From Albany to Syracuse, Upstate New York offers a high standard of living. The area is known for its stunning scenery, abundance of outdoor activities, solid economy, and excellent educational opportunities. Forests, mountains, meadows, lakes, and rivers make up the area’s diverse landscape. With many attractions, ranging from breathtaking mountain views to historic sites, world-class museums, and the Baseball Hall of Fame, residents and visitors will never run out of things to explore.
If you are getting ready to move to this region, take a few minutes to learn about twenty of the best general contractors in Upstate New York. These contractors were selected for their expertise, construction experience, and capacity to create high-quality projects that ensure customer satisfaction.
Schrader and Company
850 Saratoga Rd., Burnt Hills, NY 12027
Schrader and Company was founded in 1973 and has since grown to become a highly-respected general contractor in the Capital Region of New York. This award-winning and nationally recognized firm has proven its ability to meet the needs of its clients and exceed expectations. For nearly five decades, the firm has completed exceptional projects, including home additions, bathroom and kitchen remodeling, interior and exterior renovations, porches, sunrooms, custom cabinetry, and historic replications. The company consistently treats its clients with fairness, dignity, kindness, and respect while upholding high ethical business standards. With its skilled and expert team, the firm is dedicated to providing unsurpassed craftsmanship and impeccable professionalism with every project, no matter how complex.
Photo by Scott Bergmann Photography
Over the years, the firm has won several prestigious awards for its high-quality projects, including Best Historic Remodel, Best Kitchen Remodel ($75,000+), and Best Utility or Special Use Space – Capital Region Builders and Remodelers Association for 2020. Shown here is the firm’s extensive multi-room renovation of a 200-year-old home for a repeat client. The goal of the renovation was to seamlessly add onto the existing home a space that the family can maximize following their lifestyle. To create a cohesive look, the team paid great attention to the details of the existing space, making sure that all additional design and materials match this pristine home. The result is a beautiful and functional home that blends its new features with its historic charm.
Quality PM, Inc.
199 Delaware Ave., Delmar, NY 12054
With nearly twenty years of extensive experience, Quality PM, Inc. has solidified its reputation as one of the trusted renovation and construction firms in the Capital Region of New York. Since 2003, the firm has completed a wide range of projects that have exceeded expectations. The firm strives to make every effort to establish a solid and trustworthy relationship with each client, which is the key to delivering successful, high-quality projects on time and within budget. The Quality PM team handles each project with a meticulous eye for detail to ensure that no item is overlooked during the project.
The firm’s impressive portfolio has attracted recognition from several prestigious publications, such as the 2018 Spotlight News and the 2016 Albany Business Review. This home remodeling project on Stockbridge Road, Slingerlands, New York, is one of the firm’s notable projects. The firm transformed the space with a mid-century design through the use of minimalist, simple decor. Wooden furniture and ceiling accents add contrast to the overall neutral color palette. The green kitchen island is located efficiently in the center of the space, adding a pop of color.
C & J Custom Builders Inc.
278 Delaware Ave. 2nd Floor, Delmar, NY 12054
C & J Custom Builders Inc. has been in business since 2009 and has provided outstanding general contracting services throughout the Capital Region of New York. With its one-stop services, the firm handles all the intricate details from start to finish, reducing the need for many contractors and ensuring a smooth and efficient construction experience for its clients. With its expert, experienced staff, the firm approaches each project with a meticulous eye for detail to ensure tasks are done correctly and efficiently. The firm was founded on solid family values and strives to maintain excellent working relationships with its clients while delivering projects of impeccable quality.
One of the firm’s impressive projects is this bathroom remodel, which won the 2017 Best Bathroom Remodel Over $40,000 award by the Capital Region Builders and Remodelers Association. For this project, the firm partnered with LEAP Architecture to remodel the client’s master bedroom, master bathroom, and loft for a brighter, contemporary look. A floating island vanity, a custom shower, custom walnut paneling, and built-in cabinetry are included in the master bathroom. To take advantage of the breathtaking scenery, frameless doors and expansive windows were added to bring in more natural light.
