“HofArc’s clients can trust what we build because we have owners and a crew who take a lot of pride in, and stand behind, what they produce.”
–HofArc Construction Manager Nate Stover
“Trust is the key,” says Nate Stover.
Starting at 7 am, Monday through Friday, Nate leads a team of 12 craftsmen in the HofArc work yard. The outside crew represents virtually every building trade, including carpentry, metalwork, electrical, HVAC, systems and refinishing.
“We’re working on six to ten projects at a time… which is like building ten bathrooms, kitchens and bedrooms all at once,” says Nate with a big grin.
Having been in the business for more than 25 years, he’s used to working with tradesmen and designers. For a portion of his day he’s inside working with office staff on designing, scheduling and purchasing materials for the crew.
Nate has developed a strong sense of trust among the team by his example of excellence, and by setting high expectations. His tone is relaxed and friendly – ready to flash a quick smile.
“Project management and building a construction team requires a lot of trust,” adds Nate. “From the lowest paid worker to the seasoned craftsman. The trust that’s built between each of us is passed on to the client.”
Nate unstrapped his tool bag and set down the plans long enough to talk with us about his life.
HofArc: Please tell us a little about Nate.
Nate: I was born in San Diego, so I’ve been drawn to the ocean most my life – surfing, diving, swimming… all of it.
I have always been up for an adventure. When I was 17, I hitchhiked across the country and back. It took me a year. Met a lot of interesting people, saw beautiful sights, and worked when I was out of money. You can do that sort of thing when you’re young and have no other attachments.
My life now revolves around my kids Sierra (14) and Teo (17).
I care a lot about the environment, which is why I went back to school and was working on a PhD, until I took on full time fatherly duties. I earned a BS in in Earth Sciences, with an emphasis in Paleoclimate – to the laymen that means the study of past climates in order to predict future climate changes.
HofArc: What do you do for HofArc?
Nate: I’m the construction manager at HofArc. A typical day for me is lining guys up for work, field design, and working with the office staff on design, ordering and estimates… and when I’m lucky I get to put my tool bags on! It’s so peaceful when I get to do that.
I like to think of myself as a craftsman. I’ve built a lot of antique replica furniture. Anything out of the ordinary. I’d do jobs no one else wanted to take on. I have a lot of furniture at home that I’ve built and there many are pieces that are owned by clients.
HofArc: What’s it been like working with the crew?
Nate: Working with the crew is great. Every day is challenging enough to keep you interested. They’re really a great group of guys and gals. I feel as tho’ the company has a ton of opportunity for growth and standing out in the renovation industry.
We have an especially strong carpentry team. Peter is a real go-getter who likes to attack a project, and John is a meticulous carpenter who solves problems before they’re made. It’s a well-rounded team.
HofArc: What do you do for fun and recreation?
Nate: Days off and weekends you’ll find me doing anything outdoors. I’m a surfer and hiker. And of course, spending time with my daughter is a priority. There’s always the homework, laundry, chores, and she’s learning how to surf. Our most interactive event is driving her to her friends’ – she has a very busy social calendar. She feels comfortable hanging out at the HofAr office, too.
HofArc: What do you like about living in Santa Barbara?
Nate: The climate and accessibility to the ocean are the best parts of Santa Barbara for me.
HofArc: Where else have you lived?
Nate: I moved to Alaska, then after the first year of dark I moved to Hawaii for about seven years.
Then I moved to the Bay Area for a while. That’s where I cut my teeth on construction management and started my own company. My focus was high end residential.
HofArc: Any future aspirations?
Nate: To work for a company that makes me part of their management team, where I can be part of reaching its fullest potential. I’m looking for be a balance between work and personal life.
Feels like I’m finding that right here at HofArc.
