Business Details
28 Years
experience
Custom Sustainable Home Builders in Taos, NM
The Salamander Company has been crafting custom homes in the Taos area since 1998, evolving from straw bale construction to incorporate diverse sustainable technologies like adobe, pumice-crete, and passive house methods. Our focus on building science ensures energy efficiency through advanced air and water management systems while maintaining aesthetic integrity. We prioritize regionally sourced materials, blending sustainability with mainstream building practices to create comfortable, durable homes. Our expertise extends to custom cabinetry, woodwork, and rainwater catchment systems, reflecting a commitment to innovation and client collaboration. With decades of combined experience, we deliver high-quality, personalized service for every project.Recognized by Houzz for client satisfaction and awarded for excellence in remodeling, our team maintains a reputation for reliability and craftsmanship. We approach each build with transparency, ensuring clear communication and attention to detail from concept to completion. Our dedication to sustainable design and client-centric philosophy has made us a trusted choice for custom residential projects in northern New Mexico. By integrating modern techniques with traditional methods, we create homes that are both functional and visually striking. This balance of innovation, experience, and integrity defines our approach to every project we undertake.
Services
Custom Homes
Home Remodeling
Sustainable Design
Energy-Efficient Homes
Custom Cabinetry
Woodwork
Rainwater Catchment Systems
Home Additions
Green Building
Project Management
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We have over 25 years of experience in custom home construction in northern New Mexico.
- Our team integrates passive house methods with traditional building techniques for superior energy efficiency.
- We prioritize regionally sourced materials to support sustainable building practices.
- Recognized by Houzz for exceptional client satisfaction and awarded for remodeling excellence.
- We maintain transparent communication and meticulous attention to detail throughout every project.
What people say
Exquisite attention to detail
Collaborative approach
Energy-efficient results
Transparent communication
Craftsmanship excellence
Services
Custom Homes
We design and construct bespoke residences using sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems. Our process integrates passive house principles with regional building traditions to create durable, comfortable homes tailored to client specifications. Clients benefit from our expertise in straw bale, adobe, and pumice-crete construction methods.
Home Remodeling
Our remodeling services transform existing spaces while maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic harmony. We specialize in updating kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas with modern amenities while preserving the character of original architecture through custom woodwork and plaster techniques.
Sustainable Design
We implement eco-conscious design strategies that reduce environmental impact without compromising functionality. Our approach includes solar integration, rainwater harvesting systems, and locally sourced materials to create homes that meet rigorous sustainability standards while maintaining visual appeal and comfort.
Custom Cabinetry
Handcrafted cabinetry solutions combine functionality with artistic detail. Our team creates bespoke storage systems and furniture pieces using regional hardwoods, featuring intricate joinery and finishes that complement the home's overall design aesthetic while maximizing space efficiency.
Project Management
We oversee all aspects of the building process from concept to completion, coordinating subcontractors and ensuring timely execution. Our systematic approach maintains quality control, budget adherence, and seamless integration of specialized systems while keeping clients informed through regular progress updates.
People
Patrick O'Brien
Owner/Contractor
With 35 years in construction, Patrick founded The Salamander Company in 1998 after establishing expertise in cabinet-making and sustainable building methods. His hands-on approach combines technical knowledge with creative problem-solving to deliver client-focused solutions that balance aesthetics and functionality.
Questions
What types of homes do you specialize in?
We build custom single-family homes using sustainable methods like straw bale, adobe, and passive house principles. Our expertise includes both modern and traditional designs tailored to northern New Mexico's climate and landscape.
Do you handle both design and construction?
Yes, we offer full-service design-build solutions. Our team collaborates with architects and engineers to create comprehensive plans, then executes construction while maintaining design integrity and client input throughout the process.
How do you ensure energy efficiency?
We incorporate passive solar design, advanced insulation techniques, and high-performance windows. Our buildings feature tight thermal envelopes and energy recovery ventilation systems to minimize heating and cooling requirements while maintaining indoor comfort.
Can you work on historic properties?
Yes, we have experience with historic preservation projects. Our team understands traditional building methods while integrating modern systems to meet current efficiency standards without compromising architectural authenticity or character.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Taos and Santa Fe counties, including surrounding communities like Arroyo Seco, El Prado, and Trampas. We consider projects throughout northern New Mexico that align with our expertise and capacity.
Reviews (5)
Bob Butterfield
Aug 14, 2019
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After moving here 2 years ago and getting acclimated, The Salamaner Company educated us as to why we need the advanced septic system that had been added when an additional bedroom and bath were added on the property. At first we were stunned by the additional cost for maintenance, but now understand this keeps us from having the problems that come with the conventional septic systems. They check it out to keep things from going wrong. They are very pleasant to work with.
Robert Butterfield/Lynn Johnson Elliott
Robert Butterfield/Lynn Johnson Elliott
Kathy Herman
Nov 02, 2018
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I contracted with Patrick O'Brien's company, The Salamander Company to do a total redo my master bath, after talking to 2 other contractors in Taos. I wanted to change the Spanish small painted tile with large grout lines to something cleaner, smoother and softer. It meant a total overhaul, ripping everything out and refitting all the plumbing. That was done by Valverde/Bond plumbing and they did a great job too! Patrick's guys worked tirelessly. Just getting all the old fixtures out was a job. I decided to open the doorways to be handicap compliant for resale value as I have close family and friends
Richard Rubin
Oct 30, 2018
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Having experience building or renovating past houses, we hired the Salamander guys for interior improvements and room additions to our 24 year old Taos adobe retirement home three years ago. Patrick and Ivey were exceptionally skilled, good problem solvers, and congenial. They chose and managed subs well. Their work has had no problems since.
Lisa Goffman
Sep 28, 2018
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The Salamander Company did excellent work for us this year. We were delighted by their collaborative approach, their kindness and timeliness, and most of all by the beautiful results.
C. Van Berg
Aug 10, 2018
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Salamander Co failed to show up for a scheduled appointment without a call to let us know they wouldn't be there, or to reschedule. I would never trust them to do work for me.
