In the bustling world of construction, where builders often prioritize timelines and budgets over the most critical facets of long-term success, Strong Roots Development (SRD) embodies a vision deeply rooted in faith, family, community, and sustainability. With a reputation established on the enduring relationships that grow from genuine commitment to the essentials, SRD’s strong roots set it apart. Add trust, transparency, and timeless craftsmanship, and you have the makings of a true outlier from the typical custom home building experience.
Founded in 2017 by Jonathan Clow and Eddie Thomas, SRD is a full-service general contractor that aims to inspire and cultivate beauty, resiliency, and independence in local communities by constructing customized spaces that foster self-sufficiency and abundant living.
Clow’s journey into construction began long before SRD took shape. Growing up in a household where architecture and construction were part of everyday life, Clow gained invaluable insights into the industry. His early experiences, from restoring a Victorian home in Colorado to managing projects during the highs and lows of the housing market, laid a practical foundation for what would become SRD.
In 2018 Clow and Thomas were joined by Scott Wilson, who had transitioned from 24 years of corporate travel life to buying and restoring homes in Austin. As he puts it, “The goal was to be more present in the lives of the very ones I was providing for.” Wilson offers a background in finance, software, and business process consulting, which enhanced the crucial dimension of back-office efficiencies and rounded out SRD’s ability to bring exacting financial service to its clientele. Wilson also has a special appreciation for the Hill Country, having moved here from Los Angeles in 2015. “We always longed to raise our family where the values we sought to instill in our children were commonly shared and where there were still wide-open spaces to enjoy.”
With an eye on these wide-open spaces, SRD is committed to sustainability and energy efficiency, integrating cutting-edge technology with timeless design principles to create homes that are not only beautiful, but also durable and environmentally conscious. From rainwater harvesting systems to energy-independent solutions, SRD prioritizes building homes that stand the test of time and meet the future needs of their owners.
“Within our logo are the words: Build. Grow. Live,” says Clow. “Amidst this beautiful Hill Country backdrop, many people are looking to expand their living experience to the land around their home, adding gardens to grow their own food, outdoor living enhancements, or water features. We enjoy the challenge of facilitating whole property plans and connecting functional spaces with care.”
To create such spaces, Clow and Wilson actively engage with clients, listening closely to bring their vision to reality. SRD prides itself on providing luxury-level experience while meticulously managing the established budget. Through this hands-on collaboration, the company builds trust and forges lifelong connections with clients who often return to SRD when additional projects arise.
This individual attention is also evident in Clow’s and Wilson’s personal lives, in which they share a profound love for family and a passion for bringing people together. Clow and his wife, Sarah, have eight children, while Wilson and his wife, Missy, have four. Both families homeschool, cherishing the bonds that tie them together. This family focus translates to the business, as SRD seeks to build personalized, purposeful spaces that will last and where families can create lifelong memories.
Beyond construction, SRD is deeply embedded in its community. with Clow and Wilson serving in children’s ministry at their churches. They also engage with the Burke Center for Youth through their financial support and personal involvement in the mentoring program for boys in foster care.
As SRD continues to grow, its commitment to excellence, sustainability, and community remains unwavering. Insights into sound building principles and techniques, methods of water and energy independence, and significant experience in our local Hill Country all contribute to building a legacy property, both beautiful and durable, no matter what storms may follow.
“Your values drive what you build,” says Wilson. With each project, SRD not only builds homes but cultivates a sense of belonging, rooted in trust, transparency, and enduring craftsmanship. SRD stands as a testament to the power of building upon strong roots.
BuildWithStrongRoots.com | @srd_builder
“We’re building strong relationships with our clients that will last long beyond the build process."
Strong Roots Development builds personalized, purposeful spaces that will last and where families can create lifelong memories.