EP79 From Spec Homes to Saving Landmarks: Mark Hildreth’s Construction Journey

What happens when a residential carpenter discovers a passion for restoring the past? In this episode, we sit down with Mark Hildreth, a seasoned contractor whose journey took him from building suburban homes to reviving iconic landmarks like Des Moines’ Val Air Ballroom. Mark dives into the nuances of historic renovations, the ripple effect of rising interest rates, and why understanding client emotion is as vital as blueprints and budgets. This episode is for anyone fascinated by the blend of heritage, hard hats, and forward-thinking construction.

What You’ll Learn:

• Mark shares how his early hands-on experience shaped his journey from residential builds to large-scale commercial projects and historic renovations.

• Discover how historic renovations not only require creativity and precision but can also unlock powerful financial incentives through tax credits.

• Mark explains why understanding client emotions in residential work was one of the most overlooked—but critical—skills he had to learn.

• Outside the job site, Mark finds expression in brewing, reflecting the same creativity and precision he brings to building restoration.

• From navigating interest rate impacts to exploring mass timber construction, Mark shares his take on what’s next in the evolving world of building and development.

About Mark Hildreth:

Mark Hildreth is a respected commercial contractor with deep roots in the construction world, starting in his father’s framing company. After trade school and years of hands-on carpentry, he founded his own general contracting firm. Mark now specializes in historic restoration, blending craftsmanship with strategy to breathe new life into Iowa’s architectural history. Whether it’s transforming forgotten spaces or crafting a new brew, Mark brings passion, patience, and precision to everything he builds.

Contact Info:

LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hildreth-59258830/

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/mark.hildreth.5

Website | https://hildrethconstruction.com/