Today we’d like to introduce you to Diana Skellenger.
Hi Diana, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started Skelly Build with a very simple goal: to create a construction experience that was organized, transparent, and actually enjoyable. I wanted clients to feel confident and empowered, not confused or sidelined. I didn’t come from a traditional construction background, which some might see as a disadvantage—but for me, it’s been a strength. It meant I approached every decision through the lens of the homeowner. I built processes that emphasized communication and clarity because that’s what was missing. We started small, but we gained momentum quickly because our clients could feel the difference. Over the years, we’ve grown into a team of talented, specialized professionals who care deeply about craftsmanship and customer service. We’ve added in-house cabinetry, vertically integrated with some of our key trades, and continued to build out our pre-construction process so that we deliver the highest quality product, on time and at a fixed price. Today, we’re one of the top luxury renovation and custom builders in Austin. But more importantly, we’re still grounded in that original mission: to care for people and their spaces through thoughtful construction. Every decision we make—every hire, every partnership, every process—is about honoring that commitment.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
When I started Skelly Build, I was entering a male-dominated industry. That alone came with challenges. I had to prove myself to clients, trades, and even other professionals in the space. There were plenty of moments early on when I’d walk into a job site or a meeting and feel underestimated. But instead of being discouraged, I let that fuel me. I knew that doing things differently wasn’t just possible, it was necessary.
One of the biggest struggles was creating systems that didn’t really exist in the industry. Construction is known for being unpredictable and chaotic, but we refused to accept that as the norm. Building out a pre-construction process, setting up fixed pricing models, and holding our team to incredibly high standards took time. It meant making tough hiring decisions, taking on risk, and being incredibly intentional about the kind of company culture we were building.
There were also growing pains as we scaled. Managing more teams, more clients, more moving parts—it forces you to create more processes. We leaned into lifelong learning, owned our mistakes, and collaborated through the tough moments.
The goal isn’t easy, but the goal is worth it. And I’m really proud of how far.
As you know, we’re big fans of Skelly Build. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Skelly Build is a custom renovation and construction company based in Austin, and everything we do is rooted in one simple belief: people deserve to feel cared for in the spaces they live in—and during the process of creating them.
We specialize in high-end residential renovations and new custom builds, with a full pre-construction process that sets us apart from most of the industry. A lot of builders jump straight into demo or construction and figure it out as they go. We don’t. We spend the time up front—planning, pricing, detailing—so that when construction starts, it runs smoothly, on schedule, and on budget.
Every client has a project manager, a materials manager, and a team dedicated to keeping things on track. We also have specialized internal teams for cabinetry and custom millwork, which gives us more control over quality, timing, and design alignment.
We hire for culture just as much as we hire for skill. Everyone at Skelly Build is here because they care—not just about the work, but about the families we serve, the relationships we build, and the legacy of what we leave behind. Our Core Values—Lifelong Learning, Positive Passion, Humbly Confident, Ownership & Accountability, and Collaboration in All Directions—aren’t just words on a wall. They show up in every conversation, every walk-through, every decision.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud that we’ve built something that’s trusted. In an industry where horror stories are far too common, being a name people confidently refer their friends to—that means everything. Our clients come back to us project after project, and that trust is earned, not assumed.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
One thing that might surprise people is that I thrive on connecting with people one-on-one and deeply understanding their needs. I love building relationships and forging strong bonds, but I’m always focused on being intentional about those connections. Whether it’s with clients, our team, or our subcontractors, I genuinely care about the people I work with and take time to listen and engage meaningfully.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.skellybuild.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skellybuild/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skellybuild
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skelly-build/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SkellyBuild
