Today we’d like to introduce you to Skylar Schlunz.
Hi Skylar, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started SRC in 2020, but my path into the industry began much earlier. While I was in high school and college, I worked for a family friend in Portland, Oregon. What started as a seasonal job to help pay for school quickly turned into something I genuinely enjoyed, and eventually, a passion.
In 2018, I moved to Bend and took a role as a project manager for a high-end custom home builder. That experience gave me a strong foundation in the industry and exposed me to the level of detail and quality required in high-end residential construction. While I valued what I learned, I also saw an opportunity to improve the relationship between builder and homeowner, which I felt was often missing in the traditional process.
That realization led me to start my own company. Early on, I took a leap by funding two spec homes while also building a pipeline of remodels and additions through the relationships I had developed over time.
Today, we operate as a full design-build firm, working with clients from the very beginning of the process. By integrating design and construction under one roof, we’re able to better align with our clients’ vision, streamline decision-making, and ultimately deliver projects that meet both their goals and their budgets.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road. Like most startups, there’s a steep learning curve that comes with building something from the ground up.
One of the biggest challenges early on was stepping into the financial risk of the business, especially funding spec homes while still establishing consistent cash flow. That requires a lot of confidence in both the market and your ability to execute. At the same time, you’re building systems, refining your process, and trying to deliver a high level of service to every client.
Another challenge has been setting expectations and educating clients on the design-build process. Many homeowners are used to a more traditional approach, so helping them understand the value of being involved early and making decisions up front takes time and communication.
That said, those challenges have been some of the most valuable parts of the journey. They’ve forced me to become more disciplined, more intentional with how I run projects, and more focused on building strong relationships with clients and trade partners.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
At its core, SRC is a full-service design-build firm focused on custom homes, remodels, and residential development. We work with clients from the very beginning of the process, guiding them through design, budgeting, and construction under one roof.
What we’re known for—and what really sets us apart—is our emphasis on integrating design into the building process. We don’t just build off plans; we help create them. By offering in-house design and 3D renderings early on, our clients are able to fully visualize their project before construction even begins. That clarity leads to better decisions, fewer surprises, and ultimately a more efficient and enjoyable experience.
We also place a strong emphasis on the relationship side of the business. Construction can be a complex and sometimes overwhelming process, so we focus on clear communication, transparency, and making sure clients feel confident every step of the way. That’s something I felt was missing in the industry, and it’s been a core part of how we’ve built our company.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of how we’ve positioned ourselves as both a builder and a design partner. We’re not just executing projects—we’re helping clients bring their vision to life in a thoughtful, intentional way.
What I want people to know about our company is that we’re highly involved from start to finish. Whether it’s a custom home, a remodel, or a development project, we approach every job with the same level of detail, care, and commitment to quality. We’re not just building quality structures, we’re building lifetime relationships.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My biggest piece of advice is to take action early and not wait until everything feels perfect. You learn far more by doing than you ever will by trying to plan everything out ahead of time.
At the same time, relationships are everything—especially in this industry. The projects I’ve been able to take on early in my career came directly from the relationships I built over time. How you treat clients, subcontractors, and partners will come back around, so it’s important to be consistent, communicate well, and do what you say you’re going to do.
Something I wish I understood earlier is how important it is to balance growth with discipline. It’s easy to say yes to every opportunity when you’re starting out, but being intentional about the projects you take on, how you price your work, and how you manage risk is what ultimately allows you to build something sustainable.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to take calculated risks. Starting a business, funding projects, and putting your name on your work all come with pressure, but those moments are also what create the biggest opportunities for growth.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.srcdesignandbuild.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/src_designandbuild/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584454222476
