Last updated on May 27th, 2024 at 10:54 am
Situated at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, the city of Boulder offers sublime views and a multitude of outdoor activities to its residents. From skiing to climbing, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Boulder. The famous Pearl Street Mall also offers residents access to amazing shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars. It’s no surprise that over the years Boulder has been included on numerous lists when it comes to quality of life: the 100 Best Places to Live, the Best Food Cities, the Best College Towns, and the city has been named one of the Smartest Cities in America as well. With the many opportunities and experiences that Boulder has to offer, more young professionals and families consider moving to Boulder.
This list features the best custom home builders serving Boulder and its surrounding cities. Our team chose and evaluated these builders based on the awards and recognition they have received, the overall quality of their projects, their years in the business, and the strength of the customer reviews they have received. These contractors have repeatedly proven their expertise in custom home building and have constructed some of the city’s most beautiful homes.
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. On the other hand, if you want to learn more about the cost of building a custom home in Boulder, check out our cost guide article.
Sightline Builders
6470 Jay Rd., Boulder, CO 80301
Sightline Builders is a custom home builder based in Boulder. Founded in 2007, Sightline has made it its mission to build high-quality homes through sustainable building practices and eco-friendly materials. The firm specializes in producing luxurious and healthy homes within an affordable budget, which many clients appreciate. Additionally, the company also has a great record when it comes to completing projects on time and on budget.
One of its projects is a modern home featuring a gray exterior with brown wood accents. Its angled roof adds to the home’s architectural interest and modern appeal. Solar panels have also been installed for energy-efficiency.
Jeff Becker Construction
PO Box 242, Lyons, CO 80540
Jeff Becker Construction has impressed clients throughout Colorado since its founding in 1979. Providing custom home building and remodeling services, the company works closely with clients, designers, and architects to provide clients a one-of-a-kind home that is built with the highest level of detail and craftsmanship. Jeff Becker, founder of the firm, has been building and remodeling custom homes in Colorado for a long time. He is a master carpenter with more than four decades of building experience. Through his leadership, the firm provides unique building solutions that exceed every client’s expectations.
One of the company’s impressive projects is the Gregory Creek residence. In a joint venture with Gettliffe Architecture, the firm completed a modern home with floor-to-ceiling windows that connect residents to the natural environment that surrounds the residence. The design for this home was developed through an organic process that included client participation and collaboration. Other features of the home include an open-concept layout, medium hardwood floors, and a beautiful staircase that winds up several levels. This home was featured twice in Dwell magazine’s Top Five Homes of the Week With Scintillating Staircases and in Top Five Homes of the Week With Wondrous Wood Accents.
Harrington Stanko
7101 La Vista Place #100, Niwot, CO 80503
With over 45 years of experience in the Boulder-are construction industry, Harrington Stanko has completed numerous challenging projects of all types and sizes. From high-end custom homes and remodels to ground-up commercial projects, the firm provides top-notch workmanship and attention to detail. Company co-founder Thomas Stanko holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art from Yale University and a Master of Architecture from the University of Colorado. Co-owner Tim Harrington, a graduate of Michigan State University, has been in the construction industry since 1981. Together, their years of experience and expertise have been Harrington Stanko’s foundation in delivering stunning spaces and completing daring projects.
Built on a west-facing slope, The Scotch Pine residence features incredible views of the Front Range. Floor-to-ceiling windows were used to maximize the panoramic views. The home also features energy-efficient materials that bring it close to net-zero status. These include hybrid insulation super-insulated roof panels, geothermal heating and cooling systems, and photovoltaic panels.
Builders’ Studio
10100 West 78th Ave., Arvada, CO 80005
Builders’ Studio has been building exceptional custom homes since 2002. The company’s goal is to build the highest quality homes that are tailor-made to fit each client’s needs and style. Hal Colvin, company founder, has been in the construction industry for more than four decades. He started as a tradesman and climbed his way to the top and became the owner of Builders’ Studio. The firm is also highly capable of building Leeds and Energy Star-compliant homes.
