---
title: "First State Building & Design — Design-Build Firms | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/first-state-building-and-design-pfvwus-pf~722158350
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~722158350.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "First State Building & Design"
category: ["Design-Build Firms"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/0c931835028017fe_8588-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg
address: "258 Wilmington Pike, Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania 19317, United States"
latitude: 39.8648
longitude: -75.5885
phone: "(302) 803-5082"
website: http://www.FSBD.co
rating: 4.8
review_count: 29
best_of_houzz_awards: 6
followers: 92
last_updated: 2026-09-22
---

# First State Building & Design

Original Houzz profile: [First State Building & Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/first-state-building-and-design-pfvwus-pf~722158350)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Design-Build Firms
- **Location:** Chadds Ford, PA
- **Serves:** Arden DE, Ardmore PA, Avondale PA, Bear DE, Berwyn PA, Broomall PA, Bryn Mawr PA, Caln PA, Cecil County MD, Centerville DE, Chadds Ford PA, Chester County PA, Chester Springs PA, Claymont DE, Coatesville PA, Concordville PA, Delaware County PA, Devon PA, Downingtown PA, Exton PA, Garnet Valley PA, Gladwyne PA, Greenville DE, Hockessin DE, Kennett Square PA, Landenberg PA, Malvern PA, Media PA, Merion Station PA, Middletown DE, Montgomery County PA, New Castle County DE, New Castle DE, Newark DE, Newtown Square PA, North Wilmington DE, Oxford PA, Paoli PA, Phoenixville PA, Pike Creek DE, Smyrna DE, Swarthmore PA, Thornbury PA, Townsend DE, Uwchlan PA, Wallingford PA, Wayne PA, West Chester PA, West Grove PA, Wilmington DE
- **Houzz rating:** 4.8 out of 5 (29 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 6 awards (2014–2020), for Service.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Houzz Influencer
- Recommended on Houzz
- 1,000 Ideabook Saves
- Locally owned
- Free consultation
- High-end

First State Building & Design is a premier contractor specializing in home renovation services. With expertise in exterior and interior renovation, we are the go-to choice for Pennsylvania and Delaware homeowners looking for a full-service contractor with design and build services to transform your spaces. So whether you’re looking to transform your outdoor space, revamp your interiors, or give your home’s exterior a much-needed makeover, our comprehensive range of services has got you covered.

### Services Provided

- Home Remodeling
- New Home Construction
- Kitchen Remodeling
- Home Additions
- Bathroom Remodeling
- Building Design
- Basement Remodeling
- Deck Building
- Outdoor Kitchen Construction
- Pool House Design & Construction
- 3D Rendering
- Outdoor Kitchen Design
- Porch Design & Construction
- Sunroom Design & Construction
- Home Gym Design & Construction
- Deck Design
- Greenhouse Design & Construction
- Barn Design & Construction
- Swimming Pool Construction
- Rooftop Deck Installation
- Shed Design & Construction
- Arbor Design and Construction
- Awning Installation
- Backyard Remodeling
- Balcony Design & Construction
- Custom Retractable Screens
- Deck Design & Construction
- Gazebo Design & Construction
- Outdoor Fireplace
- Patio Construction
- Patio Design
- Paver Installation
- Pergola Construction
- Pool Deck Design & Construction
- Railing Installation
- Trellis Construction

### Areas Served

- Arden DE
- Ardmore PA
- Avondale PA
- Bear DE
- Berwyn PA
- Broomall PA
- Bryn Mawr PA
- Caln PA
- Cecil County MD
- Centerville DE
- Chadds Ford PA
- Chester County PA
- Chester Springs PA
- Claymont DE
- Coatesville PA
- Concordville PA
- Delaware County PA
- Devon PA
- Downingtown PA
- Exton PA
- Garnet Valley PA
- Gladwyne PA
- Greenville DE
- Hockessin DE
- Kennett Square PA
- Landenberg PA
- Malvern PA
- Media PA
- Merion Station PA
- Middletown DE
- Montgomery County PA
- New Castle County DE
- New Castle DE
- Newark DE
- Newtown Square PA
- North Wilmington DE
- Oxford PA
- Paoli PA
- Phoenixville PA
- Pike Creek DE
- Smyrna DE
- Swarthmore PA
- Thornbury PA
- Townsend DE
- Uwchlan PA
- Wallingford PA
- Wayne PA
- West Chester PA
- West Grove PA
- Wilmington DE

### Typical Job Cost

$30,000 - 500,000

We welcome smaller projects where we can showcase our design work as well.  The large discrepancy is the result of project size, material selection, and intricacy of the project.

