Meet Balsam Built

Experience boutique custom renovations with a local, community-focused construction company in Black Mountain, NC. We specialize in transforming homes through high-end, detail-oriented craftsmanship that reflects your unique vision and lifestyle. As a proud part of the Black Mountain community, we are committed to building lasting relationships and enhancing our neighborhood—one project at a time.

Chris Cronin

Owner

Chris grew up on a farm in the piedmont of North Carolina. Raised in an entrepreneurial family, he was given ample opportunity to build and create from a young age. After graduating from Montreat College in 2009, Chris worked with his brother building and remodeling in Charlotte.

After college, He married Sarah and they have a sweet daughter, Ella Wrenn. Living and raising a family in the mountains of western North Carolina is a dream come true. They enjoy getting on the river, riding bikes, camping, and hosting backyard parties.

His family moved to Black Mountain where Chris took a job working for a local elevator company. In 2017, He started a remodeling and woodworking company. After a few years, it became clear that the business was growing, and more help was needed.

Chris and Nick know each other through Valley Hope Church. After a few business oriented conversations, their commonalities were apparent. In 2021, they officially partnered and formed Balsam Built LLC. Their desire for quality, honesty, and professionalism has created a strong partnership and a drive to perform at a high level for their clients.

Chris enjoys the challenges and rewards associated with building and remodeling. These challenges create a place where clients quickly become friends and long-term relationships are established and cherished.

Nick Swann

Owner

Native to Black Mountain and the son of a builder, Nick has been doing construction and creating wood arts in this community his entire life. His passion for this craft was evident even from childhood as he chose to spend his summer vacations working on the construction job site with his father.

Nick recognized a college education would be necessary to one day realize his dream of operating a successful entrepreneurial endeavor in this industry so he graduated from UNCG in 2003. This dream was acheived in 2004 when Nick became a licensed contractor and started his own construction company.

Nick's creative eye, capacity for detail work and drive for high quality made creating artisan furniture a natural fit. Desiring to perfect these skills, Nick graduated from furniture school in 2018.

In 2021 Nick and Chris recognized their gifting, demand for quality and their mutual experience were a perfect pairing so they started Balsam Built as a way to bring a new level of quality and artistic creativity to the home renovation market.

Nick is married with two daughters (born 2009 and 2011). When Nick takes time away from home renovations, you will often find him golfing, hiking or camping. Above all, he values his family, church and local community and seeks to serve those around him with the skills he has to offer.

Erin Rodriguez

Lead Carpenter

Erin is known for being diligent, intentional, and hardworking. She is an essential part of our team and you will likely see her around your home working to keep your project on schedule and completed with excellence.

Noah Swaty

Project Manager

With 25 years of experience in cabinetry, timber framing, and home remodeling, Noah specializes in turning problem areas into standout features. Through collaboration and creativity, he loves to find solutions that feel intuitive and bring unique character to every project.

Emily Paige

Designer and Selections Coordinator

Emily’s passion for interior design ignited at a young age, motivating her to attain a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from Western Carolina University, with a minor in Fine Art. With experience in both commerical and residential design, she loves to combine functionality and local artistry into a design. Emily thrives in collaboration with others and always strives to create thoughtful and timeless spaces.

Lupe Guzman

Apprentice Carpenter

Lupe is an apprentice carpenter at Balsam Built, where he is developing his skills in both general and finish carpentry. He brings enthusiasm and a strong work ethic to every project, learning the craft while contributing to the team’s high-quality work. Outside of carpentry, Lupe enjoys gardening and relaxing with a good movie.