Saint Claire Design Concepts focuses on custom residential construction and renovation services. Saint Claire uses a design-build approach from concept to master plan, budget and feasibility studies to design and construction.
“We build what we design,” said George Fernández, founding principal of the company. “We are big on the design part.”
Fernández is a general contractor with a difference. He brings a sense of design and decades of experience to the business. A native of Cuba, Fernández came to the U.S. during the Pedro Pan Project in 1962. He honed his skills in his uncle’s woodwork shop where he learned millwork making everything from practical casement windows to ornate church altars. He also worked as a janitor in a company that made roof trusses. His natural talent for sketching cartoons and mechanical drawings — which he shared with his co-workers — landed him a new position with the same company as a draftsman.
Fernández left the woodwork shop at age 20 and began working for the hotel design firm Jeffrey Howard and Associates. By age 25, he was the lead draftsman. In 1983, he was recruited by local developers and he subsequently became licensed as a general contractor.
“I have always been involved in my trade,” said Fernández.
The concept for a home-based office appealed to him and he decided to take the plunge in 2003, developing a boutique team of sub-contractors to work with him, a hands-on GC.
Saint Claire Design Concepts uses a full turnkey approach to their upscale construction and renovation projects. Whatever is required for a given assignment, Saint Claire will facilitate the process from landscape design to interior finishes with meticulous detail. Their designs range from traditional to contemporary, based upon the client’s input.
Saint Claire understands the challenges and anxieties that accompany a large project like designing and installing a new kitchen or bath. Turning old Florida ranch homes into new and unique living environments is a specialty of the company. They also take great pride in their reputation for transforming luxury condos into one-of-a-kind residences; to create something far removed from the cookie-cutter appearance that often de-personalizes condominiums.
An outstanding quality of Fernández’s approach is his ability to keep the overall look and feel of his completed projects inviting, approachable and ready for people to enjoy.
“I am absolutely dedicated to what I do,” said Fernández.
Saint Claire Design Concepts is located at 8510 SW 124 St. For more information call 305-253-9323 or go to saintclaire.net.
