What We Do
Meet Our Founders
Morning Shadow Builders was founded by Kris and Dan, two friends who met years ago driving pontoons and building cabins at Wilderness Canoe Base, a youth camp in the northwoods of Minnesota. We’re a long way from those woods, but we're still having just as much fun working together, and we want that energy to be infectious on the job site.
Our Team
When he's not on a job site, Dan can be found paddling on the Mississippi, camping in the BWCA, or getting into a debate about nineteenth-century North American history. He also loves helping friends with house projects, which they appreciate until they realize he has opinions about those too.
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Dan Ahrendt
In his free time, Robbie likes to write songs, record music, win a game of chess, and spend time with his girlfriend and tiny Chihuahua. He is always trying to learn something new and enjoy a new hobby.
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Robbie
In his free time Kris enjoys pursuing his artistic side. Building on a Studio Art degree he keeps his skills honed with printmaking, ceramics, digital art and more.
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Kris Swanson
When he is not working, Michael spends his time playing percussion in a local band as well as riding his bicycle as far as he possibly can.
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Michael
We excel in design-driven building and renovation. Whether it's one bathroom or a whole home, our aim is to provide you a beautiful product and a great experience from the first conversation.
What We Do
How We Work
1
Discovery
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Our process begins with an initial meeting on site. The goal of this conversation is to get to know you and your space, and learn how we can work together to make your home fit your lifestyle.
1
Discovery
Our process begins with an initial meeting on site. The goal of this conversation is to get to know you and your space, and learn how we can work together to make your home fit your lifestyle.
2
Feasibility
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After our discovery meeting we provide a preliminary estimate for the project. This is a 'ballpark' number to check that the scope and budget are aligned.
2
Feasibility
After our discovery meeting we provide a preliminary estimate for the project. This is a 'ballpark' number to check that the scope and budget are aligned.
3
Development
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We work together with you and the design team to develop the initial idea into a detailed plan with drawings and design selections.
3
Development
We work together with you and the design team to develop the initial idea into a detailed plan with drawings and design selections.
4
Pre-Construction
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Based on the developed idea, we issue a short contract and charge a fee. Then, we work with our trade partners to build out a precise project scope and a detailed cost estimate. No guesswork, no inflated contingencies — just a clear picture of what your project will take. This phase concludes with the signing of a construction contract.
4
Pre-Construction
Based on the developed idea, we issue a short contract and charge a fee. Then, we work with our trade partners to build out a precise project scope and a detailed cost estimate. No guesswork, no inflated contingencies — just a clear picture of what your project will take. This phase concludes with the signing of a construction contract.
5
Build
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The excitement begins! Our project manager will set up the project for success, carefully planning out each step from demolition to final walk-through — and keeping you updated at every stage so there are no surprises. We encourage you to ask questions and enjoy the behind-the-scenes look at your home.
5
Build
The excitement begins! Our project manager will set up the project for success, carefully planning out each step from demolition to final walk-through — and keeping you updated at every stage so there are no surprises. We encourage you to ask questions and enjoy the behind-the-scenes look at your home.
6
Follow-Up
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After every project is complete we mark our calendar for a return visit to ensure our work continues to meet your standards and ours.