At Solstice Builders you're more than a client; you're family.
Meet Our Team
Cliff Pender
Owner/President
Meet Cliff, our esteemed Owner/President, whose wealth of construction experience spans over 20 years. Starting his career as an apprentice carpenter, Cliff quickly ascended through the ranks, showcasing remarkable skills and leadership abilities that led him to become a superintendent. Throughout his journey, Cliff had the privilege of working alongside a tremendously talented New England craftsman, gaining invaluable hands-on experience in every facet of house construction, from framing and custom millwork to siding, flooring, built-ins, and cabinets. This strong foundation, combined with his Business Administration degree from UNC Chapel Hill, provided the perfect platform for him to establish Solstice Builders, specializing in high-end custom homes and renovations. Cliff’s dedication to the field extends beyond his qualifications, as he actively seeks out knowledge and certifications in building sciences and sustainable construction. As a strong advocate of continuing education, he stays at the forefront of industry advancements to deliver the highest quality of workmanship. Personally involved in every project, Cliff maintains constant communication with his clients, ensuring their vision is brought to life with meticulous attention to detail and unwavering professionalism.
Matt Lagas-Rivera
Administrative Director/Development Services Coordinator
Having worked as a carpenter for Solstice for over a decade, Matt, our Development Services Coordinator, brings a unique blend of creativity and management skills to our team. Holding a Management degree from UNC Wilmington, Matt’s expertise extends to both industrial and product design, making him a valuable asset to our organization. Having previously worked as a carpenter, Matt possesses hands-on experience in the field, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of development projects. In his current role, he diligently handles crucial tasks such as POA/HOA submissions, permitting, inspections, and CAMA permits and approvals. With Matt on board, you can trust that your development needs will be met with a perfect balance of expertise and friendly assistance.
Cathy Graney
Office Coordinator
Meet Cathy, our remarkable Office Coordinator with over three decades of experience in office management. With her wealth of knowledge and expertise, Cathy takes charge of handling customer and vendor accounts with meticulous attention to detail. From overseeing daily operations to ensuring smooth workflow, she effortlessly maintains the harmony of our office environment. Her personable, professional, and friendly demeanor is a testament to her dedication in providing exceptional support to our valued clients.
Lily Archer
Marketing Coordinator
Lily Archer is a dynamic Marketing Coordinator at Solstice Builders, where she transforms every home project into a visual story. With a passion for photography, graphic design, and social media, Lily brings creativity and strategic insight to every campaign. Her expertise in capturing the unique journey of custom home construction through compelling imagery and design showcases the quality and craftsmanship of Solstice Builders. Lily innovates and refines strategies that elevate the brand’s presence online and in print. Her dedication to detail and flair for visual storytelling make her an invaluable asset in driving engagement and connecting with clients across diverse platforms.
Mike Gulledge
New Construction, Historic Restoration, & Large Project Superintendent
Meet Mike, our New Construction, Historic Restoration, and Large Project Superintendent, whose career in the construction industry spans over 15 years. Originally starting as an independent contractor in the Charlotte area, Mike’s passion for his craft led him to the beautiful Southport area. With a strong background in structural repairs and home renovations, he brings a wealth of expertise to every project he undertakes. Clients are drawn to his friendly demeanor and personable approach, making him a favorite among clients. With Mike leading our projects, you can rest assured that your construction needs will be met with professionalism, care, and an unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional results.
Adam Frazier
St. James Plantation & Large Project Superintendent
Meet Adam, our St. James Plantation & Large Project Superintendent, whose passion for craftsmanship runs deep. Adam has been immersed in the world of construction since his childhood, gaining invaluable experience on jobsites. Prior to joining our team, he honed his expertise across a variety of trades, acquiring a strong skill set that sets him apart. Adam’s love for the outdoors is evident in his work, as he thrives in the dynamic environment of building and enjoys the camaraderie that comes with working alongside others. As our St. James Plantation & Large Project Superintendent, he brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for quality craftsmanship, ensuring that every project is completed to the highest standards.
John Hawksby
Bald Head Island Superintendent
Meet John, our Bald Head Island Superintendent, whose journey from Bristol, England to the United States has brought a wealth of expertise to our team. With a background rooted in attention to detail, John developed his skills during a four-year apprenticeship in Industrial Pattern Making with the esteemed City and Guilds of London. Since arriving in the US in 1990, he has been dedicated to the art of fine carpentry and construction. John’s passion for his craft shines through in every project he undertakes, ensuring that no detail goes unnoticed. When he’s not meticulously crafting beautiful spaces, John enjoys staying active through triathlons and Stand-up Paddle Boarding, embracing the beauty and serenity of his surroundings. John brings a perfect balance of expertise and warmth to our team, delivering exceptional results and fostering lasting relationships with clients.
Humberto Chacon Verastegui
Small Projects Superintendent
Meet Humberto, affectionately referred to as Beto, our Small Projects Superintendent. Starting as a skilled carpenter within our organization, Humberto’s exceptional carpentry skills swiftly propelled him to the position of Lead Carpenter. Today, in his role as Small Projects Superintendent, Humberto’s expertise in siding and framing, refined over an impressive 15-year career, greatly benefits our team. His meticulous focus on details and extensive knowledge guarantee the impeccable execution of projects of all sizes. Apart from his professional achievements, Humberto’s friendly and approachable demeanor creates a pleasant and cooperative work atmosphere.
Howard Hursey
Quality Control Manager
Meet Howard, fondly known as Hersh, a cornerstone of our team as the Quality Control Manager. With a lifetime of experience in the construction industry, Hersh’s expertise positions him as the ultimate authority in upholding our organization’s impeccable quality standards. His unmatched dedication ensures that every project not only meets but consistently surpasses expectations, reflecting his relentless work ethic and unwavering commitment to excellence. Beyond his dedication, Hersh’s willingness to offer a helping hand and cultivate genuine connections transforms him from a colleague into a true friend. In every sense, Hersh embodies a hardworking and dependable individual, making him an indispensable asset to our success.
With a rich history spanning over 18 years, Solstice Builders specializes in crafting truly custom new constructions, renovations, and historic restorations across premier communities including Southport, Bald Head Island, Caswell Beach, Oak Island, and St. James Plantation. Renowned for our expertise in energy-efficient, sustainable building practices, Solstice has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional luxury homes of unparalleled quality.
Equinox Property Management, our esteemed sister company, introduces a new level of customization to property management. We redefine excellence in maintaining & servicing your property with a focus on tailored solutions and concierge service. As a new addition to the family, we’re committed to upholding the same standard of quality and dedication that has defined our sister company, Solstice Builders.
