Crafting Excellence, One Project at a Time.

About Us

At Hartman Custom Builders, we believe that every home and commercial space should be built with precision, passion, and integrity.

With over two decades of experience, we’ve helped homeowners and businesses bring their architectural visions to life.

Quality craftsmanship that stands the test of time

2010

Late Nights & Big Dreams

Some stories begin in boardrooms. Theirs started on the deck—coffee in hand, staying up way too late, talking about the kind of life they wanted to build—one that was authentic, fulfilling, and hands-on. What started as a conversation turned into a calling: a business built to create beautiful spaces that reflect the vision of the people who live, work, and gather in them.

A tufted leather chair sits beside a rustic wooden desk with notebooks in front of a fireplace and bookshelf in a cozy, well-lit room.
2010

The First Project, The First Step

Before the business had a name, it had a purpose. Derek took on his first big project: rebuilding an elementary school library. As new bookshelves took form, so did his vision for a business built on precision, quality, and craftsmanship that would endure for years to come. As Derek poured his craftsmanship into custom cabinetry, perfecting the details that set his work apart, one project led to another, and their family business began to take shape.

Bathroom with freestanding bathtub and modern fixtures.
2016

From Garage to a Growing Team

The oversized garage wasn’t just a workspace—it was a launchpad. Sawdust settled into every corner as one set of hands turned into a team of carpenters. Kitchens, bathrooms, decks, and garages led to custom homes and commercial structures. The quality of their work spoke for itself, and it was time to rename their growing company to reflect not just what they built but how they built it—with expert craftsmanship and results that exceeded expectations.

Derek and Aria together posing for a photo in the middle of the forest.
2025

Where They Stand Today

From luxury lakefront retreats to large-scale commercial builds, they bring the same craftsmanship and care to every project. But beyond the blueprints and materials, it’s about something deeper—helping their clients bring their vision to life, just like they did. And even after all these years, one thing remains the same: they still stay up too late, coffee in hand, dreaming about what’s next.

2010

The First Project,
The First Step

Before the business had a name, it had a purpose. Derek took on his first big project: rebuilding an elementary school library. As new bookshelves took form, so did his vision for a business built on precision, quality, and craftsmanship that would endure for years to come. As Derek poured his craftsmanship into custom cabinetry, perfecting the details that set his work apart, one project led to another, and their family business began to take shape.

2025

Where They Stand Today

From luxury lakefront retreats to large-scale commercial builds, they bring the same craftsmanship and care to every project. But beyond the blueprints and materials, it’s about something deeper—helping their clients bring their vision to life, just like they did. And even after all these years, one thing remains the same: they still stay up too late, coffee in hand, dreaming about what’s next.

2010

Late Nights & Big
Dreams

Some stories begin in boardrooms. Theirs started on the deck—coffee in hand, staying up way too late, talking about the kind of life they wanted to build—one that was authentic, fulfilling, and hands-on. What started as a conversation turned into a calling: a business built to create beautiful spaces that reflect the vision of the people who live, work, and gather in them.

A tufted leather chair sits beside a rustic wooden desk with notebooks in front of a fireplace and bookshelf in a cozy, well-lit room.
2016

From Garage to a
Growing Team

The oversized garage wasn’t just a workspace—it was a launchpad. Sawdust settled into every corner as one set of hands turned into a team of carpenters. Kitchens, bathrooms, decks, and garages led to custom homes and commercial structures. The quality of their work spoke for itself, and it was time to rename their growing company to reflect not just what they built but how they built it—with expert craftsmanship and results that exceeded expectations.

Derek and Aria together posing for a photo in the middle of the forest.

If you’ve got a vision, let’s build it—together.

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Our Values

At Hartman Custom Builders, we are dedicated to crafting high-quality, custom homes and commercial spaces with integrity, precision, and a client-first approach.

We believe in building more than structures—we create spaces where families gather, businesses thrive, and communities grow. Through transparent communication, uncompromising craftsmanship, and a seamless process, we bring each client’s vision to life—on time, on budget, and built to last.

Custom Without Complication

We never cut corners.

Integrity & Transparency

Honest pricing & clear communication.

Precision & Excellence

Attention to every detail, from foundation to finishes.

Client-Centered Approach

Your vision is our priority.

Timeless Design & Innovation

Spaces built for function, beauty, and longevity.

Meet the Owner

Photo of Derek Hartman wearing a cap and smiling.
Derek Hartman
Owner & Founder

With over 25 years of hands-on experience performing and overseeing complex construction projects, Derek combines strategic leadership with in-depth, practical expertise by actively managing daily operations, overseeing project trades, and ensuring high standards of craftsmanship across all projects.

Serving the Bemidji, Cass Lake, Laporte, Park Rapids, Walker & surrounding lakes area.

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