A savvy general contractor makes the building process run smoothly with a safe and positive work environment. Their proficiency should meet and even exceed the client’s expectations and the industry standards alike. Management should also be prompt, professional, and collaborative to allow easy communication between the staff and the client.

The following article shines a spotlight on some of the best general contractors in Ladue, Missouri. These companies come from a shortlist of viable businesses in the area, each standing out for their work, history, merits, and feedback. Most firms work exclusively in residential markets, save for a few that dabble in light commercial work.

UIC Homes

1607 Tower Grove Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110

UIC Homes is an expert in crafting structures that foster modern and sustainable living. The St. Louis practice follows a “develop, design, and build” framework that ensures efficiency from start to finish. The design-build company specializes in general contracting, architecture, urban design, carpentry, and real estate development. The firm works on residential properties, mixed-use commercial projects, small renovations, office spaces, and more.


Brent Crittenden has been the company’s CEO and managing principal since 2005. He leads a team of like-minded individuals with a deep commitment to quality work and service. This shared focus allows the crew to go above expectations in a smooth and timely manner. This Avant Grove is a 2015 development with a 500,000 project cost. It involves the renovation of four townhouses in St. Louis’s The Grove community. Each house has an open first floor with a kitchen, backyard, and a staircase that leads to the upper levels. Sustainable properties are also available in the abodes.

STL Design and Build

11088 Millpark Drive, Suite 140, Maryland Heights, MO 63043

STL Design and Build is a locally and family-owned home remodeling company that serves the Greater St. Louis area. The firm’s name is a short form of Sky’s The Limit, which describes its comprehensive services. Complete interior and exterior remodeling services are available, and that includes kitchens, baths, decks, windows, doors, restorations, and more. President Thomas J. Levinson and co-owners Cheryl and Kenneth Dennison head the operations of the company. Though their company only began in 2016, its exemplary work has already led to numerous industry merits. Its most recent awards include a spot on Qualified Remodeler’s Top 500 in 2020 and four consecutive Remodeler of the Year Awards in the Best of Maryland Heights from 2017 to 2020.


This Modern White Kitchen Remodel from 2017 oozes charm and style. The new kitchen is a ground-up build after gutting the original. The sub-floor features new cabinetry, lighting, fixtures, and plumbing. Bright pops of colorful decor brighten up the dove-colored room, and large glass windows bring in plenty of natural daylight.

LU Design Build

5634 Morganford Rd., Saint Louis, MO 63116

LU Design/Build is a client-driven practice known for its high-quality craftsmanship and professional service. The designing and remodeling company serves the Greater St. Louis area, where it made its mark as one of the industry’s elites. It even has several accolades to back up the claim, one of which is being a finalist in the 2018 Ladue News Design Awards. Lucas Bourgeois has been the CEO of the company since he founded it in 2008. The second-generation builder has over two decades worth of business, management, remodeling, and development experience—instrumental tools in the firm’s arsenal. He leads a roster of seasoned professionals dedicated to exceptional spaces that elevate people’s way of living. Creative savvy, innovative solutions, and the ability to provide efficient management and service are proof that they belong in the top tier of Missouri’s remodeling arena.


LU Design/Build’s portfolio includes residential interiors and outdoor and commercial spaces. This Classic Modern Kitchen in St. Louis is a showcase of its building prowess and features minimalist colors and dark wood floors. It includes a white island, marble countertops, subway tile backsplash, beaded inset cabinets, and a drop-in sink.

Whalen Custom Homes

338 S. Kirkwood Rd., Suite 103, Kirkwood, MO 63122

Founded in 2004, Whalen Custom Homes is a luxury builder and remodeler that works exclusively on residential properties. The firm focuses on custom-built and designed homes built with solid craftsmanship and stunning aesthetic. Move-in ready homes are also available, which come with the same quality as the ground-up builds. When it comes to home remodeling, the firm’s services include kitchen and bathrooms, additions, and outdoor living spaces.  Owner Mike Whalen has run the company since 2004. His collaborative process allows the firm to craft homes that are tailor-made for every client. These spaces provide function, style, and comfort that fits the owner’s lifestyle, making each one a personal hub that makes living worthwhile.


Whalen’s residential catalog features a wide range of luxury homes and interior spaces. This stylish kitchen displays white surfaces, marble countertops, and cool metal fixtures that, combined, provide a bright and pleasant atmosphere. Though simple, its sophisticated design offers a welcoming hub ideal for meal preparations or casual gatherings.

DH Custom Homes

2055 Craigshire Road, Suite 100, Saint Louis, MO 63146

DH Custom Homes is well-known in the St. Louis Metropolitan region for its proficiency in building and renovations. The firm has a dynamic catalog of projects that includes custom homes, interior spaces, detailing projects, and floor plans. Though the company was established relatively recently in 2009, founder Dennis M. Hayden, Jr.’s legacy provides more than 60 years of generational expertise. His family name has a reputation as a trusted home building stalwart known for its outstanding design and construction as well as its professional customer service.


