Citizen Builders

August 4, 2026 · Citizen Builders Journal

Two Homes, Two Stories

A look back at our two 2026 Parade of Homes projects in Millcreek and Yalecrest, and the Best Interior recognition that followed.

Our 2026 Parade of Homes Projects in Millcreek and Yalecrest

We showcased two homes in the 2026 Parade of Homes, each with a completely different story, scope, and architectural soul, yet both rooted in thoughtful design, intentional building, and deep respect for the neighborhoods they’re part of.

One home sat just around the corner from our previous Parade of Homes project, a historic Yalecrest residence that carries generations of character and craftsmanship. The other was in Millcreek, where we took on a full gut renovation and addition, reimagining the home entirely while creating something that feels grounded, timeless, and purpose-built for modern living.

These projects represent two sides of what we love most about building: preserving history where it matters and boldly transforming spaces when the opportunity allows. Below is a closer look at both homes, the vision behind each, and why the 2026 Parade of Homes was especially meaningful for us.

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. It’s an opportunity to show what’s possible when craftsmanship, collaboration, and clarity of vision come together.

For us, participating in the Parade meant:

  • 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 and additions can elevate existing homes without erasing their character

Bringing two homes to the 2026 Parade let us showcase a broader range of our work, from historic preservation to full-scale transformation.

The Millcreek Home: A Full Gut Renovation + Addition

The Millcreek project was a true transformation.

This home underwent a full gut renovation, paired with a thoughtfully designed addition that expanded both the footprint and the functionality of the house. While the original structure provided a starting point, nearly every aspect of the home was reimagined, from layout and flow to systems, light, and how the spaces connect to one another.

A Blank Canvas with Intention

Full gut projects are both exciting and humbling. When walls come down, you’re not just redesigning a home, you’re uncovering its history, limitations, and opportunities. In Millcreek, that process allowed us to:

  • Correct inefficiencies in the original layout
  • Improve natural light and sightlines
  • Modernize structural, electrical, and mechanical systems
  • Create spaces that reflect how families actually live today

The addition wasn’t about making the home bigger for the sake of size, it was about balance. Each added square foot was intentional, supporting better flow, more functional gathering spaces, and a connection between indoor and outdoor living.

Design That Feels Seamless

One of the biggest challenges with additions is making them feel like they’ve always belonged. From rooflines and exterior materials to interior transitions, this home was designed so the original structure and the new addition speak the same architectural language.

Inside, the design focused on:

  • Warm, natural materials
  • Timeless finishes that won’t feel dated in five years
  • A layout that supports both everyday life and entertaining
  • Storage and utility that’s integrated, not an afterthought

This Millcreek home represents what’s possible when you start fresh but build with restraint, respect, and longevity in mind.

The Yalecrest Home: Honoring History, Elevating Function

Just around the corner from our previous Parade of Homes project sat our historic Yalecrest home, in a neighborhood known for its charm, tree-lined streets, and architectural significance.

Yalecrest homes carry a responsibility. These are houses with stories, with details that simply aren’t replicated today. Our goal with this project was not to overwrite that history, but to refine it.

A Different Kind of Challenge

Unlike the Millcreek home, this project was less about reinvention and more about preservation with intention. Historic homes require a careful balance of old and new:

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

Every decision in this home was filtered through one question: Does this honor the original spirit of the house while making it more livable today?

Thoughtful Updates, Not Overcorrections

Rather than dramatic structural changes, this Yalecrest project focused on:

  • Restoring and highlighting original details
  • Enhancing kitchens and bathrooms to meet modern expectations
  • Improving flow while preserving defined, classic spaces
  • Selecting finishes that feel period-appropriate but elevated

Being so close to our previous Parade home made this project especially meaningful. It felt like a continuation of a conversation with the neighborhood, one that says historic homes can evolve without losing their identity.

Two Homes, One Philosophy

While these homes couldn’t be more different in scope, 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.

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.

What Visitors Experienced at the 2026 Parade of Homes

Walking through our homes at the 2026 Parade, visitors experienced:

  • Intentional layouts that make sense in real life
  • Thoughtful details that reveal themselves slowly
  • Craftsmanship you can feel, not just see
  • A balance of warmth and refinement
  • Homes that feel complete, cohesive, and personal

Whether visitors were drawn to the bold transformation in Millcreek or the quiet elegance of Yalecrest, we hoped these homes showed what’s possible within any space.

The Result

The 2026 Parade of Homes was a milestone for us, not because of the number of homes, but because of the stories they told and the recognition that followed. One of our 2026 Parade homes won Best Interior and Curb Appeal, adding to our standing as a four-time Salt Lake Parade of Homes award winner for craftsmanship, best interior, and curb appeal.

One home proved how transformative a full gut renovation and addition can be when done thoughtfully. The other showed how historic homes can be carefully elevated while preserving everything that makes them special.

We were honored to bring both to the Parade, and grateful to everyone who walked through and saw what thoughtful building really looks like. If you’re planning a custom home or major remodel in Utah, we’d love to talk about your project.

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