--- title: "Follyn Builders & Developers — General Contractors | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/general-contractors/follyn-builders-and-developers-pfvwus-pf~687880091 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~687880091.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Follyn Builders & Developers" category: ["General Contractors"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/1a0375580f5cc9e7_3677-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "Chicago, Illinois 60625, United States" phone: "(773) 457-0291" website: http://www.follynbuilders.com rating: 5 review_count: 14 best_of_houzz_awards: 3 followers: 297 last_updated: 2026-09-06 --- # Follyn Builders & Developers Original Houzz profile: [Follyn Builders & Developers](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/general-contractors/follyn-builders-and-developers-pfvwus-pf~687880091) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** General Contractors - **Location:** Chicago, IL - **Serves:** Chicago, Evanston, Skokie, Oak Park, Glenview, Park Ridge, Northbrook, Niles, Highland Park, Wilmette, Morton Grove, Elmwood Park, Lake Forest, La Grange Park, Lincolnwood, Northlake, Winnetka, River Forest, Glencoe, Northfield, Kenilworth, Golf, Barringotn, Glenview Nas - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (14 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2018–2021), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 10,000 Ideabook Saves Follyn Builders is proud to be a CUSTOM HOME BUILDER in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. Building a new custom single family home from the ground up or an extensive re-hab, we can suggest ideas and work with you to be sure the finished product is exactly what you envisioned. Contact us today and we can start working on your dream home! We are proud to be the premier builder of custom new homes in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. Each house we build is truly custom in Chicago neighborhoods or the northwest and northern suburbs - custom really means unique and original and one of a kind. Build your truly custom home with Follyn Builders! Follyn Builders, custom homes with timeless design...contemporary style. ### Services Provided - Home Remodeling - Kitchen Remodeling - General Contracting - Home Additions - New Home Construction - Home Extensions - Guesthouse Design & Construction - Pool House Design & Construction - Project Management - Additions and Renovations - Gut Re-Hab - Historic Home Restoration - Large Scale Remodeling ### Areas Served - Chicago - Evanston - Skokie - Oak Park - Glenview - Park Ridge - Northbrook - Niles - Highland Park - Wilmette - Morton Grove - Elmwood Park - Lake Forest - La Grange Park - Lincolnwood - Northlake - Winnetka - River Forest - Glencoe - Northfield - Kenilworth - Golf - Barringotn - Glenview Nas ### Typical Job Cost $300,000 - 4,500,000 Cost varies widely depending on scope of the project. A custom home is just that - custom. Contact us today, we are happy to work with every budget. We build completely custom homes from the ground up and large scale additions in various Chicago neighborhoods as well as the North and Northwest suburbs. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Follyn Builders & Developers | | Address | Chicago, Illinois 60625, United States | | Phone | (773) 457-0291 | | Website | http://www.follynbuilders.com | | License Number | TGC067759 | | Followers on Houzz | 297 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/follynbuilders - X (Twitter) — https://twitter.com/FollynBuilders - LinkedIn — http://www.linkedin.com/company/2440559?trk=vsrp\_companies\_res\_name&trkInfo=VSRPsearchId%3A498184851 - Blog — www.follynbuilders.com ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Follyn Builders & Developers](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/general-contractors/follyn-builders-and-developers-pfvwus-pf~687880091) - **Website:** http://www.follynbuilders.com - **Phone:** (773) 457-0291 ## Credentials - **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2018–2021), for Service. ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 14 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 50.0 - Value: 50.0 ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Ray, Feb. 2024** > I am extremely happy with the work from Follyn builders that I have and will continue to recommend him to people that are doing major construction. John is always on top of things and his guys performs quality workmanship. If you ask, he always will recommend some change that will make a dramatic difference. Again, I was very happy and will use him again. **★★★★★ — Aidan Butler, Feb. 2024** > We used Follyn builders for a whole house renovation and addition to our 1920s dutch colonial. They were great to work with and extremely helpful throughout the process. John gave us great recommendation along the way and the project came in within budget. We highly recommend them. **Comment from Follyn Builders & Developers:** > Thanks Aidan, great homeowners make our job a pleasure! > John & Ann **★★★★★ — Patricia Boyle, Dec. 2020** > Follow Builder's completed a fantastic reno job. They were professional from start to finish. The work was done right on schedule and top quality! > I would encourage you to call them for a quote. **★★★★★ — Barbara Slankard, Jan. 2019** > I highly recommend Follyn Builders. I was in a situation where I needed to gut rehab a studio condo that I