Build your unique home or business
Choosing a capable and reliable custom home builder is hard!
Building a custom home or undertaking a historic renovation begins with selecting a builder capable of executing a truly unique design. Equally important is working with a team you can trust to respect your time, budget, and the process from start to finish.
Red Oak Builders takes on complex custom homes and historic renovations that demand experience, precision, and thoughtful problem-solving. Founded by Anthony Giacobbe, the company is built around clear communication and a calm, methodical approach that keeps clients confident and informed throughout the building process.
You need a Partner, not just any Builder for your Commercial Fit-out.
Building a successful commercial space requires more than completing the shell, it demands experience, patience, and attention to detail through the final phases of the project. The most important elements are often the last to be resolved, and they are what ultimately define how a space functions and feels.
Red Oak Builders brings experience in both development and general contracting, allowing us to understand what it takes for a commercial space to succeed. We work collaboratively with clients and design teams to solve complex challenges with clarity and creativity, focusing on the local details that give each project its character. We intentionally limit our work to independent, non-chain projects where thoughtful execution makes the greatest impact.
Historic Renovations Done Right
Historic buildings deserve modern comfort without compromising their character. Achieving that balance requires experience, restraint, and a deep respect for original craftsmanship.
Updating historic properties demands a careful approach. Architectural details must be protected, modern systems thoughtfully integrated, and every decision measured against the long-term integrity of the structure. When handled improperly, the result can be irreversible damage and a loss of authenticity.
At Red Oak Builders, we approach historic renovations with patience and precision. Our team blends traditional craftsmanship with thoughtful problem-solving to integrate modern amenities while preserving original details. From discreet HVAC solutions to concealed technology, we modernize historic properties for contemporary living without disrupting their character—allowing the building’s heritage to remain intact while its functionality moves forward.
Peace of Mind
Creative Craftsmen
Sustainability Focus
Why people love building with Red Oak Builders?
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Recently had a great experience working with Anthony and his team at Red Oak on the construction of a new restaurant in Philadelphia. The attention to detail on our projects can really put GC's through the ringer, but Anthony and his team handled everything expertly. They're legit and diligent regarding permits. They're sharp, respectful to all, and a pleasure to work with.
Paul Sheaffer
Architect - Restaurant -
I've worked with Red Oak for many years, and I have always been impressed with their integrity and attention to detail. They bring a high level of thought and organization to their work, and it shows.
Ian Toner
Architect -
My wife and I purchased a new construction townhouse in Fishtown. The team at Red Oak, lead by Anthony, was extremely easy to work with and very flexible as we worked through modification to the original designs of the plans. My wife and I love our home and all the unique touches that we added with the help of Red Oak. They stand behind their work and make sure everything is right for their customers. Very satisfied customer here!
Pat Horan
New Custom Home -
I worked with Red Oak to build a 14 unit condo project a few years back. They did a fantastic job! Some contractors over promise and under deliver. Not Red Oak. They are straightforward and realistic. You can expect them to build it right and provide ideas that will set the property apartment from the typical stuff that other people build. Because they’re honest, accountable, and excellent at what they do, I just hired Red Oak again for another project!
Alejandro Franqui
Developer -
Anthony really knows what he's talking about, and we've met with a number of builders that weren't nearly as sharp, honest and truly knowledgeable. If I could give Red Oak a 6 Star, I would. Thanks for everything!
Christopher Penasa
Custom Home -
We worked with Anthony and his team at Red Oak Builders on our custom home build. We had a unique build that had a very modern architectural style along with very lofty energy efficiency goals modeled after the Passive House system. Red Oak was the perfect fit for our project. Anthony was extremely knowledgeable but also very calm throughout the process and solved problems or challenges with zero drama as they came up.
Courtney Ludeman
New Custom Home -
Red Oak is a very good builder. I have worked along side many builders in and out of the city and they have great attention to detail, care for the customer and will make sure they are putting a solid product together whether its a full home renovation or a brand new construction home. Anthony G was a pleasure to work with!
Nicholas DeLuca
Developer -
We bought a house from Red Oak in 2017, and to this day in 2024 we’ve had no major issues. They take a huge amount of pride in their work and it shows. True artisans that will make sure they do things the right way the first time.
Pat Furey
New Custom House
Why people enjoy building their dream projects with us
Calm & Reliable
Clear planning, consistent communication, and disciplined execution keep every project moving forward with confidence.
Thrives with Challenge
We’re at our best when conditions are layered, details matter, and problem-solving is part of the process, not a surprise.
Sustainability Expertise
We integrate efficient systems, responsible materials, and long-term thinking into every project without compromising design or performance.
Aligned from Start to Finish
Early involvement leads to better planning, fewer surprises, and a more efficient path from idea to reality.
FAQ's
Red Oak Builders specializes in high-end custom homes and historic renovations that involve above-average complexity and demand a heightened level of attention to detail.
We also work on independent commercial and hospitality projects, including boutique hotels and restaurants. Select custom office or retail fit-outs are considered when the project presents a unique challenge and aligns with our approach.
Red Oak Builders prefers cost-plus pricing because it creates transparency and alignment throughout the building process. Clients pay the actual cost of labor and materials, along with an agreed-upon fee, allowing decisions to be made based on quality and long-term value rather than shortcuts. This approach is particularly well suited to complex, custom projects where flexibility, trust, and clear communication are essential.
Our projects are typically substantial in scope and complexity, requiring a high level of planning, coordination, and attention to detail. Rather than focusing on a fixed budget range, we evaluate each project based on its goals, level of complexity, and overall fit.
Red Oak Builders works with a trusted network of skilled subcontractors throughout the Philadelphia region and the Jersey Shore. We assemble project-specific teams based on the demands of each build, partnering with professionals who share our standards and are willing to go beyond typical scopes when a project requires it. This flexibility allows us to maintain quality, manage schedules effectively, and deliver consistent results across a wide range of projects.
Red Oak Builders works with a trusted network of skilled fabricators and craftspeople specializing in woodworking, metalwork, electrical integration, and other custom trades. We assemble the right team for each project based on its design and technical requirements, allowing us to execute detailed, one-off elements and collaborate closely with clients and designers to achieve custom solutions.