The featured project is a 2,530-square-foot ranch home located on Wild Horse Creek Road. The one-story residence displays beige brick sidings and a gray roof. It includes two bedrooms, three and a half baths, a gourmet kitchen, a screened-in porch, and a grand room that functions as the living and dining rooms. A finished lower level serves as a recreation room and includes a bar, a full bath, and a patio.

Compass Design Build LLC

2464 Taylor Road #319, Wildwood, MO 63040

Compass Design | Build is a staple of the Greater St. Louis area’s home construction scene for over 25 years. The full-service firm excels in quality building and remodeling and provides hands-on service and meticulous attention to detail. Its residential projects include everything from minor additions to complex luxury homes. The husband and wife team of Peter and Jennifer Uetrecht spearheads the company. As co-owners, Peter serves as the homebuilder; Jennifer is the interior designer. Their streamlined approach to every project allows efficient management from start to completion. Clients are walked through the entire project to ensure a collaborative process that incorporates their wants and needs. The duo also follows the agreed-upon timeline strictly, as well as the budget.

GSF LeGrand Strickland home dedication

Compass won the Custom Home of the Year Award from the Home Builders Association (HBA) of St. Louis in 2017 and 2018. With many award-winning projects, this Wildwood smart home stands out as one of the best in its portfolio. The house features a universal design that includes an open floor plan and zero-entry thresholds. It also has a control system for the surveillance, lights, and HVAC units.

NJL Custom Homes

556 Leffingwell Ave., Kirkwood, MO 63122

NJL Custom Homes is one of the premier building experts in Missouri. Its in-house team strives to provide a smooth experience through a comprehensive process. Working with the firm ensures quality craftsmanship through efficient management and stellar service. The staff also fosters a positive working environment for the convenience of the client. The Kirkwood firm serves the Greater St. Louis area and specializes in new constructions, additions, remodels, and commercial build-outs. Its remarkable work in the field won several merits, one of which is the 2018 Architects and Designers Award (ADA) for a Foyer project in the region.


Owner Nick Liuzza has overseen the firm’s ventures since 2013. Liuzza was already a seasoned homebuilder even before starting his own company. The industry veteran has worked on over 700 residential construction projects around St. Louis. One of his notable projects is this single-family residence in Warwick Lane. The 3,284-square-foot property is a new construction with five bedrooms and four and a half baths. The stylish abode uses an ergonomic design with a soft white palette in every room.

Dana King Design Build Remodeling

10405 Baur Blvd. Suite H, St. Louis, MO 63132

Dana King Design Build is an esteemed practice that excels in complete home remodeling and interior design services. The firm’s projects include kitchens and baths, universal design, condo remodeling, interior design, whole house construction, exteriors, and outdoor living. The design-driven firm was formerly known as Dana’s Design Studio and Next Project Studio. Despite its name changes, a commitment to high-quality work lies at the heart of the builder. Its focused process and dynamic handiwork won over numerous clients, earning positive reviews and repeat clients in St. Louis.


Eponymous principal Dana King is a seasoned professional with over 14 years of industry experience. She runs the operations with a commitment to innovative work, solid craftsmanship, and collaborative service. She has earned acclaim on both critical and commercial levels. Here is the Cobalt Cool Kitchen, a modern update of an existing gourmet space from the 1960s. Its style prioritizes function and efficiency. It features built-in banquette seating and a cantilevered table for optimal legroom. Its blue palette provides a visual flair that exudes a trendy vibe.

Hamtil Construction LLC

11155 S Towne Sq. Suite E Saint Louis, MO 63123

Hamtil Construction is renowned for its ability to exceed expectations through proficient building and design. The firm is a favorite for its quality craftsmanship and service and it has won local merits from client community circles. Its range of services includes residential remodeling, interior design, architecture, room additions, historic renovations, custom millwork, trim installations, and more. Brothers David and Paul Hamtil spearhead the firm’s operations. Their stellar work won the award for the Best Interior Element for Over $30,000 from the 2018 Regional Remodeling Awards. In the same year, Paul received the John Quaregna Achievement Award from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), a prestigious accolade for the top remodeling professionals of the industry.


The featured project is the Creve Couer Kitchen and First Floor Remodel. It is a part of a two-story residence in Missouri, one that exudes a contemporary design. The house uses predominantly white colors with hints of black and darker tones. Notable aspects include a stylish kitchen, a high foyer, and a modish brick fireplace.

Stockell Homes

201 Beverly, Suite A, Eureka, MO 63025

Stockell Custom Homes is a Eureka-based firm that excels in crafting houses that fit the owner’s vision. Projects by the company embody the client’s taste and preferences, offering amenities and spaces that cater to their lifestyles. Each residence features strong craftsmanship and a stylish design that fits modern building standards. The team uses quality materials and innovative methods for every project, which guarantees long-lasting results. Owner Don Stockell has overseen the company since 1986. His four-decade industry tenure lends credence to the firm’s ability in the field. Stockell has a dynamic portfolio of luxury homes that includes everything from elegant Lake Hills manors to brick and stone ranch houses.


This Wildwood Kitchen Remodel is a project from 2019. The St. Louis home uses rustic hues that stem from its crisp wood floors and light blue and beige palette. The classic layout includes an open concept plan that connects the living room with the kitchen. Several interesting design choices make the home unique.

