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		<title>Making It Happen, Now and for the FutureHomestar</title>
		<link>https://constructioninfocus.com/2025/05/making-it-happen-now-and-for-the-future/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Margaret Patricia Eaton]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 06 May 2025 16:11:41 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Homebuilding & Development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[May 2025]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://constructioninfocus.com/?p=42555</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The Homestar Group of companies, based in southern New Brunswick in the town of Quispamsis, and founded in 2002 by owner and CEO Mark Hatfield, is a full-service construction company offering residential, commercial, and government construction services, as well as historic property restoration services. For several consecutive years, Homestar has received numerous awards including the [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://constructioninfocus.com/2025/05/making-it-happen-now-and-for-the-future/">Making It Happen, Now and for the Future&lt;p class=&quot;company&quot;&gt;Homestar&lt;/p&gt;</a> appeared first on <a href="https://constructioninfocus.com">Construction In Focus</a>.</p>
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<p>The <strong><em><a href="https://homestargroup.ca/">Homestar Group</a></em></strong> of companies, based in southern New Brunswick in the town of Quispamsis, and founded in 2002 by owner and CEO Mark Hatfield, is a full-service construction company offering residential, commercial, and government construction services, as well as historic property restoration services.</p>



<p>For several consecutive years, Homestar has received numerous awards including the “Best New Home Build” award from the CHBA (Canadian Home Builders Association) of New Brunswick for its custom-built homes based on quality, design, and uniqueness. This past March, the company received yet another award from the association as “New Brunswick’s Renovator of the Year,” at the annual gala held in Fredericton.</p>



<p>Homestar also received the “Commitment to Craft” heritage award in 2024 from the Saint John Heritage Board for the restoration work it did on The Chapman Group building, a three-story brick structure dating to the late 1800s.</p>



<p>“Bricks were falling off it, and it was considered to be a danger,” Hatfield explains. “We shut down Germain Street, barricaded the area, set up staging, and began work on the section where the bricks had fallen out after all safety precautions had been taken. Thankfully we got there when we did as overnight, more bricks fell out from the third story. This was in January and frost had gotten in behind the bricks, so we had to get up there and take the rest of the bricks down so no more could fall in the street, pin the wall with special ties, and board it up for the winter,” he tells us.</p>



<p>“In spring 2024, we removed the plywood and rebuilt the wall according to the heritage specs, using older style bricks and a process calling slaking the lime—putting in part water, part lime, sand, and white Portland, waiting 48 hours before using. We followed the procedure to a ‘T’ to put it back together, and installed heritage-approved windows that were rounded at the top, just like the originals. Feedback from the community and customer was that the project turned out amazing in response time, safety procedures and visual outcome/craft of the project.</p>



<p><strong><em>How it all happened</em></strong><br>We first spoke with Mark Hatfield in 2023 when he told us how the roots of his successful business go back to the ’90s when, as a high school student in Quispamsis, he began his entrepreneurial adventure, mowing laws and assisting homeowners with other yard work. This morphed into a business he named University Venture, which employed other students and allowed him to graduate debt-free from Mount Allison University with a Bachelor of Commerce degree in 2001.</p>



<p>After selling this first business in October of 2000, Hatfield considered a career in the corporate world, but his entrepreneurial experience drew him back home where he founded Homestar Inc. in August 2002, a custom home construction company serving the Greater Saint John area, which includes the City of Saint John and municipalities in the Kennebecasis Valley.</p>



<p>The company now offers construction services throughout the province of New Brunswick and parts of Nova Scotia. While there are no plans currently to expand further into Nova Scotia or PEI, Hatfield says this could happen in the “next three to five years.”</p>



<p><strong><em>How Homestar Inc. became Homestar Group</em></strong><br>Two years ago, when we spoke with Hatfield, he told us he had been slowly and patiently growing the company, surrounding himself with good people, and reinvesting profits to offer more services and remain competitive, with the goal of becoming a one-stop shop in the construction industry.</p>



<p>At the time, Homestar had become the authorized dealer for Castle Building Supplies; recently acquired Huff n’ Puff, a spray foam and blown insulation company; launched Allstar Heating &amp; Cooling; and coupled with Property star, which formed in 2005, a holding company that manages over 50 properties. Hatfield was also set to incorporate a newly formed company, Maverick Electrical, into the Homestar Group by the end of 2023.</p>



