Who We Are

Charlie M.

Owner – President/CEO

Where do we start with Charlie? Well, to kick it off, as a young-in’ Charlie started, built and sold a company, which was unrelated to real estate. Pretty random right? As a family man, Charlie realized he LOVED the opportunity to meet all sorts of people from all walks of life and decided to start Icon to create spaces for families they would call home. But most importantly is that his 3 kids inspire him to live a fully alive life. FACT: If you can’t get a hold of him (which is more rare than hens’ teeth), he’s most likely hitting a barkie on the links!

Favorite Quote “All that we are is the result of what we have thought.” – Buddha

Hidden Talent Is magical with kids. Might as well call him Mr. Rogers!

Jenny R.

Owner – Remodeling Sales & Design Consultant

This funny, curly haired gal is a natural when it comes to inspiring creativity! When she isn’t killin’ it in the remodeling realm, you can find Jenny at your local art shows with her kids. Jenny has an art background so typically, colors and patterns come easily to her BUT she had no construction experience when she started with the company 10+ years ago. It was a leap of faith and we’re sure glad she jumped!

Favorite Quote “220, 221…. whatever it takes.”

Hidden Talent Imitating Foreign Accents

Sean B.

Vice President of Operations

If you know Sean, you know he means business. Even as a young lad Sean envisioned himself in a role in construction – Shocker! With his strong balance of loyalty, determination and focus, Sean just oozes “Carpe Diem”. When he isn’t seeking ways to improve margins, increase productivity and identifying opportunities to increase customer satisfaction, you can find Sean spending time with his wife and two sons. And if you really want to sweeten him up, present him with a Titos and Soda! (don’t forget the lemon!)

Favorite Quote “How do you eat an Elephant? One bite at a time.”

Hidden Talent Nunchuk Master

Mike F.

Manager of Renovations Construction

If you don’t have pride in your work, lack in work ethic or don’t call back, you ain’t no friend of Mike’s! Growing up, Mike had always wanted to be a race car driver but went a different route and truly enjoys transforming something dated into something modern and functional. Mike excels in applying his experience and knowledge tactfully as each renovation is never the same. While Mike is not working, you can find him street racing sport bikes, mountain biking and target shooting.

Favorite Quote “That’ll buff out.”

Hidden Talent Is a “need for speed” superstar like Ricky Bobby

Joe S.

Renovations Sales/Project Manager

Before Joe enters the afterlife, a goal of his is to see the pyramids and climb a redwood tree… and speaking of trees, after college Joe spent 4 years working as a carpenter before joining the Icon team! His favorite part of doing what he does is working with homeowners and seeing how happy they are with the finished product. As far as animals go, dogs are the bee’s knees! If he’s not working his booty off on the job, you will find Joe exploring with his fiancée Kate and two dogs, O’Banion and Nellie.

Favorite Quote “Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, “Wow! What a Ride!” – Hunter S. Thompson

Hidden Talent Yes, but will remain unknown. Hmmm!

Samantha M.

Remodeling Design Consultant

Design Consultant by day, fine jewelry designer by night! Sam recently graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a Bachelor of Science degree in art, business and cheese. Lucky us, Sam has worked in several different positions throughout the years at Icon and has had the opportunity to learn many facets of the company. Sam loves working with clients to creatively solve problems and breathe new life into their homes. Her favorite concert she’d ever been to was The Elton John farewell tour in 2019 and is a shameless DIE HARD Harry Potter fan! Wingardium Leviosa!

Favorite Quote “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

Hidden Talent Sam loves to draw!

Chris B.

Project Manager

This world renown traveler is one of our fantastic Project Managers! Believe it or not, he has tried foods such as kangaroo, cow brains, chicken heart and even fried grasshoppers. Yikes! Chris’ construction background stretches alllll the way back to when he was 14 years old working with his uncle and has loved it ever since. He loves building relationships with homeowners and making their dream home become reality. Next time you see Chris be sure to ask of his crazy travels!

Favorite Quote “Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. The greatest gift in life is to keep your mind young.” – Henry ford

Hidden Talent Has played tennis for 37 years. Watch out Federer!

John C.

Project Manager

Being in the residential home building industry since 1993, John has been an incredible asset to the Icon team as a Project Manager! While construction is one of his passions, he also enjoys coaching lacrosse and hockey, fishing, his dog “Chunk” and playing in a band called Bucket Number 6. Rock on! If you are someone who snaps their gum, chews loudly, or sadly has poor grammar…then watch out… John wanted to be an assassin when he was 10 years old! With John’s outgoing, sincere and fun personality, work just doesn’t feel like work.

