Behind every successful remodel is a steady presence on site, someone coordinating the work, solving challenges in real time, and ensuring that the vision on paper becomes a beautifully executed space.
As a Site Supervisor at Smithouse, Josh Hoffman plays a key role in bringing our projects to life day by day, guiding the construction process with a focus on craftsmanship, organization, and care for the homeowners we work with.
Since joining Smithouse in October 2023, Josh has drawn on a lifelong connection to construction, growing up in a family of home builders, to lead projects with both practical expertise and a thoughtful approach to the client experience. From coordinating trades and supporting the carpentry team to maintaining a clean, well-managed jobsite, his work helps ensure that every project progresses smoothly from demolition to final walkthrough.
In this edition of Meet the Team, Josh shares how he first got his start in construction, what a typical day on site looks like, and the small details that can make a big difference in the long-term quality of a remodel. He also reflects on some memorable project challenges, the relationships formed with homeowners (and their pets), and the hobbies that help him recharge when he’s off the jobsite.
We’re excited to introduce you to Josh and the steady leadership he brings to our projects in the field.
1. What drew you to construction, and what led you to join Smithouse in October 2023?
Growing up, my father was a home builder and had his own company. In the summer of 2023, the company I was working for was struggling and they laid off most of their field guys. After speaking with a few tradespeople in Baltimore, they all recommended me to Smithouse and I joined the team in the Fall.
2. As a Site Supervisor, what does a typical day look like for you on a Smithouse project?
A typical day starts with me checking my calendar/emails, setting up subcontractors and creating the punch-list for our carpenters and carpenter assistants to follow. Depending on what phase of the job I am leading, my day might include picking up material, working with our Project Managers or the Design team, or giving a hand to another project with more complex carpentry, for example.
3. What’s one detail homeowners might not notice, but makes a big difference in the long-term quality of a remodel?
Double-checking existing walls to make sure they are flat.
4. Remodeling can be disruptive. How do you help create a positive experience for homeowners while work is underway?
Because we are onsite and are assigned to one project at a time, we get close with the families that we do work with. I always make a point to bond with, and be friendly to, the homeowner’s pets. Our clients really appreciate when you care about their animals. As far as the jobsite goes, I like to make sure protections (floor coverings, zip walls, padding, air filters, etc.) are in place and tight. I also like to ensure that job sites are clean at the end of the day.
5. What’s the most rewarding part of seeing a project through from demo to final walkthrough?
It’s always amazing seeing the transformation from what people had in mind when they contacted us, to what we deliver at the end. I would have to say there is nothing more satisfying than seeing a client that is thrilled about their project.
6. What’s a challenging field situation you’ve had to solve—and how did you approach it?
I had a recent project in Guilford, working on the primary suite and bathroom, and had an issue where a chimney was in the way. I took a bunch of measurements and worked closely with my Project Manager and Designer and we reworked the design of the bathroom… It turned out great!
7. When you’re not on site, how do you like to spend your time? Any hobbies or fun facts clients might not know about you?
My favorite hobby would be riding my motorcycle. I love the adrenaline rush and sense of clarity It gives me. My other hobbies include kayaking, hiking, having bonfires in the backyard. I used to be a snowboard instructor from my teens until I was about 20, so I like to do that when I can during the Winter.
