People’s Choice Awards: Celebrating Rochester’s Favorites
April 28, 2026
Each year, Rochester Area Builders hosts home tours that give the community a chance to step inside some of the area’s most thoughtfully designed homes and renovations. These events are about more than just walking through spaces. They’re about experiencing the craftsmanship, ideas, and details in real life.
But one of the most meaningful parts happens after the tours are over.
The People’s Choice Awards are decided by those who walked through the homes, noticed the details, and experienced the spaces firsthand. Being selected by the public makes this recognition especially significant. It reflects not just great design, but how a home or remodel truly feels to the people experiencing it.
Parade of Homes Winner: Thimijan Custom Homes
This year’s People’s Choice winner for the Parade of Homes goes to Thimijan Custom Homes, recognized for a stunning custom home in Lilly Farm. This marks another standout moment for the builder, who was also honored with a People’s Choice win in 2024.
This 5 bedroom, 6 bathroom home spans an impressive 5,625 square feet and was designed with both everyday living and elevated entertaining in mind. From the moment you step inside, the home reflects a balance of timeless architecture and intentional design.
The main floor features hardwood floors and a seamless layout that includes a great room, formal dining space, and a flex room that can adapt to a variety of needs. One of the standout features is the screened in porch, offering a comfortable way to enjoy the outdoors throughout the seasons.
Upstairs, four spacious bedrooms and three bathrooms are complemented by the convenience of a second floor laundry room. The lower level expands the home’s functionality even further, with a large family room, exercise space, and a fifth bedroom.
The home is completed by both a 3 car prestress garage and a 3 car heated garage, bringing together practicality and luxury in a way that clearly resonated with visitors.
Remodelers Showcase Winner: Elias Construction
In the Remodelers Showcase, Elias Construction earned the People’s Choice Award for a beautifully executed main floor transformation. This win marks an impressive three consecutive times being voted the favorite by the public.
This remodel is a strong example of how thoughtful updates can completely redefine a space while still honoring its original character. The newly opened kitchen creates an inviting, airy feel and features custom cabinetry, quartz countertops, and a pot filler that blends function with design.
A newly added pantry, complete with a custom crafted door, enhances both storage and visual appeal. Throughout the main level, refinished maple floors bring warmth and continuity, tying each space together.
The fireplace wall was reimagined with refined stone and custom woodwork, creating a striking focal point. Additional details like updated stair railings and carefully selected wallpaper in the laundry and powder room add personality without overwhelming the design.
The result is a home that feels timeless, welcoming, and intentionally designed for both elevated entertaining and everyday living.
A Recognition That Matters
What makes the People’s Choice Awards so meaningful is who they come from.
These awards are chosen by the people who showed up, walked through the homes, and experienced the work in person. It’s a reflection of what resonates most with homeowners right now, from layout and functionality to craftsmanship and overall feel.
Congratulations to Thimijan Custom Homes and Elias Construction on this well earned recognition, and thank you to everyone who attended, toured, and voted. Your participation is what makes these events so impactful for our local building and remodeling community.
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