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About Us

North Carolina’s Premier Home Builder: Crafting Forever Homes

McMillan Design Build was founded in 2008 by Michael J McMillan Sr, whose over 25 years of construction career has a proven track record of creating masterful builds, unique luxury homes and innovative renovations of schools and church facilities.

Our previous developments and commercial projects exceed $80 million, and can be seen throughout Charlotte, Myers Park and The Point.

Having developed sites for multiple builds in residential as well for commercial development, McMillan Design Build is poised to transition our expertise into commercial mixed-use development with our partners at VALTC.

At McMillan Design Build, whether you're envisioning a new forever home, planning an addition, considering a major renovation, thinking of a house design or commercial construction, you can trust us to lead the way and look after your best interests at every step.

We take charge of the process to bring your Lake Norman dream home to life, while always keeping your goals and well-being at the forefront. Contact us today to start a conversation and begin the journey to your ideal space.

Michael McMillan

Michael McMillan is the President of MCM–McMillan Builders, a full-service design-build firm serving the Charlotte and Lake Norman region. With more than 24 years of experience in residential, commercial, and institutional construction, Michael has built a reputation for creating thoughtfully designed, high-quality projects that stand the test of time.

Prior to founding McMillan Builders in 2008, Michael spent over a decade as a construction manager with nationally recognized luxury homebuilders and development firms. During that time, he was responsible for building many of Charlotte’s most recognized show homes and HomeArama tour homes in premier communities, including Myers Park, The Point on Lake Norman, and gated luxury neighborhoods throughout South Charlotte.

Since launching MCM–McMillan Builders, Michael has led projects ranging from custom luxury residences and renovations to schools, church facilities, commercial developments, and large-scale site development, with completed projects exceeding $80 million in value. Notable work includes the Community School of Davidson where Michael personally built the Arts Wing, Black Box Theater, and major administrative and classroom renovations and the Cornelius Veterans Monument, which he was honored to be selected to build in 2011.

An early adopter and innovator in building science, Michael is deeply passionate about barrier-free, healthy, and energy-efficient homes. He is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS III) one of the earliest in the country through the National Association of Home Builders and began formally developing and marketing multi-generational living concepts in 2019. His work focuses on creating “forever homes” that support independence, adaptability, and long-term wellness.

Michael is a Master Contractor and has held an NC Unlimited Licensed Building Contractor license in both residential and commercial construction since 1999. He continues to expand the firm’s expertise into commercial and mixed-use development, partnering with forward-thinking collaborators while maintaining a hands-on, detail-driven approach to every project.

Michael proudly served in the U.S. Navy’s Construction Battalion (Seabees). While in the reserves, he attended the University of Dayton before relocating to North Carolina in 1997. He remains actively involved in the community and has served on the boards of several nonprofit and civic organizations, including Pharos Parenting (past board member), the National Exchange Club, Evening Club of Lake Norman, and the Rotary Club of Davidson.

Michael, his wife Kathleen, and their three children live in Davidson, North Carolina, on a property designed and built by McMillan Design Build in 2020—a reflection of the same principles, craftsmanship, and livability he brings to every project.
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Amelia McMillan

Amelia has grown up immersed in design, working for McMillan Builders through school, she now joins us as an Interior Architect and Designer, having graduated from Colorado State University from the CIDA accredited Interior Architecture program. Her love for conceptual design, hand sketching, and ideation is the driving force behind her designs. Passionate about sustainability, and accessible, long lasting design, she is excited to continue her professional career here in North Carolina.

Kathleen McMillan

After 28 years in education, Kathleen made the move into the building industry and now serves as Creative Director and Controller at McMillan Builders. She blends creativity with structure, leading branding and client touch while helping keep projects organized, helping ensure a smooth, thoughtful experience from start to finish.
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Our Benefits

Why Choose McMillan

Optimal Building Practices

Quality at McMillan extends beyond the visible, encompassing structural integrity and energy efficiency. We prioritize both outstanding workmanship and behind-the-scenes excellence.

Flexible Architectural Collaboration

We adapt to your project's needs, whether collaborating from the start or stepping in with finished plans. Our team adds value at any stage of the design process.

Local & Family-Owned

Deeply rooted in Lake Norman, we've contributed to meaningful community projects. Our local focus drives us to create spaces that enhance lives and serve our neighbors.

Universal Design Approach

We create spaces that are beautiful and functional for everyone, regardless of age or ability. Our commitment to accessibility sets a new standard in home building.

Craftsmanship

Our work has been recognized with multiple awards, including silver awards from the Home Builders Association of Greater Charlotte, our commitment to excellence in home building and renovation.

Innovative Technology Integration

We use Matterport's Virtual 3D Experiences to offer immersive views of your future home. This technology allows you to explore and refine your space before construction begins.

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What We Do

At McMillan Builders, we specialize in creating custom homes, home additions, and large-scale renovations in the Lake Norman area of North Carolina. I founded the company in 2008 with a focus on building high-quality, long-lasting homes that adapt to our clients’ needs over time. We use innovative techniques like 3D home tours and follow universal design principles to ensure homes are both beautiful and functional for all ages and abilities. As a local, family-owned business, we also contribute to community projects and bring our deep understanding of the Lake Norman region to every build.
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Award One - Home Addition

$260,000 - $400,000

McMillan Design Build managed to artfully marry a contemporary living space to a 1940’s brick bungalow in Chantilly. The addition preserved the home’s front elevation, and hence the neighborhood’s traditional streetscape. ‍
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The delightful surprise of a 1,000-square-foot contemporary addition crafted from Green Glazed Brick and featuring a cantilevered rear porch is just barely visible from the street. ‍
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A white EPDM insulated flat roof and storefront anodized windows add to the space’s modern look. The design allowed for the addition of two bedrooms, a full bath, utility room and a graciously sized and colorful playroom complete with extensive built-in shelving to lift toys and games up off the floor. ‍
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The addition incorporated the sustainable, durable and environmentally friendly building practices and design elements for which McMillan Design Build is known.
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Award Two - General Home Renovation

$160,000 - $240,000

The Interior Renovation project consisted of updating the appearance and functionality of a home with “good bones” for a growing family. ‍
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Unnecessary hallway space was eliminated, the master bath and closet were reconfigured, a powder room was up-fit, a study with pocket doors was created, and the kitchen was updated to include an AGA stove, butcher block top and a space-saving children’s swing-up table. ‍‍
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Universal design features like expanded door frames, a graciously sized walk-in shower, custom lighting design and access-friendly faucets ensure this project will function well for years to come.
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Winner of Best Single Family Home—$750k-$1M

Best Single Family Home—$750k-$1M

Nordic design inspired this forest setting, creating a harmonious blend of comfort and nature. This five-year project incorporated innovative and cost-effective building methods. This home showcases an authentic aesthetic throughout the use of structural steel components, concrete, metal and glass. The client sought barrier-free living, healthy indoor quality and comfort, and sustainable building assemblies. The drainage system offers drainage to a small erosion control pond. The NAHB certified program of CAPS Universal Design incorporation ensures safe and accessible comfort for all abilities and generations.
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Winner of Best Full Home Remodel Under $500k

Best Full Home Remodel Under $500k

This authentic 100-year-old farm house was designed with barrier-free entries in mind, only adding 200 feet of additional building structure. McMillan created two primary suites and some much needed updates to enjoy the views and comfort available. Now, there’s much more livable usable space and the clients love the authentic, untrendy designs that pay respect to the original 1900’s look.
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