C.H. Newton Builders
RYAN & DAVID NEWTON
508.548.1353 | chnewton.com
C.H. Newton Builders has spent more than five decades and four generations building and caring for custom homes across New England. Ryan Newton is the company’s vice president.
Who started your family business?
My great-grandfather started the business in 1958. I’m extremely proud to be part of the fourth generation in the business. I’m even more proud to be doing business with the fourth generation of those first clients. We have employees that have personally worked on projects for three and four generations of families and homes—usually at their request.
How has the business evolved over the years?
In many ways it has come full circle. In the beginning, everything was hand-crafted and made from natural materials—usually from the surrounding area. Then there was phase building which was thought of as more of a production line and cookie-cutter houses were being stamped out all over the area. Now, it’s back to the authentic craftsmanship we’ve been doing the whole time. Also, platforms like Pinterest and Houzz have revolutionized how clients approach projects. These outlets allow them to come to the table with more of a vision of their home which shapes how we kickoff the project.
A lot of what we’re building today are secondary and seasonal homes. The owners need someone to take care of their estates during the off season, so we started providing that service through our estate care program. Today, it’s a big part of what we offer.
Have you ever encountered any challenges in your family business?
It’s not just a job. There’s a certain amount of legacy preservation involved. Also, you can never leave your job at the office. Your family is on the job site (at the office) and there when you get home, but that’s usually the best part, honestly. I’ve never had a “job.” I’ve been working with my family my whole life. I wouldn’t want to do it any other way.
What’s the best advice that someone in your family offered you?
My father has always demonstrated the importance of building a relationship with a client to make certain each project is produced to its fullest potential, regardless of scope or size. From concept to creation, there is always a thoughtful and well prepared approach to building our custom homes to ensure our client’s houses are not just homes, but heirlooms.
Since you work together, where and when do you like to relax as a family?
We have the privilege of living and working in the most desirable parts of the Northeast. An ideal summer weekend would be playing 9 holes with my grandfather and dad then grabbing a lobster roll at the Lobster Trap. Then, meet our wives at Loop Beach for a swim followed by a barbeque with some oysters from Cotuit Oyster Company in the backyard with family and friends.