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | First State Building & Design |
| Address | 258 Wilmington Pike, Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania 19317, United States |
| Phone | (302) 803-5082 |
| Website | http://www.FSBD.co |
| License Number | 200495761 |
| Followers on Houzz | 92 |

**Social profiles:**
- Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/firststatebuildinganddesign
- LinkedIn — www.linkedin.com/company/first-state-building-design
- Blog — www.FSBD.co

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [First State Building & Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/first-state-building-and-design-pfvwus-pf~722158350)
- **Website:** http://www.FSBD.co
- **Phone:** (302) 803-5082

## Credentials

- **Best of Houzz:** 6 awards (2014–2020), for Service.

**Affiliations**
- [North American Deck and Railing Association](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/north-american-deck-and-railing-association-pfvwus-pf~1259836610)

## Reviews

**Overall rating: 4.8 out of 5 — 29 reviews**

### Reviews

**★★★★★ — Gerry Downes, Aug. 2019**

> We recently had FSBD replace our existing deck and the job was completed in July 2019. The entire process was smooth and we couldn't be happier. We worked with with Andrew to design the deck. Phil and his crew demolished the old deck and built the new one, exactly to our specifications. Construction Supervisor Joe routinely contacted us throughout the process to insure the job was going well and that we were happy with the work. We've owned a number of houses in 6 different states, had renovation projects in each and FSBD is by far, the best company we've dealt with. We'll definitely use them again for future projects.

**★★★★★ — Ryan Gwinn, July 2019**

> I had a section of deck off of a screened in porch that was pulling away from the house and was no longer safe.  First State Building & Design came over to asses the damage and give potential options.  They were nothing short of professional, kind, and knowledgeable.  Upon selecting the route I wanted to take, the team came out to fix everything.  We had some weather issues, and everything was communicated perfectly, and the team completed the job in a timely manner.  In addition, they also installed new doors to the screened in porch.  FSB&D's craftsmanship and pride of work, even on a "little" job, was clear and appreciated.  I would highly recommend First State Building & Design to anyone!  Thanks FSBD!

**★★★★★ — Praveen Namala, July 2019**

> FSBD has done an excellent job in building a deck. I love the way they came to our home and looked at the possibilities helped us in making the right choices in choosing everything under our budget. The 3D view of the deck after finalizing the design was a excellent and is similar to the finished product. I have a future requirement of expanding the deck to another level and I am going to call them back when we are ready. Also I am going to recommend them to our friends and family.

**★★★★★ — silverlacy, March 2018**

> We worked with FSBD to create an architect designed porch on the rear of our home. The old deck had to be removed and the new screened porch built to include a green house roof which would continue to allow light into the adjacent rooms. Joe Oaks and his crew were enthusiastic and hard working craftsmen. We recommend them highly!

