Building Excellence: Keith Webster of 50 Years of High-End Craftsmanship
Keith Webster has been in the construction industry for nearly 50 years. He started his career in Houston, Texas, in the early 1970s and quickly gained a reputation as a “golden nail contractor,” known for exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Keith built his business by hiring true craftsmen and focusing on delivering high-value projects, never aiming to be the cheapest but always striving to be among the best.
After a serious accident in the mid-1990s, Keith decided to move to Colorado, a place he loved from his vacations. He settled in Aspen after a chance visit and soon landed a major project for the CEO of Gucci. Aspen’s client base is unique, with many high-net-worth individuals who demand top quality and are willing to pay for it. Keith adapted to working with clients who often have multiple representatives, keeping communication open and regular.
“We always want to deliver the highest level of quality that we can possibly attain.” ~ Keith Webster
Keith’s approach to client relationships is hands-on and transparent. For some clients, especially those with strict confidentiality, he works through layers of representatives. For others, he communicates directly, ensuring weekly updates and meetings, often using Zoom calls to keep everyone informed. This open communication helps clients feel involved and comfortable throughout the project.
Outside of work, Keith is passionate about many hobbies. He has been a professional equestrian, a competitive sports clay shooter, a trained chef, and an artist with work shown in New York. He credits his ability to pursue these interests to having a strong team and managing his time and energy well. Keith believes in working hard at both his business and his hobbies to reach a high level of skill.
When it comes to growing his business, Keith relies almost entirely on referrals and word of mouth. He has spent significant money on marketing in the past but found that quality work and client satisfaction bring the best results. Keith’s website serves as a portfolio, but personal connections and reputation are his main sources of new projects.
Keith does not bid on projects in the traditional sense. Instead, he uses an open-book, time-and-materials approach, showing clients all invoices and time logs. This method builds trust and transparency, though it requires detailed bookkeeping. Keith is upfront with clients about his process and only works with those who value his approach and reputation.
Keith’s story highlights the importance of quality, transparency, and strong client relationships in building a successful contracting business. His dedication to his craft and his clients has allowed him to thrive in a demanding market for decades.
Keith Webster, KWM Construction Contact Info:
KWMConstruction.com
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History of KMW Construction:
Keith shares how he started in Houston and built a reputation for quality over 50 years. -
Transition to Aspen:
Keith explains his move to Colorado and how he adapted to a new, high-end client base. -
Working with High-Net-Worth Clients:
The unique challenges and communication strategies needed for demanding, private clients. -
Client Communication:
How regular updates and transparency keep clients involved and satisfied. -
Balancing Work and Hobbies:
Keith discusses managing time to pursue interests like equestrian sports, art, and cooking. -
Referral-Based Growth:
Why word-of-mouth and reputation are more effective than traditional marketing for his business. -
Open-Book Contracting:
Keith’s approach to transparent pricing and billing, and how it builds client trust.