had just purchased quickly. I talked with several builders and John was the only one who could meet my time line. I couldn’t be happier with the end result. John helped with selections, offered great ideas/suggestions, was easy to work with and completed the entire job in a little over four weeks … on budget. Fantastic contractor! **Comment from Follyn Builders & Developers:** > Thank you Barbara! So glad you are enjoying your "new" home in Chicago. > John & Ann > follyn builders & developers **★★★★★ — Colleen Crane, Nov. 2018** > We can't say enough wonderful things about Follyn Builders. They were superb! Great workmanship, excellent quality and nothing but the best of everything. **Comment from Follyn Builders & Developers:** > We work with the best homeowners! Thanks Colleen, so glad you are loving your amazing home. > Ann & John > follyn builders & developers **★★★★★ — Jennifer O'Brien, Nov. 2017** > I highly recommend Follyn Builders! I cannot say enough about how thrilled we are with the stunning renovation to our 1910 brick 2-flat. Follyn created a "duplex down" turning a previously unfinished part of the basement into a family room, and remodeled the offices for our family business. The project also involved removing and rebuilding our rear porches and enclosed stairwell, as well as remodeling a bathroom, adding a powder room, and gutting and relaying our kitchen and our daughter's bedroom. > > We used an architect who created great plans, but John's vision and creativity have given us so much more usable space, and beautifully carried our dreams to fruition. We are so glad we entrusted our project to John. His honesty and work ethic are rare. Our architect recommended him initially. Her words were "I think you will find him quite capable." She was so right. We have this old house, and any unusual findings were nothing that gave John pause. > > To create a legal duplex, we needed to separate our stairwell from the 2nd floor apartment, and move all electrical panels out of the basement. Our gorgeous custom iron spiral staircase and rolling-shutter door concealing electrical panels and meters accomplished this. > He tore off our old frame, vinyl sided, 2-level back porch and stairwell structure, and rebuilt it with a brick base and durable Hardie Board siding. The former crawl space was excavated to give us a mud room, huge coat closet, and an under-the-stair storage room. Our porch, which we use quite a bit could not increase in size, but still needed to make better use of the space. > This was achieved by eliminating a door and suspending the grill off of the custom iron rails. > > Our basement was dug down to give us another 12-14 inches of ceiling height-- not easy to do with our shared driveway, no alley, and horrible parking in Lakeview East. This involved supporting our home with temporary columns and putting footings deeper and extending our iron columns to meet the new footings, adding radiant floor heating-- and then pouring concrete. John's expertise in sewers, drains, and a pumps will keep us safe from flooding. > All structural elements of our home were inspected and repaired where necessary. Our home is over 100 years old, and is poised to last at least that long going forward. > > Our kitchen was completely remodeled-flipping the old cooking and dining areas. This gave us two new beautiful and better functioning spaces. All of the cabinets are customwood and were very competitively priced. > > Follyn Builders has a vast list of excellent sources that they go to for materials and custom work. Their sources offer sharp pricing for quality work. > > John selects and works with a wonderful team of subcontractors. They are all pros whom I enjoyed being around when I was home. Even still, if something wasn't quite right, John would point it out to us first and then have it corrected. He had our backs every step of the way. > > Ann does an incredible job with materials management and all of the behind-the-scenes action like parking permits, etc. On the very rare occasion where John is not available, Ann is also very capable on-site as well. Whether she is supervising an installation, or prioritizing the tasks of subcontractors to keep the work flow efficient, she is an experienced pro. > > I could go on... > > I checked references before hiring Follyn and heard similar praise. Then, I walked a Follyn project that was nearing completion and was totally sold. I was completely blown away by the level of craftsmanship from the multi-piece molding and custom built-ins to the state-of-the-art technology that today's homes demand. > > Friends have asked me if the stress of construction got to me. My answer is always that I had the time of my life, and although I am excited to have our home completed, I miss the activity, and the excitement of seeing the conversion at the hands of people who are so talented. > > Five stars is not nearly enough for Follyn Builders and Developers! **Comment from Follyn Builders & Developers:** > Thank Jen! Great clients make for great projects! > John & Ann > follyn builder s& developers **★★★★★ — Lauren Mac, Nov. 2017** > Follyn Builders just delivered the home of our dreams! Follyn Builders possesses all of the ingredients required for a successful large scale renovation namely: pride of craftsmanship, expert subcontractors, close adherence to budget and timeline along with a willingness to partner with other members of the project team. > > We just completed a gut rehab (really a restoration) on