<p>“We now have our own in-house electrical company that does both commercial and residential electrical work,” Hatfield says. “Originally, we had electricians working for Homestar, but after they gained experience working for us, they went off on their own, so I partnered with our electrician, Jon McVicar, to form Maverick Electrical and we now have 10 employees, both fully qualified electricians and apprentices,” he explains. “We do anything electrical—commercial or residential!”</p>



<p>In 2024, Homestar Group joined forces with Mackenzie &amp; Wilkin’s Plumbing, a well-established company serving the Saint John area. “Together with two partners, we’ve grown the team from six to 16 skilled professionals in just over a year,” says Hatfield, “with the vision of a one-stop shop, providing our customers with the same high-quality service they’ve come to expect from us as builders now expanded to include every aspect of construction—residential and commercial—from electrical and plumbing to heating and ventilation.”</p>



<p><strong><em>Next up, Star Safety</em></strong><br>Hatfield launched a new venture in January 2025, Star Safety. A strong culture of safety has been a core value at Homestar Inc. from the beginning, supported by a robust in-house safety program.</p>



<p>Still in its early stages, Star Safety is led by Ryan MacMorrough and is designed to deliver safety training not only for Homestar employees but also for companies that may not have the resources to employ a full-time safety officer.</p>



<p>MacMorrough has developed a comprehensive suite of safety training programs with the guidance of WorkSafeNB designed to support small to medium-sized businesses—especially those without dedicated in-house safety teams. These programs cover essential areas such as personal protective equipment (PPE), equipment operation, and the development of customized workplace safety plans.</p>



<p>“Our mission is to build a culture of safety where everyone goes home at the end of the day,” says Hatfield. “We don’t just provide training—we help businesses establish and manage ongoing safety systems tailored to their needs.”</p>



<p>By offering hands-on support and practical training, MacMorrough empowers employers and employees alike to take ownership of workplace safety and stay compliant with evolving standards.</p>



<p><strong><em>Happening now</em></strong><br>The 140 employees at Homestar Group have more than enough work to keep them busy according to Hatfield, who shares that the company is just wrapping up one of its largest commercial expansion projects to date in Rothesay, has recently acquired Department of National Defence contracts from the federal government throughout the province, and is in the process of getting final approval from the Town of Rothesay for a 43-unit multi-family residence that will contain 12 affordable units.</p>



<p>“We are working with the government and CMHC (Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation) and hoping to break ground in September,” he says.</p>



<p>Meanwhile, Homestar, in conjunction with Property Star, is about to embark on its biggest project yet, a 40-plus-acre commercial development which will likely take between five to eight years to complete. “There is a need for a commercial development like this in the Quispamsis, Rothesay, Hampton, and Sussex area, with commercial establishments, hotels, restaurants, and shopping centres, but there are not many large parcels of flat land that are available for development, so finding this was a real win for us,” says Hatfield. “With the support of the Town and Council of Quispamsis, we are thrilled to be able to bring something like this to life for the surrounding community.”</p>



<p>The land, which has access from a provincial highway (NB Route 119), has been approved for rezoning, with water and sewer permits received. Hatfield is currently working with the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure to finalize entry and exit points, and once that has been done, landscaping and development can begin within the next 12 months.</p>



<p><strong><em>Looking to the future</em></strong><br>No matter how much the company grows, Hatfield emphasizes the importance of staying connected to the local community by offering meaningful employment with competitive wages and benefits.</p>



<p>As part of its dedication to giving back, the company participates in annual charitable initiatives, community fundraisers, and supports public spaces for families and pets. These efforts reflect a broader commitment to being a responsible and engaged community partner.</p>



<p>Looking ahead, Hatfield states, “We are committed to maintaining the high standards our clients have come to expect. We’ll continue investing in our people and processes to grow, improve, and keep making things happen for years to come.”</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://constructioninfocus.com/2025/05/making-it-happen-now-and-for-the-future/">Making It Happen, Now and for the Future&lt;p class=&quot;company&quot;&gt;Homestar&lt;/p&gt;</a> appeared first on <a href="https://constructioninfocus.com">Construction In Focus</a>.</p>
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		<title>Designed for Life. Made for Living.Azora Group</title>
		<link>https://constructioninfocus.com/2025/05/designed-for-life-made-for-living/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Robert Hoshowsky]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 06 May 2025 16:07:49 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Homebuilding & Development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[May 2025]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://constructioninfocus.com/?p=42539</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>When it comes to family, the team at Azora Group has a lot to say. Brothers Masoud, Farhad, and Amir Sanai helm Vancouver-based residential developer Azora Group. For the trio behind this privately held company, ‘family’ isn’t just another word, but the backbone of their ongoing success. “We are three brothers, and on the construction [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://constructioninfocus.com/2025/05/designed-for-life-made-for-living/">Designed for Life. Made for Living.&lt;p class=&quot;company&quot;&gt;Azora Group&lt;/p&gt;</a> appeared first on <a href="https://constructioninfocus.com">Construction In Focus</a>.</p>
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<p>When it comes to family, the team at Azora Group has a lot to say. Brothers Masoud, Farhad, and Amir Sanai helm Vancouver-based residential developer Azora Group. For the trio behind this privately held company, ‘family’ isn’t just another word, but the backbone of their ongoing success. “We are three brothers, and on the construction site, we look after trades, quality, time management—everything,” states Masoud Sanai.</p>