Razzano Homes & Remodelers, Inc.
260 Osborne Road Suite 1, Albany, NY 12211
In 2007, Razzano Homes & Remodelers, Inc. was founded by Dan Razzano to provide professional renovation services in the Capital District Area. With 14 years of construction experience, the firm is confident in its ability to accurately understand a client’s vision and transform it into one-of-a-kind designs that achieve the client’s goals. The firm’s optimized project management plan, accurate cost estimates, and ongoing commitment to open communication keep clients updated with the costs, timeline, and status at all times. With an impressive portfolio of over 150 successful home renovations, the firm has earned much positive feedback from satisfied clients who testify to the company’s smooth and stress-free processes.
This featured project in Voorheesville is an award-winning whole home renovation project, earning the prestigious 2017 Most Innovative Remodel by the Capital Region Builders and Remodelers Association. A luxurious floating staircase, a magnificent kitchen upgrade, a huge living area, a modern master bedroom, and a guest bathroom overhaul were all part of this entire home remodel. The new space was designed to be contemporary and luxurious, as evidenced by the efficient layout and tasteful contrast of bright and dark colors.
Bennett Contracting
693 South Pearl St., Albany, NY 12202
Bennett Contracting is a full-service general contractor specializing in remodels and renovations that improve the condition and quality of existing structures. Since 1915, the company has provided a wide range of services, including design, general contracting, project management, carpentry, handyman services, and electrical contracting. The firm has an in-house team of professional carpenters, plumbers, electricians, designers, and administrative staff with unmatched skill and expertise, ready to take on any project. The firm is dedicated to delivering a seamless construction experience through exceptional customer service and a hands-on, meticulous approach.
Bennett Contracting’s exceptional portfolio includes a variety of styles, including contemporary, modern, and craftsman. The company has been featured in several notable publications, such as 2020 Qualified Remodeler Magazine. This restoration of a historic brownstone in Albany is one of the firm’s unique projects. It started with an old roof drain failing, destroying practically everything in the home. Bennett refurbished the house while maintaining its original integrity and adhering to all current city regulatory standards. There is a flexible office and laundry, new kitchen and dining spaces, a new full bath, a master bedroom, and a refurbished bath.
Cortese Construction Services Corp.
9074 Main St., Clarence, NY 14031
Throughout its 70 years of operations, Cortese Construction Service Corp. has delivered high-quality solutions and cutting-edge technology in every project. The family-owned firm’s rich history spans three generations and remains one of the best remodeling contractors in Western New York. Whether completing a simple remodeling project or a full-scale home renovation, the firm is committed to fully grasping what the client wants and turning those desires into a tangible dream space. The firm has a team of talented craftsmen and knowledgeable designers that are passionate and constantly strive to exceed customer expectations.
A perfect illustration of the firm’s impressive workmanship is this new kitchen and bathroom project in New York. The firm aimed for modern and minimalistic styling with an all-white color scheme. The project includes a fully-enclosed glass shower, tile backsplash, and a marble countertop. It also incorporates a large window to make the space perfect for relaxing after a long day’s work.
Dimon Construction
4911 Palmer Rd., Manlius NY 13104
Dimon Construction has specialized in residential remodeling for nearly a decade, providing kitchens, baths, additions, and basement renovations throughout central New York. The firm’s extensive expertise and knowledge are applied to every project, using a customized approach to create spaces that fully reflect the client’s lifestyle and personality. Under the leadership of Ronald Dimon and his son Peter, the firm has a team of highly skilled residential carpenters, committed to creating a seamless renovation experience and excellent customer service. Dimon Construction’s comprehensive service includes drawings, plans, specifications, budget, product selection, and schedule.
The firm is accredited by the National Association of Home Builders and Home Builders and Remodelers of Central New York, and is a Guild Quality member. The project shown here is a contemporary porch addition in New York. The firm designed and built the project to be integrated seamlessly into the home’s existing exterior.
