The Danish-Born Builder Who Won’t Compromise: Mads Jepsen on Craft, Risk, and Building Green

Builder in 5 is our interview series spotlighting the minds behind exceptional custom homes. It's five questions on how they think, work, and refine their craft.

Up next: Mads Jepsen, owner of the boutique Scandic Builders in central New Jersey. Jepsen's work reflects his Danish background, with a focus on environmental-conscious building meant to last generations. Founded in 2000, the firm encourages clients to factor in environmental impact and integrate renewables, recycled materials, and low-impact systems into the build right from the start.

1. What’s one decision you’ve made that defines how you build?

Mads Jepsen: Never compromise on quality while trying to push the envelope. Value engineering is our goal for the best possible product to ensure the worth a customer receives is maximized. We continually try to carefully balance the functions of all products along with financial considerations.

2. Tell us about a time you took a risk on a project—and it paid off.

Jepsen: The very first house bought with my wife, who is also my business partner, was a complete tear down. As we rebuilt, we lived in one section of the home. We had drawings done to build as a new house and were incredibly lucky to have sold it at 70% completion just before the crash of 2008. We bet on ourselves, took a large risk and it paid off.

3. What's one habit you've picked up from Scandinavian building culture that you think more American builders should adopt?

Jepsen: We do not compromise on insulation. Homes and buildings are equipped with state-of-the-art energy systems that insulate and power the home as efficiently as possible. Bigger is not always better (less is more). 

4. What's a misconception clients have about building "green" —and how do you guide them toward better, more sustainable decisions?

Jepsen: People sometimes worry that green may mean too modern or too expensive. We show them the upfront cost will pay for itself many times over in the long run, not just in lower energy bills but also in improved health and higher returns on their real-estate investment.

We use natural, sustainable materials such as wood and geothermal energy. Both are renewable resources that are environmentally friendly throughout a building's life-cycle, from design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, and deconstruction.

5. How do you maintain the personalized, high-quality experience of your custom builds while scaling your business?

Jepsen: For us, the key is to have personal interaction with each and every client throughout the process to help guide them and answer all questions as well as being there for them afterwards. Being available and providing a pleasant experience for the client is important for them to feel confident and comfortable. When the value proposition is achieved, the client is happy.