Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephen Steele.
Hi Stephen, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I grew up working alongside my dad, who was a pastor raising what eventually became a family of seven kids. To help support our household, we were always doing odds-and-ends jobs — repairs, small construction projects, whatever needed to be done. That early exposure to hard work, problem solving, and serving people in our community really shaped my work ethic and laid the foundation for what I do today.
Over time, those small jobs turned into a career. I’ve now spent more than 20 years in construction and remodeling, building experience across kitchens, bathrooms, tile, flooring, and custom carpentry. I also had the opportunity to work overseas for more than three years as a government contractor in Afghanistan, where I oversaw construction projects and served as a site safety coordinator responsible for OSHA-level training, compliance, and reporting. That experience strengthened my leadership skills and reinforced the importance of doing things the right way — with professionalism, precision, and accountability.
Today I run my own remodeling and custom building business, focusing on quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design. I take a strategic approach to projects and work closely with clients to create spaces that are both functional and well-built. From growing up doing small jobs to now managing full-scale remodels and custom work, it’s been a steady progression built on hands-on experience, continuous learning, and a genuine passion for building.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Like most small businesses, getting started came with its share of challenges. Early on, it was about building a reputation, earning trust, and creating a steady flow of work while investing back into tools, equipment, and education. There’s always a balance between doing great work and running the business side — estimating, scheduling, marketing, and client communication.
Even once established, there are ongoing hiccups that come with the territory: material delays, changing project scopes, coordinating trades, and navigating economic ups and downs. As a small business owner, you’re constantly adapting and problem-solving. But those challenges ultimately make you better at delivering consistent, high-quality results for clients.
As you know, we’re big fans of Timber & Steele LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
My business is built around quality craftsmanship and a hands-on approach to remodeling and custom work. I’ve been in construction for over 20 years, specializing in kitchens, bathrooms, tile, flooring, and custom carpentry. Most of what I do is residential remodeling, helping homeowners upgrade their spaces in a way that’s both functional and built to last. I enjoy the design side just as much as the build side and like being involved from concept to completion.
One thing that really sets me apart is that I’m one of the few certified tile installers in Central Florida. Tile is a big part of what I do, and I take a lot of pride in doing it at a high level — not just making it look good, but making sure it’s installed properly and will last. Overall, I’ve always taken a very detail-driven approach to my work.
When I started my business, I set out not just to be the company that can get the job done, but the one clients *want* to do their job. There’s a difference. I focus on communication, professionalism, and creating an experience where clients feel confident in who they’ve hired and proud of the final result. I want people to feel like they have someone in their corner who genuinely cares about the outcome.
I’m probably best known for being reliable, detail-oriented, and easy to work with. A lot of my business comes from referrals and repeat clients, which I’m really proud of. Brand-wise, that trust and consistency mean everything to me. I want people to know that when they work with my company, they’re getting someone who truly cares about the craft, the process, and delivering something that lasts.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
At the end of the day, I’m not trying to be the biggest company out there — just one of the most trusted. I want every project that carries my name to reflect quality craftsmanship, professionalism, and attention to detail that truly lasts. That’s what helps me sleep at night.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://timberandsteele.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timbersteelerenovations
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timberandsteele