Builders’ Studio served as the general contractor, master builder, and project manager for the Linden Home in Boulder. Completed in 2018, the 9,334-square-foot modern home featured stone and brick elements, with black metal frames for its doors and windows. Solar panels were also installed on the truss roof. The home’s interior features medium hardwood flooring, stone details on beams, a modern kitchen, a spacious office with an electric fireplace, and floor-to-ceiling doors and windows.
Burke Builders
5454 Conestoga Ct., Boulder, CO 80301
Established in 2004, Burke Builders has been providing an extensive array of residential, multifamily, and commercial construction services throughout Boulder. The company takes pride in its team of seasoned professionals who are all committed to providing clients with projects that are completed on time, on budget, and above-industry standards. Burke Builders also builds long-standing relationships with architects, engineers, and subcontractors for the best possible results.
Among the firm’s notable projects is a residence in North Boulder which was completed in 2019. This modern home consists of wood lap siding, black metal accents, and minimalist interior design. Floor-to-ceiling windows can be found throughout the home, which let in a lot of Colorado’s gorgeous natural light. Wood ceiling planks add architectural interest to the open concept layout of the home.
Ellis Construction
2975 Valmont Rd. Suite #110, Boulder, CO 80301
Ellis Construction is a Boulder-based general contracting company that specializes in custom home ground-up construction and home remodeling. One of the hallmarks of the company’s success is its ability to provide a memorable building experience for its clients by employing project management techniques, communication, and careful budget development. Since its inception in 2002, the company has completed more than 100 residential projects, many with complex demands. From extensive renovations to energy-efficient luxury custom homes, the Ellis team has consistently delivered outstanding, durable results.
The firm is especially known for its capability to challenge conventional thinking when it comes to design and engineering requirements. Throughout the years, the firm has lived up to its promise of top quality construction expertise and delivered a wide range of projects from net-zero homes to ground-up construction on challenging sites. Typically, Ellis Construction projects range from $100,000 to $3 million in price.
Built By Krueger
1194 Diamond Circle, Unit T, Lafayette, CO 80026
Built By Krueger puts a premium on building relationships with clients and partners. The firm believes that its relationship-based approach helps it provide the best possible service to clients and help them achieve their goals. Co-owner Brian Krueger has been in the construction industry since he was young and has developed a reputation as a skilled and reliable builder. Co-owner Matthew Krueger has handled a wide array of projects including custom homes, high-end multifamily residences, and commercial airport projects; he takes pride in the company’s on-time project completion. As experts in various facets of the home building industry, the firm also provides real estate services.
Among the firm’s impressive projects is a custom estate featuring beautiful stone and wooden accents on its exterior. Other features of the home include gorgeous hardwood flooring, a spacious living area, and a massive kitchen with an eat-in kitchen island. There is also a generously-sized entertainment area with a pool table, mini kitchen, and fireplace.
TreeLine Homes
1727 Fifteenth St. Suite #100, Boulder, CO 80302
For over two decades, TreeLine Homes has specialized in ground-up custom home construction and large remodeling projects. Since the firm’s establishment, the company has strived to exceed customer expectations and provide customers with superb workmanship. The company also offers competitive pricing packages and flexible contract arrangements tailored to the needs of its clients. Derek Guarascio, company founder, is a licensed general contractor with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from Michigan State University. Under his leadership, TreeLine Homes has been featured in Luxe Magazine, Home Magazine, and CO Homes & Lifestyles.
Among its impressive projects in its portfolio is a contemporary home featuring blackened steel panels with glass, stone, and wooden accents in its exterior. This theme is carried throughout the home’s interior which consists of light hardwood flooring, custom walnut cabinets, black granite countertops, and the porch ceiling over the kitchen. Exposed wood beams can also be seen in the living room, which is surrounded by accordion-type glass doors opening up to a breathtaking exterior living space which provides magnificent views of the Rockies.