Salt Point Services
8710 Cazenovia Road, Cazenovia NY 13035
Since it began in 2011, Salt Point Services has solidified its reputation as a reliable general contractor by its skillful handling of all jobs, large or small. The firm is experienced in several trades, including repairing and maintaining residential and commercial properties. With its customer-centered processes, the firm is dedicated to keeping its clients informed throughout the project, emphasizing open communication and close collaboration. Its in-house team of project managers, carpenters, electricians, and painters are highly skilled, knowledgeable, and passionate about efficiently delivering the best possible outcomes.
The firm has earned many testimonials from satisfied customers whose expectations have been exceeded. An example of the firm’s impressive work is this modern, Colonial-style renovation in New York. The project was a full gut remodel of the downstairs level including the living room, dining room, kitchen, foyer, bath, and stairs. The project also includes redoing the deck, remodeling the basement, and exterior. The off-white walls are simple yet modern and contrast with the traditional, light hardwood flooring. The overall space is welcoming and inviting, thanks to the abundant natural light coming in through its large expanses of glass.
Schuster Construction LLC
360 Gould Ave., Depew, NY 14043
Established in 1976, Schuster Construction specializes in kitchen and bathroom remodeling, custom decks, roofing, siding, windows, additions, and new house construction. Founder Tom Schuster strives to keep the firm inventive, creative, and relevant while prioritizing client satisfaction. With a commitment to communicating openly, honestly, and with integrity, the firm has built strong relationships with its clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and trade partners. The Schuster team is a highly dedicated and passionate group committed to doing whatever it takes to complete the task at hand and delivering exceptional projects that guarantee customer satisfaction.
The firm’s impressive portfolio includes this new home construction in Lancaster, New York. This ranch-style, custom-built home has a total area of 1,400 square feet. The home features two bedrooms, a complete kitchen, a foyer and entry hall, a great room, and a family room.
T Brothers Inc.
2120 Niagara Falls Blvd. Ste. 2, Tonawanda, NY 14150
Since 2015, TBrothers Inc has been a general contractor in Buffalo, New York. The firm has now expanded its services and caters to all of Western New York. Brothers Danil and Vadim Tsygyrlash founded the firm, inspired by their passion for building. The firm has completed many exceptional projects on time and within budget, from kitchen and bathroom remodels, home additions, patios, porches, deck construction, and complete home transformations. The firm’s highly skilled team specializes in high-quality, cost-effective home renovations. The team is passionate about providing quality craftsmanship and excellent customer service for every client. It has earned many good reviews and positive testimonials from satisfied customers, thanks to its ability to exceed expectations.
T Brothers Inc. is affiliated with the National Association of Home Builders and the Buffalo Niagara Builders Association, and is Better Business Bureau A+ accredited. The transitional kitchen remodel shown here is one of the firm’s notable projects. The firm created a functional and efficient layout with a bright and relaxed atmosphere. The kitchen counter is the space’s focal point, adding more workspace and storage. The design’s clean architectural lines and neutral color scheme are ageless and classic in style.
Hometown Design-Build, LLC
761 Allens Creek Rd., Rochester, NY 1461
Hometown Design-Build is a Rochester, New York-based general contractor that has provided complete design, construction, and remodeling services since 2017. The firm focuses on bringing its clients’ ideas to life and turning them into one-of-a-kind designs and workable blueprints ready to be constructed. The firm provides a one-stop solution to ensure a smooth and seamless construction experience, from the original design to permitting, building, and completion. The company’s unique design-build process emphasizes the importance of close collaboration between the owner and the design and construction teams to optimize and streamline efforts.
This mid-sized, traditional kitchen in New York is one of the firm’s outstanding projects. The space features a classic, gray, ceramic tile flooring with a farmhouse sink, Shaker cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, a white ceramic backsplash, and stainless steel appliances. The wooden kitchen island placed at the center creates a more efficient layout and accentuates the overall neutral space, adding a sleek, sophisticated look.
