Building Dreams with Seven Rivers Design and Build: A Conversation with Andrew Must
In this episode of Positively West Virginia, we have the pleasure of chatting with Andrew Must, the president and founder of Seven Rivers Design and Build in Lewisburg, West Virginia. Andrew’s journey into the world of custom home construction is a unique one, rooted in his family’s legacy of entrepreneurship and his passion for design and building. Today, we explore how Andrew and his team bring dream homes to life, the culture behind Seven Rivers, and the exciting innovations they’re bringing to the construction industry.
The Path to Seven Rivers Design and Build
Andrew’s story began in Pocahontas County, where he spent much of his childhood in and around construction. While his family wasn’t traditionally involved in construction, his parents’ experience building their own home left a lasting impression on him. Spending his early years on the job site, observing the work being done, Andrew absorbed the process and gained a deep appreciation for the art of building.
Though he didn’t immediately pursue construction after high school, Andrew’s journey took a pivotal turn when he worked for a local builder during the summers. This hands-on experience sparked a newfound interest in construction, though he still wasn’t ready to commit to it as a career. After attending Wittenberg University in Ohio and later transferring to WVU, he graduated with a degree in geography. However, it was the call of construction that ultimately led him back to his roots in West Virginia.
By 2009, Andrew launched Seven Rivers Design and Build, initially starting as a sole proprietorship. Over time, the company grew into a full-fledged LLC, with Andrew’s entrepreneurial spirit guiding its direction. His first major project was fixing up a dilapidated house for his aunt, an experience that solidified his decision to pursue construction as a career.
Crafting Dream Homes
At Seven Rivers Design and Build, Andrew and his team focus on one thing: custom homes. Unlike speculative developments, the company specializes in creating homes for clients who dream of building their perfect space. From the initial concept to the final touches, Seven Rivers manages every aspect of the project, including in-house design services. This comprehensive approach ensures a smooth, seamless experience for clients, with no need to juggle multiple contractors or design teams.
A Culture of Collaboration and Care
One of the defining characteristics of Seven Rivers Design and Build is its company culture. With a team of around 20 employees, Andrew has fostered an environment where everyone’s voice matters. He strives to create a participatory culture, where feedback and opinions are valued in decision-making processes. This approach not only engages the team but also helps ensure that the company remains a positive and rewarding place to work.
The company’s longevity can also be attributed to its low employee turnover, with several team members having been with the company for over a decade. Andrew emphasizes the importance of treating employees well, both in terms of pay and overall work environment. He believes that when people feel heard and appreciated, they bring their best to the table.
Innovation in Construction
Looking ahead, Andrew is excited about the future of Seven Rivers Design and Build. Recently, the company completed a new office and shop building in Maxwellton, which they built themselves. The new space is not just an office but a hub for innovation in construction, as Andrew is keen on exploring offsite construction and prefabrication. This approach has the potential to streamline the building process, increase efficiency, and reduce costs—transforming how homes are built.
Andrew’s commitment to innovation hasn’t gone unnoticed. In 2024, Seven Rivers Design and Build was awarded the Innovative Business of the Year by the Hive, a testament to the company’s forward-thinking approach and its contributions to the local economy.
A Bright Future
As Andrew continues to grow Seven Rivers Design and Build, he remains focused on two key principles: high-quality construction and strong relationships with clients. Whether building a custom home from scratch or bringing a design vision to life, Andrew and his team are dedicated to creating homes that reflect the dreams and lifestyles of their clients.
With an eye on the future and a commitment to excellence, Seven Rivers Design and Build is poised to continue making a significant impact in the West Virginia construction industry. For anyone looking to build their dream home, Andrew and his team are ready to make it a reality.
To schedule a custom build or get in touch with Andrew and Seven Rivers Design & Build click here: Seven Rivers Design & Build
