Business name: Claris Construction Inc.

Address: 53 Church Hill Road, Newtown

President: Phil Clark

Business background: Claris Construction is an architectural, engineering, and commercial construction firm that Phil Clark founded in 1991.

The business was previously at 153 South Main Street in Newtown, but moved in May of this year to 53 Church Hill Road. Mr Clark relocated his company to a building he owns, after Toll Brothers vacated the space and it became available.

"It was the right move," Mr Clark explained. "It's an industrial building, and we're architects, so we felt we had to do it up for our clients."

Claris Construction's new office not only appeals to the wide scope of clientele, but also to its staff members.

Extra features for employees to enjoy are the onsite gym, basketball hoop, and pool table - the latter of which is located in the center of the office.

Those features are just a small testament to how Claris Construction treats its clients and staff members.

"In 25 years we have never lost an employee. No employee has ever quit," Mr Clark said.

Business focus: The main service that Claris Construction offers is design / build construction. The company has architects and contractors under one roof, making the process more convenient for clients.

"Architecture is a collaboration," Mr Clark explained. "It's very rare that a company offers both of those services."

Some local examples of Claris Constructions' work are The Newtown Hook & Ladder Volunteer Fire Company's firehouse on Church Hill Road; Whole Foods Market in Danbury; and the NYA Sports & Fitness Center in Fairfield Hills.

Important to know: "Most good contractors are going to bring the building in on time and under budget - that's just permission to play," Mr Clark said.

What sets Claris Construction apart is its attention to making the experience for its clients comfortable.

"Our clients are spending millions and millions of dollars; it's the biggest investment of their lives, and it is a little scary," Mr Clark said. "They have to trust us and spend two years with us, having faith that we're going to walk them through this unharmed."

Mr Clark understands that peace of mind and knowing his company is going to spend money wisely makes all the difference for clients.

Also, as a Newtown resident, Mr Clark said he is active in promoting Newtown and helping provide free services for design and budgeting to the town or nonprofits.

Recently, Claris Construction lent its services to help a local Boy Scout design a kiosk, and the firm frequently has internship opportunities for Newtown High School students.

"I love Newtown, and I love having the business here," Mr Clark said.

Hours: By appointment.

Web: clarisconstruction.com / New website coming in July.

Social Media: facebook.com/clarisconstruct

Phone: 203-364-9460

E-mail: phil@clarisconstruction.com

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