While he is sometimes found in our Steamboat Springs office, you’ll most likely find John out in the field managing the on-site portion of SmartPads projects as well as custom homes and additions. As part of the Construction Management team in partnership with Crafted Structures. John brings a creative, problem-solving mindset and a calm, capable presence to every build. With his hands-on know-how and systems thinking, John helps ensure SmartPads homes are built efficiently, intentionally, and to the highest standards.
Meet John
I grew up just outside Cleveland, Ohio with my two sisters, our dogs, and family. I went to Roanoke College in Virginia, where I studied Environmental Studies and Sociology and played D3 lacrosse. If I could go back and do it again (maybe it’s not too late!), I’d study architecture or engineering. In 2015, I joined a NOLS expedition in Australia that sparked my passion for the outdoors—especially hiking. That experience led me to pursue the Triple Crown of Hiking: the Appalachian Trail, the Pacific Crest Trail, and the Continental Divide Trail. During the CDT, I spent some time in Steamboat Springs and knew I wanted to come back. In September 2024, I married my amazing wife Danielle, and by early 2025, we made the move to Steamboat to live out our dream of mountain life. We’re here with our 12-year-old rescue dog, Lola, who basically runs the show. Danielle works as an art consultant, placing art in a wide variety of projects all over the country and world. We love being outside—whether it’s hiking, fly fishing, skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, or working out together. I also love reading and am always looking to learn and grow.
Q: How do you like to spend your weekends?
Weekends are all about quality time with my wife, Danielle, and our sweet dog, Lola. We love easing into the day with a homemade espresso, getting outside for a hike or some fly fishing, checking out the local market, and taking long walks. Whether we’re catching up with friends, backcountry skiing, getting in a good workout, or enjoying a great glass of wine, we try to make the most of our time together. It’s a blend of activity, connection, and relaxation.
Q: What is your favorite place to eat out in Steamboat?
Danielle and I love treating ourselves to a good meal out—and we never skip the wine list. Café Diva has been a go-to for date nights. We’ve also really enjoyed meals at Primrose and Table 79. Each place has its own vibe and we always leave happy.
Q: What part of your job is the most fun?
Definitely problem solving and seeing the final product come to life. There’s something really fulfilling about handing over a finished project that lines up with a client’s long-term vision. Coming from a more commercial background, I didn’t always get to experience that personal connection. Now, that “why” behind the work really motivates me. And let’s be honest—there’s never a dull day when you’re solving new challenges all the time.
Q: How do you bring value to SmartPads customers?
I bring value by being reliable, boots-on-the-ground partners for our clients. Once the modular units leave the facility, we step in to ensure everything on-site is ready to go. Set day is high pressure, so being organized, responsive, and ready to act takes a lot off our clients’ plates. Buying and building a home can feel overwhelming. My job is to carry as much of that weight as possible so the experience feels smooth and rewarding.
Q: What do you feel has the biggest impact on the look and feel of a home?
To me, it’s the blend of architecture, materials, and thoughtful design that really defines a home’s feel. It all starts with intentional design choices up front. Personally, I gravitate toward a unique mountain-modern style with a touch of mid-century modern inside. Natural light is huge—big windows and open spaces make a world of difference. Honestly, talking about it makes me want to build my own SmartPad!
Q: What makes the SmartPads design different?
While I’m tempted to say “speed,” what really sets SmartPads apart is the combination of high-quality design and a streamlined, thoughtful process. Back in college, I actually studied the viability of modular homes in the Mountain West and SmartPads stood out for both customization and build quality. What makes it special is that we’re not just building homes—we’re creating a full experience from concept to completion. The models offer great inspiration, especially for custom builds, and I really appreciate the clean, functional design. I might be biased, but I think it’s top-tier.
Q: What are some common things people don’t think about (but should) when building a SmartPads home?
With my Project Management background, I’d say people often overlook how important the on-site portion of the build is. It’s not just about the modular unit—it’s about making sure everything is dialed in for set day and beyond. That means proper site planning, utility layout, foundation work, and any site-built components. Partnering with Crafted Structures helps ensure the whole process is smooth and coordinated. Simply put: on-site planning is just as important as choosing the right modular design.
Q: What advice would help potential SmartPads homeowners as they begin the process?
Lean on our team—we’ve done this a lot and we’re here to help. Be clear from the start about your priorities and vision. The earlier we know your “must-haves,” the better we can integrate them into the process. It’s much harder to add things later on, so open communication is key. We truly want you to love both your home and the journey it took to build it.
About SmartPads
At SmartPads, we specialize in custom modular homes in Colorado and the West—homes that combine smart design with durability and style, all tailored to modern mountain living. Our process is driven by a small, dedicated team that works closely together to guide each project from concept to completion. People like John are at the heart of what we do, ensuring every build runs smoothly and is executed to the highest standards. Want to learn more? Fill out our Contact Us form, and we’ll be happy to connect with you and answer any questions.
