Last updated on May 27th, 2024 at 06:39 am
Jacksonville is known for its sunny climate, deep history, and entrepreneurial synergy. It’s the largest city by area in the continental United States and also the most populous city in Florida, with a population count of around 903,000 people. The River City has a thriving market in numerous industries, from restaurants and real estate to commercial and motion picture productions. People looking for a fresh start might consider beautiful Jacksonville as it offers a variety of options for business and recreation alike.
The following list features the best design-build companies in Jacksonville. These firms were selected after an extensive research process that factored in each company’s history, portfolio quality, client reviews, industry awards, accreditations, and principal backgrounds. Most of these firms are exclusive residential contractors while some dabble in some light commercial work.
If you are thinking about building a custom home, we recommend checking each builder’s license with the local licensing board, speaking to past clients, and using our bidding system to get competitive quotes from at least 3 contractors. Getting multiple bids is the best way to ensure you get a fair price and that bids include the complete scope of work.
Braud Design/Build Inc.
PO Box 2767, Ponte Vedra, FL 32004
Braud Design/Build is an esteemed home building company that has served Northeast Florida for over 25 years. The full-service practice, headed by Braud Samuel Philip IV, is based in Ponte Vedra and works on both residential and commercial projects. A streamlined process makes a project feel effortless from start to finish. Attention to detail is one of the firm’s strongest suits, which ensures quality work from the largest to the smallest aspects of the job.
The main services offered by the firm are architectural design and construction. Design services involve a three-phase process that includes the preliminary sketches, the actual drawing, and the design’s completion. Construction, on the other hand, covers renovations, repairs, remodels, additions, and more. Most of the firm’s personnel are members of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the Northeast Florida Builders Association (NEFBA). The team’s exceptional craftsmanship once earned the Raise the Floor Award for the Best Use of Wood Products, a testament to the caliber of their work.
The featured project is a two-story estate located in Florida. The classical mansion stands tall as striking visual with cream-colored roofs and sleek white exteriors. Its understated design reflects a traditional beauty that pops out amidst its aesthetic simplicity, a beautiful structure perfectly built by the Braud team.
Center Beam Construction
577 College Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204
Founded in 2007, CenterBeam Construction is a Jacksonville builder that strives to create high-quality projects on time and on budget—a mission that has proven successful based on rave reviews from its former clientele. The firm has been commended for its upstanding service and strong craftsmanship, and some of its projects have even been showcased in the city’s Annual Tour of Homes six times in the last decade. Green building principles are also central to its process, an active effort to elevate the property owner’s lives through environmentally-responsible elements in building and design.
The firm has a particular focus on the city’s historic properties, serving clients in the residential, multi-residential, and commercial markets. Its operations are helmed by the team of Christina and Jeff Starmer. Christina, the company’s co-owner, is a certified contractor of over 10 years whose forte lies in historic design principles. The Florida native is well-versed in construction and design and has a background in retail through a business that spanned over 18 years. Jeff, who serves as the project manager, is a construction veteran with over 20 years of industry experience. Known as an expert in customer service, his vast skill set includes job management, carpentry, framing, and solving issues related to old homes.
Cole Builders
3222 Amelia Rd, Amelia Island, FL 32034
Cole Builders earned industry prominence for its strong residential projects in the greater Jacksonville domain. The general contractor has a stellar reputation for its fine custom homes and remodeling projects with high aesthetic beauty as well as functional capability. Since its inception in 2001, the firm has completed over 150 residential and commercial ground-up construction projects in the area, reflecting the business’s efficiency and regional reach. As an affiliate of Energy Star, the builder also uses environmentally-responsible methods to create energy-efficient facilities that provide cleaner energy and lower electric costs.
