____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Merit Homes
conditioning and heated tile floors . These amenities are traditionally installed as later additions with other builders , but our homes come with them included , making the process much easier for clients .”
Finding the right subcontractors ensures the quality of Merit Homes ’ properties . As Josh explains : “ We have a dedicated group of subcontractors that go from project to project . We like to maintain strong relationships with multiple local subcontractors , so we can choose the right people for each individual job . One of the challenges we ’ ve faced over the last few years is finding skilled laborers in specific trade areas . Less young people are choosing to learn the trades , which is something we have noticed over the last few years . To ensure we keep the best people working on our homes , we offer our subcontractors regular , reliable work . We build around 30 homes a year , which makes us an attractive partner for people in those trade sectors .”
A blend of natural elements
Combining expert craftsmanship with contemporary flair ensures the company ’ s ongoing success . Thoughtful , dedicated design work is at the heart of each Merit Homes property , as Josh discusses . “ We ’ ve really established ourselves as the go-to home builders for Northwest contemporary style . We are known for bold exteriors , with beautifully crafted butterfly roofs and exposed wood beams . Inside , there are large floor to ceiling windows and skylights , which let in lots of natural light . In the Pacific Northwest , the weather is quite cloudy and so these design elements are included to maximize the amount of sunlight coming into the home .
“ Our kitchens in our signature homes are centered around gorgeous , oversized islands . These are big feature pieces , and people love them . Additionally , our primary suites are inspired by high-end spas . They have all the amenities you need to make your bedroom a sanctuary , almost separate from the rest of the home . The houses we build feel very contemporary , we like to say , ‘ this isn ’ t your parent ’ s home ’. It ’ s something new .”
Broadened horizons
With an established reputation for producing high-end housing , Merit Homes is now working to make luxury living more accessible , as Josh reveals : “ We ’ ve recently branched out into more approachable luxury housing with our new cottage product , the Urban Series . While these are slightly smaller spaces , they still remain luxury minded . The idea is to make something attainable without comprising our signature design or floorplan function . We maintain a focus on natural light , with our signature floor to ceiling windows , and to blend the outdoor with the indoor we use earth tones and natural materials . The cottages are very soothing and social — they are full of open spaces that can be used to gather and entertain . In the primary suite we ’ ve maintained that spa-like feel , so people will always have somewhere private , just for themselves . It ’ s a really desirable product for a lot of people .”
Looking forward to the future , Josh describes where he sees Merit Homes in five years ’ time . “ Our strategy going forward is a little bit different to others in the industry . I ’ m the sole owner , so I ’ m not looking to grow the business into building 100 homes a year . I want to maintain and protect what we have . It would be nice to see some steady , manageable growth . Merit Homes has a tremendous team behind it , so I want to keep investing in our people . Additionally , the company will continue to invest in our products to remain at the cutting edge of contemporary home design ,” he concludes . ■
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