Favorite Quote “Whatever you are…. be a good one.”

Hidden Talent Can fix almost anything! Challenge excepted.

Mark M.

Sales & Design Consultant

When Mark isn’t dreaming of being on the island of Kauai, he’s either having a ball with our customers or relaxing and hangin’ out with friends! Great designs begin with a comprehensive understanding of clients’ needs and expectations and Mark has just that. Those of you who have been lucky enough to work with him know his keen eye for colors and textures allow him to create the perfect space that is both timeless and creative. This kind, open minded and slightly sarcastic man is truly a one of a kind designer!

Favorite Quote “It is better to remain silent and let others think you’re a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt.”

Hidden Talent Has knees of steel

Angela S.

Sales & Design Consultant

This mozzarella stick, Captain n’ Coke lovin’ lady has been in the real estate game for 11 years and spent 10 years as a lead project coordinator before coming to Icon! Angela loves spending time with her daughter and sassy old yellow lab – and also enjoys rummaging through flea markets and refinishing furniture. What she enjoys most about work is her Icon team and making the customers’ visions come to life! When asked who inspires her, a woman named Pinterest was spoken of?

Favorite Quote “Show me, don’t tell me.”

Hidden Talent Per Angela, her talents would only put her on the ‘Stupid Human Tricks’ segment on David Letterman!

Joe A.

VP of Purchasing & Design

Some say Joe’s passion for crunching numbers was written in the stars. And we believe it! Joe’s eye for detail and understanding of construction techniques help Icon to obtain quality work and appropriate delivery speed at a competitive price! Joe’s favorite place in the world is being at home with his wife and kids or… fangirling at a Bucket Number 6 concert. One day Joe will find himself living out his dream of visiting the motherland of his roots, Italy. Ciao bella!

Favorite Quote “Precision beats power and timing beats speed”

Hidden Talent Num-chuck master

Rachel W.

Controller

What is Rachel’s full-time job you ask? We’re not quite sure either! She is the jack of all trades, with a background in construction stemming all the way back to her childhood. Rachel started off as a wee intern for Icon and blossomed into one badass businesswoman. She loves that every day offers a new challenge, and even though her role is primarily Finance, she loves collaborating creatively on our Express Homes as well. Need someone to keep your plants alive while you’re away traveling? DO NOT ASK RACHEL.

Favorite Quote “You cannot stray from an unmarked path.”

Hidden Talent Basically Chef Ramsay’s sous chef

Jen M.

Marketing & Project Coordinator

Know where to get a mean Bloody Mary? Contact Jen IMMEDIATELY. With a degree in graphic design, she loves creating marketing material and content that gets her team, trades and clients excited about Icon and the home building experience. Does she have an obsession? Yes. Her dog, Pip! When she’s not jamming out to Foster the People, you can find her spending time with her husband and family – most likely at the golf course, bowling alley or brewery. Cheers!

Favorite Quote “Happiness is a state of mind. It’s just according to the way you look at things.”

Hidden Talent Professional eyelid flipper

Carson Bernard

Assistant Project Manager

Carson, our Assistant Project Manager, dreams of one day living in a modern house with tons of technology on the beach or mountainside. We can dig that! Literally. With a bachelor’s degree in construction management, Carson has been a great addition to our Custom Homes department and has so much room to grow! The best piece of advice he was ever been given is that life has no limitations, except the ones you make. I think we can all relate to that! If he’s not in the office, you can find Carson watching sports, spending time with family and friends and of course eating really good food!

Favorite Quote “PIVOT! PIVOT! – Friends”

Hidden Talent Can tread water for 2 hours. Okay, Aqua Man.

Natalia M.

Cabinet Design Consultant

Natalia, the crazy cat lady…no wait… crazy HORSE lady! This bubbly, vibrant, open-minded gal is not your typical chicky. Does she like to pamper herself? Sure! But what she really loves is working on her cars, horseback riding, camping and collecting crystals. She also really enjoys hanging out with her dog, Mochi! In the past, Natalia was a Design Consultant for The Tile Shop and a Specialty Designer at Advance Design Studio. Her dream home would be a two story farmhouse on a lot of property with lots of farm animals, a pull barn for her cool cars, a riding arena and nature trails where she can unwind and drink her peach margaritas.

Favorite Quote “Those who move forward with a happy spirit will find that things always work out.” – Gordon B Hinkley

Hidden Talent She can eat a lot…A LOT of food and models AND is a good driver. Quite the mixture!

