Testimonials

It has been said that first impressions are instinctively correct. Upon first sight, a custom home designed and built by THE ELAN GROUP appears to be a “creation, a creation of Art-in-Architecture,” designed in harmony with the natural surroundings.

Clearly, The Elan Group entry in the 2006 Parade of Homes at Rockwall Ranch is proof of this. The thousands of Parade visitors voted and chose The Elan Group home, overwhelmingly, the winner of the coveted “People’s Choice” Award, as well as, “Best Exterior Elevation.” From the walkways welcoming approach to the home’s distinctive entry, visitors are immediately impressed by the intimate connection between land and home.

The fusion of outdoor and interior living space is best exemplified in the home’s gracious courtyard. This indoor-outdoor oasis is complete with open air kitchen and dining, guest casita, a free-form pool and thoughtful landscaping that appears just as nature intended… all is just a reflection of what awaits you in the home’s interior space. The use of consistent visual themes, textures and materials results in an effortless flow between outdoor  space and indoor living.
The art of creating home planned to embrace their natural surrounding coupled with a passion for the “details of design” are not exclusive to the Parade home but are found in every Elan Group home. Imaginative use of lighting, both interior and exterior, for special effects and creative ceiling treatments are important elements masterfully incorporated into all of their homes. A design technique of what appears to be a “floating” ceiling takes the uppermost ceiling level even higher. Concealed backlighting is positioned to create the impression of natural light filtering into the room from an unknown source.

From the initial site selection through the coordination of the entire project down to the last flowerbed, Mark Seward and Tony Mangold, partners in The Elan Group, manage every detail with precision, aesthetic sense and genuine concern for their client’s lifestyle needs. The client’s input becomes a key element in the design process. Consider the use of artful landscape.. Whether it be for privacy, softening the hardscape, or offering a respite from the sun, thoughtful landscaping comes to the rescue. The interior space is designed to be complemented by the exterior view of the surrounding vegetation. Artful illumination further defines the mood – bringing it into the home.

Yes, your home should be considered a “work of art.” The Elan Group appears to have mastered “the Art of Building” .. building homes across the Hill Country, homes that inspire, define and delight all who enter.

With over forty years of combined residential homebuilding, Mark Seward and Tony Mangold partnered to form the award-winning company, The Elan Group. Joined by the most qualified subcontractors, each brings a set of unique talents and skill, producing homes that define craftsmanship. Both Tony and Mark share the same passion for building excellence. Each consider it a form of “art-in-architecture.” The most innovative techniques in building, intricate and inspired stone and tile work are  reflection of the builders’ meticulous attention to the many details. The result? A distinctive home, an “original,” as unique as the individual client… Always built in harmony with land and lifestyle.

Just ask any of our growing family of satisfied customers. After all, who could say it better?

“It has been a very positive experience working with Mark and Tony. I trust them to always make the correct decision when I am unavailable or opt for their expertise.”  D. Keith Oden

“Their communication with us on every phase of construction is so helpful and informative since we are building 200 miles away. It is like being on-site, being updated daily with e-mail. Mark is so good about making sure that every detail gets attention. Not a small task since the home we are building on Lake McQueeney is over 10,000 sq. ft.!”  Ms. Oden

“Some people just have an eye for what works and what doesn’t. Tony saved us a lot of time and money, offering us some exciting and imaginative solutions…and they both have such great taste.”