Cottonwood Custom Builders
4439 N. Broadway # E, Boulder, CO 80304
Numerous homeowners in Boulder have been the recipients of Cottonwood Custom Builders’s expertise for over two decades. Company owner Jeff Hindman has over 30 years of experience as a carpenter and custom green builder. He is also a past member of the Board of Directors for the Colorado Green Building Guild. He currently serves as Mayor Pro-Tem of Berthoud where he lives with his wife of 24 years and two sons. Under his leadership, Cottonwood Custom Builders has built its reputation as one of Boulder’s leading custom green builders. Today, the company has completed several Net Zero homes and even some with a negative ERI rating. 
In 2016, the Cottonwood team completed this green home in Boulder working with HMH Architects and Interiors and the owners. The home was built for a couple relocating to Boulder who wanted to focus on sustainable construction methods and materials, inside and out, and take advantage of a stunning location close to the mountains, but near downtown.The home blends in beautifully to an established Boulder neighborhood near Chataqua Park with a mix of stucco, stone, and CVG Cedar materials that continue inside the house. Upon completion, the 4,000-square-foot home featured a 2nd floor deck with a front row view of Flatirons and a 1st floor shaded patio with an outdoor kitchen. Cottonwood also goes through great lengths to recycle all eligible construction materials and use local and sustainable materials whenever possible.
Buildwell
13905 Braun Rd., Golden Boulder, Colorado 80401
Ryan Wither, the company founder, has a degree in Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering at the University of Colorado at Boulder. After earning his degree and prior to starting the company, Ryan enrolled in the Savannah College of Art and Design and studied furniture and industrial design. That wide-ranging experience and knowledge has allowed Buildwell to become one of the most respected custom home builders in Boulder. Throughout the years, Buildwell has earned various recognitions from well-known publications such as 5280 Home Magazine and Modern in Denver.
In 2018, Buildwell, in a joint venture with Studio B Architecture, completed the Wagon Wheel Gap road residence, a gorgeous modern home nestled in the mountains. The project is built on a concrete base with a floating upper bar, making the home appear to levitate. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows surround the home, giving its homeowners magnificent views of the mountains. Its interior features minimalist design with light hardwood floors and white cabinetry.
Cornerstone Homes
1005 S. 120th St. Unit #201, Lafayette, CO 80026
For over 20 years, Cornerstone Homes has built numerous impressive and distinctive homes throughout Boulder, Denver, and Colorado. This Lafayette-based firm was founded by brothers Keenan and Tirion Tompkins who also own Colorado Timberframe, a technologically advanced timber frame manufacturing facility. Keenan earned his Bachelor’s degree in Finance from the University of Illinois; he has more than 20 years of experience in building high-end custom homes, residential developments, and commercial structures. With his expertise in the construction industry, he has been featured on TV networks such as HGTV. Tirion serves as the lead project manager, focusing on achieving the highest level of quality in green custom home projects. That focus allowed him to achieve a net-zero energy built home which received the best Natural Air Infiltration Rating in Colorado at .01 NACH.
Many of the firm’s projects have been featured in well-known publications and TV shows: HGTV’s Professional Grade, The New York Times, Modern in Denver, Home & Garden, and dwell, among others As a member of the U.S. Green Building Council and the Colorado Green Building Guild, the company has built over 20 net-zero energy homes and it was the first builder in Colorado to build out a 100 percent Zero Energy housing development. Moreover, Cornerstone co-built a home that received the highest residential LEED Platinum rating in the world.
In Boulder, Cornerstone Homes constructed the 4 Mile Sky High residence, an elevated modern home featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that can withstand winds up to 135 mph. At 7,300 feet high, this stunning home has access to the scenic 4 Mile Canyon views.
Hammerwell
1420 28th St. Suite #200, Boulder, CO 80303
Over the last four decades, Hammerwell has built its reputation for delivering seamless design and exceptional construction. This Boulder-based general contractor specializes in constructing high-end homes and residential remodels. Since its founding, the company has made it a point to collaborate with the best architects and interior designers. Doing so produced some of Boulder’s most innovative and distinctive homes, residences that have received awards and have been featured locally and nationally by publications like The New York Times, Colorado Homes & Lifestyles, Curbed, and Archello among many others.
