--- title: "Echelon Builders, Inc. — General Contractors | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/general-contractors/echelon-builders-inc-pfvwus-pf~1795186558 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1795186558.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Echelon Builders, Inc." category: ["General Contractors"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/95d38d5d0155fbea_9548-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "12541 194th Lane NW, Elk River, Minnesota 55330, United States" latitude: 45.3136 longitude: -93.5814 phone: "(612) 232-0764" website: http://www.echelonbuilders.com rating: 5 review_count: 9 best_of_houzz_awards: 3 followers: 70 last_updated: 2026-09-12 --- # Echelon Builders, Inc. Original Houzz profile: [Echelon Builders, Inc.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/general-contractors/echelon-builders-inc-pfvwus-pf~1795186558) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** General Contractors - **Location:** Elk River, MN - **Serves:** Minneapolis, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Blaine, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Ramsey, Elk River, Champlin, Golden Valley, Otsego, Saint Michael, Anoka, Rogers, Saint Paul, Big Lake, Albertville, Dayton, Zimmerman, Nowthen, Anodover - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (9 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2015–2017), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 10,000 Ideabook Saves Echelon Builders is a design & build firm for both renovation and new homes. Our expertise lies in our tireless consultation with our clients organizing for them the daunting amount of details that go into a complex project. We help you to realize your design needs, aid in a number of construction method choices from product selections to Energy Efficiency requirements, manage your budget and subcontractor specifications, and then see the project through the complexities of the build process. ### Services Provided - Home Remodeling - Bathroom Remodeling - Kitchen Remodeling - General Contracting - Home Additions - Custom Homes - New Home Construction - Energy-Efficient Homes - Green Building - Attic Restoration ### Areas Served - Minneapolis - Plymouth - Maple Grove - Blaine - Eden Prairie - Minnetonka - Ramsey - Elk River - Champlin - Golden Valley - Otsego - Saint Michael - Anoka - Rogers - Saint Paul - Big Lake - Albertville - Dayton - Zimmerman - Nowthen - Anodover ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Echelon Builders, Inc. | | Address | 12541 194th Lane NW, Elk River, Minnesota 55330, United States | | Phone | (612) 232-0764 | | Website | http://www.echelonbuilders.com | | License Number | BC348101 | | Followers on Houzz | 70 | ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Echelon Builders, Inc.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/general-contractors/echelon-builders-inc-pfvwus-pf~1795186558) - **Website:** http://www.echelonbuilders.com - **Phone:** (612) 232-0764 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Best of Houzz 2015 & 16 (Customer Service), LRRP Certified - **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2015–2017), for Service. ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 9 reviews** ### All 9 reviews **★★★★★ — tamichristoff, Aug. 2016** > Mike was so professional had great ideas which we did use, money saving ideas which we also used. Mike worked with us on staying within our budget and time line. We would and will work with Mike again no questions about that. We did a full renovation and Mike was an expert in all rooms. Highly intelligent, and knowledgeable in his line of work . **Comment from Echelon Builders, Inc.:** > Tami, thank you so much for your kind comments. It has been a pleasure. I do take my job very "personally" in that each and every client be treated like a dear friend. It's maybe no surprise that many of them become just that in the end. We all have our own lifestyles and situations, so I strive to be supportive of that while consulting and building for anyone. It may sound cliche, but I truly do get the most satisfaction from my work through helping wonderful and appreciative people. Thank you so much for letting us be a part of your project. **★★★★★ — lstratton2, Nov. 2015** > We would highly recommend Mike Westgaard and Echelon Builders. We had Mike help with our bathroom remodel a couple of years ago and knew exactly who we wanted when it was time to tackle our kitchen. Mike is a pleasure to work with in every sense of the word. He is knowledgeable, detail-conscious, and flexible. We wanted to do a portion of the work ourselves, and Mike was very willing to work with us on that basis, despite the challenges we know that handed him. He never made us feel we were too small a job to be important or that our wish to handle some work ourselves was a nuisance or hindrance. He was always ready and willing to pitch in or pull back according to our wishes. His input from design to structure to finishing was invaluable, and I always knew I could trust his opinion. We had the same experience with each and every crew he contracted work out to. They were all friendly, knowledgeable and respectful of us and our home---even down to our obnoxious barking dog. We had complete trust that what any of them suggested or did was worth doing and done right. > > In a situation that can be stressful, frustrating and exhausting, Mike