<p>For this family, construction is in their blood. Their grandfather was a renowned architect and developer in Iran whose sons went on to found their own company specializing in home building and road construction. Amir, Farhad, and Masoud represent the third generation of construction expertise.</p>



<p>Many developers are content to fill the market with generic, cookie-cutter houses. Not Azora. For the Sanai family, there is a big difference between providing clients with a house and giving them a <em>home</em>. They know that a lot of this comes down to the careful blending of ideal locations, outstanding construction inside and out, high-quality components, top fixtures and finishes, and smart, functional design solutions.</p>



<p>From crafting modern, stylish exteriors to maximizing space within the home, nothing is left to chance. Experts in creating modern, aesthetically pleasing and inviting spaces, Azora homes feature luxurious amenities typically seen only in much more expensive properties.</p>



<p>Outside, these contemporary homes include quality finishes, private balconies with expansive views, and inviting common spaces where neighbours and children can gather. Inside, the homes include spacious bedrooms and living rooms, and upscale kitchens and bathrooms. Even closets and other storage areas are precisely planned well in advance to maximize usable space.</p>



<p>“We have lots of experience creating flexible spaces in our projects,” says Masoud Sanai. “We look at the market, see what customers like, and create those rooms.” This includes bedrooms that can be easily converted into a studio or a flex area by moving a wall. “One side is a one-bedroom, and the other side is a one-and-a-half or two-bedroom. They can be connected to create a one-bedroom studio, two-bedroom, or three-bedroom. This offers lots of flexibility, and our clients are happy,” he says.</p>



<p>At Azora, the phrase “attention to detail” is both a promise and a practice. Nothing is overlooked, from metal accents to wide-plank hardwood floors, polished quartz countertops, frameless glass shower enclosures, high ceilings, waffle-pattern carpets on stairs and in bedrooms, gorgeous cabinetry, quality appliances, and more.</p>



<p><strong><em>Location, location, location</em></strong><br>Like a sculptor thoughtfully selecting the ideal piece of marble, the Sanai brothers thoroughly research the ideal locations for their projects. A key feature of its locations is that they are often near affluent areas featuring multi-million-dollar homes largely owned by older couples, and mostly out of the reach of younger families just starting out.</p>



<p>Masoud explains the thinking: “Our clients are mostly young couples, second-generation, who want to live close to their first-generation relatives in the very expensive Vancouver West area. Those mansions cost five to ten million dollars. Here, they can have a three-bedroom townhouse for $1.7 million close to their relatives and good school areas. That’s a great benefit for them.” A great strategy, too, and one that appeals to a broad clientele.</p>



<p>Thanks to the mindful choice of location and built-in quality, many buyers don’t view their new Azora Group dwelling as a house to be lived in for just a few years, but as a lifelong home to enjoy as they age in place. “We have a few clients who follow us on each new project,” says Masoud. “They sell their old project—because they made a good profit on it—and follow us on new projects. Many other people buy for life because the quality is excellent.”</p>



<p><strong><em>Projects past and present</em></strong><br>One of the firm’s most recent projects was Shannon 18, featuring 18 upscale, three-bedroom townhomes in the city of Vancouver’s west side. The project—like many others from Azora Group—sold out quickly. And like many projects from Azora, Shannon 18 features modern exteriors, private balconies with spectacular views of Vancouver, an open, common space courtyard, and many other gorgeous exterior features.</p>