our Chicago Greystone which was built in 1885. We are seeking landmark status on the home thru the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency (IHPA). The project took a 4-flat back to its intended use as a single family home. John and Ann had immense respect for our project from beginning to end. The house was in HORRIBLE shape when we acquired it. Our desire for Landmark Status has meant strict requirements from IHPA including keeping the original hardwood floors, trim, bannisters, fireplaces and exterior. Without saying it, John's attitude from the start has been “I’m up for the challenge if you are”. > > Every challenge was met with a creative solution and quality sub-contractors. From having to completely refabricate the copper bay on the front of the house to look like the original when we discovered it was beyond repair; to finding a carpenter that could replicate the original bannister on four floors; to completely removing a roof and re-trussing to meet load requirements on a 500 sq ft rooftop deck I couldn’t live without. > > A project of this size requires a team consisting of architect, general contractor and interior designer. Follyn Builders embraced the value of teamwork. There was ample give and take over the life of the project. John never waivered when it came to offering an expert opinion on construction while maintaining flexibility to bring to life some of the more unique aspects of the design from repurposing 100+ year old beams into shelving, installing a metal fireplace surround and finding a way to salvage 132 year old hardwood floors! > > I am confident that our home would not be nearly as wonderful if it weren’t for the role played by Follyn Builders. There was transparency in time and cost estimates (although both were a bit higher than originally communicated; this is to be expected). Most importantly working with John and Ann was a pleasure. We highly recommend Follyn Builders. **★★★★★ — nckealy, Feb. 2016** > I have been in my Follyn remodeled home for 10 years now, and I am still thrilled every time I walk in. John and Ann helped transform this tiny little house into I high function, high design home. My architect did a nice job of retro fitting the new part of the house with the old, but working with John, i added character and features that added charm and function. My mudroom would have made my kitchen dark by blocking light from the windows. John added cut outs that allowed natural to come into the kitchen. They recommended darkening the floors in the original part of the house to match the new floors - they look fabulous. They also changed out the trim throughout the house. This made the addition blend in seamlessly. Follyn's attention to detail ensures a quality built home. **Comment from Follyn Builders & Developers:** > 10 years later and still one of our favorite projects (and clients)! So happy we were part of building your dream home, thanks for getting the word out about Follyn Builders! **★★★★★ — The Sheahan Group, Sept. 2014** > Follyn Builders & Developers is a professional business who excels in delivering a high end home. The quality & craftsmanship speaks for itself. Ease of communication & direct and clear information is always helpful in the construction process which behind the scenes is never simple & straightforward. > The materials used, from the door knobs to the light fixtures is always what is in style yet what will have a classic look that will be in style for years and years to come. > The building materials & construction process is always the newest, proven products in the market. > Follyn Builders contract with experts in their respective fields and it shows in the finished products. They build a magnificent home and we would recommend them to anyone looking to remodel or build a new home. A home is your biggest investment, you should hire the best. **★★★★★ — Amish Custom Kitchens, Feb. 2014** > I have worked with Follyn Builders for years and they are the best. If I was building a home for myself, I would have John build it. **★★★★★ — Doors For Builders Inc, Sept. 2013** > We have worked with Follyn Builders & Developers on several projects over the past several years. As someone who are constantly involved in high-end custom home projects we can attest to high standards of Follyn Builders & Developers as far as integrity, quality, and design are concerned. Their team is very professional and, based on their values, we are confident that success will continue to follow them. **★★★★★ — rubymay51, Sept. 2012** > The quality and design elements that the Follyn Builders provide are straight out the magazines... the photos you look at and dream about..they bring to life and more! They also come up with great ideas that are unique to your home. They are easy to work with and you can count on them to deliver! Fantastic people that I would trust with any of my projects! ## Selected projects - [Andersonville Chicago Greystone](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/andersonville-chicago-greystone-pj-vj~6837620) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 22 - Description: Vintage Chicago Greystone 2-flat reimagined and reinvented as a spectacular single family home in Chicago's Andersonville neighborhood. A complete gut leaving nothing but the exterior brick results in a stunning space for the lucky homeowners. - [ROCKWELL - Lincoln Square Chicago](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rockwell-lincoln-square-chicago-pj-vj~4201960) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 