Few jobs designed by top-notch architects are easy to accomplish. Both modern and traditional houses have their challenges. But the greatest source of difficulty comes from the nature of custom building itself—that it’s all prototype execution, a new learning curve with each project. Still, some will say that modern work is the least forgiving because there’s no trim to hide a miscalculation. Perhaps there’s an element of truth in that. But classical houses certainly strain nearly every participating trade simply by dint of the amount of design per square inch that must be built and installed. For this year’s Pacesetter awards, we went looking for the best builders of American’s best-loved aesthetic. Our picks aren’t satisfied covering up a mistake with molding—they insist on getting everything right from the start. Because they’re not building for fashion’s sake; they’re building to stand the test of time and taste.
2012 Pacesetter Awards Winners
Pacesetters 2012: Jon Berndsen, Berndsen Custom Homes
Custom builder Jon Berndsen combines a thorough grounding in current construction technology with a deep appreciation for classical architecture.
Pacesetters 2012: John Brink, Brink Custom Homes
John Brink readies his Lake Tahoe company for the future.
Pacesetters 2012: Ed Bulgin, Bulgin & Associates
A passion for excellence led custom builder Ed Bulgin to a secure niche in the highest of high-end markets.
Pacesetters 2012: David Escobedo, Escobedo Construction
Custom builder and stone masonry guru David Escobedo brings high-tech efficiency to his timeless craft.
Pacesetters 2012: Tom Glass, Glass Construction
Tom Glass of Glass Construction makes old houses livable for today.
Pacesetters 2012: Bob Griffiths and Wayne Rowland, Griffiths Construction
Custom builders Bob Griffiths and Wayne Rowland approach their new-home and restoration projects with the same standard: perfection.
Pacesetters 2012: Rick Juneau, Bulley & Andrews
Bulley & Andrews’ Residential & Restoration division continues the company’s tradition of excellence.
Pacesetters 2012: Rob MacNeille, Carpenter & MacNeille
Design/build architect Rob MacNeille’s firm upholds a tradition that values both design and craft.
Pacesetters 2012: Ken Rideout, Newhaven Builders
Ken Rideout of Newhaven Builders knows how to handle California’s historic homes.
Pacesetters 2012: Pete Welch and Don Forsman
When Don Forsman and Pete Welch met 30 years ago, both were Minnesota natives starting careers in carpentry.