Owner Dale Cole sees to it that quality and attention to detail are prioritized no matter the scope of the project. Several factors are vital to these goals, one of which includes meticulous project management. A streamlined process from start to finish guarantees the completion of projects within the allotted timeframe and cost bracket, complemented by a drive to provide a positive experience to clients through prompt and professional customer service. To achieve these goals, Cole only works with trusted craftspeople and subcontractors to ensure top-notch workmanship for ground-up builds, house additions, and structural remodels. When it comes to projects and products, competitive pricing is offered with full-transparency for the convenience of the client. Cole is a Certified General Contractor, Certified Roofing Contractor, and a Lead Paint Certified Renovator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Collins Builders
3840 Crown Point Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32257
Collins Builders made a mark in the custom home landscape through high-performance houses with stunning aesthetic value. Its portfolio spans a variety of residential styles that range from classic mansions to modern estates, as well as interior spaces that echo upscale designs seen in high-end magazines. The Jacksonville firm has a collaborative approach to building and design that integrates owner input into the process, as the builder strives to meet the client’s demands through careful planning and building efficiency. A thorough understanding of the project prior to construction produces accurate results that fit the owner’s specifications.
The locally-operated firm is headed by Tim Calderala, a Jacksonville native who serves as the COO of the company. The University of South Carolina alum has a background in business and management as well as a broad knowledge of the construction industry. He leads an in-house team composed of seasoned builders, architectural designers, and specialists. The entire staff is dedicated to quality craftsmanship and customer service. Most of these experts have decades of experience in the field with proficiency in construction, installation, zoning, and all-around project management. The crew’s stellar work has earned numerous merits and high ratings from third-party sites as voted by former clients who were satisfied with their work.
Dean Russell Custom Homes
496 Osceola Ave., Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
Dean Russell Custom Homes is known locally for its exceptional work in the residential building market. As its name suggests, its expertise lies in custom homes, renovations, and home improvement jobs. Owner Dean Russell, an industry veteran with a background in construction and real estate, has led the business for over 44 years with Kim Rose, who serves as the project manager.
The Jacksonville practice is dedicated to expert management and construction as well as forging and maintaining strong client relationships based on integrity. Teamwork is also essential to the firm’s process—its team of foremen, carpenters, project managers, superintendents, business owners, and subcontractors, work like a well-oiled machine driven to provide high-class homes that fit the client’s vision. The company’s services are available to clients in Northeast Florida, which covers the Marsh Landing, Ponte Vedra Boulevard, Queen’s Harbor, Palencia, Sawgrass, and more.
The builder is accredited by the NAHB and NEFBA. The firm has won numerous Remodeler’s Awards from the latter, which includes the awards for the Best Outdoor Living Addition and the Best Kitchen Addition and Remodel. They’ve also been named the 2014 Top Remodeler in Northeast Florida and won Luxury Home Builder awards in 2017 and 2019. The firm is also a 7-time winner of the Parade of Homes, a 5-time winner of the Design Show Homes, and it was recognized as the Best Contractor/Remodeler in the Best of Ponte Vedra event in 2019.
Dura Design Build
2233 Park Ave 303, Orange Park, FL 32073
Established in 2012, Dura Design Build specializes in modern structures in Jacksonville and Orange Park. The practice is the sister company of Dura Architecture, which is more focused on design and architectural-based services. The two subsidiaries operate parallel to each other and offer architect-led design-build services that encompass sustainable design, 3D rendering and presentation, and evaluation. Functional spaces are crafted with the goal of elevating not only the owner’s way of living but the community as a whole. Through the use of modern techniques and creative savvy, the studio delivers projects with strong visual qualities that provide comfort and stylish appeal.
Daniel Garcia, the firm’s principal, is a well-decorated professional with a deep portfolio and resume. He is accredited by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) and both a Certified Building Contractor and a Registered Architect in Florida. Prior to his current position, he worked in various architectural and design roles for prominent firms like Grimshaw Architects, Hanrahan Meyers Architects, Ponikvar and Associates, and Karl Thorne and Associates. Garcia is also a member of various local boards and committees focused on park planning and economic developments and once served as a Design Awards Chairman for the American Institute of Architects Jacksonville Chapter.
J. Lane Construction
1301 Riverplace Blvd, Suite 800, Jacksonville, FL 32207
J. Lane Construction uses cutting-edge technology and time-tested methods to build projects that meet modern standards. The design-build firm is led by founder and president Jesse Lane, whose commitment to quality extends to all aspects of his work. His firm provides clients with a cloud-based construction app that provides an up-to-date look at the building process. This app allows the owner to view photos and videos of the project and can also be used to sign documents, make payments, and communicate with the crew, all accessible with a phone or a computer.