CRG Remodeling Inc.
Syracuse, NY
CRG Remodeling provides interior and exterior home remodeling services to help transform clients’ goals into efficient, beautiful spaces. Since 2014, the firm has delivered exceptional projects in Syracuse and nearby areas. From start to finish, the firm meticulously handles every aspect of the project for smooth and effortless transactions, including the design, construction, and project management. The firm manages each project with a personalized approach and incorporates creative techniques and high-quality materials to deliver buildings that exceed expectations.
The firm’s extraordinary portfolio includes a variety of projects ranging from contemporary and modern to craftsman styles. In the project shown here, the firm transformed the previously outdated and inefficient kitchen with a new layout, incorporating excellent lighting and plenty of storage. It aimed for an inviting and welcoming style by using rustic design elements such as red wooden cabinetry, warm hardwood floors, and an earth-toned color scheme. Learn more about them at housebliss.net
Jay Bee Contracting, LLC
17 North Maple St., Warsaw, NY 14569
Jay Bee Contracting has only been in the industry for two years, but it has already solidified its reputation as one of the most trustworthy contractors in western New York. Since 2019, the firm has specialized in luxury house improvements, focusing on custom kitchen and bath remodeling and window and door installation. The firm provides a complete design-build service, assisting clients with design conceptualization, budget estimates, and material choices. It has remained steadfast in exceeding client expectations while maintaining dedication, honesty, and ingenuity.
Jay Bee Contracting is affiliated with the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce and is an Andersen Certified Contractor. This kitchen remodel is a perfect illustration of the firm’s high-quality projects. Using modern design elements, the firm created a monochromatic color scheme of blacks and whites. The unique kitchen island placed at the center serves as the space’s focal point, contrasting with the stark, white kitchen cabinetry.
Walsh and Sons Construction
200 Plaza Drive Suite A, Vestal, NY 13850
Founded in 1956, Walsh and Sons Construction began its career in residential custom homes and renovations before expanding its market to commercial projects. The firm believes that excellent craftsmanship and a commitment to completing projects on time are the keys to success and has placed its focus on building projects that satisfy client expectations. The company strives to build strong relationships with its clients to ensure open communication and close collaboration throughout the project’s progress. With a professional management team and talented artisans, the firm consistently delivers superior results that meet its clients’ needs.
This exceptional living room demonstrates the firm’s capability. Aiming to create a warm and welcoming space, the firm used a neutral color scheme paired with dark hardwood flooring. The stone-clad fireplace and large windows highlight the traditional, rustic style.
CGM Construction Inc.
2 Brookwood Rd., Halfmoon, NY 12188
This family-owned and -operated firm has been in business for over four decades and has solidified its reputation as a leader in the industry. CGM Construction’s areas of expertise include custom home building, renovations, remodeling and commercial construction. The firm is dedicated to providing unique, timeless, and efficient solutions to home projects, tailored to the clients’ personalities and needs. The firm’s expert team handles every aspect of the project with a precise eye for detail, ensuring a smooth construction experience for clients. The firm also provides an in-house team of tradespeople, reducing the risk of miscommunication when many teams are working on a single project.
Ranch, contemporary, modern, and colonial are some of the styles included in the firm’s portfolio. This four-season sunroom addition in Rensselaer County, New York, is one of the firm’s many projects. The firm successfully integrated the new addition into the existing floor layout, keeping a unique mix of both classic and modern elements. The expansive windows allow abundant, natural light.
Brotherton Construction LLC
171 Calkins Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850
Brotherton Construction is an Ithaca-based general contracting firm that provides high-quality residential construction across the Finger Lakes and neighboring areas. For more than three decades, the firm has perfected its process of renovation design and construction. The firm strives to provide unique solutions, the latest techniques, and cutting-edge technologies, ensuring exceptional projects that exceed customer expectations. The firm has a team of expert professionals who take a proactive and personalized approach to each project, efficiently hitting targets and milestones.
