We were first introduced to Claxton + Marsh in the course of our searching for a new home to build in Guelph for our family of four. We happened to come across their model home on ? Drive. The photos we saw of the model reflected an exquisite space with modern sensibilities and very creative and tasteful finishes. We made arrangements to meet the principles of Claxton + Marsh at the house shortly thereafter.
The purchase of a home, unlike a house, particularly one of this size and cost, involves considerations beyond marketing material and a nice model. It requires confidence in the competence, vision and skill of the builder and trust in his integrity. Those qualities were evident during the course of our very long discussion with Shawn in which we shared with him our vision and hope. It took a surprisingly brief period of time for us to come to an agreement on the construction of a home, the size, design and finish of which was yet to be determined. And there it began.
Shawn quickly introduced us to a wonderful architect named David Small and we began the design process. Shawn and Eve remained personally involved, meeting with us and the architect whenever required. The design was quickly finalized, a contract negotiated, and work begun.
The construction of a home, like any new relationship, begins with feelings of euphoria and excitement. And, like any relationship, over time, with the diminishment in excitement comes the inevitable stumbling blocks and challenges. Such issues arose in this project from time to time and on each occasion, Shawn and Eve were accessible, informative and creative. They were focused on the resolution of issues and issues were resolved. Despite the fact that Shawn was working on a number of projects we never felt that the construction of our home was of secondary importance. In this respect, Claxton + Marsh was capable of managing the various projects it was working on efficiently and effectively. The project proceeded at an appropriate pace and we sought and were invariably given wonderful advice about options and finishes as the project unfolded. More significantly, Shawn was so concerned about the quality and finish of this project – the integrity of his work – that he was prepared to invest his own time and material in improvement and finishes that in some cases exceeded our budget, but improved the property. I have never encountered a builder that was prepared to assume the cost and expense personally of various aspects of the work in order to ensure that the completed projected reflected the very best he was able to provide. In this respect, the project proceeded like a partnership in which we would share in the pride of construction and ownership at the conclusion of the project. We could not have expected more. And indeed, we expected considerably less.
Upon completion of the project, Shawn and his team were constantly available to us to address the inevitable issues that arose. They were responsive and helpful. Finishes or touches that didn’t quite work were redone until they were just right. They made a difficult process tolerable.
Ultimately, this home is more than we expected and an enormous joy. We are very grateful to Shawn and his team for their hard work and dedication and commend him to you and your organization as displaying the highest degree of integrity and skill.
