Rick Buchanan is the founder and owner of Buchanan Construction, the most awarded builder in Western North Carolina, with more than 100 local, state, and national awards—and counting. Since establishing the company in 2005 in Asheville, Rick has built a reputation as one of the region’s foremost luxury custom home builders, known for exceptional craftsmanship, innovative design, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Rick’s passion for building began early. At just five years old, his father gave him a tool belt complete with a hammer and screwdriver—igniting what would become a lifelong calling. As he often tells his own children, “When you grow up, pick something you want to do and that you’re going to love.” For Rick, that calling has always been homebuilding. His enthusiasm for the craft is evident in every project, where he channels creativity, precision, and heart into homes that are as functional as they are beautiful.
Under Rick’s visionary leadership, Buchanan Construction has become synonymous with luxury living across Western North Carolina. The firm specializes in ultra-custom residences that blend timeless architecture, cutting-edge technology, and sustainable building practices. From legacy mountain estates inspired by the grandeur of Biltmore Estate to contemporary net-zero energy retreats, each home is thoughtfully designed and meticulously executed to reflect the unique vision of its owner.
Among the company’s many achievements is the construction of the 2020 Southern Living Idea House in Asheville—a 3,500-square-foot custom residence designed in collaboration with renowned architects Beau Clowney and Kate Campbell, interior designer Lauren Liess, and landscape architect Greg Cloos. The home garnered widespread recognition and multiple industry accolades for its timeless Southern design and seamless integration of comfort and sophistication.
In 2022, Rick was named Builder of the Year by the Builders Association of the Blue Ridge Mountains, recognizing his steadfast commitment to quality, integrity, and professionalism. Additional honors include numerous WNC Stars, NC Stars, and Parade of Homes Awards, reflecting excellence across whole-house remodels, kitchen design, historic restoration, interior design, sustainability, and innovation.
Buchanan Construction is a highly preferred builder in several of the region’s most prestigious communities, including all seven Cliffs Communities in NC & SC, Champion Hills, Brights Creek, Sprout, Lonesome Valley and High Hampton. Supported by a team of nearly 50 skilled professionals, the firm delivers an elevated, client-centered design-build experience rooted in collaboration, accountability, and meticulous attention to detail.
A champion of professional mastery, Rick holds certifications as a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) and Certified Green Professional (CGP), ensuring that each home is designed for long-term livability and environmental responsibility. His collaborative process begins at the earliest stages, bringing together sales, operations, construction managers, and in-house designers to ensure seamless execution from concept through completion.
To further serve the region, Rick founded Buchanan Restoration, an IICRC-certified firm providing 24/7 emergency response for fire, mold, water, and storm damage across Western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina. By integrating mitigation and reconstruction services under one trusted team, Buchanan Restoration restores properties with the same craftsmanship and care that define Buchanan Construction. As Rick explains, “Restoration can often feel like an impersonal process, but we strive to make it deeply personal—infusing compassion and creativity into every step so that, when we’re finished, the stress and inconvenience are completely alleviated.”
Beyond construction, Rick is deeply committed to strengthening the community he calls home. Proceeds raised from visitors touring the 2020 Southern Living Idea House resulted in a $50,000 donation to Buncombe County Habitat for Humanity, directly supporting affordable housing initiatives in the region. Buchanan Construction also hosts an annual Law Enforcement Appreciation event, where Rick and his team serve meals to local law enforcement officers as a heartfelt expression of gratitude for their service. Additional charitable initiatives include volunteer homebuilding projects, industry mentorship programs, and fundraising efforts—including raising $30,000 for Henderson County Heroes through the Ryan Hendrix Memorial Golf Tournament. Through structured internships and hands-on leadership, Rick continues to mentor emerging talent, ensuring that Buchanan Construction upholds the highest standard of craftsmanship and integrity for generations to come.
Through vision, discipline, and an enduring passion that began with a childhood tool belt, Rick Buchanan has built more than luxury homes—he has built a legacy of excellence.
Jason’s interest in building culminated first in his role as a framing carpenter. Working as a member of a small family business, Jason framed for years prior to beginning his formal education at Appalachian State, and continued to frame throughout his education. Graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Construction, Jason has been a Licensed General Contractor for 15 years, and has served alongside the talented teams of various builders in WNC. Jason joined Buchanan Construction in 2016, where he now exercises his years of experience and immense leadership skills as Vice President of Residential Construction. Jason continues to prioritize continued education, leading by example for the Buchanan Team, and is grateful to serve an organization which regards education as a central component of success. Jason ushers the company forward as a leader dedicated to exceptional integrity, professionalism, and craftsmanship. He resides near Asheville with his wife and two children.
Professional Career
Clay was born and raised in Western North Carolina, and is a third-generation home builder, following in the footsteps of both his father and grandfather. Clay graduated from the University of Tennessee with a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture, and has more than 30 years of experience in the construction industry.
Free Time & Family
Clay and his wife have three grown children. In his free time, Clay enjoys camping, gardening, and working on old cars.
Favorite thing about working at Buchanan?
“The Team!”
Favorite Project?