Ian H.

Purchasing Agent

Set the scene: 12 year old tweenage Ian headbanging at the Beastie Boys concert, singing every single word, with his old man. End scene. Looking for the perfect song to set the mood? Ian’s got your back! This music loving, film watching guy loves everything when it comes to food. Ian’s happy place rotates from watching Chicago Bears games to dreaming about the large lot of land he will be living on one day. Ian comes from a background of project managing and enjoys being a contributing member of a team to produce the best possible results. Looking for a little advice? Ian claims that continually looking in the past is the easiest way not to move forward. *all the feels*

Favorite Quote “He who has the why to live can bear almost any how.” – Friedrich Nietzsche

Hidden Talent Can do a backflip on a snowboard. Pretty gnarly, ay?

Sheryl M.

Sales and Design Consultant

Was interior design always Sheryl’s destiny? 10-year-old Sheryl sure thought so! Sheryl graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Housing/Environmental Design and truly believes that having clients feel at home in their space and loving their surroundings is an endeavor worth making. Now, “Alexa – Play the Last of the Mohicans soundtrack.” If Sheryl isn’t watching Daniel Day-Lewis fight off the French and Hurons, you can find her traveling, hiking, biking, kayaking… basically anything that has to do with the outdoors. One day you will find Sheryl posted up in her Blue Ridge Mountain home or on the coast basking in everything that Mother Nature has to offer!

Favorite Quote “Be yourself; everyone is already taken.” – Oscar Wilde

Hidden Talent Professional headstand-er.

Vikki C.

Contract & Permit Coordinator

Meet Vikki, an International Stewardess, well, at least wanted to be one when she was younger. Instead, Vikki has worked in the Construction Industry for over 30 years… Now that’s what dreams are made of! She loves the variety it brings and loves knowing each day is going to be different. In hers past life, she lived off the coast of Italy in her own beach house, gardening all day while sipping on the fruits of her land. Che figata! When Vikki isn’t working, she loves spending time with her husband and their two boys or being at a Fleetwood Mac concert. It’s really either or!

Favorite Quote Vikki lives by her own rules, she doesn’t need a favorite quote.

Hidden Talent She has mastered the art of loud whistling. It truly is an art, has been for hundreds of years. Don’t believe us? Look it up!

Anthony L.

Renovations Business Manager

Anthony Lo Coco, AKA Tony, AKA TLo has come to Icon with TONS of building knowledge! Like seriously, if you want to know all about it you better grab a bowl of popcorn because you will be there for a LONG while. On his off days, this bullseye master would be seen at the range participating in shooting sports, could be found listening to live music (originally a metal-head in the 80’s) or doing any sort of outdoor activity until the mosquitos come out, because Tony is their favorite entrée! This unfiltered, direct and vigilant guy thinks life is too short to be unhappy personally or professionally, so find a career and organization that fuels your passion – we know Icon can be just that! A special thanks goes out to Tony as he served our country in the United States Air Force as a Security Policeman.

Favorite Quote “Every room, every house…every day” [drilled into me by Town & Country as a young trim super]

Hidden Talent Factoid GENIUS!

Rachel B.

Assistant Project Manager

Hmm, we bet the first thing you thought was…How the heck do you pronounce her last name? BARSH! Rachel comes to Icon with a background in procurement, proposals, communication and scheduling of vendors/installations. A PERFECT FIT! Rachel’s hobbies consist of cooking recipes from her favorite Bon Appetit chefs, trying new Jeni’s ice cream flavors (YUM), and chasing after her dogs Bentley and Beau. Something Rachel tells herself every day is to “do the things you don’t want to do.”, we feel that! Welcome aboard, sister!

Favorite Quote “Still waiting for the perfect quote to come along!”

Hidden Talent Rachel just passed her WELL certification, which is about creating spaces that have a positive impact on human health and wellness! Heck yea!

Kathryn D.

Renovation Sales/Project Manager

Icon scored on this one! Kathryn comes to us with a boatload of construction knowledge. She has worked for design/build construction companies for most of her career – starting off with being an interior designer and drafter before moving into sales which is where she spent most of her time. Besides being called a bulldog or misfit toy, she is known for being detailed, hardworking and professional. Needing some inspiration today? Kathryn says the best advice she’s gotten from both her dad and Mike Fess is “don’t get old”. Oh, and please don’t let your dog destroy her clothes and sunglasses, it’s her pride and joy!

