Discover Johnson Reiland Builders & Remodelers’ approach to mid-century modern architecture and innovative designs
Nestled in the heart of Northfield, Minnesota, Johnson Reiland Builders & Remodelers is more than just a construction company; it’s a family legacy built on craftsmanship, integrity, and a deep connection to the communities it serves. For over five decades, the Johnson Reiland name has been synonymous with quality homes and thoughtful developments across the Twin Cities and surrounding areas. Every project is approached with the same care, passion, and attention to detail that have defined the company since day one.
As Marketing and Development Manager Paul Reiland reflects: “My father started out working in the trades, pouring concrete to put himself through college. He
went on to law school and tried white-collar work for a while but realized his heart was still in the trades. That passion shaped the business from the start. He could relate equally well to our clients and our crew, as he understood both worlds.”
When it was time for Paul’s father to step back, his twin brothers, Matthew and Michael, picked up the reins, breathing new life into the business. “Today, Johnson Reiland is still family-owned and operated,” Paul continues. “My brothers run the field, my cousin and sister-in-law handle the books, my son’s one of our carpenters, and even my brother’s old babysitter runs our front desk. It’s a true family operation, through and through.”
Striking residences
That strong sense of family extends far beyond bloodlines. “Our employees, suppliers, and subcontractors are part of what we call our ‘true family,’” says Paul. “These are the people we trust and rely on every day. That loyalty pays off; it allows us to pull off projects others might find impossible, whether it’s a tight timeline or intricate architectural challenges. We’re not chasing the lowest bid; we’re building lasting relationships that make great work possible.”
Unlike firms that grow so large they lose sight of their clients; Johnson Reiland stays close to its roots. “We love being hands-on with our clients,” Paul says. “We know their names, their families, their stories. Our focus has always been on serving our local area, and while we’ve expanded within about a 45-mile radius, our home base of the small college town of Northfield remains our anchor. It’s where our office is, where some of us live, and where our company’s heart really is.”
That heart shines through in the company’s showcase home for the Parade of Homes: a striking three-bedroom, mid-century modern residence on Kraewood Drive. “This home is a special one,” Paul says with pride. “It’s valued at around $839,000 and features distinctive mid-century modern architecture, a style that’s open to interpretation but always emphasizes asymmetry and clean, purposeful lines. You see it everywhere in this house from the rooflines to the asymmetric vaults and the trapezoidal windows. Even the fireplace placement defies convention, creating a sense of rhythm and movement that makes the space feel alive.”
Universal design
Inside, the craftsmanship speaks for itself. “We used rift-cut oak for the paneling and cabinetry, a premium material with a beautifully consistent grain that designers love,” Paul explains. “The white oak flooring is imported from Sweden and is top-tier. What’s really interesting is that this home represents an attainable level of luxury. It’s designed for people who appreciate exceptional design but don’t necessarily have to be millionaires to achieve it.”
But great design at Johnson Reiland goes beyond aesthetics. “We think about how a home feels to live in, how sound carries, where light falls, and how storage can be integrated seamlessly,” Paul notes. “After the pandemic, people started rethinking how they live. Clients wanted homes that could adapt to every stage of life. Single-level living, roll-in showers, no barriers. That’s what we call universal design, and it’s something we take seriously.”
Through every project, Johnson Reiland Builders & Remodelers proves that a family business can stay grounded in tradition while continuing to innovate. Rooted in community, craftsmanship, and care, the company’s story is one of dedication; not just to building houses, but to creating homes that last for generations.