Photos by Kevin Belanger
As Ottawa’s Custom Home Builder of the Year (GOHBA 2025), Casa Verde Construction has established itself among the region’s leading luxury home builders. With deep roots in building, construction and development, the company combines extensive industry experience and technical expertise with meticulous attention to detail. Its reputation for excellence has earned recognition beyond the region. For instance, it was named a “Builder to Watch” in LUXE Interiors + Design’s Spring/Summer 2020 issue.
Founded by Paul McElligott in 2003, Casa Verde was built on a hands-on approach to construction and a commitment to the highest standards of craftsmanship. In 2008, Paul expanded his work into real estate development through a partnership with his father, Bob McElligott, on a luxury cottage community at Lac Ste. Sixte, a pristine lake east of Ottawa. The partnership capitalized on their distinct areas of expertise, with Paul overseeing construction of the custom homes and Bob leading development of the community.
That cohesion extends to the crew who work for Casa Verde. Many of them have been with the company for close to 20 years. “Our craftsmen take great pride in what they do,” says Paul, who’s on-site at a spectacular house in Rothwell Heights. “We treat our projects like a piece of art, and we take on jobs from start to finish.” This particular project is a full week ahead of schedule. Friendly employees buzz about putting the finishing touches to the home by architect Barry Hobin with interior design by 2H. With soaring ground-floor spaces, the house offers plenty of space for entertaining, while exuding a refined sense of calm.
“We like to have the same team on site throughout the project wherever possible. It creates a natural continuity and everyone understands the vision, the expectations and what needs to happen next. That consistency makes a real difference in the quality of the finished home,” explains Laura McElligott, director of marketing and wife of Paul. For example, the people who frame a house might also be those same people doing the interior finishing, so they have a vested interest in making sure everything is square. In general, Casa Verde will handle up to five projects at a time and there are 20 long-time employees, from carpenters to tile setters. At this Rothwell Heights house, the atmosphere is friction-free. It’s easy to imagine that life here will be as smooth as the massive mahogany front door.
“We love working with Casa Verde,” says Ernst Hupel from 2H, a frequent collaborator. “As an interior design firm, we greatly value working with general contractors who understand the importance of collaboration, precision and client experience. Throughout our projects together, their team has consistently demonstrated exceptional attention to detail, ensuring that every element is executed to a high standard and aligned with the design intent.
“Their communication is clear, proactive and professional, making coordination between the client, design team and trades seamless. They maintain a high level of organization throughout the construction process, which helps keep projects running efficiently and minimizes unnecessary challenges.”
While Casa Verde focuses on Ottawa and the surrounding area, during the pandemic, Laura says, “We found ourselves taking on more projects outside the city, including country homes and cottages. Those projects became a natural extension of our work, though our priority is the Ottawa market.” One of them was a Scandi-inspired chalet at Mont Ste Marie that won the Anywhere in the World category at the GOHBA 2025 Housing Design Awards. “It’s a spectacular home, with incredible views and a design concept that really makes the most of its surroundings. Working with our long-time collaborators at Flynn Architects, we were able to bring the vision to life through thoughtful craftsmanship and attention to detail.” 
“Ottawa has always been at the heart of our business, and we’re deliberate about the projects we take on,” Paul adds. “Today, much of our work is concentrated in some of the city’s most established neighbourhoods, where we have the opportunity to build exceptional custom homes and thoughtfully restore existing and heritage homes. We remain open to projects in cottage country, but they have to be the right fit—a special property, a strong vision and an opportunity to create something truly exceptional. Ultimately, we’ve always prioritized quality over quantity, choosing projects where we know we can deliver our very best work.”
Paul began his studies in economics at Queen’s University before pursuing his passion for fine carpentry and building exceptional homes. His financial acumen continues to inform his business approach, balancing craftsmanship with a strong understanding of the financial side of construction.
Casa Verde has access to a dedicated woodworking workshop and operates its own sawmill, expanding the possibilities for custom craftsmanship. From bespoke millwork and timber-frame structures to custom furniture and architectural features, the team can bring an exceptional range of ideas to life. It’s also able to craft unique elements that reflect the character and vision of each home.
That flexibility, creativity and expertise have resulted in many awards and happy clients. “Casa Verde was our first choice on two separate building projects. Paul and his team’s quality of construction, attention-to-detail, positive attitude and second-to-none crew make Casa Verde a number one choice!” notes one Casa Verde homeowner. casaverde.ca
Original text by Hattie Klotz.
