Our Story

Our Philosophy

What is the moment when a house becomes more than just a place to rest your head?

When it becomes a home, a place to build your dreams, your memories? A retreat from the busy, workaday world, or better yet, an oasis for the soul? Your home should reflect you, who you are, and the lifestyle you want to live. At least, that’s how we all want to feel when we step in the door…

We build dreams, not show pieces.

Homes where you can live organically, surrounded by the natural, holistic beauty of a house made of wood, stone or metal.

We want to help you build that dream. We want you to feel it’s your home, unique to you, and not some run-of-the-mill, mass-produced image of what your home should be. We want you to be emotionally drawn to a project. That’s where we want to connect with you, to be your collaborative team that helps you build the home that speaks to you.

A custom-built home is an investment and we want you to see the value in it. We don’t want to build something that was planned in a factory.

We instill a unique quality and living energy into every home. At the end of construction, the house is beyond the everyday.

It has a vibrancy, a timeless quality, a dedicated old-world craftsmanship. Your home has a soul.

You need someone you can entrust with your vision, someone who takes the time to learn about you, someone you can rely on to build the house that will be your personal haven, not just a cookie-cutter option.

Old Mill Builders Conneticut | Balanced Timber Architecture

It’s not just the building, but connecting to that which is within, that which is real – that’s the most important. We don’t like buildings that show off. But, quality design and materials, that is essential. It’s all about balance between environment, architecture, the outdoors and your desired way of living, whether that’s in a rustic weekend retreat surrounded by towering trees and majestic mountains, or a sprawling contemporary estate that melds modern design with the organic beauty of natural materials.

You can rest easy that your dreams will be safe with us. Our utmost concern is the uniqueness of the project, the many possibilities, and to stretch the boundaries of what we can offer.

But what we care most about is understanding each individual client and how you factor into the building and design process. We are honest and fair, and like true artisans, we don’t cut corners. We treat our clients and the materials we work with, with respect. And with our years of expertise, passion and creativity, we interpret our client’s vision, dreams and tastes and deliver something almost unimaginable.

And it will be yours, all yours, no one’s vision but your own…

Hi, my name is Jeff and I come from a family of carpenters and woodworkers. You could say that building is in my blood, since I grew up in Vermont, among an eclectic mix of farmhouses, historic properties, and unique homes. I helped my father build our family home when I was just eight years old, and I have fond memories of hammering nails and cleaning up. Also, an immense feeling of pride. I was building a home after all. And it ignited my passion for construction.

After going to school and travelling for a few years, I ultimately settled down in Connecticut, where I began to hone my skills in building – from framing, to drywall, siding, trim, flooring, roofing and cabinetry.

I established Old Mill Builders in Western Connecticut, in 1998. Shortly after that, I also had the opportunity to help a close friend with a traditional barn- raising. It was my first real experience with timber framing! I fell in love with the simplicity and beauty of post and beam construction, and began to educate myself with the principles and vibrant history of timber framing. I knew there needed to be a revival of this lost art, and so we built our first timber frame home for a client, followed by many more homes around Northwest Connecticut.

We Connect to Our Clients to Build Unique Custom Homes.

Old Mill Builders. Old-World Craftmanship. Unique Possibilities.

Since that time, our team has made Old World workmanship and intelligent design, our primary goals. We also believe in quality product selection, as well as excellent customer service. And we’ve helped build personalized, custom-homes for every kind of client – working professionals with unique tastes, families, retirees, people seeking the ideal remote retreat, or most often, a second home. And we have the experience and creativity needed to complete any project. In addition, we have a network of suppliers and resources which allows us to provide one-of-a-kind, individualized elements to your new home.

We serve all of Litchfield and Fairfield Counties including New Milford, Roxbury, Kent, Sherman, Brookfield, New Preston, Washington, Bridgewater, Sharon, Lakeville and the surrounding areas.

About Us – Our Personal Journey

Jeff Yenter – Company Founder and Visionary

Jeff Yenter Old Mill Builders Conneticut

As you can see, my upbringing has influenced my approach to life – I have always enjoyed being outside, and appreciate the natural beauty that is expressed through trees, stones and water. I think it’s important to maintain a connection to the environment. The elegance of a home should match the surrounding beauty of the world. And my time spent outdoors has led to a desire to promote conservation and stewardship of the earth.

In the tradition of many Vermonters, I was also taught to be practical and honest in business and personal relationships. Above all, I stand behind my word and always try to place myself in my client’s shoes.

I currently enjoy spending time with my family, hiking and traveling when possible. I’m also an avid ice hockey fan, both as a recreational player and spectator.

Josh Ayers, lead supervisor and project manager

Josh Ayers, Old Mill Builders, Conneticut

Growing up in Montana, I’ve always enjoyed the outdoors. I’ve also been drawn to woodworking and carpentry ever since my family built a cabin when I was young. I started working for Old Mill Builders in 2004, but I’ve been in the building industry for over 20 years.

Building appeals to my creative nature and my attention to fine detail. Away from work, I also enjoy spending time with my family, building furniture, and riding through the countryside on my motorcycle.

Looking for experienced custom home builders? We’re your guys! Contact us today to schedule a consultation or give us a call at 860.321.1400. We’d love to make your ideas a reality!