About Us
OUR MISSION IS SERVICE; our goal, as a company, is to improve the quality of life of each one of our clients, our business and trade partners, and our employees. We will do this by managing the construction process to incorporate good design, sound and sustainable building practices, integrity, fair pricing, and reliable outcomes.
We want to make the construction experience creative, enjoyable, and something which adds value to the lives of all we impact.
LAUTEN CONSTRUCTION COMPANY was established in Loudoun County in 1987 as a carpentry subcontracting company. Since then, we have grown into a complete building and remodeling company, specializing in historic renovations and energy efficiency.
Virginia Class A contractor’s License (#2705 023989A)
Fully insured for Liability and Workman’s Compensation.
About Design/Build
Lauten Construction’s Design/Build Approach has evolved over more than two decades of successfull collaboration with our clients.
One system of planning a building project, which most people are familiar with, is to first hire an architect, who draws up plans, which are put out to several building companies for "bidding". There are several problems inherent in this system. More than a few times, we have seen beautifully designed projects that never get built, because real cost information came into the picture too late to be useful in planning. An informed discussion of budget, including the impact of alternative design options on it, is a key element in an effective planning process.
Another problem is one of comparison between "bids". For example, by learning through experience, we have developed time tested policies and procedures that enable us to consistently manage the construction process for a reliable outcome. This is an intangible that is not readily apparent in the "bidding" process.
Finally, in a "bid" proposal, every unspecified detail or assumption can become an item of contention in a tug-of-war over cost between the builder and homeowner in a fixed price agreement with a third party designer involved. We prefer a negotiated agreement based on mututal trust.
LC’s Design/Build Approach puts the builder, the architect, and the Home Owner on the same “team” early in the process. We can identify and contract with an appropriate independent architecture or design firm, which eliminates a potential source of conflict. Because we are involved from the beginning, we can provide real cost information. With shared cost expectations on the table from the initial concept, the design is based on a realistic budget which adresses the Owner's needs, wants and wishes.
This approach, while not for everyone, provides maximum Owner involvement in the project. Although it can require more meeting time and ongoing evaluation of alternatives, we feel that it ultimately leads to a more satisfying project, arrived at through the co-operative efforts of all parties involved.
LAUTEN CONSTRUCTION CO. has been providing the design/build approach to its clients for many years. References are available. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have on the subject, including helping you decide if this approach is right for your particular project.
Our Team
Robert LautenPresident
Robert has four decades of experience in construction. He knows something about how to build things so they will last. He loves working on old buildings, and has learned a lot about historic construction materials and methods by taking many old structures apart and putting them back together. He keeps up to date on construction technology by following the trade press, attending shows, classes and seminars, and participation in industry associations. Civic endeavors include current Chairman of the Town of Purcellville Economic Development Advisory Committee, Past President and current Director of the Purcellville Business Association, and lacrosse coach (spring season). Hobbies include hands-on building, gardening and riding his Harley Sportster on sunny days.
Drew LautenProject Manager
Drew has over 9 years experience in the building field. Four of those years were spent in Asheville NC. Gaining experience with different companies and working on a wide variety of projects. He grew up in and around Loudoun county and is right at home here. He and his father have worked together on many unique projects and plan to work on many more. He is a competent and talented individual who has a good understanding of the ins and outs of building and remodeling. He currently resides in Bluemont Va with his wife Rebecca and their two dogs.
Mike CoeProject Manager
Mike has 25 years of construction experience as a helper and journeyman, and is currently a master level carpenter. In his career, he has worked for several of the top builders in the Western Loudoun area, and has been with LCC for a little over three years. As a project manager, he has been responsible for supervising the construction of several large residential projects, and many smaller repair, restoration and maintenance jobs as well. He is a talented, versatile craftsman, a conscientious manager, and a gentleman. He keeps his jobs on schedule and under budget, while exhibiting top notch craftsmanship.