Benchmark Custom Home Builders Inc.

13281 Spindle Lane, St. Louis, MO 63122

Benchmark Custom Homes Inc. is a seasoned builder that juggles construction and management with proficiency. Its efficient and collaborative process allows smooth project flow, so houses are completed on time and within budget. The firm’s services include residential exteriors, kitchens, framing, master baths and showers, staircases, custom cubbies, and more. Benchmark focuses on custom and luxury homes in St. Louis County. It has over 28 years of construction experience creating timeless spaces with unique modern designs. The firm also specializes in building green homes that provide sustainable, elegant living.


Mark Rasch, the firm’s president, is an industry veteran with accreditations in the local and national chapters of the HBA. An expert in creative and sustainable homes, Rasch has completed numerous notable projects throughout the years. One of these is the featured Lochenheath Court residence, a showcase of sophisticated design with spacious interiors. High ceilings and an open layout add a welcoming atmosphere to the abode. Two colors, light and dark, occupy every space, providing aesthetic uniformity in every room.

Lakeside Renovation and Design

139 Chesterfield Industrial Blvd., Chesterfield, MO 63005

Lakeside Renovation and Design is a general contractor with exemplary projects across St. Louis. The full-scale remodeling company is known for its quality homes and hassle-free management. The firm uses modern building methods and sustainable materials to produce stunning and energy-efficient houses, each one rich with functional properties and high in aesthetic value. President Matthew Merrifield has been leading the firm’s operations since 1997. The former US Marine provides a client-centric service and a hands-on approach to every project. His collaborative management style yields properties that match the owner’s preferences, which leads to numerous repeat clients in the area.


The local practice works on home additions, kitchens, baths, basements, windows, sidings, decks, as well as other interior and exterior projects. The project featured here is a kitchen remodel in a St. Louis neighborhood. It includes a fully functional kitchen with a full range stove, a double oven, and a wine chiller. Beautiful wood furniture and light fixtures add elegance to the dining hub. Personalized art pieces and decor also infuse the owner’s personality into the room.

R.E.A. Homes, LLC

R.E.A. Homes is one of Missouri’s premier custom home builders. Their high-performance luxury homes are a testament to its prowess, as each property exemplifies quality, beauty, and comfortability. The firm’s dossier features interior and exterior projects in St. Louis that range from ground-up builds to renovations.

Jeff Bogard, the owner of R.E.A. Homes, makes building easy with a streamlined process for his team to go beyond the call on any project, no matter the complexity. Bogard is a leader in green and sustainable spaces and strives to provide more comfortable homes with better energy efficiency and indoor air quality.


Here is a luxurious master bath in a recent new home, with multiple mirrors and high ceilings. The ceramic white colors foster a sense of cleanliness and tranquility, fitting for the shower room. An eye-catching light fixture illuminates the sophisticated space. Projects like this one won the firm plenty of accolades in recent years, including the 2019 Overall Home Design Award from the Architect and Designer Awards (ADA). Learn more about their work here: www.reahomesllc.com.

Mosby Building Arts

645 Leffingwell Ave. St. Louis, MO 63122

Mosby Building Arts is a trusted remodeling contractor with over 70 years worth of residential projects. As an architect-led studio, its know-how in construction and design offers creative solutions and an innovative approach to every project. Its strong craftsmanship even won a plethora of awards, two of which are the 2018 National Contractor of the Year (CotY) Award and the 2017 Chrysalis Award for Residential Universal Design.

The practice is a one-stop-shop with a roster of architects, designers, and builders. Scott Mosby leads these specialists with a focused drive towards quality work, a trait that extends from beginning to completion. The team operates with proficiency, flexibility, and efficiency, always striving to deliver exemplary houses on time and budget. A collaborative environment also lets the client communicate their preferences, which the crew incorporates in every project.


The featured project has been dubbed the Seaside Glamour for Ladue Kitchen Remodel. Its original layout, a U-shape arrangement, blocked the space to the dining area. The team reconfigured the room to provide better function and a brighter atmosphere. It also has a stylish design that emulates a breezy beach vibe.

Liston Design Build

1106 First Capitol Drive, St. Charles, MO 63301

Liston Design Build is a family-owned and operated firm that excels in home remodeling services. For over 35 years, the firm has been operating in St. Louis and its adjacent communities, providing innovative construction services for residential properties. The firm has a repeat client rate of 80%, proof of the quality of its work. Third-generation builder Keith Liston and designer Jeanne Liston serve as co-owners of the firm. Their comprehensive services include design, building, and remodeling for kitchens, baths, custom homes, basements, exteriors, and additions.

Industry accolades further support the studio’s status as one of the area’s design-build elites. The firm’s merits span across two decades, with its most recent being the 2018 Chrysalis Award and the 2020 Remodeling Project of the Year from the HBA St. Louis. Modern function and classic elegance blend perfectly in this Whole Home Remodel project in Burlewood Drive. The open concept plan connects the kitchen with the dining and living rooms, creating a synergistic flow of stylish energy. Trendy and traditional cohabit in every nook and cranny, a vibrant visual flair that complements the muted palette.