A stellar example of the firm’s work is this Scandinavian kitchen in New York. The firm designed the space with an L-shaped layout, including a farmhouse sink, white cabinetry, and countertops. The kitchen island doubles as a breakfast bar and adds more workspace and storage.
Creative Remodeling Services, LLC
3628 N. Buffalo Rd., Orchard Park, NY 14127
Creative Remodeling Services provides home, kitchen, and bath remodeling services. The company can transform an outdated, inefficient space into a dream home. The firm’s staff is committed to taking a client’s ideas and ambitions and making them a reality. The firm incorporates the highest-quality services, materials, and technologies to create stunning projects that consistently exceed clients’ expectations. From granite countertops for a kitchen remodel to spa retreat transformations in a master bath, the firm is confident in its ability to deliver successful results.
The firm completed this master bathroom remodeling project in Lakewood in 2017. This large, elegant space was renovated with neutral colors, gray ceramic tiles, and furniture-like white cabinets, aiming for modern and minimalistic styling. The project also included a one-piece toilet, an under-mount sink, granite countertops, and a freestanding bathtub.
J. Hence & Co. Inc. Design/Build Contractors
4 Limestone Plaza, Fayetteville, NY 13066
J. Hence & Co. is a Fayetteville, New York-based design-build firm specializing in general construction, rehabilitation, and remodeling of residential and commercial facilities. Since its inception in 1998, the company has provided a wide range of construction services to a growing clientele in Syracuse and across central New York. The firm emphasizes its planning and estimation phases, aiming to be fair and considerate of its clients’ project requirements. It also believes that building a team environment is one of the most crucial parts of every project, so the company strives to maintain positive relationships with suppliers and subcontractors for streamlined coordination. The firm’s highly skilled team comes from diverse backgrounds, adding a significant advantage in delivering outstanding projects on time and within budget.
This kitchen remodel in Fayetteville is one of the firm’s standout projects. J. Hence & Co. provided design and build services for this project. The dining room and kitchen were combined to make a wider, more open space, and a dated brick space was removed to make way for a bar. The firm added custom-made, gray, wood cabinetry and a walnut island with countertop made from Borocca Soapstone.
M.E. Garlock Construction, Inc.
107 East Rd., Boonville, NY 13309
M.E. Garlock Construction, Inc. is a well-known construction firm in the central New York area. Despite being in the industry for only four years, the firm has already earned extensive construction experience, building homes of many types throughout the area. The company offers custom homes, remodeling and additions, vacation and luxury home building, stamped and decorative concrete, and high-efficiency construction services for both residential and commercial markets. Under the leadership of Mike Garlock, the firm is dedicated to continuous learning and improvement to optimize its processes. The firm’s expertise also includes building energy-efficient homes that utilize practical and ecological materials.
One of the firm’s notable projects includes this kitchen remodeling project completed in July of 2021. To achieve its sleek and sophisticated style, the firm used a monochromatic color scheme of whites and blacks, with the light hardwood floors serving as an accent. The strategically placed kitchen island in the center adds more efficiency to the space, and a more streamlined workflow.
Heffron’s General Contracting
2051 Genesee St., Oneida, NY 13421
Since 1998, Heffron’s General Contracting has provided outstanding construction services for a wide variety of projects, including office renovations, kitchen and bath remodeling, modular homes, and more. Founder Gary Heffron and his expert team are confident in the quality they provide and expect nothing less than 100% from every team member. The company emphasizes being courteous, professional, and meticulous in order to deliver exceptional projects and excellent customer service. Over the years, they have earned a loyal clientele, following positive reviews and feedback from satisfied customers.
The firm designed and remodeled this family room with an open floor plan and modern, rustic influences. It incorporates a natural, earth-toned color scheme and warm, hardwood floors to create an inviting feel. The firm turned the space into a perfect area for relaxing and spending quality time.
