ROOST builds high-end, livable custom homes in the greater Austin area, including new construction and large-scale remodels. We strive to deliver a home-building experience that is predictable, personal, and enjoyable.

David Hernandez and Chad Watkins leverage decades of residential construction experience and detailed knowledge of code and building science to guide client projects around the roadblocks and day-to-day issues that can derail budgets and timelines. Dave and Chad have trusted relationships and preferred status with the most skilled and dependable trades in Austin, further enhancing the predictability and quality of ROOST projects.

While our chief role begins at construction and doesn’t end until after you’ve moved in, ROOST can guide you from any starting point. We can help you find a buildable lot, introduce you to visionary architects and interior designers, and traverse the formidable permitting process. From there, our business model and personalized client service allow for maximum transparency and flexibility during budgeting and building phases. By keeping you in the know and ahead of deadlines, you can more fully enjoy the selection process and watching your well-laid plans take form.

Dave Hernandez

Dave Hernandez

MANAGING PARTNER

Dave Hernandez brings over 20 years of construction finance and management experience to ROOST clients. He counts ROOST’s many happy clients, some repeat and many now friends, as the company’s greatest accomplishments. Dave founded Zilker Construction in 2009 and began teaming up with Watkins Custom Homes, a partnership formalized with ROOST in 2013.

Before moving into custom residential, Dave worked in multi-family and mixed-use development in leadership and construction management roles at Trammell Crow, Fairfield Development and Safari Construction where he managed over $350 million of development. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and finance from UT Austin, where he also acquired a great love for this city.

He makes his home in central Austin with wife, Kari, two children, Tessa and Hayes, and his beloved springer spaniel, Clyde.

Chad Watkins

Chad Watkins

MANAGING PARTNER

Chad Watkins has been building quality homes in Austin since 2000. He founded Watkins Custom Homes in 2006 and is responsible for over 140 new homes and remodels, and as many happy homeowners. Prior to starting his own company, Chad played construction management roles for top Austin area home builders Brian A. Bailey Custom Homes and production builder David Weekly Homes. He received his Business Administration and Marketing degree from Texas Tech University and quickly made his way to Austin.

Chad is an avid runner, but can most often be found enjoying the good life in ATX with his wife Mandy and three children Cash, Weezie and Duke.