**★★★★★ — David Wright, Dec. 2016**

> We hired First State Building Design to build our deck after conducting four interviews.  Joe Oakes was incredible, from the very first meeting on through the end of the project.  In order to provide a more complete picture of the experience, I'll talk about it in stages:
>
> Hiring/Planning
>
> The first thing Joe did when he sat down in our first meeting was to ask "What do envision for your deck?"... Maybe an odd question, but we've always envisioned our deck being part of a larger outdoor/backyard relaxation area, so it was the perfect way to start.  Joe listened and took notes, asked about materials and the look we wanted, explained the various price points for materials, and showed us samples of each.  It was incredibly thorough and professional.  It was the MOST professional presentation we received, by far.
>
> After we hired Joe and his team, Joe worked closely with us on the blueprints/design, making any adjustments we requested and offering his advice on certain points we hadn't considered (e.g. where to place the stairs).  FSBD took care of filing the paperwork and getting the permit.
>
> Construction
>
> The FSBD team was fast, clean, and efficient when it came time to build the deck.  The lumber was delivered promptly and was carefully placed on the side of our house, avoiding any damage (I've heard of other companies haphazardly dropping off supplies).  The team had the footers dug and the framing up efficiently and the entire project was finished in just under three days.  When it was complete, they cleaned up the entire work area so the only thing there was a brand new deck for us to enjoy.
>
> Deck Design/Materials
>
> Our deck is built from Azek decking materials, which is, I believe, the new PVC/maintenance-free stuff.  It gets direct sunlight, but the heat retention is minimal, so I think you could walk on this barefoot in the middle of the summer (not always the case with composite decking).  We have lighting that frames the perimeter of the deck, w/ FSBD installing the light timer adapter near the requisite power outlet.
>
> A note about the design...  We did not want a deck w/ railing.  What Joe and FSBD put together for us was what can easily be called Part One of our deck plan.  The "deck with no railing" you see will be joined by a pergola and then eventually by stone planter boxes that frame the perimeter of the deck, providing an end/ridge point.  The deck is a 20'x20' square.
>
> Overall
>
> If it wasn't abundantly clear by now, we highly recommend First State Building Design.  Their craftsmanship is impressive, as is their professionalism and attention to detail.  We are very happy we hired them and look forward to working with them again in the new future.

**★★★★★ — marlene kowal, Sept. 2016**

> Wow...wow..wow! If you are looking for hard working, honest, creative contractors....look no further! First Sate Building Design built our deck and did an amazing job! They were on time every day and answered our questions as we watched the deck being created! They were respectful, met the deadline and our budget. All the staff is very knowledgeable and helped us achieve our goal.
> Thanks so much to Joe Oakes and the crew...we love our deck!

**★★★★★ — Bruce Jester, Sept. 2016**

> Replacement of 16 year old wood deck with combination composite and cedar material. Materials were Zuri composite flooring, cedar rails and posts, and black round aluminum balusters.
>
> We had read many favorable reviews of Joe Oakes and his team at FSBD. In addition, Joe was recommended as a Zuri installer by Shone Lumber. Joe and his crew did an outstanding job. Joe worked very closely with us in the design and selection of materials. His communication and coordination were exceptional and he responded quickly to any questions that we had during the project. My wife and I tweaked the design during the construction and Joe was very receptive to making changes. He was also very creative in addressing any constraints that we had because of space limitations, etc. We have been very pleased with the new deck, and have received numerous compliments.  We highly recommend Joe Oakes and his team.

**★★★★★ — Brett Hemmer, June 2016**

> We engaged the services of FSBD to construct a new 27’x20’ deck made of Azek and Timbertech decking materials. It also included a spiral staircase made by Salter Spiral Staircases. We immediately felt comfortable with Joe at FSBD. Although our conversations included what I’ll call the basics: deck materials, lighting, stairs, schedules, budget etc. they quickly turned to a more technical nature. I was impressed with Joe’s engineering knowledge and felt comfortable that he and his crew would build a quality deck capable of providing enjoyment for decades.
>
> Joe thoroughly explained the building process and provided continual updates via email, phone, or text. We communicated throughout the entire project, something I believe to be paramount. He also handled all permits, scheduled inspections, keep with the scope of work, stayed within budget constraints, and honored agreed upon project timelines. He and his crew were also careful to clean up the work area daily, a subtlety that is often overlooked.
>
> Joe even did extra work, including cutting stringers and planks for my endless pool stairs, without any supplementary costs. Upon my request, he was able to provide names of trusted contractors he recommended for work outside of his expertise.
>
> The craftsmanship and experience of Joe and his team is unmatched. You can expect to get everything you asked for and far more. The attention to detail and pride in their work shines through in my deck project. Regardless of what you have in mind, FSBD will not disappoint. I’d absolutely use FSBD for future projects and would recommend their services without reservation.

