Our values are the foundation of our firm.
Design and Building Background
RIC design build was started in 2008 by Matthew Warner. Straddling the architecture and construction worlds, Matthew received a BS and Masters in architecture while working in the construction field. At RIC, Matthew has built a team dedicated to reviving older homes so they will be here for another hundred years.
Sustainable, Healthy Design
We focus on sustainable design practices that extend the life of historic homes. We respect the age and architecture of the home, while giving homeowners the modern and energy efficient updates they need. Our approach is a holistic one - considering all aspects of a home’s “health” regardless of project size.
Individualized Attention
RIC is a small company, and we’re proud of that. Because of our size, we only take on a handful of projects at any given time so that we can give our clients the individualized attention they need to get their projects done in a timely manner.
Building a Foundation of Trust
The nature of our work is to be in your home and around your family during the construction process, so we do everything possible to respect your space and ensure you and your family are comfortable throughout the project. Your home is never worked on without the supervision of an RIC team member.
At RIC, people really matter to us.
RIC design build is a purposefully small company. We enjoy focusing our attention on a few clients at a time, so we can give them the individualized creativity and time they need. Find out more about our intensely committed and talented team.
THE RIC TEAM
Matt Warner
Founder / Owner / Designer / Builder
Matt’s time is divided between developing new business, meeting with clients and making sure construction work is running smoothly. He enjoys spending time on the job sites, overseeing the building process and ensuring his clients are happy. What he enjoys most about his work is the direct contact with homeowners and helping them realize their vision and leaving the house in better shape than when he started. When he’s not designing and building custom renovations, he enjoys spending time with his wife and three children and training for his next marathon.
Marc’s picture is coming soon!
Marc Barany
Lead Carpenter
From forestry research to lumber purchasing to carpentry, Marc’s unique and varied professional background revolves around a passion for what good wood can create. Having worked for the U.N. and Nature Conservancy in forestry research, he has an eye on sustainable materials and design. Marc pitches in with any day-to-day task on the job site, whether it’s rough or trim carpentry. To him every part of the job is enjoyable as long as it’s working toward a well-built design. The problem solving and collaboration required in our line of work is where Marc thrives, but he’s also a fan of the sawdust, noise, occasional pain and the flow state that comes with a well-oiled team. He’s also a fan of long bike rides, campfires, cats, tea, meditation and building science.
Dustin van de Veerdonk
Carpenter
Dustin was looking for an opportunity to grow his skills as a carpenter, which is what led him to make the move from custom interior door production to full-scale construction here at RIC. Now you’ll find him moving deftly between projects doing framing, windows, doors, trim work and demo. The payoff for him is seeing designs brought to life while working alongside a supportive crew. When he’s not doing that, you might find him rock climbing, building furniture or spending time with family and friends.
Bronwen Warner
Design Manager
Bronwen’s background at architectural firms had her working on projects from large master planning to vacation homes to multifamily developments. Despite this wide array of experience, she has always gravitated toward smaller scale projects and residential work. Bronwen works directly with our clients to help create customized solutions for their needs that consider everything from neighborhood connections to tile to light fixtures and everything in between. Matt and Bronwen have been designing and brainstorming together since their first college studios many years ago, and they continue to do the same today at RIC. When she’s not designing for RIC, Bronwen is exploring the outdoors with her three energetic kids, taking road trips around Virginia and the country and exploring a wide variety of creative pursuits including painting, drawing, sewing and print making.
Rowland Taylor
Carpenter
A man of few words, but many talents, Rowland came to RIC from the landscaping industry. While the daily tasks may be a little different, including doing demo, framing, trim work and site cleaning, the end results and Rowland’s favorite part of his job are the same: the satisfaction of solving a problem and leaving something better than you found it. Outside of construction he enjoys music and art.
Bruce Hall
Carpenter
Picture and bio coming soon!
Colin Hague
Lead Carpenter
Colin, a veteran builder, brings over 13 years of carpentry experience to the team. As Lead Carpenter, he plays a key role in coordinating work between schedules and subcontractors while mentoring newer carpenters in advanced techniques and ensuring quality control. Before joining RIC, Colin worked at VCU and spent time honing his craft in Wyoming. He finds great satisfaction in working with his hands and seeing tangible progress each day. Outside of work, Colin enjoys traveling, live music, and spending time on the James River.
Chad Howard
Lead Carpenter
Picture and bio coming soon!
Cole’s picture is coming soon!
Cole Allen
Carpenter
With a background in framing and drywall, Cole is a great technical addition to the RIC team. While he enjoys the process and hands-on nature of building things, his favorite part of the job is the pride of being able to stand back and see the results of that hard work. When he’s not on-site, he’s traveling to see live music, gaming or finding a reason to be outdoors.
Austin Bell
Designer
Picture and bio coming soon!