How is it our 30th Anniversary already?!

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Sauter Builders. It is a milestone that fills me with pride, gratitude, and no small amount of amazement. When I think back to where it all started, I’m struck by how much has changed over the span of three decades—and how much has stayed true.

The house that helped create Sauter Builders - In-progress circa 1993

My wife, Denise, and I launched Sauter Builders in 1995 with a simple vision: to build resource efficient and green homes with integrity, craftsmanship, and care. It was a one man show back in those days. I didn’t have a big crew or flashy equipment. However, I did have a deep respect for good building practices, a love of working with my hands, and a belief that doing things the right way mattered. That belief still guides everything we do today.

Back then, I was swinging the hammer on every job, learning something new every single day—about building science, about people, and about running a business. I was in the field and Denise handled all the office work. It was all thanks to my wonderful wife that I was able to think with the future in mind and decided against naming the business “Sauter Builder.” And thankfully so, because in 1998 we hired our first employee. 

Over time, we grew. Not just in size, but in scope. We embraced high-performance building before it was a buzzword. We worked with amazing clients who shared our vision for quality, energy-efficient, and environmentally conscious homes. And we built a team that cares as deeply about the work as I do.

The Sauter Builders office after remodel - circa 2010

I’m incredibly proud of the homes we’ve built over the years. They’re not just structures—they’re the backdrops to people’s lives. And to know we’ve contributed to so many stories, families, and memories is a humbling feeling.

But more than anything, I’m proud of the relationships. This business is personal. We’ve worked with clients who have become lifelong friends. We've partnered with architects, subcontractors, and craftspeople who are as committed to excellence as we are. And I’ve had the honor of mentoring team members who’ve grown into exceptional builders and leaders in their own right.

Looking ahead, I’m as energized as ever. The future of building is exciting—smarter, greener, more thoughtful. And we’re ready. In fact, we’ve never been more ready to take on what’s next while staying grounded in what’s got us here: quality work, honest communication, and a commitment to doing the right thing—even when no one’s looking.

To everyone who’s been part of this journey—thank you. Whether you hired us, worked with us, taught us, or cheered us on—you’ve shaped Sauter Builders in ways that can’t be measured. 

Here’s to 30 years of building with purpose—and to the many stories still waiting to be written.

Warmly,

Charlie Sauter

Founder, Sauter Builders