From Carpenter to Master Builder
The journey of a master carpenter turned high-end home builder is nothing short of inspiring. Starting in the early 1980s, George Thomson always dreamed of becoming a carpenter. After quickly mastering the craft, he ventured into his own business by 1985, framing additions and small homes. His career truly took off when he was asked to complete a 13,000 sq. ft. home in Saddle River, a project that featured an indoor pool and an elevator. This opportunity launched his career in building custom homes across northern Bergen County.
 
After years of successful home building, he sought new challenges in New York City, where he became a structural steel fabricator and erector. Over 20 years, he helped transform the city’s skyline by contributing to the construction of iconic high-rises and hotels. Eventually, the fast-paced world of NYC construction left him longing for his true passion: building luxury residences. This shift brought him back to high-end home construction, where he could once again focus on creating dream homes for his clients.
 
The Vision Behind 976 Scioto Drive
The 976 Scioto Drive project began with a distressed, outdated contemporary home that had been vacant for five years. The client, a mother and her young daughter, sought to transform this large, sloped-roof house into a modern Craftsman-style home. The challenge was not only to redesign the house but to retain its original footprint while giving it a completely new look.
 
The home’s transformation wasn’t just skin-deep. Significant challenges arose with the landscaping, as the house was perched on a cliff-like property with massive retaining walls that would be too costly to replace. Instead of removing the walls, George incorporated them into the design, creating multiple facades using blast rock, landscape block, and wood fencing. Raised planters and garden trellises crowned this feat, turning a potential eyesore into a masterpiece.
 
Overcoming Obstacles with Creativity
Throughout the construction process, George faced a variety of challenges, both structural and aesthetic. With its daunting terrain and decaying walls, the property demanded creative solutions. Sourcing large blast rocks from nearby construction sites, he skillfully incorporated them into the landscape, blending them with the property’s natural stone formations. As he put it, “If you can’t beat the existing rock, join it!”
 
The redesign and landscaping were only half of the challenge. The client trusted him to manage the entire project, from architectural design to material selection. With no hesitation, George took on the task and delivered on every detail, including a stunning kitchen and a luxurious master bath that rivals any five-star hotel.
 
Bringing the Design to Life
One of the most rewarding aspects of the build was creating a home that balanced functionality with beauty. The house’s interior was completely reimagined, with spaces like the kitchen reflecting the builder’s passion for gourmet cooking. Outfitted with state-of-the-art appliances and custom designs, it became one of the crown jewels of the home.
 
Equally impressive was the 1,200 sq. ft. master suite, featuring a master bathroom, complete with his-and-hers showers, a large soaking tub, and two walk-in closets. One of the closets even boasts cathedral ceilings and a seating area overlooking the lake—an opulent, yet peaceful retreat within the home.
 
Reflections and Future Projects
When asked about the most rewarding part of the project, George reflected on the transformation of both the house and the land. “Many of my builder friends thought I was crazy to attempt this,” he shared, “but I took the challenge and made it easy and extremely fun to build.”
 
Despite the scale and complexity of the project, the client trusted him completely, even allowing him to select finishes and make design decisions. This level of trust is a testament to his reputation as a builder who delivers beyond expectations. The project, initially conceived as an investment property, left the client second-guessing whether they should sell at all.
 
What’s Next?
As for the future, George is excited about moving on to his next challenge, though he admits it will be hard to top the satisfaction he felt in transforming 976 Scioto Drive. With each project, he brings a combination of passion, skill, and creativity that continues to define his approach to construction.
 
From reshaping skylines to crafting high-end residences, George remains a true master of his trade. Whether it's a sleek city high-rise or a stunning lakeside estate, his commitment to excellence is unwavering.
 
To get in touch with George, click here to view his contact information.