**★ — bscottmc2015, May 2016**

> We hired Joe and his team to build a ~400 sf deck and add a concrete patio beneath it.  Initially everything was great - Joe had all the right answers.  While everything was contracted through FSBD, Joe hired a friend to do the concrete work.  Joe and his friend assured me they would be done within a week because they were going on vacation over St. Patrick's Day together.  I told them not to rush as I would rather have it done right than fast.
>
> I came home one day to find the back of my driveway torn off - no one called me and told me.  Joe told me it was because the driveway was too thin.  He said his friend, a professional in the concrete industry, recognized it, but went over it with his machinery anyway.  I also paid an additional $450 to have two colors and a curve added to my patio.  The patio just looks dirty now.  The yard was left torn up - I had to drag and seed it (after they just threw down seed).  Joe said that his friend was very busy with corporate work and this "wasn't like him" to do this type of work.  I asked Joe to make it right and leave it looking like something he would want at his house - he came out and powerwashed my driveway and raked the yard around my patio and continued to charge me full price.  The drive is cracked, stained and scratched throughout, the patch is weak and shallow, and the patio is just flat out disappointing.  I have to have the driveway refinished and the patio re-stained - this should not be necessary based on the price he charged us.

**★★★★★ — flynnp1, Feb. 2016**

> We engaged FSBD to replace a deteriorating deck including the underlying support structure, retaining walls and concrete patio pad.  From our first meeting with Joe it was evident that he was knowledgeable, enthusiastic and experienced.  Working in conjunction with a hardscape specialist who was responsible for replacing the retaining wall and patio pad (the two worked together successfully on other projects) they coordinated their efforts to keep our project on time and within budget.  Joe walked us through the design and engineering requirements to build a three-season room and deck combination to replace our existing deck.  In addition, Joe’s advice on decking materials (we used AZEK), railings, stairs, windows, skylights, doors and trim was invaluable.  Joe and his crew were very skilled, personable and extremely conscientious. We were particularly impressed with the workmanship of the crew and appreciative that they cleaned up the job site every evening.  We recommend FSBD without reservation and would be happy to speak to anyone considering engaging their services.  We are very pleased with our new three-season room and deck combination.

**★★★★★ — wittredf, Jan. 2016**

> We hired FSBD to replace our 2nd story cedar deck that had been destroyed by a fallen tree.  We were ready to try a low maintenance product and were pleased to find Zuri decking, but realized that only a few local professionals had experience with the product.  We met with Joe, and were convinced he could do the job.  We had very high expectations, and Joe and his team met our expectations.  He was very professional, knowledgeable, and most importantly, he engaged us in the details of the design and decision-making, which was extremely important to us.  Overall, we are delighted with the end product.

**★★★★★ — cindyandwally\_judd, Jan. 2016**

> We hired FSBD to resurface an existing deck attached to a screened in porch.  The old deck was stained and rotting and we chose to use a composite material to refurbish it...replacing railing, stairs and all.  FSBD did and amazing job and we are thrilled with the results.  Their estimate was reasonable, the start date was hornored, the craftsmen arrived on time, we were updated via email with all information concerning the project and the work was completed when promised.