Professional Career
Steven George’s experience in the construction industry is both extensive and varied. With over 24 years of full-time building experience, Steven has constructed custom and spec-built homes, and has managed extensive renovations including projects located in historic districts. During his years as an independent contractor, Steven personally framed all of the homes he built, as well as installing siding, shingles, decks, windows and doors, hardwood, tile, cabinets and trim.
Steven brings a unique and broad variety of construction experience to the Buchanan Team, and builds lasting and exceptional relationships with our clients.
Free Time & Family
Steven and his wife, Jennifer, have been married for 23 years. They are native to the Weaverville area, and have three boys (15, 17, and 18 years old), 3 dogs, and 3 chickens.
“We love to watch Clemson football, and love to get out and hike as much as possible. We also love to cruise the backroads and mountains of Western NC in our Jeep.”
Favorite thing about working at Buchanan?
“Rick is an amazing boss who loves his craft and employees. I get to work with amazing people – I work with the most knowledgeable group that I have ever met. The attention to detail to each and every project is remarkable. Everyone is truly dedicated to making every project one of a kind and award worthy. We all love spending time together outside of the work environment as well.”
Favorite Project?
“It is hard to pick just one, but I have to say watching the Southern Living Idea House come together. It was truly amazing to watch every employee and trade work together to accomplish that goal. It was a great honor to be a part of the experience.”
Professional Career
Having previously owned his own construction company and over 20 years as a contractor, Rodger has extensive experience in the construction industry. During his time owning his own company, Rodger’s projects spanned both commercial and residential construction. With Buchanan, Rodger focuses on residential projects and brings with him a unique understanding of the nuances required to build a custom home. Rodger holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics.
Bringing a multitude of assets to the Buchanan team, Rodger approaches his projects with creative problem solving, and prioritizing communication with the client.
Free Time & Family
“I’ve been married to my wonderful wife, Ashely, for 29 years, and I’m a proud father of four successful children. I love the closeness of my family, and taking family vacations each year. I enjoy spending time at the family farm near the beach, and playing golf, boating at the lake, and attending sporting events”.
Favorite thing about working at Buchanan?
“The team at Buchanan is incredible, and so is the tremendous amount of experience the team has. There is so much support here. Our Designers are always staying up to date on new ideas and products.”
Favorite Project?
“My favorite project was managing the Southern Living Idea House in 2020. It was a great, unique home and a great group of people to work with”.
Professional Career
Randy began his career in the construction industry in 1989, and graduated from the Carpentry + Cabinetmaking program at AB Tech in 1993. He joined Buchanan Construction in 2020 as the Warranty Manager, and transitioned to his present role as Residential Construction Manager in 2022.
Randy approaches his work with exceptional attention to detail, and draws on his many years of experience to provide excellent service and communication with our clients.
Free Time & Family
Randy and his wife Robin have been married for 36 years, and have two children. In his free time, Randy enjoys outdoor activities.
Favorite thing about working at Buchanan?
“The team at Buchanan Construction is the best group of people I’ve ever worked with, it’s a very positive and enjoyable atmosphere.”
Favorite Project?
The Hillcrest project – it’s a great house with awesome views!
Professional Career
Al’s experience in the construction industry began with working as a framer, after which he moved into various construction site supervisory positions. Al holds a general contractor’s license, and owned and operated his own construction company for 20 years prior to joining Buchanan Construction. In addition to his general contractor’s license, Al also holds a State Building Inspector Certificate. Al has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, as well as a Masters in Business Administration.
Al’s exceptional breadth and depth of knowledge, alongside his always-positive attitude and willingness to serve as a mentor and leader make him an invaluable member of the Buchanan Team.
Free Time and Family
“I married my high school sweetheart who is my true soulmate and the rock that keeps me going. We have an adult son, who owns a martial arts gym, and adult daughter that works for Advent Health. I love spending time with family. I also enjoy training in martial arts, and help train fighters”.
Favorite thing about working at Buchanan?
“The team!”
Favorite Project?
The Strength and Conditioning Center at Asheville Christian Academy.
Professional Career
Collyar’s experience in the construction industry began as a freshman during his undergraduate education at Brevard College. During this time, Collyar worked largely on whole home remodels and new construction. Collyar obtained his General Contractor’s License in 2002, and owned and operated his own construction company for a number of years prior to joining Buchanan Construction as an estimator. Collyar transitioned to a Construction Manager in 2018, and estimator in 2023.
Collyar approaches each client and project with an exceptional attitude and team-oriented approach, building homes and relationships with a positive outlook and attention to detail.
Importantly, Collyar hits a mean drive on the golf course, and is often a key player in Buchanan’s highly competitive golf and cornhole tournaments.
Free Time & Family
“I have been married to Nicola Barksdale for 18 years and we have two amazing children. Kerrington, our 17 year-old-daughter is our oldest, and we also have a 14-year-old son, Brayden. In my free time I like to fish, explore waterfalls, watch my son play baseball and go on spontaneous road trips with my wife.”
Favorite thing about working at Buchanan?
“I work with a very talented group of builders that are always available and willing to discuss issues that can arise during the building process. We are a very professional team with an owner and leader that promotes the success of Buchanan Construction along with everyone on our team.”
Favorite Project?
