Copper Collaborative

Introducing Copper Collaborative, the newest addition to Copper Builders’ business structure, created with a focus on multifamily and commercial construction. Our company was founded with a vision to prioritize partnerships, transparency (especially costs), and exceptional quality in every aspect of our operations. Our team has more than 25 years of collective experience in multifamily operations and development, having overseen more than $1 billion in projects.

Despite being a new company, Copper Collaborative’s board brings a wealth of experience and expertise from Copper Builders and other strategic partners. Our team is committed to building long-lasting relationships with our clients, working closely with them every step of the way to deliver exceptional results that exceed their expectations.

At Copper Collaborative, we believe in transparency, and we know that cost is a crucial factor in any construction project. That’s why we are committed to providing accurate and reliable cost estimates, so our clients can make informed decisions and stay within budget.

Our commitment to exceptional quality is unwavering. We hold ourselves to the highest standards, and we’re always looking for ways to improve our processes and techniques to deliver the best possible outcomes for our clients.

The Vision

Opportunity in the Market: The commercial construction market in the Carolinas is booming, with new developments and projects cropping up every day. Copper collaborative is perfectly
positioned to capitalize on this opportunity, with a focus on high-quality, collaborative projects that meet the needs of our clients.

Copper Builders is Growing: Our parent company, Copper Builders, has a proven track record of success in the construction industry, with a portfolio of award-winning projects and a team of talented professionals. As a subsidiary of Copper Builders, Copper collaborative benefits from their resources, expertise, and industry connections.

Excel at Transparency and Operations: We will be more vertically integrated into projects than other builders which will give our partners confidence in their deals and underwriting. Additionally we will be one of the best operators in the business that causes the company to exceed our projections.

3-Step Plan

Step 1: Discover Your Vision

We start by getting to know you and your vision through an initial consultation and a Vision Workshop. We listen to your goals, needs, and preferences, and discuss your budget, timeline, and specific requirements. We also conduct a site visit to assess the feasibility of the project and gather relevant information.

Step 2: Design and Planning

We collaborate with you to develop design concepts that align with your vision and goals. We create sketches, renderings, or 3D models to help you visualize the project. Once the design concept is approved, we work with you to finalize the design and scope of work, including finishes, materials, and budget. We obtain necessary permits and approvals, and provide you with a detailed proposal or contract that outlines the project scope, costs, and timeline.

Step 3: Construction and Delivery

We take care of managing the construction process for you. Our experienced team oversees the project, coordinating with subcontractors, managing the schedule and budget, and ensuring quality control and safety standards are met. We provide you with regular progress updates, keeping you informed about the status of the project and addressing any questions or concerns you may have.

Vision

To become a leading multifamily construction company, recognized for our innovative and collaborative approach to building exceptional communities, with a specific focus in the Carolinas.

Values

Our unwavering commitment to integrity, teamwork, and sustainability, which guide our construction practices and interactions with stakeholders in the Carolinas.

Team

Our highly skilled and cohesive team, who work together to deliver outstanding results for our clients and partners in the multifamily construction industry, with a specialized expertise in the Carolinas.

Investment

Our strategic allocation of resources, including cutting-edge technology and industry expertise, to ensure the successful completion of multifamily construction projects in the Carolinas, on time and on budget.

Return

Our dedication to providing exceptional value and returns for our clients through high- quality construction, efficient processes, and superior customer service in the Carolinas.

Next Steps

Our forward-looking plans and strategies to further establish our presence and expertise in the multifamily construction market in the Carolinas, through expansion, innovation, and continued growth as a trusted leader in the industry.

Transparency

At Copper Collaborative, we hold the belief that transparency is crucial in fostering successful partnerships. We are committed to being more open and transparent than any other builder in the Carolinas, as we recognize that this builds trust, aligns interests, and ultimately contributes to the successful completion of projects for our valued partners.

Strategic partners: We believe that strong partnerships are the key to building successful projects. That’s why we work closely with our clients, subcontractors, and vendors to ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards a common goal.

Copper Collaborative Core Values

At Copper Collaborative, our core values are the guiding principles that define our company culture and guide our decision-making. These values are:

Genuine: We believe in conducting ourselves with integrity and honesty in all our interactions, whether with clients, partners, or colleagues.
Fun: We believe in creating a positive and enjoyable work environment where our team members can thrive and achieve their goals.
Communication: We value effective communication and believe in keeping our clients, partners, and team members informed throughout the entire construction process.
Collaboration: We believe in working collaboratively as a team, supporting each other to achieve our common goals while also being responsible stewards of our client’s resources. Our commitment to collaboration is what sets us apart from other construction companies, and we believe it is key to our success.

The Copper Builders team are passionate, they care, they are communicative and responsive, and they are on top of things. It's a collaborative environment and that makes a huge difference in the overall feeling. They are one of the best contractors I have ever worked with, there is no question that on future projects Copper Builders will be my first choice as a building partner.

I've worked with Copper Builders for well over half a decade and during that time I always think of them first when I have a new project. Without fail, they exceed my expectations and standards, and frankly I just like working with them.

- Daniel Jimenez, Principal

Frequently Asked Questions

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We have built some of Charlotte's most notable projects.

Tim Pratt, President

Dennale DeFilippo

President, Copper Collaborative

Dennale DeFilippo is a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in multifamily operations and development. Throughout her career, she has been involved in various aspects of the industry, including class A, B, and C ground-up construction, lease-up, stabilized, garden-style, and mid-rise assets. Operating over 7,000 units along the East Coast.

The core value of teamwork, which involves effective collaboration and support for colleagues or teammates in achieving shared goals, was shaped by her experience as a Division One athlete. This value inspired the formation and naming of our multifamily and commercial division, Copper Collaborative.

Dennale is an expert in budget and proforma planning, enabling her to streamline the execution of value-add & capital programs. Her ability to manage finances and allocate resources effectively has led to the success of numerous projects.

Moreover, Dennale has a strong focus on team building and is known for inspiring talented employees to execute by living the culture and leading by example. Her leadership style has allowed her to create an environment where employees feel valued and empowered to succeed.

When Dennale isn’t crushing it at work, you can find her globe-trotting and taste-testing with her husband, living their best foodie life! And if that’s not enough to keep her on her toes, she’s chasing after three little ones from sunrise to sundown!

Steve Fijakowlski

Vice President, Copper Collaborative

Steve Fijalkowski is an accomplished construction professional with over 25 years of experience in the construction business, Steve has performed work in various markets and held positions ranging from VP of operations to Field Engineer.

Throughout his career, Steve has been involved in many local Charlotte projects, demonstrating his expertise in the field. Some of the notable projects that Steve has contributed to include The Edge, The Prospect, NASAR HOF, Mecklenburg County Courthouse, The Vue, and Rae Farms. His ability to manage large-scale projects, work closely with stakeholders, and deliver high-quality results on time and within budget has earned him a reputation as a trusted leader in the industry.

Steve’s commitment to excellence and attention to detail have been instrumental in his success in the construction industry. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Copper Collaborative, where he serves as Vice President. In this role, Steve is responsible for overseeing project operations, ensuring that all projects are delivered to the highest standards, and fostering strong relationships with clients and partners.

Kelsey McKeever

Online Sales Counselor

Hi, I’m Kelsey, and I’m happy to answer your questions about Build-To-Rent development with Copper Builders. I’m available to answer questions about floor plans, design specifications, costs and more. Let me help you get started with planning or pricing. Or, I can set up a quick meeting for you with the team member who’s best equipped to answer all your questions.

Ask Kelsey how to get started with your project