Residential General Contractors in Durango and Pagosa Springs
Custom mountain homes designed and built as one — serving Durango, Pagosa Springs, and Southwest Colorado for years.
Start Your Southwest Colorado Custom Build
Building a custom home in the mountains takes a contractor who understands the land, the climate, and the codes. We've been doing exactly that across La Plata and Archuleta Counties for years — and every project starts with a conversation.
Direct Consultation for New Builds
Whether you're planning a custom home in Durango's Edgemont Ranch or a mountain retreat outside Pagosa Springs, we start every project with a face-to-face meeting. We'll walk your property, discuss your goals, and give you an honest assessment of what's possible — including access, utilities, and terrain challenges specific to your lot in La Plata or Archuleta County.
Site Planning & Land Feasibility
Mountain terrain in Southwest Colorado demands careful site analysis before breaking ground. We evaluate slope stability, drainage patterns, soil composition, and snow-load requirements at your specific elevation. Our residential general contractors in Durango know which parcels are straightforward and which need engineered solutions — and we'll tell you before you commit.
Integrated Design-Build Coordination
With Positive Design Build, architecture and construction happen under one roof. No miscommunication between separate firms, no finger-pointing over change orders. Our design-build approach means your vision translates directly from blueprint to finished home — streamlined, on-budget, and with a single point of accountability from day one.
High-Altitude Engineering Expertise
Building above 7,000 feet in the San Juans isn't the same as building on the Front Range. We specialize in the structural engineering, insulation strategies, and material selections that mountain construction demands. From ICF foundations to snow-load rated roof systems, we build homes that perform through decades of Southwest Colorado winters.
Request a Detailed Building Estimate
No surprises, no hidden fees. We walk you through every dollar — from foundation to finish — so you can make confident decisions about your custom home or renovation project.
Cost-Plus & Fixed-Price Options
We offer both pricing models so you can choose what fits your comfort level. Cost-plus gives you full transparency on every line item. Fixed-price gives you a guaranteed number. Either way, our construction contractors in Southwest Colorado deliver detailed breakdowns before work begins.
Realistic Project Timelines
Major renovations in the Durango area typically take 4 to 8 months. Luxury custom homes can run 12 to 18 months depending on size and complexity. We provide projected timelines that account for weather windows, permit processing at La Plata County, and subcontractor availability — so your expectations match reality.
Permit & Site Plan Guidance
Navigating building permits in La Plata and Archuleta Counties can be complex, especially for properties with septic, well, or wildfire mitigation requirements. We guide you through every step — including site plan preparation — so your application moves through review without delays.
Sustainable & Energy-Efficient Options
From high-performance insulation to solar-ready framing and energy-efficient mechanical systems, we help you build a home that reduces long-term costs. Many Pagosa Springs home builders skip this conversation — we make it part of every estimate because it matters at altitude.
Ready to Build? Let's Talk.
Reach out to start a conversation about your custom home, renovation, or lot evaluation in Durango, Pagosa Springs, or anywhere in Southwest Colorado.
Visit Us
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
By appointment only
Request a Site Consultation
Tell us about the project and we'll get back to you the same business day.
Whether you're a first-time builder researching residential contractors near me or a returning client planning your next project, we'd love to hear from you. Browse our portfolio to see recent work, or read what our clients say on our reviews page.
What Our Clients Say
Homeowners across Durango and Pagosa Springs trust Positive Design Build for quality craftsmanship and honest communication.
"Louis Garday, Sr Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 Re: Positive Design - Mark Positiviata December 23, 2025 What I immediately learned when we first started renovating my 4,000 sf log home was that above and beyond everything else, MARK IS A CRAFTSMAN AND PROFESSIONAL in the truest meaning of those words. His work for the planned 10 months was all completed in several diverse areas, on time, on budget, adding a professional flair whenever possible, such that I can easily claim that his skill and craftsman like work on every aspect of the engagement, including concrete and tile work, fine detailed carpentry, building a new 30’ by 20’ TREX deck, electrical work, safety grab bars and plumbing, repairs of metal roof, painting and drywall, landscaping, and a complete home Code evaluation and corrective action. His professional work easily yielded an increase of my home's value at double what I spent on the project. That ROI clearly will show up if/when I sell the house in 2026 or beyond. In a highly confident and in an unqualified manner I strongly recommend Positive Design and Mark to anyone needing all manner of home construction from a true professional and frankly a nice guy. Louis J Garday Sr. More Background information: Sometimes you get lucky. I was introduced to Mark at a dinner in late 2024 and the conversation turned to the details of the multi-faceted work I needed need to renovate and upgrade my 4,000 sf home on ten acres preparatory to selling it in the Spring of 2026 (my best estimate at the time for the optimum timing to sell based on the political/economic chaos brought on by Fed, the then current administration and pending tax law changes during the four years ending in January 2025). I have a lifetime and some 50 years' experience in the construction and real property development businesses, know the trades and have built or developed multiple commercial properties and was impressed with his knowledge during our dinner. The following Monday I received a call from Mark asking if he could walk my property with me and organize my thoughts on what I characterized as extensive work. What followed was a long and detailed survey he compiled of what was needed to remodel and reposition a 30-year-old valuable and custom log home and natural 10-acre landscape of some 200 Ponderosa Pine Trees, surrounded by the San Juan National Forest. Mark made extensive notes and revisited me a few days later, with a detailed proposal, cost estimates, a few new ideas to maximize what I had in place, a time and materials schedule, work timing and scheduling (what us old time real estate guys call a PERT Chart). This being a new relationship and having just met Mark, I agreed to bite off the first phase immediately and Mark began the (bring it up to Code phase) the following Monday in December 2024. Work began immediately and he moved his equipment into my carport and began working. I need not have worried about Mark and the process. He did a great job from Day through the completion. Louis J Garday Sr. Pagosa Springs, CO 81147"
Louis
2025-12-23
"Mark remolded our home when we bought it to perfection!!! He built a corner fireplace; a new kitchen with built in cabinet with glass doors and lights for displays. We have the most amazing master bath as he built a round shower stall, walkin with 5 shower heads, a seat and all done in glass bricks. The window is all glass bricks to let the light in with an open small window at the top to let steam out and fresh air in if wanted. A beautiful tile inlaid floor rhat is heated as wanted that he designed. Many people have come to look at it and he built several more!! He comes to fix anything or make something better when ever he is needed. He builds remarkable original things which he designs to fit the space and to last for ever! He is an artist and a very talented guy!!! I would not have anyone else do the kind of work Mark does!! Leslie Hawkinson"
Leslie
2025-12-12
"Mark of Positive Design Build did a total remodel on a rental property I own. The property was rented for over 13 yrs to the former tenant and it was sorely in need of repairs & overall updating. He did a fabulous job & it looked like a new home!! All new kitchen, new wiring, a lot of new plumbing, new bathroom tub surround, new vanity & lighting , all new paint, floors refinished & new door locks & some new doors for closets & exterior doors. I was very pleased with his hard work & the finished project."
