An interview with Cory Marchese, CEO & Master Builder

1.What do you like most about your job?
There’s a lot I like about what I do – the physicality, the problem solving, the people. But if I had to pick one thing: it’s that it’s always changing. I certainly never have a dull day at work! 

2.What sets Marchese Construction apart from the competition?
The integrity of our crew. I’ve been lucky enough to have most of the same guys on my crew for more than a decade. We’re a tight team and we take a lot of pride in what we do. For an industry that gets a lot of flak for dishonest business practices, Marchese Construction is a shining example of just how wrong that stereotype can be. Our clients consistently give us the highest marks for the transparency of our business practices and open and honest communication. 
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3.What’s the one thing you wish all homeowners knew?
Relax and trust the process and your crew. Building is not for the faint of heart – especially residential remodeling. As soon as you start opening up old walls, you tend to make surprising discoveries – some good, some bad, and all easily navigated by the right crew. So no matter what's uncovered on your project, take a deep breath and relax. If you're working with the right team, you will wind up with a finished space that exceeds your expectations.

4.What’s your favorite project ever completed?
I’d have to say that it was my house in Orinda, California. After years of building for other people, it was incredibly rewarding to be able to create the space of my dreams – open, light and full of character – a fun and funky mix of modern and rustic finishings. 

5.What building trends are you currently seeing today?
Open floor plans continue to be all the rage and many of our clients are looking for ways to open their space. We're also working with a lot of clients that are looking for ways to create in-law or guest houses on their property in the form of garage conversions and basement remodels. Lastly, with Bay Area housing prices at a premium, we're continuing to see a lot of additions for growing families that would rather stay put in their homes than incur the costs associated with a move. 

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