is calm, competent, and reassuring, and his work is definitely top grade. His patient attention to every small detail is amazing and shows in the finished product. There is not enough I can say when praising Mike, both personally and professionally **Comment from Echelon Builders, Inc.:** > Lynette, thank you so much for that very kind review. You're the reason we love what we do. Echelon branding talks about this being 'personal.' What we mean by that is having some mutually gratifying relationship beyond the numbers. Your project has been just that. You two have been an absolute pleasure to be involved with, and we hope you'll include us on your next project as well. Thank you so much. **★★★★★ — Manomin Resawn Timbers, June 2015** > Manomin Resawn Timbers loves working with Echelon Builders. They go above and beyond to make the homeowner’s vision come true. Echelon’s team work is professional, creative, well organized and has well thought out projects. We always enjoying working with them and look forward to our next time. **★★★★★ — Ann Martineau, Dec. 2014** > We hired Mike Westguaard and Echelon Builders, Inc. for our kitchen remodel. We were so pleased to discover Mike’s unique ability for design as well. He actively listened to our ideas and offered us a floor plan design that exceeded our kitchen dreams! Mike was always respectful of our budget while still making us aware of our options. His attention to detail and commitment to a quality job never lapsed. We were looking to create a custom rustic space with modern touches. Mike was diligent in sourcing all the special materials needed for the job from 100 year old beams, rustic weathered wood, and unique iron hardware and doors. Mike’s skills as a contractor are limitless. His able to not only envision the job but actually carry out the installation himself with excellent craftsmanship, allowing us to work closely with him daily, making changes and adding details that we are sure would have been missed with a sub-contractor. > > We initially hired Mike for our kitchen remodel but quickly realized what an asset he was both in his vision and his follow through. We continued to add additional projects which never once fazed him and he was patient with our questions and changes. Mike created a beautiful, rustic and unique kitchen worthy of any design magazine cover and then delivered the same quality to the additional projects that finished our main level. We are currently working with Mike to remodel our master bath and second floor. We absolutely recommend Mike and Echelon Builders to anyone in need of a highly skilled and competent Contractor! **Comment from Echelon Builders, Inc.:** > My favorite thing about this project has been you guys! Pictures are worth a thousand words, but a thousand words wouldn't be enough to describe how much fun I've had on this project, how much I appreciate you two personally, and how fortunate I feel to have this unique project opportunity. Thank you so much for including me in your unbelievable house transformation. **★★★★★ — podot, Dec. 2014** > Our project included creating an open concept in our split-entry town home. We requested three bids, but we knew immediately we wanted to work with Mike Westgaard. He really listened to our concept and contributed ideas. His bid was reasonable as was the timeline. I was so happy with the workmanship, the way he handled the budget, and was impressed with his efforts to clean up after the work day so we could function in what could have been a mess while taking down walls and installing wood floors. We were thrilled with the end result thanks to Mike's suggestions, knowledge, and attention to detail. Our Antique Glaze Kitchen is beautiful and perfectly designed. The crown molding is a work of art because of the number of corners which were done to perfection. We had built-in cabinets in the living area that were cleverly designed for functionality, but are also beautiful. The stairway is beautifully designed thanks to Mike making a great impression upon entering. Mike not only knows what he is doing, but has a keen sense of function and design. Our home is now more than we even dreamed. **Comment from Echelon Builders, Inc.:** > Ann, it was such a fun and memorable experience working with you two. I also knew within minutes into our first meeting that I wanted to work with you. I've truly enjoyed our time collaborating and socializing. Thank you. **★★★★★ — Elizabeth Weixel, May 2014** > We hired Echelon Builders to finish our 700-square-foot basement, which had been merely concrete floors and walls. We are thrilled with how well the process went and with the final product, which now includes a family room, bedroom, office/bedroom, bathroom, laundry, and storage space we can actually use and enjoy. > > Mike Westgaard designed a floor plan that captured exactly what we wanted to do with the space but which we ourselves could not envision without help, incorporating the few elements (French doors, a fireplace, tile) that we knew we wanted. Mike creatively solved problems we had with the space (such as an awkward area behind the furnace, which became a linen closet in the bath) and created a well-balanced space. Construction went smoothly and swiftly once the design was complete. The level of attention paid to small details and Mike’s high standards for materials and workmanship mean we now have a beautiful basement. One gets the sense that he maintains the same