Matt Hall, owner

My first masonry project was with my father at age 10, on summer break. I was barely strong enough to carry a bucket of water or a concrete block. Not knowing if I was helping or getting in the way, this is how I was introduced to the industry.

I took drafting classes and C.A.D along with more summers spent building foundations and learning how to prep and pour concrete throughout high school. I eventually went into the masonry field right after graduation in 1998. Winters were slow, so I would hire on to learn to frame and construct the homes that we had installed foundations for. It was a new learning experience to see how other trades came together to construct a home, from start to finish.

In 2006, I started Grand Traverse Masonry. My father was ready to slow down and focus on other things, and i was ready to venture out onto my own during a very busy construction boom. Then the ‘07/’08 recession hit, which was an interesting time to figure out how to stay in business! I did a lot of chimney repairs and small additions, ultimately shifting into the commercial field in 2011. I was fortunate enough to hire and work with some of the best masons and concrete installers in the area. Doing this brought more experience and made it possible to focus on the details needed to make every job as important as the next!