Today we’d like to introduce you to Bruce Graf.
A third-generation remodeler from Dallas, Graf has grown from his family roots in construction into Graf Developments, an exclusive renovation business that combines remodeling with true artistry and creativity. No job is too big, or off the wall! A bedroom that incorporates an actual wood porch and screen door?… No problem. An outdoor patio cover designed to look like a giant butterfly?… Done. “I love a challenge!”, says Graf.
In more than 35 years of business, Graf has won numerous awards, including NARI “Contractor of the Year” multiple years in a variety of categories. His portfolio is as unique as the jobs he has completed, creating new spaces for hundreds of clients including the Chairmen CEOs of major, national corporations as well as well-known, major league sports figures. At age 22, he gutted and remodeled the real Southfork Ranch, home of the famed Ewing family of television’s “Dallas.” His talents make him a sought-after speaker and he travels the country providing consulting services to both homeowners and other designers.
Graf Developments has a talented team of designers and carpenters along with trusted, professional sub-contractors to provide complete service, design to finish. The company provides custom cabinetry and countertops, specialty tile and flooring of all materials, custom paint, lighting and electrical, as well as specialty plumbing and appliance installation. However, it’s Graf’s attention to the smallest details and great customer service that sets Graf Developments apart from other contractors.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
No part of the construction industry is a smooth road! There are countless hurdles and challenges we face such as govt. regulations, insurance costs, working capital issues, employee and sub-contractor problems, lack of skilled trades people, and frankly many unrealistic expectations from the general public, brought on by the many TV shows about remodeling. They simply don’t tell the truth about costs or timing. When we put together proposals for prospective clients, a few looks at us like we have lobsters crawling out of our ears. We have to re-educate them on what successful projects actually cost.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
Continued growth and expansion, perhaps doubling in size. I hope to do more consulting on a national level. I enjoy speaking to people and large groups about what really great contractors can do to make their lives better.
I’ve been doing this work at some level since I was at least six years old, helping my dad who was also a contractor. I started by pulling nails from old lumber, sweeping up on the job, crawling around under a house with dad and holding the flashlight while he worked on something. I have stories to tell and I someday hope to write a book or even create a TV show of my own that is different from everything you see today. They are all just a cookie cutter format and we are bored with that. I just need somebody in the entertainment industry with vision.
I have begun working towards obtaining my private pilot’s license for flying helicopters. I hope to someday buy my own aircraft and go in even another direction. Fun stuff!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.grafdevelopments.com
- Phone: 972-571-6076
- Email: bruce@grafdevelopments.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grafdev/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrafDevelopments/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/GrafDevelopment
- Yelp: https://www.houzz.com/pro/grafdevelopments/graf-developments
- Other: https://www.youtube.com/GrafDevelopments
Image Credit:
Ken Vaughan – Vaughan Creative Media
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