The Best General Contractors in Marin

Last updated on May 18th, 2024 at 06:31 am

Marin County is located in California’s San Francisco Bay Area, a relatively small county with impressive lush green scenery. Residents and visitors alike enjoy surfing, strolling on the beach, and hiking Marin’s abundant mountains.

Due to a thriving economy, Marin’s population is continuously growing, and is home to some of the largest and most innovative companies in California. Naturally, homes in these areas are elegant and sophisticated. Architectural styles of homes in Marin vary, but modern and mid-century are among the most popular.

Finding the right contractor can be time-consuming, but to make that process easier, we have compiled a list of the top 15 general contractors in the county. Here we note their specialties, their achievements, and the styles they offer. Whether it’s a straightforward new build or a complicated custom remodel, you’ll find a contractor to serve your needs–and your neighborhood–here.

If you are thinking about doing a construction project, we recommend checking each builder’s license with the local licensing board, speaking to past clients, and using our bidding system to get competitive quotes from at least 3 contractors. Getting multiple bids is the best way to ensure you get a fair price and that bids include the complete scope of work.

15) Schalich Brothers Construction

85 J-Galli Drive, Novato, CA 94949

Schalich Brothers Construction (SBC) is a family-owned company serving Marin, San Francisco, and Sonoma Counties since 1980. As a Certified Green Building Professional and a Lead-Safe EPA Certified firm, SBC is one of the leading general contractors in California. It specializes in small to large-scale custom homes and renovations. Its commitment to completing projects on time and building with the highest quality materials make SBC a favorite among their existing clients.

Schalich offers a variety of styles, from modern, mid-century, to rustic and vintage houses. A simple yet cool living area was created in this Mill Valley, CA home. A floor-to-ceiling wood plank fireplace acts as the highlight of the open room. Wide windows allow sunlight to peek through and people to marvel at the gorgeous view of the forest.

14) Pacific Ridge Construction

187 E Blithedale Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941

A Marin County native, founder Jake Glavis started working at the young age of 15. Since then, he has grown in the construction business, and his affinity for masonry has developed into a passion for high-end home building. His expertise in green building and sustainable design is something that sets Pacific Ridge Construction apart from other contractors. Pacific Ridge Construction is a Certified Green Building General Contractor, and offers custom home construction, whole home remodeling, home additions, and outdoor construction.

This modern and elegant living area in Mill Valley, CA incorporates seamlessly combined materials, with track lights and recessed lights keeping the room well illuminated. Two intricate brick columns are built on each end of a centerpiece painting. Neutral colors were followed to achieve a simple yet high-end posh style.

13) Design Build Specialists

394 Bel Marin Keys Blvd, Suite 5, Novato, CA 94949

For 39 years, Design Build Specialists have been providing clients with homes that are durable and beautiful. The company specializes in custom home and home remodeling improvements, and its commitment to delivering excellent homes hasn’t changed over the years. The company maintains accolades from professional organizations such as the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), and the Marin Builders Association.

This interior remodel in Novato, CA perfectly captured the homeowner’s vision. The modern-Victorian style is warm and inviting, with a wooden ceiling displaying a candle chandelier, while posh furniture and a big bay window allows a relaxing view of nature.

12) Fontana Construction

1945 E Francisco Blvd, Suite N, San Rafael, CA 94901

With a degree in Microbiology, it may be a surprise that founder Mike Fontana is in the construction industry. However, home building was something that Fontana was passionate about and dedicated to, leading him to start a small home-based business in 1986. 30 years later, Fontana Construction is one of Marin’s best-known general contractors.

Fontana Construction provides homeowners with exceptional work ranging from new construction to home remodels and renovations, with a versatility in architectural design. A stunning home remodel in Belvedere, CA is one of the eye-catching projects in the company’s portfolio. The mid-century home atop Belvedere Island had a complete interior remodel, with new sliding doors open to the outdoor area and a wonderful view of the Bay and Golden Gate bridge.

11) Builders of Marin

46 Rollingwood Drive, San Rafael, CA 94901

Builders of Marin was founded in 1999, offering Marin full-service home improvement and construction services. Founder David Ross Mulligan was exposed early to home renovations and woodworking by his father, and has since honed his skills. Elle Decor magazine featured the company in 2017, calling its work both luxurious and functional.