Favorite Quote “This is Sparta!”

Hidden Talent Is it a special talent to be a horrific dancer and singer? Remember that scene where Cameron Diaz sang in the movie My Best Friend’s Wedding? Yeah…I’m worse than that.

Jeremy D.

Project Manager

More details coming soon.

Chris W.

Project Manager

Chris, AKA “Walshy”, is as interesting as they come. This DJ, (no joke), had his own high end Remodeling Company for 25 years and also built custom homes in and around Lake Forest. When he’s not keeping his jobsites tidy, Chris absolutely loves watching his kids play hockey – two of them are girls! He also loves spending time out in nature, from camping to cruising around mountains on the jeep trails where there is no cell service. What a romantic! So, back to this DJ business… He has actually wrote music for TV commercials, video games and even HBO-Six Feet Under. How fricken cool!

Favorite Quote “One Original Thought is worth 1000 Meaningless Quotes.” – Bansky
Hidden Talent Chris has released music records! (house music) He was a touring DJ for many years with residencies in London.

Greg W.

VP of Operations

Want to talk about some serious home building talent? Meet Greg! Greg has 35 years in the custom home building industry with a large emphasis on management and architecture. When he is enjoying time off, you can find Greg on a boat in Northern Wisconsin with his close circle of friends. Boy we caught a big fish here! Greg tells us that the best concert he’s ever been to was The Band at the Vic Theater in ’91. He CLAIMS him and his buddies were actually setting their beers on the stage while the band played 3’ away. Do we believe him? Possibly? He says if you don’t know who The Band is, then shame on you! Welcome aboard, Greg!

Favorite Quote “Learn as much as you can about everything you can.” – Dad

Hidden Talent “Nothing that I would brag about on here, ha!”

Dave B.

Project Manager

Three important things to know about Dave: 1) Hoppier the IPA the better; 2) Leaving the toilet seat up is a no-no; 3) ‘Gearhead’ing on the weekends is a must. But, rest assured, Dave has been in the construction industry for over 25 years! He has owned his own custom homes construction business along with a remodeling business. Perfect for the job! Favorite concert he’s ever attended? Rush 2112. Geddy Lee would be so proud!

Favorite Quote “Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in.” – The Godfather
Hidden Talent Believe it or not, Dave was a college athlete…any guesses? No? VOLLEYBALL!

Rick C.

Purchasing Manager

GOALLLLLL! We’ve secured a part owner of the FPHL Carolina Thunderbirds! No joke!
With over 35 years of extensive experience in Purchasing Management within the Residential, Light Commercial and Retail Construction industries, Rick has got it all covered. When Rick isn’t negotiating at work, he loves spending time with his wife, kids and grandchildren. Best concert he’s ever been to? He couldn’t choose…because how could he? Chicago with Earth, Wind & Fire or Supertramp. We’re fortunate to have him!

Favorite Quote “Excellence is in the details.”

Hidden Talent Rick’s wife says he loves to debate…. Lay down your swords!

Mike F.

Project Manager

What makes Mike a good fit for Icon? Decades upon decades upon decades of experience in the construction world, is how he puts it. This maestro loves taking plans and choices from his clients to create their absolute dream home! Curious as to what Mike does in his spare time? He runs marathons! No, we are not joking. RUNNING MARATHONS. But, there needs to be a beer at the end of the race! No ifs ands or buts about that. One thing Mike wants to do before he dies is fly a plane. Any takers on being a passenger? Didn’t think so!

Favorite Quote “In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” -Abraham Lincoln

Hidden Talent Being an environmentalist, but not to the tree-hugging extent – Not really a talent but we think it’s cute!

Jodie H.

Cabinet Design Consultant

Sweet, sweet Jodie… Where do we begin?
Out of college, her first job was with a commercial cabinet company as a special products engineer and from there on out she has not left the realm of design. Fun fact about Jodie is that she has a twin sister who is a Colonel in the Army – her sister inspires her every day! Jodie also runs the Chicago Marathon every year with Team World Vision to provide access to clean drinking water in third-world countries. She’s a keeper, isn’t she?

Favorite Quote Does not have a favorite quote but her best piece of advice is to be an active participant in everything you do. We couldn’t agree more!

Hidden Talent Marathon Runner!

Sandy N.

Service Manager

Knock, knock. Who’s there? It’s Sandy! Sandy who? Sandy Novak. No jokes here! This independent and funny woman is Icon’s outstanding Service Manager. Any questions or concerns after your home is closed? Well, Sandy is your gal. For over 20 years, she has provided customer service to tenants in both residential and commercial properties! When Sandy is not working her booty off, you can find her riding her motorcycle, fishing, boating or volunteering at an animal rescue. Bravo, Sandy, bravo!

