From Dirt to Final Design — Our Story Begins with Yours.
We’re Story Builders — and for us, homebuilding is personal. We didn’t just grow up around construction. We lived it. Derek is a third-generation homebuilder who spent his early years alongside his dad on job sites. Erin’s family has operated a plumbing business for over 50 years. Together, we’ve walked through every stage of the process — as professionals, and as homeowners designing and building our own custom home. That journey shaped everything we believe about this industry and why we started Story Builders: to create homes that tell your story.
Experience That Builds Trust
Derek holds a degree in architecture from one of the nation’s top programs and spent eight years designing and building custom homes. He followed that with 15+ years in commercial construction — leading business development, contract negotiations, estimating, and project management. He brings a rare combination of boots-on-the-ground experience and architectural insight to every home we build.
Erin’s background as a construction attorney, risk manager, and leader in safety, HR, and marketing gives our clients an advocate who understands every layer of the process. Her professional experience ensures that every detail — legal, logistical, or emotional — is handled with care and clarity.
Our Story: From California Roots to Texas Dreams
We were born and raised in the same hometown in Northern California, where we began raising our three boys. A search for a new school led us on the greatest adventure of our lives — leaving the familiar to follow a calling we felt on our family. That journey brought us to Texas, and it’s here that Story Builders came to life. We built our own home. We lived the decisions, delays, doubts, and joys that come with it. And through it all, our passion for custom homebuilding — and for creating a better experience for other families — was reignited.
The Heart Behind Story Builders
Derek Kvistad
Principal, Story Builders
- Bachelor of Architecture, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
- 3rd Generation Homebuilder
- 25+ Years of Industry Experience
“Building relationships — whether it’s with foremen, field teams, subcontractors, or clients — is the highlight of my work.”
Erin Kvistad
Principal, Story Builders
- B.A., UC Davis
- J.D., Santa Clara University School of Law
- 25+ Years of Experience in Law, Risk Management & Construction
“I apply what I’ve learned across legal, safety, and leadership roles to protect and support our clients’ goals and relationships every day.”
Building More Than Homes
At Story Builders, we believe the process should be just as personal as the final product. That’s why we don’t just build homes — we build lasting relationships grounded in honesty, care, and shared vision. From start to finish, we stay hands-on, listen closely, and communicate clearly — no handoffs, no confusion, just one dedicated team bringing your unique story to life. We don’t push a signature style; we uncover yours. Whether it’s a transformative remodel or a custom build from the ground up, every project is shaped around your family, your lifestyle, and what home truly means to you. Let’s create something meaningful together — a home that becomes the next chapter in your family’s story.