Winthorpe delivers custom builds with purpose
Winthorpe Design & Build, Inc. (Winthorpe) is a true custom home builder serving communities throughout Maryland, Washington DC and the surrounding areas. Specializing in turnkey custom builds, as well as distinctive kitchen and bathroom remodels, outdoor living areas, basement remodels and additions, the business has extensive experience working with local designers and engineers to build quality, custom homes.
Founder, Scott Szeliga, shares a more detailed overview: “I established the company in 1991 and Winthorpe has been privileged to work with homeowners across Maryland and the DC area for over three decades now. My passion for construction began much earlier, however, and I had a distinct vision: to build more than just exceptional structures. I wanted to cultivate lasting relationships and help clients realize the dream homes they envisioned. 
“Our company is built on a reputation for integrity, efficiency, delivering exceptional quality, and providing genuine value, principles we’ve carefully nurtured over the years. We are proudly based in Highland, Maryland, and feel a strong connection to our local area. We take considerable pride in serving our surrounding communities and genuinely getting to know our neighbors. I believe this local presence is a significant factor in the trust clients place in us.
“From our inception, our primary mission has always been to exceed client expectations on every project, regardless of its scale. This dedication to quality and ensuring genuine client happiness is why a substantial portion of our work comes from repeat clients and referrals, which we consider the highest compliment and a clear indicator that our approach resonates. While we have certainly grown and adapted over the past 30 years, our core belief remains steadfast: every project is a collaborative effort, and thoroughly understanding our clients’ individual needs, lifestyles, and aspirations is paramount before any work begins.
“As a full-service design-build firm, we handle a diverse portfolio of residential projects. Our work encompasses everything from crafting custom new homes, designed and constructed entirely from the ground up, to undertaking extensive whole-house renovations and building significant home additions.
“Beyond these larger scopes,” Scott continues, “we frequently remodel kitchens and bathrooms, transforming them into spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional for contemporary living. We also possess deep expertise in finishing basements, creating inviting outdoor living spaces ideal for seasonal enjoyment, and developing accessory dwelling units (ADUs), which are increasingly sought after. Furthermore, we are equipped to handle specialized needs such as Aging in Place renovations, ensuring homes can adapt alongside their owners. Offering these solutions for modern lifestyle needs, such as multi-generational living or the desire to age comfortably at home, reflects our commitment to staying current and meeting evolving client requirements.
“We do not confine ourselves to a single architectural style. I would say our true specialization lies in our adaptability and our capacity to deliver highly customized solutions that accurately reflect our clients’ distinct tastes and lifestyles. We are particularly adept at navigating the complexities of challenging existing conditions and seamlessly blending older structures with new construction. This skill is invaluable in the Maryland and DC region, given the rich variety of architectural styles and historic homes. Our ability to tailor outcomes to diverse client needs and existing structures, rather than focusing on a narrow aesthetic, is a core competency.”
Scott then highlights the key investments that keep the business at the cutting edge: “We are always focused on refining our craft and enhancing the value and experience we provide to our clients. Rather than one single large development, our focus tends to be on continuous improvement across the board. One tangible area of ongoing investment is our Winthorpe Showroom Design Center. We view it as a crucial tool for our clients, so we are constantly looking for ways to update it with the latest high-quality materials, innovative finishes, and inspiring examples of design solutions. The goal is to make that critical selection process smoother, more efficient, and genuinely exciting for homeowners.
“Internally, we continue to invest heavily in our team’s expertise. This aligns with my personal belief in the lifelong pursuit of refining one’s craft. It involves ongoing training in the latest building science advancements, sustainable construction techniques, evolving technologies, and sophisticated project management methodologies. This commitment ensures we remain at the forefront and consistently deliver that top-tier quality and service our clients expect.
“A significant trend we are observing, and one our team is uniquely suited to address, involves homeowners who are seeking to build their ideal custom home but find that the availability of new building lots is limited. In these situations, clients often find and purchase an existing home in a desirable location with the specific intention of undertaking a comprehensive renovation. This approach allows them to essentially create a brand-new custom living experience, tailored to their exact specifications, often in established neighborhoods where new construction opportunities are scarce.
“This is where our expertise in complex whole-house remodels and additions truly shines. For instance, we recently worked on a project where the clients acquired a property with a traditional, compartmentalized layout in a highly sought-after neighborhood. Their vision was for a modern, open concept living space, a gourmet kitchen, and an expanded master suite. Our team undertook a significant structural redesign, reconfiguring interior walls, updating all systems, and seamlessly blending new construction with the home’s original character.
“We are also proactively exploring ways to further integrate cutting-edge sustainable technologies and materials into our projects, building upon our existing credentials. We want to help clients create homes that are not only beautiful and comfortable but also minimize their environmental footprint and offer long-term operational savings.”
Scott concludes, highlighting the company’s future plans: “A key focus for us this year is really deepening our engagement with the significant trends influencing how people want to live, particularly around creating highly functional, adaptable, energy-efficient, and wellness-oriented living spaces.
“Looking ahead five years, my vision for Winthorpe is to continue being recognized as a premier name in custom home building and remodeling throughout the Maryland and DC region. I want our name to be unequivocally synonymous with integrity, exceptional craftsmanship, and the outstanding, personalized experiences we strive to provide every client.”