The company’s unparalleled craftsmanship has earned repeat clients and a positive reputation among Marin residents. The company’s online gallery highlights the depth of work and attention Builders of Marin incorporate into its work. Relaxing, cozy, and sleek: the home interior in a recent build by the company has earned it praise and accolades. Framed glass windows, glass stair railing, and a skylight that allows natural light to illuminate the room work together with a brick fireplace that acts as a centerpiece to create a harmonious space.

10) SinglePoint Design Build

P.O. Box 1002 Mill Valley, CA 94942

Established in 2010, SinglePoint Design Build has quickly become a premier home builder and remodeler in Marin County. Headed by Brant Hill, SinglePoint’s principal and building team have an extensive background in home construction, offering ground-up construction to full home remodels across Marin. The company is LEED-accredited and a Better Business Bureau accredited firm.

Times change and needs changes as well. SinglePoint Design Build understands this, and makes it its mission to improve the homeowner’s way of living thrugh transitional design. One such Tudor home remodel in Mill Valley, CA perfectly blurred the line between the comforts of the indoor and views of the outdoors.

9) Salamandra Associates

39 Aquinas Drive, San Rafael, CA 94901

Salamandra Associates has been in service since 1988, building commercial projects and homes with an emphasis on waterfront development in Marin County. Founded by Steve Salamandra, who has a background in construction management, Salamandra Associates specializes in new construction and full-home renovations. The company is accredited by Build It Green.

Salamandra’s portfolio highlights the company’s architectural styles and emphasis on comfortable spaces. The recent remodel of a living space in San Anselmo, CA featured a wide open floor plan creating a seamless flow from the kitchen to a dining area and living room. Framed glass doors lead to a spacious deck.

8) Kitchens & More

4178 Redwood Hwy, San Rafael, CA 94903

Japan, Saudi Arabia, Europe, and Africa: these are the places that inspire and fuel founder Krikor Halajian’s ideas and work at Kitchen & More. Serving Marin County since 1992 with award-winning kitchen and bath remodeling, the company has been acknowledged by the National Kitchen and Bath Association with a Crystal Cabinets Grand Prize award and Pacific Sun’s Best of Marin. The company is LEED-Accredited and a Certified Kitchen Designer.

Kitchens & More’s expertise in remodeling caters to a diverse style of homes, from Spanish and Tudor, to modern and contemporary, across Marin County. Looking at their portfolio will give you an idea of the kind of work that Krikor and his team are focusing on- kitchens and baths that are functional and lovely. A kitchen remodel in Mill Valley, CA featured a simple yet effective combination of wood and steel, with large windows to allow sunlight and to take advantage of the green scenery.

7) Rasmussen Construction

1118 Grant Avenue, Novato, CA 94945

Working side-by-side with his father, David Rasmussen’s skill and interest in crafting homes started at a young age. Three generations of his family have built beautiful homes across the Bay area for over 35 years.

Rasmussen Construction’s high-end remodeling projects has earned it praise among its clients and across Marin County. Its first-class work recently caught the attention of Sunset Magazine, Country Style Magazine, and Remodeling Magazine.

A recent project featured a historical Tudor facade to a modern home remodeled by Rasmussen. The Burlwood Estate in Mill Valley was built in the 1800’s, surrounded by natural scenery. The extensive remodel included updates to its amenities, while other areas were kept in pristine condition to maintain its distinct charm.

6) Floyd Construction, Inc.

714 C Street #207, San Rafael, CA 94901

Joe Floyd honed his skills in home building by working in the construction industry for 4 years while he was in school. In 1979, he decided to start his own construction business, despite the harsh economy of the time. Today, Floyd Construction, Inc. is a successful home builder and remodeler, with numerous awards and accolades. Floyd has been featured in Marin Magazine in 2014, 2017, and 2018. From simple home remodeling to new home construction, Floyd Construction treats every project with the same professionalism.

Floyd specializes in the renovation of historic homes. A recent project was a vintage 90’s ranch style home’s full interior remodel. Ceilings were remodeled to create room volume and decorative reclaimed beams were placed to give ceiling spaces a paneling between. The use of different materials, textures, and natural elements for this project are beautifully melded into the home.

