
Building with Heart on Salt Spring Island
I’m Liam Donnelly, and I’m pleased to call Salt Spring Island home.
Since settling back into Salt Spring, I’m again struck by the island’s deep sense of community. Even more so, the one-of-a-kind character woven into every corner, especially in its homes.
Building here isn’t just about hammering nails into some wood. It’s about care, intention, and respecting a legacy that’s as unique as the people who live here.
The island elders who took the time to train me are local legends in their own right. It is an absolute privilege to be carrying the torch. An honour that holds deep value in myself and the community I build with.
This is where my craft was born.
The Soul of Salt Spring Island Homes
Many homes on Salt Spring Island tell stories of resilience. Built with minimal resources (and a whole lot of grit), these houses remind me that true beauty often comes from simplicity.
But as time goes on, these beloved spaces sometimes need a bit of help to meet today’s standards. The trick is to do so without losing what made them special in the first place.
Trust me when I say, it’s a balancing act!
Every beam and floorboard holds history. My role as a contractor on Salt Spring Island is to bring mindfulness and precision to my work. I want to ensure any new work fits in like it’s always belonged.
Challenges That Inspire Creativity
Working on Salt Spring as a builder means expecting the unexpected. You don't have many boring days working and living over here!
Older homes in particular can really surprise you. Uneven floors, quirky layouts, hidden treasures from decades past... I think building on Salt Spring requires more than just technical skill (of course that's important too!).
I my mind, it takes patience, creativity, and a willingness to listen. And that means listening to both the house (or property) and its owners.
I approach each project with intention. I want to understand how you live in your space and what matters most to you. Whether it’s restoring original trim, creating custom built-ins that make use of every nook, or designing transitions that soothe the eye, it’s all about care. I believe in blending old and new so your home keeps its character but gains new life.
We're A Community That Values Craft
What makes building here truly special is the community itself. Salt Spring is full of people who care deeply about their homes, their land, and each other.
I feel lucky to work alongside neighbours who value quality and authenticity over quick fixes.
When I take on a project here, I’m building for a fellow islander. That means putting my heart into every detail and crafting spaces that feel right for both the present and the past.

In a Small Community, Word Travels Fast
On Salt Spring Island, everyone seems closely connected. It’s the kind of place where folks look out for each other, share recommendations, and aren’t shy about speaking up if something’s not right.
In a community like this, every project leaves a mark. Not just on the house, but on my reputation, too.
Wherever I build, whether on Salt Spring or on Vancouver Island, I put care, intention, and quality at the heart of everything I do. My goal is always to do work I’d be proud to show, and to earn trust that lasts longer than any one project.
Building genuine relationships really is important to me. When you live and work in a tight-knit place like this, every handshake and every recommendation means something.
I’m committed to making sure every client feels heard, respected, and truly satisfied with the outcome.
My Approach: Mindfulness, Intention, and Care
Every job I take on is rooted in mindfulness. I slow down and pay attention to the little things because that’s where real quality lives. No shortcuts. Just thoughtful design and honest execution.
I specialize in creating seamless transitions between old and new, using materials and techniques that respect your home’s story while bringing comfort and function up to date.
Ready to Build on Salt Spring Island?
If this approach sounds like it fits your values, or if you have an old island home that could use some attention, I'd love to connect. Reach out, book a quote, and let’s build something special together.
Lead photo of Salt Spring Island on this page © Michal Klajban.