Our Story
It started with a Nextdoor post.
In 2018, Clayton Hughes posted a simple ad: skilled carpenter, experienced builder, hire me. Behind it was a bigger frustration of too many poorly executed flips leaving families to pay for someone else's shortcuts. Bathrooms that were never waterproofed. Decks and additions framed wrong. Problems hidden behind pretty finishes.
Clayton set out to raise the standard.
Eight years later, New Urban Homes has grown almost entirely through word of mouth with neighbors recommending us to neighbors. Christian joined his brother four years in, and together we build custom homes, additions, and renovations for Northern Virginia families who want the right builder: not the cheapest, not the flashiest, but the one who builds it correctly where you can't see it and stands behind it after the work is done.
Every home we build features original design, carefully selected finishes, and exceptional craftsmanship and it’s all backed by a comprehensive front-to-back-door warranty.
We think of ourselves as our clients' fiduciary. A home is one of the largest investments a family will ever make, and a lot of money is placed in our trust. We don't take that lightly.
Meet the Builder
Clayton Hughes
Clayton began his career at age 15 as a carpenter’s apprentice framing homes in Arlington, VA. He went on to spend over a decade building high-end custom homes with award-winning builders before founding New Urban Homes. His experience spans roles as a carpenter, project manager, millwork shop manager, and contractor—giving him a deep, hands-on understanding of every phase of construction. This breadth of experience, combined with strong business acumen, makes him a trusted expert in the field. Outside of work, Clayton gives back by mentoring youth through a local nonprofit.
Christian Hughes
Christian’s path into home building began with an urban infill builder in Charleston, SC, where he progressed from intern to project manager to director of operations. Christian holds a B.S. in Urban Studies and Historic Preservation from the College of Charleston and studied architectural design at Trident Technical College. He is currently pursuing a Master’s in Real Estate Development at George Mason University. Fluent in Spanish and a licensed commercial builder, he brings a well-rounded approach to the business.
The Standard We Build By
We don't compromise on the bones of a house — foundation, framing, waterproofing, structure. We communicate honestly about what things cost and how long they take. And we don't disappear after the contract is signed.
When we leave your project, the expensive-to-fix things are done right. That's what lets our clients sleep easy — and it's why our business has grown on referrals for eight years.
Planning a project? Start with an honest conversation.