Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Michaelis.
Hi Ashley, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
We started flipping homes in 2016 on the East Bench in Salt Lake City, documenting our journey along the way. We love the midcentury gems often found in that area—many of which have had only one owner since the 60’s/70’s and have been well loved over the years. The ones with pink tile, wood wall panels, and lots of natural light. We love restoring those homes to their full glory. Back then, I did all the interior design for our company and Sean was the General Contractor. People started to reach out, asking us to remodel their homes for them—and even their commercial spaces… and build their custom dream homes! It’s been such an honor and we never would’ve imagined our company growing so quickly into that. In 2022, we entered our first Parade of Homes and won every award in our category. Only God could write a story like that! Our team has grown and now years later, we’re still restoring old homes, but also building custom homes and constructing commercial spaces in Salt Lake City, Park City, and the surrounding areas. We’re passionate about functional, custom design and strive for excellence in all that we build.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Definitely not. When we first started out, it was just Sean and I running the company, making all the decisions, designing the homes, and building them as we pleased. So it was an adjustment when we started taking on client builds. It was no longer us making all the decisions. We quickly realized what a responsibility it is to build a client’s dream home the way they envisioned it, in the most functional way for their specific needs—one where they can grow old, host friends and family, and watch their kids grow up. It’s a huge responsibility, but of course, such a privilege! We had to learn best way to manage the builds, from our computer software, to systems and processes on site. There was a lot of trial and error in the beginning. But we’re thankful for great mentors along the way, trustworthy clients, and a truly talented team of people to work with.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Michaelis Build & Development?
Michaelis Build & Development is a family-owned building company, known for high-quality, modern, custom construction in Salt Lake City, Park City and the surrounding areas. We specialize in custom homes, large-scale remodels and restorations, and commercial tenant improvements. We pride ourselves on transparency and open communication throughout the build, putting the client first and striving for excellence. Whether it’s a custom home or a commercial construction project, we bring the same commitment to quality, communication, and craftsmanship. By limiting the number of projects we undertake and developing trustworthy relationships with some of the most talented trades throughout the valley, including architects, designers, vendors, and craftsmen; we’re able to build with superior workmanship, attention to detail, and the highest level of customer service. Our mission is to build inspiring spaces that you’ll be proud of for many years to come—spaces that truly reflect you. Nothing is ever really timeless, but we love custom builds because they’re specifically created to reflect the owner’s personal tastes, lifestyle, and needs, rather than following fleeting trends. This deeply personal tailoring ensures the home remains relevant and cherished for generations.
What were you like growing up?
I was a “gifted kid”—book smart, great grades, but didn’t really enjoy learning. I just enjoyed getting my work done as quickly as possible! That has since changed, because I’m homeschooling my kids this year and I enjoy the curriculum more than them! But growing up I loved art class or any chance to do a creative project. I grew up in Florida and spent my weekends at the beach with friends. I was always rearranging my bedroom, or repainting it. Thankfully my parents were okay with that, as long as they didn’t have to be the ones to paint it. I think at one point I went from a pink room, to yellow, to light green all within a year. When I went away for college, I remember begging my mom to “splurge” on this Nautical light pink corduroy duvet cover from Bed, Bath & Beyond for my dorm room. She wouldn’t get me anything else for my dorm, but at least I had the perfect duvet cover. I still stand firm on the opinion that texture and quality materials are worth splurging on! We moved a lot growing up, and I enjoyed the blank slate that a new home brings. Somewhere along the way I fell in love with real estate and home design. In college, I majored in Business with a minor in Real Estate. I began a career in real estate after graduating from Florida State University, working in sales at Toll Brothers, a semi-custom new home builder. I loved the process of building our clients’ dream homes, from picking out the floor plan and elevation, to selecting design finishes, and then watching it all be built and come to life. Sean and I moved to Utah in 2016 when I was pregnant with our oldest son, and we’ve been renovating and building homes here ever since.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://buildwithmbd.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/buildwithmbd
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/buildwithmbd
