Pyramid builders were highly esteemed by the Pharaohs. Artisan palace builders held favored places in the courts of ancient Chinese emperors. Throughout the Middle Ages an elite group of builders and designers created castles of massive strength and magnificent beauty. Today, discriminating homeowners of means achieve meaningful personal expression through their dwellings. They, too, seek the unusual master builder. The one with rare abilities that make possible both structural excellence and unparalleled design esthetics.

A corporate executive and his wife were so satisfied with their Cincinnati Duermit house that they insisted he come to Western North Carolina to build them a second home. What began as just another professional opportunity for Mike Duermit, quickly became an excellent turn of fate. He fell in love with the natural beauty and tranquility of the area and stayed. That decision became good fortune for people wanting homes that reflect their lifestyles and the joy they find in these ancient, awe-inspiring mountains.

In a few words, Duermit reveals an insightful understanding of those who choose him to build their homes. "My buyers tend to want to build understated, yet elegant homes. They aren't as concerned with sending the message, 'I am very successful,' but rather, 'I have a unique home and it's me, not somebody else's vision of me, but mine.'"