Recognition
Voted North Idaho's best residential builder.
In 2026, readers across North Idaho voted Onyx & Oak Homes 1st Place Builder-Residential in The Business Journal of North Idaho's Best of 2026 awards. Here's the award, and the interview that ran alongside it.
Best Residential Builder
1st Place, Builder-Residential
Voted by readers across North Idaho and announced in the Best of 2026 Winners Guide, carried in the Coeur d'Alene Press.
The interview
Six questions about how we build.
The Business Journal asked Clint about starting the company, what sets it apart, and what he looks for in the people he hires. His answers, in his words.
How did you get started?
Too often, homeowners experience confusion, shifting budgets, or inconsistent communication during construction. I believed there was room in North Idaho for a builder who combined craftsmanship with leadership, accountability, and structure. From the beginning, our goal has been simple: raise the standard in quality, communication, and integrity.
What makes you stand out from the competition?
We approach custom home building with leadership and structure. Building a home is one of the largest investments a family will ever make, and it deserves more than good intentions. It requires systems, clarity, and disciplined execution. What sets us apart is our commitment to raising the standard in North Idaho. We combine craftsmanship with detailed pre-construction planning, transparent budgeting, and consistent communication. We are selective about the projects we take on so we can deliver at a high level, not just beautiful homes but a well-managed experience from start to finish.
Who inspired you?
I've always been inspired by leaders who prioritize long-term reputation over short-term gain. In construction especially, trust compounds over time. Builders who focus on doing things the right way, even when it's harder, ultimately build more than homes. They build credibility. That philosophy guides every decision we make at Onyx & Oak Homes.
What are some of the traits you look for when hiring?
Ownership, craftsmanship, and character. We look for people who take responsibility, communicate clearly, and care deeply about doing things the right way, even when no one is watching. Skills can be developed, and we invest in that growth. What cannot be compromised is our standard for integrity, accountability, and work ethic.
What customer compliments please you most?
One of the most meaningful compliments we receive is, “You made this process feel organized and predictable.” Building a custom home is complex. When clients say they felt informed, prepared, and supported throughout the journey, that tells us we're delivering on our promise.
Is there anything upcoming we should know about?
As North Idaho continues to grow, we remain focused on maintaining a high standard while thoughtfully expanding our team and refining our systems. We are currently booking select 2027 custom home projects and continuing to invest in processes that elevate the client experience.
These answers are from an interview published in the Best of 2026 Winners Guide by The Business Journal of North Idaho, March 28, 2026.
Where we belong
Member Associations
Membership isn't an award, but it's how we stay current on code, training, and the trades we build with.
