Citizen Builders

August 4, 2026 · Citizen Builders Journal

Two Homes, Two Stories

A look back at our Yalecrest Parade of Homes work, two wins in 2024 and 2026, and the Best Interior and Curb Appeal recognition that followed.

Two Yalecrest Homes, Two Parade of Homes Wins

Our work in Yalecrest has now earned Parade of Homes recognition twice, once in 2024 and again in 2026. Two historic homes, two different stories, both rooted in the same belief: that a period home can be brought fully into modern life without losing the character that makes it special.

Yalecrest is one of Salt Lake City's most storied neighborhoods, known for its tree-lined streets, its architectural significance, and homes that carry generations of craftsmanship. Building here is a responsibility, and it is one we take seriously.

Why the Parade of Homes Matters to Us

The Parade of Homes isn't just about beautiful finishes or standout details. It's about telling a story through design and construction, and showing what's possible when craftsmanship, collaboration, and clarity of vision come together.

For us, participating in the Parade means:

  • Pushing ourselves creatively and technically
  • Honoring the neighborhoods we build in
  • Showcasing homes that are meant to be lived in, not just admired
  • Demonstrating how thoughtful remodels can elevate existing homes without erasing their character

Winning in Yalecrest, Twice

Our 2024 Parade of Homes project introduced us to the neighborhood, and our 2026 home sat just around the corner from it. Returning to build a second award-winning home in the same community was more than a coincidence. It was a continuation of a conversation with Yalecrest, one that says historic homes can evolve without losing their identity.

Our 2026 Yalecrest home won Best Interior and Curb Appeal, adding to our standing as a two-time Salt Lake Parade of Homes winner with 7 awards recognized for craftsmanship, curb appeal, best interior, best kitchen, and favorite home.

Historic Preservation, Done With Intention

Yalecrest homes carry a responsibility. These are houses with stories, with details that simply aren't replicated today. Our goal was not to overwrite that history, but to refine it. Every decision was filtered through one question: does this honor the original spirit of the house while making it more livable today?

Historic homes require a careful balance of old and new:

  • Maintaining and restoring original architectural details
  • Respecting the scale and proportions of the home
  • Upgrading structural, electrical, and mechanical systems discreetly
  • Improving functionality without compromising character

Rather than dramatic structural changes, our Yalecrest work focused on restoring and highlighting original details, enhancing kitchens and bathrooms to meet modern expectations, improving flow while preserving classic, defined spaces, and selecting finishes that feel period-appropriate but elevated.

Two Homes, One Philosophy

Though these homes are different, they were guided by the same principles:

1. Design Comes First

We don't build around finishes. We build around how a home should feel, function, and flow.

2. Respect the Neighborhood

Every home should feel like it belongs where it is. Context matters, and in Yalecrest it matters more than most.

3. Quality Over Trends

We favor materials, layouts, and details that age gracefully.

4. Collaboration Is Everything

The best results come from strong collaboration between builder, architect, designer, and homeowner.

5. Homes Are Meant to Be Lived In

Beautiful spaces should also be practical, durable, and comfortable.

The Result

Two Parade wins in Yalecrest is a milestone we are proud of, not for the awards themselves, but for what they represent: a commitment to preserving the homes and the character of a neighborhood we care deeply about. Historic homes can be carefully elevated while preserving everything that makes them special, and we are honored to keep proving that here.

If you are planning a custom home or major remodel in Utah, we would love to talk about your project.

Ready to build something exceptional?

Tell us about your project. We'll walk you through our process, timeline, and what it takes to do it right.

Start a Project