Oregon homebuilder, iBuildPdx, is famed for individuality and craftsmanship Specializing in high-end custom homes, remodeling and general contracting, iBuildPdx is an Oregon-based builder recognized for its stylish architecture, and exceptional attention to detail. The company was founded in 2013 by trained architect Eduard (Ed) Valik, whose admiration for the craft transformed iBuildPdx into one of Portland’s top homebuilders. The story began in 1985 when Ed achieved an associate degree in architecture and structural design while studying in Gottwaldov, Czechoslovakia. After graduating, Ed defected from then communist Czechoslovakia for the city of Vienna, Austria, a region rich in architectural artistry. Immersed in Vienna’s vibrant architectural scene, Ed drew inspiration from the city’s fusion of historic grandeur and innovative design. He then immigrated to Vancouver, British Columbia, and eventually settled in Portland, Oregon in 1992. More than 30 years later, Ed’s hard work and dedication have paid off, and his business, iBuildPdx, has constructed a collection of beautiful homes across the Pacific Northwest. “I was fortunate to discover early on that design, architecture, engineering and passion for real estate were in my blood,” Ed reveals. “As a young man, I balanced school and worked on construction sites, while also spending my spare time sketching unique homes and intricate details that I dreamed of building one day. The journey to my current position took years of dedication, calculated risks and the willingness to embrace mistakes as learning opportunities. Embracing challenges and viewing mistakes as opportunities for growth have been pivotal in shaping my professional path.” Today, Ed leads the company as Team Principal and Chief Executive Officer, applying his extensive knowledge and understanding to all aspects of the design-build process. Prioritizing creativity and the client experience, Ed, together with Team Manager, Collin Curry and their team, inject passion into everything they do, and their professionalism and craftsmanship shine through in each project. One thing that makes iBuildPdx’s process particularly unique is the emphasis they place on individualism; every home is unique and personal to the client, from the structural layout down to the most intricate details. It takes a lot of work to make it look simple “Every project we build shares a common theme: exceptional design by an architect and/or interior designer, resulting in extraordinary, unique, and highly detailed homes that reflect what matters most to our clients. As more people move to Portland from other parts of the country or world, they bring with them different design ideas and more resources to create modern, well-designed homes,” Ed explains. “Our meticulous planning, execution, skill and communication, are perfect for both modern-styled homes and those with traditional architecture. We excel at projects with terrain challenges, such as infill lots or steep hillsides, and work well within a project’s timeline and budget. Extensive use of steel, concrete, complex foundations, and hard-to-access hillsides are common in our projects.” iBuildPdx is proof that hard work, passion and professionalism are a fundamental recipe for success, especially in the current climate. In 2025, the construction and homebuilding industries face a multitude of challenges, with a significant labor shortage and rising construction costs being among the most pressing. However, iBuildPdx holds its supplier and subcontractor relationships dear, and Ed believes that strong partnerships and mutual respect are key to overcoming these challenges and moving towards a prosperous future. “One of the biggest challenges is finding qualified labor for our builds. It takes constant communication and education from our end to make sure everybody understands the vision and intent,” Ed continues. “Our suppliers and subcontractors are also an intrinsic part of our business. We rely on them and their expertise and treat them the way we would want to be treated. Many of these relationships have spanned over a decade, underscoring the strength and longevity of our partnerships.” Looking ahead, iBuildPdx is well-positioned to continue its upwards trajectory, taking on new bespoke, luxury projects for prospective homeowners across Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. Maintaining its high standards, the company is set to thrive despite the ever-changing landscape, proving that high quality craftsmanship and exceptional service will always prevail and set the business apart from its competitors. “As always, we are only as good as our last project. We don’t rest on our laurels. We keep pursuing the right opportunities, cultivating relationships, improving our process, and looking for the right fit for our future builds,” Ed says. “For me, it’s not about being the biggest builder, it’s about being the most unique. It’s not about the quantity of the houses that we build; it’s about the quality of the builds. It’s about assembling the best team possible, creating extraordinary builds and producing great value for our customers, prior to and during the building process. It’s about continually growing, evolving, and strengthening both current and future relationships. That’s my current and future vision for the company.” With plenty of exciting new projects on the horizon, Modern Home Builders cannot wait to see where iBuildPdx’s journey takes it next. As our interview draws to a close, Ed concludes our conversation with some profound advice. “One of the hardest and most important things in life and business is to find your people. Not just people that work with you, sign contracts, deal with problems, but people that dream with you, fight with you, have your back, and stand with you. The ones that see you, including the things you sometimes don’t want them to see. People that never stop believing in you. When you find your people, you don’t just beat the world, you change it. Every dream needs a great team. I am very lucky I found my people and work with them every day.” www.ibuildpdx.com 1 May 202530 April 2025 Iain 139, Custom, Ed Valik, General Contracting, High-End, iBuildPdx, Oregon, Remodelling 5 min read Custom buildingInsights