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Builder/Architect
June 2007 |
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J. Metcalf Construction
Building Lasting Relationships from
Solid Foundations
By Kay Wilthew
Joe Metcalf believes the construction business encompasses two very important concepts: Constructing high-quality premier custom homes, renovations and commercial projects, and forming lasting relationships with his clients. But more important are the relationships J. Metcalf Construction forms with architects and subcontractors, professional partners who consistently praise Metcalf's business ethic and project management skills, and recommend his company's services to their own clients.
Metcalf, founder and CEO, describes the custom home industry as an "interesting, challenging and forever-changing business." He understands that builders must think through every detail, always keeping the client and architect's goals in focus. Metcalf recognized organization as a critical component of a successful construction implementation, and embraced a new project management approach. He has transitioned his company to include a project manager who provides his field superintendents with timely information from the architects, interior designers and owners. |
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Joe Metcalf, founder and CEO of J. Metcalf Construction
(Photos by Bruce Schneider) |
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This process allows superintendents to focus on daily scheduling and management of subcontractors to maintain high-quality standards. Metcalf's knowledgeable office staff compiles this information into a room-by-room interior finish spreadsheet made available to all the trades. The interior designer and owner use this template to fill in the blanks. The ultimate goal is keeping all members of the team informed, and ensuring complete satisfaction by guiding the customer through each phase of the decision-making process. "We're all real people, and our clients respect what we do. They respect our professionalism and understand we're here to partner with them."
Of Metcalf's many projects, the most prominent is a 17,000-square-foot environmentally designed home, constructed utilizing green building technology and materials. Metcalf and the property owner, a former civil engineer, spent a year and a half extensively researching new systems and products. "We researched methods, new materials and concepts for home building and visited several sites, including homes in Washington state, to see firsthand these products in use. We did a lot of front-end work before we ever broke ground on the project."
The result is an exclusive, three-level custom home boasting five bedrooms and eight bathrooms. Unique to this California home is a basement and underground garage. Environmental solutions include energy-efficient insulated concrete form (ICF) walls, solar roof tiles, radiant heat floors and light gauge steel framing, reducing maintenance and maximizing efficiency. Metcalf praises the owners for their involvement throughout the life of the three-year project. "These were great people, great clients and a lot of fun to work with." This project was recognized by The Town of Danville and awarded the 2005 Design Award for "Outstanding Green Building Design."
Exterior rear yard of Danville estate home.Exterior rear yard of Danville estate home.
Imported stone tile floors with matching slab fireplace-surround and extensive millwork highlight the formal entry of this Danville residence.
Kitchen features maple cabinetry, natural stone countertops, hand scraped walnut hardwood flooring, professional appliances including a pasta sink.
Metcalf's company was subsequently selected by a Walnut Creek couple to construct a unique home with a natural, earthy feel. The owners noticed Metcalf's work on a neighboring project, and at the recommendation of their architect, approached Metcalf to build their own home. "This was an enjoyable and distinctive project," recalls Metcalf. "The home included an indoor atrium complete with a waterfall, koi fish, a dehumidifier system and fiber optic lights to simulate stars. Random slate inlayed stone floors and bamboo flooring were also used, and lots of stone and tile in the bathrooms; many really unique features."
With available new construction land dwindling, redesigns of existing structures are on the rise. Metcalf averages two complete tear down/rebuilds per year along with other extensive remodels. A recent endeavor in Alamo began as a 1,000-square-foot addition but ultimately encompassed other areas of the home. "This project spilled over into the backyard," says Metcalf. "My project manager is an experienced designer, so we worked with the owner to create a backyard cabana and fireplace. When the owners decided to remodel their existing pool, we coordinated and scheduled all of that work as well." Metcalf finds the design-build aspect intriguing. "We now offer a design-build service in-house, partnering with an interior designer to bring the construction side, the design piece and interior design services together under one roof. This is a unique concept that I feel will fit the needs of some of our clients well."
Metcalf's 17-year business philosophy reflects a direct connection between the quality and integrity of his work and the friendships he cultivates with clients and architects. Metcalf's wife Lori, a partner in the firm, echoes Metcalf's sentiment. "We end up as friends with our clients. We really get to know them. It's all intertwined." Metcalf's adaptability to changing demands in the home building trade has earned J. Metcalf Construction prominence in the industry, and the trust and friendship of partners and clients alike.
J. Metcalf Construction is located at 2545 W. 10th St., Ste L, in Antioch, CA 94509. Call (925) 754-4471 or visit jmetcalfconstruction.com for more information.
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This inviting entry features a tree carved into the random slate stone floor. |
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Addition/remodel of Alamo residence featuring new game room with cedar ceiling, wood tempered beams, custom paint and tile flooring. Room opens to remodeled pool, outdoor fireplace and arbor. |
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Features of this master bath shower are 10 body sprays, waterfall with fiber optic lighting, rain head and steam shower.Features of this master bath shower are 10 body sprays, waterfall with fiber optic lighting, rain head and steam shower. |
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This luxury Danville estate features many green building technologies including ICF exterior walls, solar roof tiles, light gauge steel framing and radiant heat flooring. |
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This unique Walnut Creek home has a natural earthly feel featuring an indoor atrium, waterfall and koi fishpond. |
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