First and foremost, a Don Hughes classic home is built to last. Because every home is built to the environment, site specific, and built with classic techniques and materials, it is a home that will truly last a lifetime.
Attention to the smallest details, integrity and dedication to thinking outside the box is what DHGC is founded on. The nuance of how an arch casts a shadow at different times of the day, that's what we're all about.
My Inspiration
“My inspiration comes from my passion for architecture. The Italian, Spanish, Morrocan way of life. The quality of life in the centuries old way of doing things. The elements of construction: stone, stucco, iron, tile, the orientation and structure of a space combined with the wants and needs of the modern American family.”
The Process
Every home we design and build is based on site specific realities. The surrounding views, the lighting at various times of the day, the physical space and what is around it.
We believe in diminishing any unfavorable things before they can happen. We live in Florida, the sun's UV rays, the high humidity and the bugs, the termites are a fact of life here and it isn't going to change.
The next key element is our trades, we pride ourselves on working with the best resources around. Many have worked with us for 15 years or more. We only work with craftsmen who have a personal involvement and commitment to a project. They know we are driven to come up with new ideas. We try and conceive every angle. We feel that our work is a constant learning experience. Once we stop doing that, it is just a job.
The Result
We like to tell our clients and prospective clients, you can work all year to get two weeks off and go somewhere else to relax and have fun. Why not make everyday of your life a holiday?
About Don
A south Tampa native since 1961, Don attended the University of Florida and graduated in 1977 with a Bachelor of Arts in Building Construction. He traveled extensively throughout Europe and the Mediterranean in the early 80's where he developed his appreciation for classic architecture and natural materials. In 1985 he started his own company devoted to updating Old World traditions for the contemporary American family.
Married with three children and active in the community, Don coaches the Palma Ceia little league team and is a member of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB.)