In a joint venture with HMH Architecture + Interiors, Hammerwell constructed this Boulder home which functions close to net zero. Engineered with photovoltaic and solar systems, the home features accordion doors that connect the indoor and outdoor living spaces, maximizing the amazing views of the home. Copper siding also clads the home’s exterior, which provides durability and an intriguing curb appeal.
Melton Design Build
3082 Sterling Circle, Boulder, CO 80301
Melton Design Build is one of Boulder’s most trusted design-build companies specializing in custom home construction and remodeling. The company has a full-service design department made up of design professionals who have consistently delivered high-quality and innovative designs for clients. Ty Melton, company founder, established the company in 1993. He has worked with the Boulder city and county to develop green building practices. Ty is an active member of Remodelers Advantage, a national roundtable group consisting of the nation’s best remodelers who work together throughout the year to share the best practices, ideas, and insights for running a top-quality remodeling company.
Over the years, the company has earned numerous awards from the Colorado Awards for Remodeling Excellence, the Professional Remodeler Design Awards, the National Association of Home Builders, and more.
In collaboration with Sopher Sparn Architecture, Melton Design Build constructed this beautiful contemporary custom home on the Hill in Boulder. The home’s exterior features a mixture of materials, including wood, steel, and stone. Floor-to-ceiling windows surround the home, making the interiors bright and airy.
Beck Building Company
780 Nottingham Rd., Avon, CO 81620
In business since 1972, Beck Building Company has established itself as one of the premier custom home builders serving clients throughout Colorado. Since its founding, the company has been known for its cutting-edge design and technology as well as its incorporation of the latest architectural and interior design trends in each project. Many of these stunning creations are also found in challenging locations, proving the company’s expertise when it comes to luxury home building. This experience has helped the company gain various recognition, including being ranked among the Luxe Gold List for the past five years as well as earning numerous Luxe RED Awards, Chrysalis Awards, and a NARI Contractor of the Year Award. The company has also been featured in various publications, including 5280 Home Magazine, Mountain Living, Luxe, Colorado Homes and Lifestyles, and more.
In a joint venture with Sopher Sparn Architects, Beck Building Company built this breathtaking home in Jay Road. The 8,000-square-foot property produces 22 percent more energy than it uses, with a HERS rating of -22, which is one of the lowest in Boulder County. Energy-saving features of the home include geothermal heating and cooling systems; south-facing, triple-glazed windows that passively allow solar energy to enter the living space; heat recovery ventilators; and LED lighting managed by a low-voltage home automation system. A vertical axis wind turbine powers this sustainable 20-acre property.
Skycastle Construction
1245 Pearl St. Suite #202, Boulder, CO 80302
Since 2001, Skycastle Construction has been one of Boulder’s leading design-build companies. The firm is known for its superbly crafted, cutting-edge green homes throughout the Boulder County area. The 11-person firm is headed by Scott Rodwin, AIA, LEED AP and Brandon David, LEED AP.
Under their leadership, Skycastle Construction has amassed a host of awards and some of the best customer review records of any builder in the state. Many Skycastle projects have also achieved the highest level of third party certification such as LEED Platinum and Net Zero Energy. The firm relies on a team approach to their design-build delivery method, with unusually tight collaboration between the client, the architect, and the builder.
One of the firm’s impressive projects is the Hoefling House, a 3,000-square-foot modern home in Boulder. The homeowner wanted something bold and unique for this home and requested a warm material palette combined with green performance. Among the home’s magnificent features include interior Travertine tile radiant-heated floors, 14-foot ceilings on the second floor, Doug Fir ceilings, a floating staircase, and a “live roof”. The home also features 10kWh solar panels tucked onto the roof, LED lights, water-conserving plumbing fixtures, foam insulation, and EnergyStar windows and appliances. This near-Net-Zero Energy home achieved LEED Platinum Certification.
How can I find a home builder near me?
Read our latest articles on the best custom home builders near Boulder. If you don’t see your city below, just let us know – we are happy to create a tailored recommendation list just for you.
Custom home builders in Denver
Custom home builders in Colorado Springs
Custom home builders in Colorado
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.
