materials. It’s amazing how people are more focused on better quality materials over size now. This is something Detail Homes has always pushed for, but it has moved to the top of almost every client’s list. While modern is still hot, we are seeing more and more people moving back to traditional style, not only in finishes, but in floor plans. While open-concept is still here, the definition of spaces is very prevalent.
Photo by K.E.A. Photography