standards for work in others’ homes as he would for his own. The project stayed within budget and there were no unpleasant surprises. > > Mike did much of the work himself and is knowledgeable about all aspect of construction. He communicates clearly and frequently, so we were always aware—ahead of time—of what was going to happen, time frames, who was coming to the house, etc. He is good at explaining and describing work as well as listening to others. Finally, his positive attitude set him apart from other builders we interviewed. He is a pleasure to work with and we highly recommend Echelon Builders for any project. **Comment from Echelon Builders, Inc.:** > The pleasure has been ours. I'm glad to hear your experience was so pleasant and productive. Our strict philosophy of knowing-your-client which we believe produces the best results has once again proven itself with your project and your experience with us. It's hard work; including for you...we appreciate your dedicated involvement. It's integral to our method. The more we know about you, the better we can serve you. Thanks for entrusting us with your project, your investment, and your time. Enjoy your new space! **★★★★★ — bobaol, May 2013** > Echelon builders took the completely gutted upper level of our 1 1/2 story and added dormers to create 2 bedrooms, a bathroom, and a sitting area. The project was very extensive as there was needed support for the dormers and the entire house was re-roofed and re-sided. > > It was very nice to work with Echelon builders as the owner was the one that did much of the work himself. It was advantagous to us as we were able to work closely with him each day to make sure that necessary touches and needed changes were put in place. > > Overall, the project turned out exactly as we had hoped. The bedrooms/sitting area are wonderful additions, and the bathroom is one of a kind. The attention to detail was exceptional. > > One of the main goals of the project was to make sure the new space matched the space on the main level so there was a seamless transition from the existing main floor to the 2nd floor addtion. Owner Mike Westgard made sure this happened from start to finish. **★★★★★ — Indicia Interior Design, April 2013** > As an interior designer I've worked with many different general contractors over the years; Mike Westgaard of Echelon Builders, Inc. is certainly someone I look forward to working with again. He has a great ability in delivering a well managed project; wonderful communication and truly a team player. Our clients couldn't be happier with their newly remodeled home. **★★★★★ — sfantin, April 2013** > We worked with Echelon Builders to design and build a three-story addition (including full basement) to our 1914 home. It was important to us that the new construction took advantage of newer technologies (in-floor radiant heat, high velocity air conditioning, etc.), while also keeping true to the original style and flow of the house, and offer a footprint that comfortably fit the dimenions of our city lot without sacrificing our yard. > > From roughing out the original sketches with us at our kitchen table, to negotiating the budget, to the final touches of construction, Echelon did a fantastic job. They had great ideas and input on how to best meet our many expectations, and showed great flexibility (and patience) in working with us to explore options and make adjustments during the project. We have been thrilled with the results, and have confidently and happily recommended Echelon many times over. We would hire them again in a heartbeat. ## Selected projects - [Rustic Kitchen Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rustic-kitchen-renovation-pj-vj~876851) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 7 - Description: We've been forbidden to ever show the "before" picture...j/k. Would you believe that the original space had a partition wall separating the Kitchen and Dining where our 12x14 main beam sits? This space was meant to be open. Thank you Manomin for the beautiful reclaimed product...extending the life of these giant 12x14 hand-hewn barn timbers means a lot to the homeowners and myself. They are treasures! Thanks to Thermador appliances, Restoration Hardware, Crystal Cabinetry & Urban Ironcraft for b… - [Kenny neighborhood (S Mpls) Attic Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kenny-neighborhood-s-mpls-attic-addition-pj-vj~206026) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 9 - Description: South Minneapolis (Kenny neighborhood) attic addition and finish. Three dormers and two porch coverings were added to this 1930s home along with new fiber cement siding. - [Summit Hill (St Paul) Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/summit-hill-st-paul-addition-pj-vj~205921) - Location: St. Paul, MN - Photos: 7 - Description: This 1914 two-story house in the Summit Hill neighborhood of St. Paul, has a beautiful oversized lot, but was short on family bedrooms and bathroom space, and needed a less formal Family space nearer to the Kitchen. A new Master Suite was added to the second level while using the addition space on the Main for the new Family Room, Back Entry and covered porch/deck. A full basement was incorporated for this addition in order to fulfill the need for storage that these old homes lack. - [St. Michael Lake Home Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/st-michael-lake-home-remodel-pj-vj~297183) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 