The Jacksonville general contractor works on projects in both residential and commercial markets. The firm specializes in new construction, tenant improvements, and large renovations, with key services that particularly cover remodeling, room additions, kitchens and baths, roofing, painting, electricity infrastructure, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning). On the commercial front, it has a particular focus on not only large commercial renovations and tenant improvement projects but also works on apartment and multifamily buildings, retail stores, auto dealerships, health centers, office build-outs, and more.
Its local prominence and construction excellence has led to numerous industry merits, such as two Best General Contractor in Jacksonville Awards, one from 2020 and another from 2019, from Jacksonville’s Award Program as well as ranking 38th (#1 in Jacksonville) on INC. 5000’s list of the Fastest Growing Companies in 2020.
Kurco Construction
2204 Sawgrass Village Drive, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
Kurco Construction is a Ponte Vedra practice committed to “building the future” through its expertise in new construction, architectural design, renovation, and interior and exterior improvements. The firm operates on values of quality, ethics, and passion, which includes physical construction as well as the customer service department.
The client-driven firm is renowned for its modern approach to building throughout residential and commercial markets in Northeast Florida. Its residential portfolio includes single-family residences, apartments, townhouses, and condominiums while its commercial catalog spans office buildings, educational facilities, retail shopping centers, food service establishments, and places of worship. The business also operates in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Third-generation builder Matt Kurtz started the company in 2016 together with seasoned professional Jason Green. His company was built on the foundation of family-owned firms. The first, Kurtz Contractors, was established in 1981 as a block masonry specialist that eventually transitioned into an upscale custom home builder. Kurstar Construction, a commercial-focused firm that worked on small to medium-sized projects. Matt continues the legacy of his grandfather Ron and his father John, whose excellence in the field was shaped by leadership, workmanship, and the ability to connect with clients and deliver exceptional results.
Rafael Inc. Design Build
9365 Philips Hwy Suite 201, Jacksonville, FL 32256
Rafael Inc. is a design-build firm that elevates people’s lives through quality construction and exceptional customer service. Led by owner Rafael Pepaj, the Jacksonville practice specializes in residential additions, kitchens, bathrooms, and whole-home projects. It creates structures and spaces that meet client demands delivered with prompt service and a positive experience to boot.
Custom homes are built from the client’s ideas and delivered using high-quality materials and a seamless construction process. The design-builder follows a streamlined workflow in order to achieve quality results. First, an initial inventory of the project requirements takes into account the number of rooms and the function of spaces to suit the owner’s needs and budget. Schematic design is completed using the information gathered from the former stage, and design options crafted from field surveys are offered for the client’s consideration.
Once everything is polished, the design development phase is underway, which also includes on-the-go modifications and cost estimate updates. Construction documents, permits, and bidding are then handled in conjunction with the drawings, notes, and technical specifications. A budget review provides clients with a thorough analysis of the values within the project scope and cost bracket. Finally, construction administration ensures conformance with the agreed-upon design through construction site visits and preemptive solutions to possible issues.
River City Contractors
1510 Montana Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32207
Riverside Contractors aims to provide the best design-build contractor experience to every client it partners with. Founded in 1997, its construction services center around commercial, retail, and residential projects, with a portfolio that includes restaurants, historic rehabilitation buildings, dealerships, and tenant build-outs for national retail chains. The Jacksonville firm stands today as one of the city’s most trusted firms, its reputation tethered to its quality workmanship and focus on customer satisfaction. Its customer-driven operations helped develop a number of repeat clients over the years, a testament to its ability to build and maintain relationships in the field.
The builder is headed by owner Alan Cottrill, an industry veteran with a background in construction and design. His vast experience is a vital factor in the firm’s success as is his ability to forge relationships that last a long time. To date, many national companies have tapped his company for projects in the public, private, and commercial sectors. These brands include Automatch USA, Phillips Edison and Company, Hallmark Partners, and The Profit, a television show from CNBC. The builder has also worked on projects for local government agencies such as the Developmental Disabilities Division (DDD) and Naval Air Stations (NAS) in Jax, Cecil Field, Kings Bay, and Andros Island in the Bahamas.
