Roger Cesario, owner of Copper Creek Homes, is a long-standing local builder in Crested Butte, Colorado dedicated to quality above all else. He is used to building for discerning clients and architects who value the highest level of craftsmanship and has built a team of experienced professionals who are more focused on being the best in the industry than the biggest. Selected as one of Mountain Living’s Top 100 Mountain Builders, it’s no surprise that his team was selected to build 1251 Skyland Drive, Crested Butte, CO.
We asked Roger about the current building environment in Crested Butte, his experience working on 1251 Skyland Drive, and how building in the valley has changed.
Q & A
What was unique about your experience working on 1251 Skyland Drive?
The owner allowed us to be creative and think outside the box, the timber work is unique to the owner and the combination of rustic and contemporary blend very well together.
In your opinion, what sets this home apart from others in the area?
The location is fantastic. Obviously, there are spectacular views in our valley, but this lot is unique in its views of town and the vastness of the valley, creating great sunsets, storm views, etc.
What goes into building a home like 1251 Skyland Drive? What is important to consider before beginning a project of this size and quality?
Planning is super important, hitting key dates and preparing to start at the appropriate time in the spring. Our environment is challenging to build large projects and starting in May or June is key as we must work outside at least one winter. This requires finished plans from an architect 4-6 months in advance to allow us enough time to complete an extensive budget and possibly make changes that require going back to the architect and/or structural engineer and still hit a key start date.
How long does it take to build a high-end home in Crested Butte currently?
Conception to breaking ground can take a year or more and build times are currently two years and longer for complicated projects like this.
How has this process changed in the past 10 years, if at all?
All aspects take longer from getting plans from the architect and engineer to receiving HOA approvals and a building permit. Our subbase is overwhelmed in our small sandbox and that can also extend time to completion.
Can you provide insight on how replacement costs have changed?
Building costs have increased significantly in the past five years. We assign a value to living square footage, garage square footage, and outdoor space in our initial estimates with every project being unique. We then do a comprehensive budgeting process looking into the future as opposed to the past.
I would expect the build cost to be at a 75-85% increase from when 1251 Skyland Drive was built which would also be reflected in the selling costs of homes today compared to 2013, both numbers have an impact on creating a market.
What are the biggest misconceptions about building in Crested Butte?
A lot of clients don’t understand the environmental challenges with building in our valley, we are always coming out of snow season or heading towards it, they are not considering snow in August if they are in Texas. All our work is custom and different from building in most other areas. There are great craftsmen in the Gunnison Valley as good as anywhere in the country.
Any advice you give clients interested in hiring CCH?
Planning is the best advice I can give and do your homework. It is buyer beware out there with who you hire as a builder, an architect, and a realtor.
As with any big decision, and certainly in real estate, it is crucial to be informed. Kiley Flint of the Crested Butte Collection works with several leading industry professionals in Crested Butte and the Gunnison Valley. If you have any questions about building property, buying, or selling real estate, our team can help provide information or connect you with the right source.