20 - Description: Conversion of a Lincoln Square Chicago 2-flat to a stunning single family home. Complete gut renovation to achieve a stunning forever home from one of Chicago's many solid masonry 2-flats. - [Lincoln Square CUSTOM STUNNER!](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lincoln-square-custom-stunner-pj-vj~2552084) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 28 - Description: Gorgeous new construction home in Chicago's Lincoln Square neighborhood. This custom home was built on an over-sized lot to create 3 full floors of living with a giant yard and a 3-car garage. The hottest house in one of Chicago's hottest neighborhoods. - [Lincoln Square Chicago, oversize custom home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lincoln-square-chicago-oversize-custom-home-pj-vj~54299) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 22 - Description: Prairie inspired single family home on an extra wide lot in Chicago's Lincoln Square neighborhood. - [Roscoe Village, Chicago Custom Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/roscoe-village-chicago-custom-home-pj-vj~38776) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 19 - Description: Beautiful Custom Home is Chicago's Roscoe Village Neighborhood featuring white and pale grey cabinetry marrying great function and great design. - [Paulina, Chicago new custom home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/paulina-chicago-new-custom-home-pj-vj~1346361) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 47 - Description: Wrigleyville Chicago custom home with modern touches throughout. An overriding theme of peaceful grey finishes, complimented with shiny chrome and dark wood. Lincoln Park homes in Chicago are in huge demand, Follyn Builders is the premier custom home builder in Chicago. - [Berteau Ave Beauty](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/berteau-ave-beauty-pj-vj~39808) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 27 - Description: Another corner home by Follyn Builders. This one is in the Lincoln Square/North Center neighborhood close to the popular Coonley School. Mixing a traditional facade with a little more modern finishes proved to be a winner on this brick and limestone home. - [Park Ridge, Impressive Corner Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/park-ridge-impressive-corner-home-pj-vj~40083) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 28 - Description: Large suburban Chicago home on an oversize corner lot. This house was the talk of the town during construction -- and rightfully so! It is an imposing presence and unique design. - [Suburban Chicago Showcase, Custom New Construction Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/suburban-chicago-showcase-custom-new-construction-home-pj-vj~39824) - Location: Park Ridge, IL - Photos: 40 - Description: This beautiful home was built on a large lot using a stone base with old-fashioned, hand-troweled stucco. - [Pensacola](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pensacola-pj-vj~2248384) - Location: Chicago, IL - Photos: 19 - Description: Stunning new construction home addition. Adding a conservatory linking the existing garage to the home. Added mudroom, potting area and extensive garage roof top deck complete with a cedar pergola. Includes a new copper roof, numerous skylights, awning windows and french doors for yard access to create a light filled, practical and breathtakingly beautiful space. Proof that even new construction can be improved with custom touches! [See all 10 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/general-contractors/follyn-builders-and-developers-pfvwus-pf~687880091) ## Ideabooks - [42nd](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/74051859/list/42nd) — 3 ideas - [berteau](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/61680168/list/berteau) — 8 ideas [See all 2 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/follyn-builders) ## Community Q&A **Q: Love the countertops!** *(in Photo Questions)* What kind/color are they? Thanks! A: Thank you - the counters are quartz. The color is : Calcatta Nuvo . Ann Folan follyn builders & developers **Q: Metal roof color** *(in Photo Questions)* The metal roof on the porch looks great! What color is that? A: Thanks! It is a copper roof. follyn builders www.follynbuilders.com **Q: Rail for steps come in white? Is it powder-coated? Many thanks** *(in Photo Questions)* A: These are custom wrought iron railings - these particular railings are not powder coated. I would assume that you can have any railing powder coated in white. Best of luck, Ann Folan -- follyn builders **Q: What material is the railing? Is it available in white?? Thanks** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Wrought Iron Designs is correct. It is a wrought iron railing, ours is slightly different than the sketch as it was a custom design . They are also correct - you can powder coat in white (although I would never want to cover the natural wrought iron color)! Best of luck, Ann Folan -- follyn builders **Q: Windows** *(in Photo Questions)* Are the Windows wood or vinyl? Thank you A: These windows are wood. Ann Folan follyn builders **Q: Hi can you tell me where this tile is from ? Thx!** *(in Photo Questions)* A: I do not know the manufacturer of this tile (sorry) it was sourced by the designer. Ann Folan -- follyn builders. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-06.*