Legacy
Downham Builders was founded by John Downham in 1955. Construction has been in the Downham family for over 100 years, starting with John’s father, Owen, who owned a lumber company in Dayton. After returning from the Korean War, Owen showed John how to build his first home. He was then self taught, working hard and building up an excellent reputation for constructing unique and complicated homes. After 47 years in the home building industry, John eventually retired and spent his winters in Florida. He kept busy though, and would work part time over the summers. Building was his job, but it also was a much-loved hobby.
Pictured left to right: Jerry Downham, John Downham, and Steve Downham
John’s younger brother (Jerry) and John’s son (Steve) joined the family business in 1967 and 1976, respectfully. Jerry and Steve took on leadership roles, continuing the emphasis on outstanding quality and reputation, handed down by John. Steve retired in 2004 (28 years of service), and Jerry eventually retired in 2018 (51 years of service).
After Jerry and Steve retired, Jason Phillippo, Jeremy Walts, and Mike McDonald partnered to continue building custom homes and remodeling homes throughout Tippecanoe County and the surrounding area. Each of the new owners have been employed by Downham Homes for over 20 years, and continue John’s legacy of unmatched professionalism, as well as excellent quality of workmanship and craftsmanship. Downham's responsiveness to customer desires reflects their commitment to client satisfaction. That focus is just a part of what makes the experience so special for the home owner.
Downham Homes has been honored to receive the Journal & Courier’s Readers’ Choice Awards for “Best Builder” consistently from 2010-2017, and “Best Remodeler” from 2013-2015. Another honor Downham Homes has received is having repeat customers. They have built homes for the same client and their families (residence, lake home, etc.) several times. Satisfied customers is the key to Downham's success, and having repeat customers shows that satisfaction.