5) Kerr Construction

15 Woodland Avenue, Suite F, San Rafael, CA 94901

Featured in The Journal of Light Construction, American Bungalow, and San Francisco Magazine, Kerr Construction has earned a reputation for its construction and remodeling services. Kerr Construction’s founder, Jeff Kerr, is a Certified Green Building Professional and has received the platinum level award from the US Green Building Council.

Kerr Construction’s portfolio mirrors the time and professionalism it dedicates to each project. A notable example is a recent home remodel in West Marin, CA. A coastal vibe was achieved through the use of wood beams and furniture. A free-flowing design made it possible for the room to look bigger, while bay windows allowed a view of the vast natural scenery. Kerr Construction was given a LEED Platinum Award for this home.

4) Wilkinson Design + Construction, Inc.

45 Mitchell Blvd, Suite 7A, San Rafael, CA 94903

Wilkinson Design + Construction strives for excellent craftsmanship and exquisite style in each of its projects. For over 25 years, Pav Wilkinson and his team of experts have worked on large-scale remodels with high standards. Wilkinson’s ability to immaculately blend architectural styles have gained the attention of professional organizations such as NARI, AIA, and NKBA. The company has also been featured in publications including Remodeling Magazine and Home Remodeling Magazine.

Residential kitchen remodel with a modern design

A home in San Anselmo, CA was completely remodeled to create a sleek and modern look. Wilkinson Design constructed the kitchen using metallic themes, while soft under-cabinet lights added a touch of sophistication to the modern space.

3) Plath & Co.

1575 Francisco Blvd East, San Rafael, CA 94901

From ground-up construction of trendy homes to full remodels of old homes, Plath & Co. has the expertise to complete work of the highest quality. With over 20 years of experience, JB Ferrarone leads a company with the mission of improving California’s neighborhood. Plath & Co. offers custom homes and home remodeling with an intricate taste of sophistication and luxury.

With the company’s excellent projects and workmanship, it has gained notable recognition, including a LEED Platinum award, NARI Best Remodeling Contractor, a California Preservation Foundation Preservation Award, and a spot on the 2011 list of Top 500 Contractors.

2) Landmark Builders

42 Digital Drive, Suite 11, Novato, CA 94949

Jaimie Stewart’s relationship with the construction industry started in 1976, when he founded Landmark Builders, to provide homeowners with the finest quality of home building and remodeling. Landmark Builders’ stellar array of projects has won the recognition of a number of publications, including Detail in Architecture, Detail in Contemporary, Marin Home Magazine, Spaces Light and Luxurious, and more. The company’s consistently excellent work has come to the attention of respected organizations such as the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, and Build It Green.

Coastal, breezy, and relaxing perfectly describes a recent home renovation project by the beach in San Rafael. Landmark Builders remodeled the house and added features to elevate its style and functionality. Sliding glass doors lead to a spacious deck where the family can enjoy the warm sun and gorgeous view of the beach.

1) Kasten Builders

3419 Regatta Blvd, Richmond, CA 94804

Kasten Builder’s work is known to be elegant, spacious, and charming. A graduate of Lawrence Institute of Technology with a degree in Architecture, founder Denny Kasten works to create and transform houses into cozy homes. Outstanding work since 1972 has won Kasten Builders not only several prestigious awards, but also the trust of their clients throughout the Marin, Sonoma, and Napa counties. Kasten’s home remodeling projects earned the company the 2018 AIA Merit Design Award. The company has also been featured in such notable publications as Marin Home Magazine, Design for Living Magazine, and From House to Home Magazine.

A recent project by Kasten Builders gave this 1970’s home in Tiburon, CA a fresh and modern-contemporary look. The home was completely renovated to accommodate a growing family. Kasten installed floor-to-ceiling glass windows that allow sunlight to flood the room. The deck was also expanded to make room for outdoor activities and an area where people can enjoy the scenic San Francisco Bay.

How can I find a general contractor near me?

Read our latest articles on the best general contractors in and near Stockton. If you don’t see your project type below, just let us know – we are happy to create a tailored recommendation list just for you.

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About Our Rankings

This list takes a range of ranking criteria into consideration, including but not limited to: work history, customer satisfaction, awards and recognition, geographic area of work, cost, building permits, and clientele. We spent over 40 hours researching local contractors before calculating the final ranking for this post. If there is additional information about your business that could affect these rankings, please fill out this form and we will take it into consideration.