For homeowners nationwide, the stories of experiences with contractors gone awry are all too familiar. But luckily, here in the Hill Country where friendly relationships with neighbors and community abound, trust matters and word travels fast — making it easier to find the right person for the job. Based in Buda, family-owned and operated 1626 Construction has earned the trust of countless clients; in fact, about 90 percent of their work comes from satisfied clients’ referrals.
1626 focuses on kitchen and bathroom renovations, full-home remodels, light commercial projects, and thoughtfully designed outdoor living spaces. Running the company with his wife Linda Baier, Rudy Lopez explains that what sets them apart in construction and renovation is that they don’t just build, they care. From the first conversation to the final walkthrough, their guiding principles are quality craftsmanship, clear and candid communication, and transparency.
Rudy’s story of founding 1626 Construction spans more than two decades and several chapters of hands-on experience. In the early 2000s, he worked as a laborer and apprentice for a well-known homebuilder in Las Vegas. Recognizing that building was his calling, when he moved to Austin five years later, he joined a masonry company where he expanded both his skills and his reputation. As opportunities grew, he stepped out as an independent contractor, managing residential and commercial projects in Central Texas. When the 2008 recession reshaped the industry, Rudy pivoted to working with a local builder, spending years collaborating with top architects, designers, and tradespeople on high-end renovations, custom homes, and award-winning projects. That experience gave him invaluable insight into Austin’s permitting and building processes — knowledge that continues to benefit his clients today.
In 2021, Rudy and Linda officially launched 1626 Construction, LLC, with a clear vision: build a company rooted in integrity, craftsmanship, and genuine care for clients. Starting a construction business during an unpredictable time marked by material shortages and rising costs was no small feat, but they’ve grown steadily all while doing things the right way. They don’t chase volume. It’s all about quality, even if it takes more time.
“We treat every home as if it were our own and every client with the same respect, care, and clear communication we would expect from a contractor ourselves,” says Rudy. “We show up on time, return calls, and understand that we are guests in our clients’ homes. That responsibility matters to us. We respect the space, the process, the people.”
Even in his work, family is Rudy’s greatest inspiration. “Everything I do is ultimately for them and the example I want to set for my kids. My wife Linda and our kids keep me grounded and motivated, reminding me daily why we work so hard and why integrity matters.” The family is actively involved in Santa Cruz Catholic Church in Buda and enjoys giving back through volunteer work, another reflection of their commitment to community.
What Rudy enjoys most about his work is creating something lasting and transforming spaces where families will live, gather, and make memories. No two workdays are the same — from visiting job sites to meeting with clients and making sure every detail is moving forward with intention and care. That hands-on approach based on honest communication has not gone unnoticed. In 2025, 1626 was named Winner of the Best of North Hays County in five categories based on community votes.
For Rudy, his greatest pride isn’t in accolades, it's in the relationships they build. “Many of our clients become friends, and that means more to us than any recognition. At the end of the day, 1626 Construction is about building through challenges, standing by our values, and creating work we can be proud of for years to come.”
Renovation Tip from the Pros
With trends constantly evolving, we asked Rudy Lopez to share his best renovation tips for the community.
“There are so many tips I could share, but this one hits the hardest. People always ask what’s in and what’s out. Our answer is simple: your kitchen or bathroom is your space. You decide what’s in. Don’t chase trends. Let your home reflect who you are and allow your space to shine in its own way. This is the heart behind our slogan: ‘Whatever you envision, we can make it a reality.’”