Kelly
2025-12-16
"Mark did a great job!!! He brought creativity and imagination to a job , where I did not see the possibilities. His experience added great skill and forethought in to designing my mudroom and bathroom. I highly recommend Mark Posiviata for whatever you need to do...."
Bill
2025-12-28
"4.5 stars - Mark Posiviata at Positive Design Build LLC did a beautiful job designing and building my laundry/mudroom. The cabinets, bench, and countertop are absolutely stunning, and the craftsmanship is truly top-notch. The quality of work and attention to detail really show — the space is both functional and gorgeous. Design-wise, Mark was excellent to work with. He listened carefully, offered great ideas/suggestions, and delivered a final result that exceeded my expectations. I’m thrilled with how the room turned out and receive compliments on it all the time. The only area for slight improvement would be communication and coordination with contractors during the process, which could have been smoother at times. That said, the end result was well worth it. I would absolutely recommend Mark and Positive Design Build LLC for anyone looking for high-quality custom work and thoughtful design."
Jules
2025-12-05
Common Questions About Building in Southwest Colorado
Answers from our team of residential general contractors serving Durango, Pagosa Springs, and the surrounding areas.
How do I get a building estimate for my project?
Start by calling us at (303) 995-8833 or filling out the form on this page. We'll schedule an initial consultation and site walk at your property — whether it's in Durango, Pagosa Springs, or elsewhere in La Plata County. During the visit, we'll discuss your vision, assess the terrain, and review preliminary design ideas. From there, we prepare a detailed estimate that covers materials, labor, permitting, and timelines so you know exactly what to expect.
Do you provide site plans for permit applications?
Yes. As a design-build firm, we handle site plans as part of our integrated service. Our team coordinates with architects and engineers to produce plans that meet La Plata and Archuleta County zoning and building codes. We've navigated local permitting requirements for years, so we know what the county reviewers look for — saving you time and revisions.
Which areas do you serve in Southwest Colorado?
We serve Durango, Pagosa Springs, Bayfield, Arboles, and the surrounding communities across La Plata County and Archuleta County. Most of our custom home projects are within a 60-mile radius of Pagosa Springs, giving us deep familiarity with local soil conditions, utility access, and mountain building requirements across Southwest Colorado.
What is the typical cost to build a house in Durango?
Custom home construction in the Durango area generally ranges from $350 to $600+ per square foot, depending on finishes, site complexity, and elevation. Mountain terrain adds engineering costs for foundations, snow-load requirements, and access roads. We provide transparent pricing — either cost-plus or fixed-price — so you can choose the model that fits your comfort level and budget.
Do you handle home additions and major renovations?
Absolutely. We're experienced home addition contractors serving Durango and Pagosa Springs. Whether you need a structural addition, a full kitchen or bath remodel, or a whole-home renovation, we manage the project from design through completion. Many of our clients start with a renovation and later return for a custom new build.
How long does the pre-construction phase take?
For most custom homes in Southwest Colorado, pre-construction takes 3 to 6 months. That includes design development, engineering reviews, soil and geotechnical testing, and permitting through La Plata or Archuleta County. We keep you updated at every step and build realistic timelines so there are no surprises once construction begins.
Are you a licensed general contractor in Colorado?
Yes. Positive Design Build is a fully licensed, insured, and bonded general contractor in the state of Colorado. We carry comprehensive liability and workers' compensation coverage on every project. You can verify our credentials directly — we're happy to provide documentation during your initial consultation.
Can you help evaluate a lot before I purchase it?
We do this regularly for clients looking at land in the Durango and Pagosa Springs area. Our feasibility assessment covers utility access, road requirements, topography, soil conditions, and setback restrictions. Knowing these factors before you buy can save tens of thousands of dollars and months of delays. Call us at (303) 995-8833 to schedule a lot evaluation.
Still have questions?
We're here to help you find the answers.
Serving Durango, Pagosa Springs & Southwest Colorado
Conveniently located for Pagosa Springs customers
Hours
Monday - Friday: 9am - 6pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: Closed
Schedule a Site Consultation
Tell us about your project and we'll set up a time to walk your property. Custom homes, additions, and renovations across La Plata and Archuleta Counties.