Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/1471250
Manitoba Home Builders' Association Celebrates 85 Years 25 BY TODD LEWYS It would be fair to say that Alair Homes' Warren Koop's love of building is as natural to him as breathing. "My dad Vern started building in the 1970s, and as a young boy I remember him coming home and noticing his weathered hands and how he smelled of wood when he gave me a hug," Koop recalls. "By the age of five, I'd often accompany him at a job site or just go along for a ride in his truck. He was always ready to show us a better way to build." As gifted as Vern Koop was as a builder, he recognized that technical knowledge was only part of what a builder had to offer a client. The other part was getting to know a customer so he could get a better handle on who they were. In his mind, it was the only way to build a home that truly fit a client's personality and met their individual wants and needs. "He was always about building something, particularly relationships and community," says Koop. "Vern did those two things when he was involved in the development, Pritchard Farm Properties, built hundreds of homes, cottages and buildings for Palliser, plus Camp Arnes and later as construction manager for Habitat for Humanity during his 60-year career, including many builds with former U.S. president Jimmy Carter." Not surprisingly, those unique skills — along with traits such as patience and a tireless work ethic — were passed down to Warren. "All those unique skills and traits stuck with me, and I've worked hard to instill these qualities with our highly experienced group of Red Seal carpenters and career and professional athletes that make up our team at Alair Homes. Our goal is to continue to use all those best practices as we move forward." One of those best practices involves educating clients, adds Koop. "We're dedicated to educating clients on the ins and outs of construction, including sustainable construction methods and passive and net zero methodology," he explains. "Our building process is highly collaborative and transparent. We will always strive to maintain the legacy of professionalism, passion and willingness to give back that Vern created." In essence, Warren and his team at Alair Homes are dedicated to utilizing all those best practices to build homes that are functional, beautiful and special for whoever they might be building them for. "It's all about the client and the idea they have for a home, no matter how large or small it might be," Koop says. "We want to make their dream come true, so we help clients work through all the challenges that come with building a home. It's not a simple task. As much as it requires technical expertise, the personal element is also important. Communication is essential to ensure success." Suffice it to say Koop and his team are ready to go the extra mile to meet clients' needs and wants each day they're on the job. "A house is turned into a home by working closely with clients to learn their exact needs and wants," he says. "We'll always educate clients and explain options to make sure they get all the different elements they need in a home and more. Our company tag line is 'Living Better Starts Here™.' We mean that and are out to prove that with every home we build." Submitted photos commits to excellence from start to finish ALAIR HOMES MEMBER PROFILE