2 - [Front Porch](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/front-porch-pj-vj~320088) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 2 - [Antique Glaze Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/antique-glaze-kitchen-pj-vj~340829) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - [Bathroom Remodels](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bathroom-remodels-pj-vj~375774) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 1 - [Outdoor Structures](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/outdoor-structures-pj-vj~206011) - Location: Elk River, MN - Photos: 5 - Description: Outdoor Structures: a custom designed set of outdoor structures for a very large patio and walk. It is made of cedar and stained with Sherwin Williams product. - [Master Suite Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/master-suite-addition-pj-vj~206361) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 1 [See all 9 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/general-contractors/echelon-builders-inc-pfvwus-pf~1795186558) ## Ideabooks - [Pantry Doors](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/114884299/list/pantry-doors) — 4 ideas - [Eden Prairie Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/77004134/list/eden-prairie-kitchen) — 1 idea - [Summit Ave Project](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/70870323/list/summit-ave-project) — 6 ideas - [Monticello Master Bath](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/64414544/list/monticello-master-bath) — 9 ideas - [Cabin Features](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/30366840/list/cabin-features) — 19 ideas - [Rustic](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/25297474/list/rustic) — 3 ideas - [Spanish Mission](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/19105106/list/spanish-mission) — 5 ideas - [Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/17945945/list/kitchen) — 14 ideas - [Dining](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/17945900/list/dining) — 1 idea - [Columns](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/17935803/list/columns) — 3 ideas - [Elk River Project](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/17935081/list/elk-river-project) — 65 ideas - [Bungalow](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/11767485/list/bungalow) — 1 idea - [Exterior Features](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/11767392/list/exterior-features) — 6 ideas - [Cottage Design](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/11733769/list/cottage-design) — 13 ideas - [Landscaping](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/11324440/list/landscaping) — 10 ideas - [Fireplaces](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/10506823/list/fireplaces) — 12 ideas - [Furniture](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/8265828/list/furniture) — 2 ideas - [Mike's Favorites](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/1566165/list/mike-s-favorites) — 5 ideas [See all 18 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/mwestgaard) ## Community Q&A **Q: was the complete stone vent stone done first or backsplash?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Thank you for the inquiry. The backsplash was installed prior to the stone. **Q: CountertopsNews** *(in Photo Questions)* Can I use your image on my blog page? Thanks A: Koray, thank you for your interest. Can you give me some idea of what you'll be referencing in this image? **Q: Love the floor, what kind of tile, etc. is it?** *(in Photo Questions)* What kind of tile is it? A: Thank you for your inquiry. The floor is a natural slate, and i believe the color is California Gold. **Q: Do you recall the type of slate is used here? Love them!** *(in Photo Questions)* I am attempting to source a neutral slate option for my new build, in SC. Golden Sand may be an option. I'd love to know the slate used in the home. A: Kim, I looked through our archives this morning, and found we used California Gold as the slate color on this project. I also found a pic from one of our selection days that gives a better look at it. I hope this helps, and good luck to you on your project. Regards **Q: hi, I like that stain color as well. Could you share the custom color?** *(in Photo Questions)* Can you share? A: I apologize user....as I think you may have come across in other responses, the color was custom, and would be drastically different on varied wood species. This door was Douglas Fir, but the same species from another supplier could render another result unlike this one. Please obtain a sample of wood from your door supplier to bring to your finisher, along with a pic of our results, in order to accomplish the desired results. I wish you well in your quest! **Q: Slate on floor** *(in Photo Questions)* Is the slate on the floor sealed?What company did you use to buy the slate? A: Thank you for your question. The slate is not sealed. This couple did not want that look. They wanted a more lived-in atmosphere. Now, leaving natural stone unsealed is not for everyone or every situation. In fact most situations should probably consider sealing natural stone, but this particular situation was an exception. We used Minnesota Tile ( https://www.houzz.com/pro/lynn-chock/minnesota-tile-stone) as a supplier for this product. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-12.*