<p>This developer has kept busy with other available new home locations as well, including West58. Described by Azora as “charming yet vibrant, connected yet tranquil, modern yet timeless,” West58 is being built at 7487 Granville Street. Its family-friendly neighbourhood is known for some of Vancouver’s best public and private schools, and amenities include parks, supermarkets like T&amp;T, and shops of all sizes, including mom-and-pop stores and big box retailers alike.</p>



<p>Encompassing 23 large, well-planned townhomes and charming garden suites, West58 offers clients a choice of gorgeous Junior, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom homes. With stunning modern architectural designs and Hardie accents by Gradual Architecture Inc., many of the homes boast private, third-floor balconies opening to striking views of Vancouver, set above a central courtyard.</p>



<p>Interiors are designed for functionality and aesthetics, with wide-plank hardwood flooring, multi-purpose flex rooms (with direct underground parking access in some homes), open-concept kitchens, inviting and sophisticated bathrooms and ensuites with double vanities and porcelain tile, and other luxurious touches throughout.</p>



<p><strong><em>Classic meets contemporary</em></strong><br>With a reputation for quality and value, many Azora Group developments sell out quickly, and one of the most recent is Brock House. Located at 2310 Brock Street in East Vancouver’s Kensington-Cedar Cottage area, this multi-family development comprises 10 upscale homes—eight are luxury duplexes and two are single-family dwellings.</p>



<p>Brock House homes “offer strong, classic architectural elements and contemporary materials,” according to Azora. Much like other works from the firm, these homes are a culmination of timeless luxury, from chef-inspired kitchens to bathrooms with the look and feel of a spa. Open and welcoming, Brock House homes convey spaciousness, with nine-foot main floor ceilings and large windows providing welcoming natural light and outstanding views. Select units complement this airy feeling with skylights above corridors and staircases, bringing in even more light.</p>



<p>Brock House homes are situated near scenic General Brock Park, providing a perfect balance of natural beauty and handily placed amenities, including a play area for kids, nearby Trout Lake Park and Community Centre, upscale eateries, cafés, and retail offerings.</p>



<p><strong><em>The human touch</em></strong><br>Unlike some property developers, the Sanai brothers are extremely involved in all their projects. The company’s values—integrity, teamwork, and respect—aren’t empty words, but woven into the fabric of Azora’s ethos. “We are always self-performing our work,” says Masoud. “And as a general contractor, we are very hands-on. We regularly visit sites to make sure everything is going in the right direction.”</p>



<p>Farhad, Amir, and Masoud themselves are regularly on construction sites. To ensure project success, every detail, no matter how small, is carefully considered. And while the Sanai brothers each have their own specialities and responsibilities, they present a strong, united front.</p>



<p>This hands-on approach is one of many reasons for Azora’s success, with others including teamwork, well-managed budgets, timing, and planning. In the early days of the pandemic, the company anticipated shipping delays, price increases, and shortages of building materials. This resulted in Azora stocking up on essentials beforehand and keeping its entire team safe throughout.</p>



<p><strong><em>Keeping it personal</em></strong><br>Offering a 10-year warranty, Azora prides itself in striving to do better with every project. “That’s a big advantage we offer,” says Masoud. “Clients are pleased. We also have excellent after-sales service and have personal relationships with many of them.”</p>



<p>To keep clients informed of future projects, Azora maintains an up-to-date website and has a strong social media presence on platforms such as Instagram and YouTube. To celebrate the company’s 15<sup>th</sup> anniversary, the Sanai brothers will host a celebration. “We always do events like barbecues for clients, and it’s great for people to visit us and have some fun.”</p>



<p>In the coming years, the Sanai family sees Azora Group continuing to take on quality, multi-family home projects, including four- to six-storey mixed-use buildings. “But 60 to 70 percent of our business would still be townhouses,” Masoud tells us. “That is our vision.”</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://constructioninfocus.com/2025/05/designed-for-life-made-for-living/">Designed for Life. Made for Living.&lt;p class=&quot;company&quot;&gt;Azora Group&lt;/p&gt;</a> appeared first on <a href="https://constructioninfocus.com">Construction In Focus</a>.</p>
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		<title>Building UnityKodem</title>
		<link>https://constructioninfocus.com/2025/05/building-unity/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Pauline Müller]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 06 May 2025 16:03:47 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Homebuilding & Development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[May 2025]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://constructioninfocus.com/?p=42559</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The world as we knew it—even just a couple of years ago—appears to be changing faster than we can blink. Visionary to its very core, Kodem, based in Montréal, Quebec, has been leading transformation in the local property development industry since 1997. Known for a quintessentially rational yet unapologetically creative approach to design and development, [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://constructioninfocus.com/2025/05/building-unity/">Building Unity&lt;p class=&quot;company&quot;&gt;Kodem&lt;/p&gt;</a> appeared first on <a href="https://constructioninfocus.com">Construction In Focus</a>.</p>
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<p>The world as we knew it—even just a couple of years ago—appears to be changing faster than we can blink. Visionary to its very core, Kodem, based in Montréal, Quebec, has been leading transformation in the local property development industry since 1997. Known for a quintessentially rational yet unapologetically creative approach to design and development, founder Benjamin Sternthal believes that developers, decision-makers, and their proxies must collaborate to safeguard the future of healthy and thriving communities across North America.</p>



