Building Solutions is a privately owned corporation with over 20 years contracting experience in the Bay Area. During that time, our philosophy has remained constant: Our commitment is to provide the finest and most enduring structures while honoring our responsibility to our client's budgetary directives.
Every aspect of a construction project is important to Building Solutions. And as anyone who has ever contracted for a project knows, there are many phases:
- Conceptual design
- Reliable estimates
- Specifications and finishes
- Knowing the best subcontractors
- Directing the building process
- Bring the project to a swift conclusion
At Building Solutions we know that planning these elements is key to doing the job right the first time.
Building Solutions doesn't work in a vacuum. We involve our clients as an intergral part of the project team, giving them a sense of empowerment and control.
As a result, Building Solutions has strong ties with repeat clients who value us for our integrity, flexibility and reliability; for cost control, fast-track scheduling and administrative skills.
As you can see by looking at our portfolio, our skills aren't limited to one genre of architecture; we can execute the details of many diverse styles.
How We Work
Philosophically, we consider ourselves a service organization working in the construction business.
If this seems like an unusual concept, that's because it probably is. In the world of construction, where emotions run high and so much is at stake, Building Solutions is committed to exceeding client expectations through our unique approach of open communication, open books, exceptional management, and team building.
We extend a principle of fairness to all our relationships; employees, architects, subcontractors and clients.
The effort we put into doing things right the first time not only offsets the many pitfalls that can plague a project, but creates big dividends in time, quality, and the cost of building.
One of our most important assets is our dedicated team of subcontractors. With these long-standing relationships, we have the control we need to provide you with outstanding results: quality materials and workmanship, and a job completed on time and in line within even the toughest budget.
We understand that few things are more important than the budget. The construction or renovation process can be challenging, especially when you encounter the inevitable complexities that accompany remodeling projects. We are knowledgeable in a wide range of methods and materials solutions, which allow us to resolve challenges effectively, aesthetically, and economically. Our proposals, budgeting, scheduling, and job tracking are specifically designed to meet your unique project requirements.
Residential Testimonials
D & B VM, Ross
"The stunning remodel of our master suite and rear porch in 1991-92 was so pleasing that we brought John and his team back to construct a large kitchen addition and dining room in 1999. When guests arrive at our front entrance, they are truly impressed by the design and workmanship."
RR & GV, Tiburon
"Our plans called for sophisticated, upscale and difficult special effects, which John completed in an impeccable manner. The most striking was a one-piece sink and countertop 7' long made entirely of glass and surrounded above and below with mirror."
MW, Mill Valley
"My remodeling projects have spanned many years and I will use no one but John and his crew. John has been responsible for major structural improvements, seismic retrofits, and correcting dry rot, as well as extensions to my garage, an expansion of my home office, an entirely transformed front yard, installation of a home theatre/entertainment room and complete remodel of the master suite and kitchen. He has also completely re-wired the entire house to provide the latest in technology infrastructure in every part of the house. I'm in heaven."
L & CK, Larkspur
"We selected Building Solutions based on their reputation for delivering quality work. Our project included remodeling our dining, living, and family rooms, a major reworking of the master suite, a large new walk-in closet, and a spacious and quite dramatic master bath. There were also two new bathrooms, as well as new doors and windows throughout the house. Building Solutions met our timelines and budgets."
Commercial Testimonials
Pleasures of the Heart, San Rafael
"On the Sunday before Thanksgiving, I had just signed my lease and needed to get my new store opened up in time for the Christmas shopping rush. In under 3 weeks, Building Solutions stripped the old store out, repaired and re-textured the walls, reconfigured the lighting, added sound, alarm, video security, new trim, new carpet, new tile entry, new showcases, and new paint. We opened on time and exceeded our expectations. Naturally, I was thrilled."
North Bay Marin School, Mill Valley
"We had just 7 weeks to convert 2500 sq. ft. of open space. By the first day of school, Building Solutions had framed in new classrooms and offices, replaced windows, installed new doors, drywall, trim, carpet, and paint, completely rewired the entire 2500 sq. ft., and brought the entire new space up to ADA standards."
The Lagunitas Country Club, Ross
"Building Solutions has completed 2 projects for the Country Club: extensive repairs to the paddle ball courts, and building a large deck in front of the tennis courts for spectators watching the tournaments. Based on their work, we're considering them to complete a new restroom facility and garage on the grounds."
The Energy Foundation, San Francisco
"We are so satisfied with the results John created in our Presidio office remodel that we have also hired him to remodel our home. And of course he continues to do projects for us here in our offices."
The Tides Foundation, San Francisco
"Building Solutions recently completed an office expansion and remodel on an historic Presidio building, which required extensive paperwork to comply with preservation regulations as well as the needs of the Tides Foundation. Their fine work on the extensive budgeting and scheduling requirements for this project really made a difference when it came to presenting the information to my Board of Directors. We are about to begin another build-out of a new space we are taking over, and look forward to their help on this project as well."
Our Team
With over 60 years of combined experience, the Building Solutions team has both the knowledge and the dedication to make your next project an unparalleled success.
John Fraine, founder and president of Building Solutions, Inc., has 25 years of experience in the construction industry. He speaks about his lifelong passion: "What I find particularly inspiring about my work is the enjoyment and satisfaction I bring to clients as they experience their new space; it's like bringing them a wonderful and long-awaited gift. The space that we occupy each day, whether work or home, should be a place of aesthetic and functional pleasure to be in. I like being a part of that."
Kevin O'Banion also has 25 years in the construction industry, and has spent the last 15 years as a project manager. He has worked closely with John for eight years, and has become a vital member of the Building Solutions team.
Shawn Berry has worked in the construction industry for 12 years, and is a key project manager on the Building Solutions team. He is well qualified for the position, having spent the last 9 years studying the ins and outs of construction management for Building Solutions' various projects.