1. A Listening First Approach That Puts Homeowners at the Center

Every renovation begins with conversation. The first step in the Upland Builds process is simple and powerful. We listen.

Before drawings, budgets, or concepts are created, our team takes the time to understand:

• Your goals
• Your lifestyle
• Your routines
• Your long term plans
• Your design preferences
• Your comfort levels with budget and timeline

This listening first approach allows us to uncover the heart of your project. Whether you are dreaming of a larger kitchen, a private basement suite, or a more functional mudroom for Ottawa’s winter months, we tailor everything to your needs from day one.

Homeowners appreciate this because they feel heard, supported, and understood. It makes every decision that follows clearer and easier.

2. A Thoughtful and Creative Design Process

Design is the stage where your ideas begin to take shape. At Upland Builds, we approach design as a collaborative, inspiring experience. With your input, our designers create personalized plans that combine functionality, comfort, and style.

The design stage includes:

• Concept sketches
• Detailed layouts
• 3D visualizations
• Material and finish selections
• Space planning
• Sustainability and efficiency considerations

Our design team focuses on creating spaces that feel relaxed, well balanced, and beautiful. We help homeowners explore a wide range of possibilities, while keeping practicality and everyday living at the forefront.

By the time construction begins, you will have a clear vision of exactly what your new space will feel like.

3. Transparency in Pricing and Planning

Clear pricing and honest communication are essential for a positive renovation experience. Homeowners in Ottawa often tell us how much they value our transparent approach.

During the pricing and planning stage, we provide:

• Detailed, itemized estimates
• Clear descriptions of materials and labor
• Well defined project scopes
• Realistic timelines
• Open conversations about options and priorities

No surprises. No vague allowances. No unclear expectations.

This transparency builds trust and helps you feel confident about your investment, whether you are planning a $40,000 bathroom renovation or a full home transformation.

4. A Well Structured Pre-Construction Phase That Prevents Delays

The pre-construction phase is where the groundwork for a smooth renovation is built. Before construction begins, we handle all the details that ensure your project starts on the right foot.

This includes:

• Permit coordination with the City of Ottawa
• Material sourcing and procurement
• Engineering and structural review when needed
• Scheduling trades
• Site protection and preparation
• Logistics planning

Homeowners often say that this phase sets Upland Builds apart. Instead of rushing into construction, we take the time to prepare the project properly. It makes the entire experience more efficient, organized, and predictable.

5. Skilled, Respectful Craftsmanship at Every Stage

Construction is where the vision becomes real. At Upland Builds, quality craftsmanship is built into every detail, from framing to finish work.

Our construction stage includes:

• Highly skilled carpenters and trades
• Safe and respectful onsite practices
• Consistent communication about progress
• Onsite supervision to maintain standards
• High quality materials selected for Ottawa’s climate

Homeowners notice the difference in the details. Tight joints, smooth transitions, precise tilework, thoughtful lighting layouts, durable finishes, and careful installation are all hallmarks of our work.

Our team treats every home as if it were our own.

6. A Commitment to Safe, Respectful, People First Workplaces

Upland Builds is not just a renovation company. It is a culture built around respect, safety, and integrity. Founder David Quesnel brings a unique background that shapes every part of the company.

David is a journeyman carpenter raised in Whitehorse, Yukon. His discipline, work ethic, and resilience were forged through years of challenging work in Alberta and Saskatchewan’s oil fields, ultra marathon training, and even helicopter deployed surveying on remote mountain peaks.

As a former project manager at Solvest Inc., a solar energy company in the Yukon, he gained deep experience in leadership, jobsite safety, and collaboration with Indigenous communities. These values carry forward into Upland Builds.

This foundation results in:

• Safe work environments
• Respectful interactions
• Clean jobsite practices
• Strong team morale
• A calm, supportive renovation experience for homeowners

Clients can feel this difference from the first meeting through construction and completion.

7. A Seamless Design Build Model That Eliminates Miscommunication

Many Ottawa homeowners choose Upland Builds because we offer a full design-build service. This means one team handles design, budgeting, material selection, planning, project coordination, and construction.

The benefits are significant:

• One point of contact
• Reduced delays
• Fewer handoffs
• Smoother communication
• Aligned expectations
• Better cost and timeline control
• A renovation experience that feels cohesive

Instead of navigating multiple companies, you have a unified team working toward the same vision. This is one of the strongest reasons homeowners choose a design build partner for their renovation.

8. Quality Assurance and Long Term Support

A renovation does not end when the last tile is placed or the final piece of trim is installed. The last stage of the Upland Builds process is completion and quality assurance.

This includes:

• A thorough final inspection
• Punch list review
• Homeowner walkthrough
• Full quality checks
• Prompt follow up on questions or adjustments
• Workmanship warranty

We stand behind our work and support our clients long after the renovation is complete. It is part of our commitment to craftsmanship, integrity, and long term value.