Sandifer Design-Build
4788 Hodges Boulevard, Unit 102, Jacksonville, FL 32224
Sandifer Design-Build operates in Northeast Florida as a reliable partner in home improvements and construction. The builder is renowned for its ability to craft remarkable projects with functional and aesthetic properties. Its forte lies in custom home building and remodeling, with a portfolio that includes whole room renovations, kitchen and outdoor living spaces, bath remodels, home additions, and backyard work. A commitment to quality work and value service is evident in the crew’s work from the large-scale facets of the job to the smallest details of the project. Client input is integrated into the process, which allows the team to create projects that accurately match the owner’s vision.
Nick Sandifer, who serves as the owner and president, founded the firm in 2005. The Florida State University alum holds a degree in Real Estate Finance, Appraisal, and Feasibility. He also maintains memberships in NEFBA, Remodelers, and the Remodelers Advantage. Aside from high-ratings in third-party sites, his company is also a regular recipient of home improvement awards from local and national organizations. Sandifer Design-Build is a multi-time winner of the Home Builders Associations’ Parade of Homes Award for different price categories as well as a NEFBA Remodelers Winner for Landscape and Outdoor and a Runner-up for the Kitchen Remodel category.
Sport Nobles Construction Custom Builder
1585 Blanding Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32210
Sport Nobles Construction was founded on the cornerstone of integrity and quality which shaped its operations from 1998 until the present day. Quality homes, built with high-grade materials, are crafted to match the owner’s vision, lifestyle, and budget. These structures are completed within the set timeline for the convenience of the client.
Owner Sport Nobles has led the practice since its inception. He is an accredited professional of NEFBA and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). Under his leadership, the esteemed company builds not only residential projects but also relationships throughout Northern Florida. These bonds pertain not only to clients but also to industry partners like architects, designers, and drafters. By forging and maintaining these partnerships, the firm thrives through a steady business flow and a collaborative process that benefits all parties involved.
The company’s body of work includes new homes, remodels, condominiums, and commercial builds. Its field excellence is not limited to construction as the builder also excels in customer service, which has earned numerous commendations, repeat clients, and referrals from all across the state. Coupled with its work quality and prompt service, the in-house team also provides a positive experience to clients through a building environment that’s clean, prompt, and professional.
Wittco Builders
2037 Mound Street, Orange Park, FL 32073
Wittco Custom Builders is a family-owned and operated practice with a stellar reputation in Northeast Florida. The company earned prominence for its standout work in Florida’s residential market. Its full range of services includes custom home designs, “build on your own lot” services, demolish and build, additions, and renovations. When building projects, the in-house team tailors the process to fit the owner’s specific needs and budget. Their strong craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail have earned plenty of commendations from former clients and elevated its status as one of the best construction experts in the area. In addition, the consistent quality of its work helped develop an ever-expanding network of clients, which fuels the firm’s referral-driven operations.
Paul E. Witt has served as the company’s principal since 2000. His resume includes a background in architectural design, technical directing, and construction as well as a stint as chairman for the Florida Builders Council of Clay County. Witt’s industry credentials include the NAHB, NEFBA, and the Florida Home Builders Association (FHBA). He is also an accredited member of Energy Star, which certifies his firm as an environmentally-responsible builder. Wittco Custom Builders operates in the Greater Jacksonville area, which includes Clay, Duval, and St. Johns Counties and adjacent communities.
About Our Rankings
This list takes a range of ranking criteria into consideration, including but not limited to: work history, customer satisfaction, awards and recognition, geographic area of work, cost, building permits, and clientele. We spent over 40 hours researching local contractors before calculating the final ranking for this post. If there is additional information about your business that could affect these rankings, please fill out this form and we will take it into consideration.
Get Bids For Your Build
If you are thinking about building a custom home, we recommend checking each builder’s license with the local licensing board, speaking to past clients, and using our bidding system to get competitive quotes from at least 3 contractors. Getting multiple bids is the best way to ensure you get a fair price and that bids include the complete scope of work.