<p>While geopolitical conflicts are something most people in the developed world do their best to avoid, reality hit home for Kodem in recent years when the company was called upon to rethink how to achieve embassy-level security through design—while protecting the right to liberty of the occupants of its buildings. “We’re designing in a world out of orbit,” says Sternthal. “It’s a threat to the development industry. You can’t develop effectively when stuff is upside down.”</p>



<p>These sobering events sparked deep reflection—on society’s current mental state, how we got here, and how design can be leveraged to enable social cohesion rather than corrode it. “Things are a bit extreme and out of whack when you start getting into designing schoolyards with bulletproof fences,” Sternthal says, reflecting on a project that followed three attacks on a Toronto school last year.</p>



<p>Reminding readers that North America was built by developers, Sternthal quotes the Dire Straits song, <strong><em>Telegraph Road</em></strong>:</p>



<p><em>“A long time ago came a man on a track</em><br><em>Walking thirty miles with a sack on his back</em><br><em>And he put down his load where he thought it was the best</em><br><em>He made a home in the wilderness…”</em></p>



<p>“This was development on the frontier,” says Sternthal. “Developers transformed North America into what it is today with all its components.” Noting what bad politicians—but great storytellers—developers make, Sternthal is open about his industry&#8217;s undeniable impact on the structure of the urban landscape and its imperative role in its improvement.</p>



<p>He draws inspiration from one of his favorite books, Ayn Rand’s <strong><em>The Fountainhead</em></strong>, which puts forth that, “Throughout the centuries, there were men who took first steps down new roads armed with nothing but their own vision. Their goals differed, but they all had this in common: that the step was first, the road new, the vision unborrowed, and the response they received—hatred. The great creators—the thinkers, the artists, the scientists, the inventors—stood alone against the men of their time. Every great new thought was opposed. Every great new invention was denounced… But the men of unborrowed vision went ahead. They fought, they suffered, and they paid. But they won.”</p>



<p>In multicultural societies, the mandate in a healthy, functional system is, ideally, to create spaces that contribute to the global good of the communities in which they exist—and their economies, either directly or indirectly. But this is not always a simple process. In real-world scenarios, the psychology that drives social violence is often more complex and difficult to quell than textbooks would have us believe.</p>



<p>French philosopher of social science René Girard offers some insight into the dynamic with his famous mimetic theory. According to this theory, a subject copies—or attempts to copy—a model exhibiting an object, in what he calls mimetic desire. Such coveting is believed to be driven by the natural human need for belonging, acceptance, a sense of power, control, or to be regarded as of equal standing or status as the model—rather than genuine proclivity. Typically, when desired resources are limited, conflict follows the competition that stems from such triangulation. That dynamic can, on a social level, turn violent. The function of such resulting violence is to seek relief from the sense of frustration a subject, individually or in a group, suffering mimetic desire experiences.</p>



<p>Throughout history, and more recently, humans have commonly come to know this reaction to social or economic contention as warfare in its many forms. And, while many wars are fought in foreign lands, related conflicts play out on our streets and in our neighbourhoods. It is at this point that abstract philosophies and theories come home to roost, challenging us to climb down from our ivory towers to engage with the human on the other side of the fence.</p>



<p>“How do we translate abstraction into real solutions?” Sternthal asks. Perhaps by looking at history, where we learn that peace cannot be attained by mere talk, but only through truthful action; that wisdom is of no use if not implemented practically; and that there is nothing more noble than unity achieved through self-awareness.</p>



<p>The question then, is how do we cultivate unity in diversity in societies where psychological apartheid is driven by subjects and models who reciprocally exclude, sometimes demonize, and often dehumanize one another? And how do we design communities to support the process of cultivating unity rather than replicating defensive architecture that only deepens social fractures?</p>