## Selected projects

- [Bathroom Remodel in Glen Mils, PA](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bathroom-remodel-in-glen-mils-pa-pj-vj~7436056)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 17
- [Bathroom Remodel in Media, PA](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bathroom-remodel-in-media-pa-pj-vj~7428570)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 11
- [Bathroom Remodeling in Wilmington, DE (2)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bathroom-remodeling-in-wilmington-de-2-pj-vj~7428578)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 7
- [Bathroom Remodel in Wilmington, DE](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bathroom-remodel-in-wilmington-de-pj-vj~7428471)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 11
- [Kitchen Remodel in Villanova, PA](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kitchen-remodel-in-villanova-pa-pj-vj~7418020)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 17
- [Backyard Remodel in Chadds Ford, PA](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/backyard-remodel-in-chadds-ford-pa-pj-vj~7418081)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 25
- [Living & Dining in Wayne, PA](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/living-and-dining-in-wayne-pa-pj-vj~7418036)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 27
- [Kitchen Remodel in Wilmington, DE](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kitchen-remodel-in-wilmington-de-pj-vj~7418058)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 21
- [Backyard Remodel with Patio and Outdoor Kitchen in Landenberg, PA](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/backyard-remodel-with-patio-and-outdoor-kitchen-in-landenberg-pa-pj-vj~7418164)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 18
- [Covered Porch & Deck in Garnet Valley, PA](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/covered-porch-and-deck-in-garnet-valley-pa-pj-vj~7418086)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 16
- [Backyard Remodel with Motorized Phantom Screen in Kennett Square, PA](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/backyard-remodel-with-motorized-phantom-screen-in-kennett-square-pa-pj-vj~7418146)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 24
- [Rustic Kitchen Remodel in Wilmington, DE](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rustic-kitchen-remodel-in-wilmington-de-pj-vj~7418061)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 22
- [Sunroom in West Chester, PA](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sunroom-in-west-chester-pa-pj-vj~7418201)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 10
- [Kitchen & Laundry Remodel in Elkton, MD](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kitchen-and-laundry-remodel-in-elkton-md-pj-vj~7418010)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 13
- [Two Story Addition in Wayne, PA](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/two-story-addition-in-wayne-pa-pj-vj~7418029)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 26
- [Addition in Wilmington, DE](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/addition-in-wilmington-de-pj-vj~7418042)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 28
- [Pool Deck in Avondale, PA](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pool-deck-in-avondale-pa-pj-vj~7418071)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 20
- [Second Story Addition in Elkton, MD](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/second-story-addition-in-elkton-md-pj-vj~7417998)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 14
- [Backyard Remodel in Kennett Square, PA](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/backyard-remodel-in-kennett-square-pa-pj-vj~7418138)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 17
- [Small Deck with Stamped Concrete Patio & Firepit in Garnet Valley, PA](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/small-deck-with-stamped-concrete-patio-and-firepit-in-garnet-valley-pa-pj-vj~7418090)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 22

[See all 56 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/first-state-building-and-design-pfvwus-pf~722158350)

## Ideabooks

- [Kitchens](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/174300137/list/kitchens) — 13 ideas
- [Bathrooms](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/174300311/list/bathrooms) — 1 idea
- [Faucets](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/174300281/list/faucets) — 1 idea
- [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/125332625/list/wish-list) — 3 ideas
- [Porch Work](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/32028426/list/porch-work) — 3 ideas
- [firststatebuildingdesign's ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/21734260/list/firststatebuildingdesign-s-ideas) — 2 ideas
- [Tree House](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/22262695/list/tree-house) — 9 ideas

[See all 7 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/firststatebuildingdesign)

## Community Q&A

**Q: requesting Stair light details** *(in Photo Questions)*

Where can I buy the lights used on the stairs and what brand/model are they?

A: Kicheler Lighting.

**Q: What grade of pressure treated did you use? Was it dried or did you in** *(in Photo Questions)*

What spacing was used to install decking

A: We use 2 1/2" exterior grade deck screws.

**Q: Staircase** *(in Photo Questions)*

Love this staircase !  Can you tell me where it's from? Thanks

A: Thanks Pam. They are great stairs.  The company we use is Salter Stairs.

**Q: front portico with vinyl columns** *(in Photo Questions)*

Hello there! 
Im trying to figure out how much something like this portico costs ?

Thanks!

A: Good Afternoon Alissa,
This project was priced right around $11,000. The column wraps were a good chunk of the cost. $2,500.

**Q: Our new deck** *(in Photo Questions)*

What type of fireplace is this. ?  Gas

A: Yes it is a gas fireplace. Complete with remote and timer.

**Q: Is this timber tech pecan or tiger wood?** *(in Photo Questions)*

A: This would be the Tigerwood.

---

*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-22.*