At Structural Buildings, we take pride in creating spaces that offer both beauty and functionality. Recently, we had the chance to sit down with Brad Foster, a Sales Specialist at Structural Buildings, to discuss his experience working on the Chell Project.
Can you give us a brief overview of the Chell Project and what made it unique compared to other projects you’ve worked on?
Brad: “The Chell Project features two structures—one new and one remodeled. The first is a cozy bunkhouse, providing ample sleeping space, a fully equipped kitchen, and an entertainment area that’s perfect for hosting friends or family. The second is a revamped recreation space that now serves as the heart of relaxation, featuring a pool table, hot tub, stylish bar, and room for games and activities. We also added a stunning Haass door with mirrored windows for extra privacy and an automatic screen door to let in fresh air while keeping bugs out.”
What was your favorite part of working on the Chell Project, and why did it stand out to you?
Brad: “My favorite part of the project was the custom woodwork and trim in the bunkhouse. It brought a modern-rustic vibe to the space, adding coziness and character. The beams added elegant detail that really made the space feel warm and inviting. It’s always rewarding to see the transformation of a space when those final touches come together.”
How did you work with other team members to bring the Chell Project to life? Any standout moments of collaboration?
Brad: “Teamwork was essential to making the Chell Project a success. One moment that stands out was when Chere, Sales Coordinator and I took the time to clean the space after the wrap-up. It was great to see us both go above and beyond to ensure the final presentation was perfect for the Chells. Moments like these remind me how much our team cares about making customers happy.”
What was the most challenging aspect of the Chell Project, and how did you and the team tackle it?
Brad: “The biggest challenge was the 700-square-foot restriction for the guest house, which is a common limitation for Crosslake guest houses. It meant that from the start, we had to be very intentional with the design and layout to maximize every square inch. Our solution was to incorporate vaulted ceilings in the living area, creating a sense of spaciousness and making the space feel less confined.”
Were there any creative or innovative solutions you had to come up with to address specific challenges during the project?
Brad: “Definitely. The vaulted ceilings in the bunkhouse’s living room were a game-changer. It allowed us to make the space feel larger and more open, even with the limited square footage. It’s all about creating the illusion of space, and that design choice made a big difference in the final feel of the bunkhouse.”
Is there a particular moment or milestone during the Chell Project that stands out as especially rewarding or memorable?
Brad: “For me, a memorable moment was when I got to showcase my capabilities as a builder to the clients during the remodel. It helped build trust in our relationship, and that trust led to us taking on the build-out of the guest cabin. It’s always rewarding when you see your hard work directly contribute to the client’s confidence in you and your team.”
What did you learn from working on this project that you think will benefit you in future projects?
Brad: “Every custom project is a new learning opportunity, and the Chell Project was no different. I’ve gained more experience in managing turnkey projects, which always helps. While you try to anticipate everything, unexpected challenges inevitably arise, and it’s crucial to react quickly. Strong communication with my customers and the crew is key to keeping everyone aligned when surprises come up.”
How did the clients respond to the finished project, and what aspects were they most excited about?
Brad: “The Chells were thrilled with how everything turned out. They’re excited to enjoy these new spaces for years to come, especially the recreation area with the hot tub and bar. It’s always gratifying to see clients genuinely happy with the end result and knowing that the space will bring them joy and relaxation.”
The Chell Project stands as a testament to Structural Buildings’ commitment to creating beautiful and functional spaces, no matter the size or constraints. With Brad’s expertise, our customers now have a dual-purpose retreat where they can host guests and unwind in style. Whether it’s through custom woodwork, creative design solutions, or thoughtful collaboration, projects like this one remind us why we love what we do—building spaces that people can truly enjoy.