<p>“Peace is formed on mutually beneficial agreements. Countries work together because it benefits both countries; they stop working together when it stops benefiting both countries,” Sternthal says, underlining that the same is true for people. As a result, he posits, peaceful co-existence is a learned rather than an innate skill for humans.</p>



<p>“As developers, we study human behavior, trying to understand it in its pure form. We try to create spaces that humans enjoy being in.” For Sternthal, the goal of creating such spaces is to shape a world where people experience positivity. “War is not a positive experience. Fighting is not a positive experience,” he says. “A positive experience is going to a café and having a great conversation with someone. Whether you agree or disagree, you can have a stimulating, interesting conversation.”</p>



<p>That is the crux of effective design at Kodem: space-making that intelligently shapes cradles for human connection and social evolution, where communities can evolve to reach their highest potential. “We turn urban spaces into meaningful places,” he continues. This is by no means just another marketing quip.</p>



<p>Kodem’s tools to achieve such a noble goal are sometimes surprising. From art to volume, intentional traffic flow, seating arrangements, and inviting atmospheres, myriad methods are employed to invite interaction among end users. “In this way, we are able to change people’s lives… Providing spaces where we can guide that human weakness into a better zone of humanity. I really love doing this,” Sternthal tells us.</p>



<p>He points out that creating spaces as huge, protective bubbles is unsustainable. Referring to the popular Disney show <strong><em>Descendants</em></strong>, he compares some modern construction to establishing the utopian kingdom of Auradon, where “the others”—the anti-heroes—end up being villainized and cast onto the Isle of the Lost, all while the two groups descend into eternal archrivalry.</p>



<p>Within this context, the passionate developer compares solving real-life, systemic social ills to protecting humans from darkness. “The only way to destroy evil is by changing evil’s way—not through defenses,” he says.</p>



<p>He suggests that we live in a world where darkness often eclipses light—where humans must learn to be and, ultimately, remember how to remain, light, especially when times become difficult and very little makes sense. “Might has become right,” says Sternthal. “The law of the jungle has taken over society. People [don’t seem] to be questioning this.”</p>



<p>Developing with purpose, he believes, means making spaces that foster the forces of light, in the context of Paulo Coelho’s <strong><em>Manual of the Warrior of Light</em></strong>. “It’s time for those on the sidelines to make a decision. What side do you want to be on? Where do you want to go?”</p>



<p>Which brings him back to asking: how do you develop in such an environment when you don’t want to build infrastructure that ultimately leads to poverty and destruction? Underscoring his belief that most businesspeople make terrible political leaders due to a lack of skills, he does believe in the business sector being run by incredible problem solvers, doers, and advisors.</p>



<p>Despite their typical lack of political prowess, Sternthal is firm in his belief that these businesspeople have an important part to play in changing the world. “Our role is on the ground level,” he says, “changing urban spaces posing potential conflict risks into meaningful places where people can sit and talk and get along. That’s our role.”</p>



<p>At Kodem, building modern cities and institutions where people from all walks of life can create healthy, thriving societies is the only meaningful, genuinely sustainable way forward. “Darkness is one dimensional,” Sternthal asserts. “Light is every color of the rainbow.”</p>



<p>The company has many projects under its belt that model these values. Its iconic buildings create opportunities for people to interact, whether in libraries, gyms, swimming pools, cafés, or gardens. One of its flagship projects, Hemisphere in Pointe-Claire, is a 330-unit rental development and another sterling example of this ethos. Here, two towers are connected by a bridge that houses all their amenities. “I look at the amenities as a crossroads of civilization. It’s where old and young meet and interact in a beautiful space.”</p>



<p>Hampstead Park, a project completed in 2000, is a space where children of all ages can gather to do what children do best: have fun. Another signature development is Solstice Montréal, where the owners’ lounge leads onto a wine cellar, allowing people to connect. Its exercise facilities also have an intentionally open design, creating a visual flow that stimulates participation and interaction between people. And these are just a handful of the many beautiful examples of Kodem’s well-considered, connection-driven design.</p>



<p>The Kodem formula for achieving such effective design is deceptively simple: be clear on the desired outcomes. Here, that desired outcome is always to weave magic and logic in perfect synergy. Therefore, Sternthal’s art of design is vested in creating a dialogue between streetscapes and living spaces—timeless, effective designs that seamlessly blend into the legacies and histories of those who call them home in ways that will render these buildings relevant generations from now. “As developers, we need to paint a story to society of what a better way of living is. And then create the physical forms and spaces to live that way.”</p>



