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About Us
The Story Behind Rhode Island’s
Most Organized Builder
When it comes to your home – one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make and a space that shapes so much of your life – it’s worth knowing the story behind the person who’s building it. This is the story of
Paul Vespia, the driving force behind Hill & Harbor Design + Build.
It Started Out With Chaos
At just 16, Paul left high school and discovered construction, working on mid-level homes and learning every aspect of the craft—from framing walls to perfecting finishing touches.
Alongside construction, Paul restored and customized cars, channeling his creativity into refining every detail. Whether it was cars, construction, or design (another one of his passions, perhaps as a result of having two older sisters), he learned one truth: excellence is in the details.
His curiosity also led him to study Architecture, refining his skills in conceptual plans, renderings, and technical drawings. As he transitioned from the drafting desk to overseeing complex projects, he became frustrated with the industry’s lack of accountability and transparency.
“I saw families in complete chaos. Trusting builders with their dreams, only to be let down by rushed work, missed deadlines, overrun budgets and broken promises. I knew there had to be a better way,” Paul explains.
Creating the Equivalent of a Fine-Dining
Experience for the Building Industry
Paul’s experiences drove him to create Hill & Harbor Design + Build.
“I wanted clients to feel supported every step of the way,” Paul reflects. “To eliminate the stress and uncertainty that so often comes with building their dream home, and to deliver homes that exceeded their expectations—not just in the final result, but throughout the entire experience.”
At Hill & Harbor Design + Build, they have developed what they have named “The BluePrint”. The process is rooted in meticulous planning and exceptional service. In fact, to ensure clarity from the start…
More Than 100 Hours of Planning Go into Every Project Before a Single Tool is Picked Up
From onboarding to design to construction, every detail is mapped out to eliminate delays and confusion.
“I’ve always believed in doing things right the first time,” Paul says. “That means no shortcuts, no compromises, and no covering up mistakes. The little things matter—because they’re the things you’ll notice every day.”
The Builder Who Says Yes
When other builders say something can’t be done, Hill & Harbor sees it as an opportunity to innovate. “We’ve never been one to back away from a challenge,” Paul says.
Whether it’s incorporating unique design elements (such as coastal modern architecture or blending timeless elegance with modern innovation), overcoming the Rhode Island “red tape”, or finding creative solutions for complex historical homes or coastal projects, Hill & Harbor approaches every build with a mindset of possibility, clear communication and meticulous planning. “A home should feel like it’s yours, through and through,” he reflects. “And that means making sure every feature reflects the way you live.”
Let’s Build Something Extraordinary Together
You’ve learned a little about our company and our proven all-inclusive Blueprint Process that ensures seamless delivery of your dream home and lifestyle. Now we’d love to get to know you and the vision you have for your Historic or Coastal home.
We’ll gladly answer your questions, provide expert advice, and give you an honest guide to prices and timeframes – ensuring your project stays within budget. And when you’re ready, we’d love to help you get the exact custom home and lifestyle you’ve always wanted.
LEARN MORE
About Us
The Story Behind Rhode Island’s Most Organized Builder
When it comes to your home – one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make and a space that shapes so much of your life – it’s worth knowing the story behind the person who’s building it. This is the story of Paul Vespia, the driving force behind Hill & Harbor Design + Build.
It Started Out With Chaos
At just 16, Paul left high school and discovered construction, working on mid-level homes and learning every aspect of the craft—from framing walls to perfecting finishing touches.
Alongside construction, Paul restored and customized cars, channeling his creativity into refining every detail. Whether it was cars, construction, or design (another one of his passions, perhaps as a result of having two older sisters), he learned one truth: excellence is in the details.
His curiosity also led him to study Architecture, refining his skills in conceptual plans, renderings, and technical drawings. As he transitioned from the drafting desk to overseeing complex projects, he became frustrated with the industry’s lack of accountability and transparency.
“I saw families in complete chaos. Trusting builders with their dreams, only to be let down by rushed work, missed deadlines, overrun budgets and broken promises. I knew there had to be a better way,” Paul explains.
Creating the Equivalent of a Fine-Dining Experience for the Building Industry
Paul’s experiences drove him to create Hill & Harbor Design + Build.
“I wanted clients to feel supported every step of the way,” Paul reflects. “To eliminate the stress and uncertainty that so often comes with building their dream home, and to deliver homes that exceeded their expectations—not just in the final result, but throughout the entire experience.”
At Hill & Harbor Design + Build, they have developed what they have named “The BluePrint”. The process is rooted in meticulous planning and exceptional service. In fact, to ensure clarity from the start…
More Than 100 Hours of Planning Go into Every Project Before a Single Tool is Picked Up
From onboarding to design to construction, every detail is mapped out to eliminate delays and confusion.
“I’ve always believed in doing things right the first time,” Paul says. “That means no shortcuts, no compromises, and no covering up mistakes. The little things matter—because they’re the things you’ll notice every day.”
The Builder Who Says Yes
When other builders say something can’t be done, Hill & Harbor sees it as an opportunity to innovate. “We’ve never been one to back away from a challenge,” Paul says.
Whether it’s incorporating unique design elements (such as coastal modern architecture or blending timeless elegance with modern innovation), overcoming the Rhode Island “red tape”, or finding creative solutions for complex historical homes or coastal projects, Hill & Harbor approaches every build with a mindset of possibility, clear communication and meticulous planning. “A home should feel like it’s yours, through and through,” he reflects. “And that means making sure every feature reflects the way you live.”
Let’s Build Something Extraordinary Together
You’ve learned a little about our company and our proven all-inclusive Blueprint Process that ensures seamless delivery of your dream home and lifestyle. Now we’d love to get to know you and the vision you have for your Historic or Coastal home.
We’ll gladly answer your questions, provide expert advice, and give you an honest guide to prices and timeframes – ensuring your project stays within budget. And when you’re ready, we’d love to help you get the exact custom home and lifestyle you’ve always wanted.