Another Award for Kellow Construction!
We are thrilled to share that Kellow Construction has won the Residential Remodel (Up to $750K) Award from the Santa Barbara Contractors Association! This recognition means so much to us, especially given the level of competition, over 40 submissions from 25 members across 15 categories. The event was a celebration of craftsmanship, innovation, and commitment to excellence, and we are deeply honored to be among this year’s winners. This achievement adds another milestone to our journey of becoming an award-winning remodeling company.
You can read more about the awards on the SBCA Blog.
A Project with Purpose
The award-winning project, “Stunning, Resilient Home”, was completed before the devastating LA fires, yet fire resilience was at the heart of its design. We wanted to push beyond aesthetics and truly prioritize the longevity and safety of this home. The judging panel evaluated entries based on craftsmanship, creative problem-solving, inspiration, and environmental sensitivity, four values that guided us from day one.
This project wasn’t without its challenges. Finding the right team to bring our vision to life required persistence, adaptability, and a whole lot of problem-solving. But in the end, we delivered something truly special; an elegant, fire-resistant home that blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings while standing ready for the realities of California’s fire-prone landscape.
Building for the Future
Our Torito Road project represents the shift we believe is critical in today’s building industry: integrating fire-resistant, sustainable materials to protect both homeowners and the environment. This isn’t about if a fire happens, it’s about when. By embracing this mindset, we can move toward a future where homes are not just beautiful, but built to withstand the elements. Winning prestigious remodeling awards like this one, motivates us to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation and sustainability.
At Kellow Construction, we take pride in pushing the boundaries of quality craftsmanship and ecological responsibility. This project stands as a testament to that mission. We utilized Class A fire-rated materials, including:
Densglass exterior wall sheathing
Corten corrugated metal siding and roofing (an excellent choice for fire-prone areas, blending beautifully with the landscape)
Dolly Varden thermally modified cedar paneling
Tru Exterior Poly Ash trim (a sustainable, durable alternative to wood)
Inside, we introduced our clients to Vasari Plaster, an all-natural alternative to drywall that’s not only better for the planet but also elevates the warmth and texture of interior spaces. While traditional drywall is the more affordable choice, we successfully incorporated Vasari Plaster because we believe in long-term value, both in durability and environmental impact.
This project reflects the kind of work we love to do: blending resilience, sustainability, and timeless design to create homes that serve generations to come. By using smarter materials, we not only protect homeowners but also ease the burden on local firefighters, who too often face the impossible task of defending homes designed like matchboxes.
A Community Effort
A huge thank you to TradArt for donating the beautifully crafted wooden plaques awarded to winners. We also extend our appreciation to the esteemed judges who recognize the importance of innovation and resilience in our industry.
Winning this award is an incredible honor, but more than that, it reinforces our mission: to build homes that are as strong and enduring as they are beautiful. Here’s to many more projects that challenge the norm and redefine what’s possible in construction!
Sincerely,
Emily Kellow