Favorite Quote “Work Hard – Play Hard”

Hidden Talent “Loving cats as much as she loves dogs”

Jessica G.

Administrative Assistant

Stop into our office and you’ll be greeted by this friendly face! This dog loving gal (has 3 at home) loves interacting and helping people out. Jess is also a real estate agent in her spare time and was previously a project manager – so she is no stranger to what we do around here! Her hobbies consist of playing instruments, growing hot peppers (*hot sweats*) and painting.

Favorite Quote “Show me your friends, and I’ll show you your future.”

Hidden Talent Jess can play the Jaw Harp, and the Banjo!

Anna Z.

Design Administrative Assistant

We just wanted to start off with the following: Anna wanted to be Britney Spears when we grew up. It is possible that this may still be her dream today. You may have to ask her more about that! Anna has joined our team as a Design Administrative Assistant with past and current experience in New Construction and real estate. On the side, Anna enjoys baking, traveling, hanging out with her fiancé and their dog and cat! She also tells us she is a self-proclaimed nail tech but is not good at all by any means. Anyone need a manicure?

Favorite Quote “It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live”

Hidden Talent Anna’s minor is in Film and she has nearly completed her own full-length movie script. She made a short film about it too – how cool!

Ben L.

Project Manager

This Deadhead fan comes to us with many years of hands-on construction, construction management and purchasing in the construction industry! Ben’s favorite hobbies? *inhales heavily* Family, Travel, Music, Guitar, Sports – Baseball, Golf, Football, Basketball, Snowboarding, Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Hiking, Camping and Disc Golf…just to name a few. When asked to choose between cats or dogs, he replied with, “Cats only because you’re making me choose – #3 would be fainting goats.” In closing…Ben’s PSA for you all: “Keep calm and shake it sugaree.”

Favorite Quote The master in the art of living makes little distinction between his work and his play, his labor and his leisure, his mind and his body, his information and his recreation, his love and his religion. He hardly knows which is which. He simply pursues his vision of excellence at whatever he does, leaving others to decide whether he is working or playing. To him he’s always doing both.” ― James A. Michener

Hidden Talent Bar sports – don’t bet against him in bean bags or darts!

Chavez J.

Renovations Sales/Project Manager

This honest, kind and punctual long-haired stallion has an extensive background in BOTH new home builds and renovation builds! In Chavez’s spare time, he enjoys shooting pool, being outdoors and unwinding. And so what if he has never been to a concert – we find that to be pretty impressive in itself, not to mention he has the coolest name ever! Chevez is a proud dog dad of a Belgium Malinois and tells us that the best advice he has ever been given is “proofread, proofread, proofread!”.

Favorite Quote “Be humble, or be humbled.”
Hidden Talent What if the zombie apocalypse hits? Chavez is your guy. He has mad mountain climbing and survivor skills!

Kevin R.

VP of Renovations

Picture this: a bright sunny afternoon baseball game at Fenway Park while sippin’ on a nice cold IPA. That, my friends, that is Kevin’s ideal outing. This Seth Rogan doppelganger was born and raised in Boston, moseyed on over to Colorado for a few years (got married, had a baebae) and now has graced us with his presence at Icon! When he’s not making his wife and son laugh, you can find him playing basketball, playing music, working on cars or reading the latest and greatest novels. Kevin has had his hand in a little bit of every role within the construction industry from sales to punch – Started as a trim carpenter working on historic homes in Massachusetts to most recently a VP of a Kitchen showroom. We couldn’t be any more excited to have his talents here with us!

Favorite Quote “You’re gonna be livin’ in a van down by the river” – Matt Foley
Hidden Talent Dad jokes…LOTS of dad jokes.

Eric L.

Project Manager

This green thumbin’, grease monkey’n, photo takin’ man has been working in the residential and commercial construction industry for over 35 years! When he was young, he already knew he wanted to be in this field – he wanted to be a carpenter just like his grandfather. One thing he wants to see before he dies? The Great Wall of China of course! Plain and simple…Eric loves a good adrenaline rush. HE HAS BEEN SKYDIVING 3 TIMES! Do you have Eric as your project manager? Rest assured, you will be in good hands!

Favorite Quote “Every day is a gift” – Eric’s Father
Hidden Talent Can restore a vintage motorcycle!