<p>As a patron of the arts, Kodem proudly features exquisite, often custom works by local artists in its buildings, not only enhancing aesthetic value but adding permanence to its projects. By creating such beauty, people&#8217;s sense of well-being is instantly elevated, welcoming light into the human experience. The point? Considering the resources available to humans today, Sternthal sees no reason why humanity should regress to living in caves, either psychologically or physically, ever again.</p>



<p>Considering the influence of real estate development on every aspect of urban life as we know it, Sternthal is clear about its power to transform and correct the direction society is heading in. Quoting the film <strong><em>Raya and the Last Dragon</em></strong>, he reminds us that coming together to build is a choice, love is a bridge, and trust is a gift.</p>



<p>“There’s energy in the human connection. Magic is collaboration and a legacy in creating spaces that unite rather than divide. Disney got it right,” he says. “That’s how developers can help society. That’s what we should be doing now more than ever. That’s the language we should be talking.”</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://constructioninfocus.com/2025/05/building-unity/">Building Unity&lt;p class=&quot;company&quot;&gt;Kodem&lt;/p&gt;</a> appeared first on <a href="https://constructioninfocus.com">Construction In Focus</a>.</p>
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		<title>Where Luxury Meets LivabilityHarrison Homes</title>
		<link>https://constructioninfocus.com/2025/05/where-luxury-meets-livability/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Robert Hoshowsky]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 06 May 2025 16:01:44 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homebuilding & Development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[May 2025]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://constructioninfocus.com/?p=42553</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Founded on years of residential construction and development experience, Harrison Homes prides itself on being a single-source solution builder. Unlike other homebuilders in the Atlanta area, Harrison Homes handles all aspects of the building process with care and professionalism. From acquiring land, entitlements, and site development, to designing floor plans and executing the construction, Harrison [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://constructioninfocus.com/2025/05/where-luxury-meets-livability/">Where Luxury Meets Livability&lt;p class=&quot;company&quot;&gt;Harrison Homes&lt;/p&gt;</a> appeared first on <a href="https://constructioninfocus.com">Construction In Focus</a>.</p>
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<p>Founded on years of residential construction and development experience, <strong><em><a href="https://harrisonatl.com/">Harrison Homes</a></em></strong> prides itself on being a single-source solution builder. Unlike other homebuilders in the Atlanta area, Harrison Homes handles all aspects of the building process with care and professionalism. From acquiring land, entitlements, and site development, to designing floor plans and executing the construction, Harrison Homes is renowned for developing stunning single-family neighborhoods and townhome communities of exceptional quality.</p>



<p>As a respected residential design-build firm, Harrison Homes prides itself on handling all aspects of the building process, from initial design to completion. This includes everything from site development to architectural designs and floor plans, permitting, preconstruction services, interior and exterior selections, and vertical construction. These services, and myriad others, have resulted in Harrison Homes creating properties which are not only striking to look at but are built to last.</p>



<p>“Harrison Homes stands out for timeless yet forward-thinking design, and exceptional craftsmanship of our homes,” says the company’s Vice President of Operations, Andrew Hartman. “Our close-knit team of residential construction professionals is deeply committed to building homes the right way. We work with the most skilled trade partners out there, who understand Harrison’s quality expectations.”</p>



<p>And where other homebuilders often use outside architects, Harrison Homes has its own highly experienced in-house architect. “This allows us to offer a true design-build experience, streamlining the process for our clients,” states Hartman. “It also gives us the ability to move quickly and efficiently through the architectural phase, adapt to changes in real time, and collaborate seamlessly across teams. In the end, that saves our clients time and money without sacrificing quality.”</p>



<p>Established in 2007, Harrison Homes has built a reputation for creating outstanding homes featuring gorgeous amenities and superior finishes that are second to none. From living areas and kitchens to bedrooms and bathrooms, and even garages, no detail is too small. Stepping into a Harrison Homes property is an experience in luxury. One example is the East Village project in Roswell, comprising 74 upscale townhomes.</p>



<p>In mid-2024, Harrison Homes started vertical construction of the 74 upscale townhomes. Located along Holcomb Bridge Road, the three-story townhomes are part of the East Village suburban infill redevelopment spearheaded by ECI Group, a well-known privately owned real estate organization. The townhomes are developed by Milepost Development, and Harrison Homes is behind the design and construction of the two, three, and four-bedroom townhomes, which range in size from 1,277 to 1,996 square feet. Like other Harrison Homes developments, the East Village townhomes will appeal to a broad clientele, from singles to professional couples, and families to empty nesters.</p>



<p>“We included several elevated features that set this community apart: 10-foot ceilings in the main living areas, oversized kitchen islands with quartz countertops, and shaker-style cabinetry,” says Hartman. Spa-inspired bathrooms include freestanding soaking tubs and double vanities, and every home comes with a full two-car garage with electric vehicle (EV) charging capabilities. And to make everyday living more convenient, smart home technologies—including programmable thermostats and video doorbells—are included.</p>



<p>“Even the closets are upgraded for better organization and usability,” says Hartman. “Milepost Development’s goal was to provide a luxury living experience for renters—one that balances comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal—and I believe we delivered exactly that, and in a location that offers great schools and access to dining, retail, and transportation hubs.”</p>



<p>Inside, additional features include luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, spacious walk-in pantries, stainless steel Whirlpool appliance packages, gas ranges, walk-in showers, and an included full-size washer and dryer. Outside, owners will appreciate the expansive courtyard views and fenced yards that come with every home.</p>



<p>Along with the East Village townhomes, Harrison Homes is also behind Sunland Park Brookhaven. An exciting new bespoke home design project, Sunland Park is the embodiment of contemporary living.</p>



<p>“A Hudson Brown LLC development, Sunland Park is a boutique collection of five luxury homes in the heart of Brookhaven, and we couldn’t be more excited about how they turned out,” says Hartman. Designed and built by Harrison Homes in collaboration with Design South Interiors, all five Sunland Park homes were thoughtfully crafted “to reflect what today’s homeowners are really looking for—function, beauty, and quality in every detail,” he adds.</p>



<p>Like other Harrison Homes developments, Sunland Park Brookhaven seamlessly blends beautiful design elements with day-to-day conveniences. At over 3,700 square feet, these five-bedroom single-family homes feature stunning elevated design elements including custom cabinetry, statement lighting, and show-stopping countertops. “We really leaned into mixing timeless architectural features with trend-forward touches, so the spaces feel both fresh and classic,” Hartman explains. Upon entering a Sunland Park Brookhaven home, you are struck by the open layout designed to maximize natural light and create a great flow. A dramatic, two-story foyer with a stunning chandelier greets the eye. Homeowners and guests are impressed by the spacious floorplan, fresh colors, modern lighting, and premium engineered hardwoods.</p>



<p>From there, further discoveries include a mudroom, a guest suite with full bathroom, a formal dining room, “and a dream kitchen that opens to a spacious living room with a built-in wet bar,” says Hartman. Gourmet kitchens include GE Monogram appliances, spacious quartz countertops, and eye-catching islands. This then leads to sliding doors and a covered patio with a fireplace for seamless indoor/outdoor living.</p>



<p>“Outside, the home exteriors are designed to complement each other and the natural surroundings, creating a cohesive and beautiful streetscape,” says Hartman. Upstairs, there are four additional bedrooms with bathrooms, a dedicated space for a home office or child’s playroom, a laundry room, and a gorgeous primary suite. For those wanting even more space, the basement can be finished to create an additional bedroom, bath, and flex space.</p>



<p>Other standout features include spa-like primary bathrooms with oversized rain showers, and custom built-ins and storage throughout the home. And as always, location is key, with the homes located a brief walk from Brookhaven’s best restaurants, shopping, entertainment venues, and a great deal more. “We’re proud to bring these homes to life,” comments Hartman. “They’re a true reflection of Harrison’s dedication to great design and quality craftsmanship.”</p>



<p>As a full-service design-build firm, Harrison Homes provides a streamlined approach to both single-family homes and townhome developments. This includes in-house architecture services, interior design, construction, and procurement under one roof. “This integrated process allows us to deliver a superior client experience and exceptional quality at every step,” says Hartman.</p>



<p>“We have some exciting for-sale communities in the pipeline for 2025/2026 and are looking to partner with more developers. We’re excited about what’s ahead and remain committed to building homes that stand the test of time in both form and function.”</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://constructioninfocus.com/2025/05/where-luxury-meets-livability/">Where Luxury Meets Livability&lt;p class=&quot;company&quot;&gt;Harrison Homes&lt;/p&gt;</a> appeared first on <a href="https://constructioninfocus.com">Construction In Focus</a>.</p>
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