*Article sponsored by Magnolia Design & Build*
Trust is the most important thing to Magnolia Design & Build. For years, Magnolia has believed that clients deserve honesty, clear communication, personal attention, and the confidence of a business that stands behind its work. Owner Joey Peloso has built up Magnolia around this straightforward philosophy.
“I’m very, very into the company meeting clients personally and building a relationship with them,” he explains. “The relationship is massive for us. It’s a personal touch.”
Rather than relying on a traditional sales team, Peloso remains directly involved in meeting clients, discussing their projects, and helping guide them through the renovation process. He makes himself available to answer questions, address concerns, and take responsibility when something goes wrong. For Peloso, that relationship extends beyond the work itself: he takes the time to listen to clients, build genuine friendships, and even share homemade lasagnas and cannolis during or after a project.
That hands-on approach is central to Magnolia’s identity, as is the communication that makes it possible.
“Communication is imperative,” he says. “The most important part of running the business is setting expectations, but it’s also the hardest part.”
Magnolia operates anywhere from commercial spaces to the everyday home, although they mostly focus on residential work. Its services include kitchens, bathrooms, basements, landscaping, home additions and extensions, and other home improvement projects. The company also takes on commercial work, drawing on its experience across a variety of properties and businesses. More recognizable projects include a $10,000 bathroom renovation giveaway through CTV, as well as local establishments like Giovanni’s Restaurant on Preston Street, Kettleman’s Bagels, and even the Chateau Laurier.
Some projects stand out for more meaningful reasons. One renovation involved a family caring for children with significant physical and accessibility needs. The existing bathroom presented safety concerns, requiring a thoughtful approach to its layout, equipment, and materials. Magnolia worked to create a more accessible space, widening the bathroom and selecting features better suited to the family’s circumstances.
“That was an emotional one for sure,” he said. “We built them a beautiful bathroom using materials that they wouldn’t get hurt on, with products that were much more compatible as far as injuries. It went really well as far as giving them what they needed to keep them safe and sound.”
Every Magnolia renovation begins with a conversation. Peloso meets with clients to discuss the project and learn about their goals, then visits the property to discuss the scope of work. A ballpark price range helps determine whether the project aligns with the client’s expectations and budget.
Then the company brings in architects, engineers, and designers to develop the plans and refine the pricing. Material choices, finishes, fixtures, and other details affect the final cost, so the process allows clients to make informed decisions before work begins. Peloso also forwards all his local business discounts directly to his clients. Establishing expectations early helps prevent misunderstandings and gives tradespeople the information they need to complete the work efficiently. Being upfront about potential problems is preferable to making promises that cannot be kept.
In addition to building trust with their clients, Magnolia also gives back to the community in ways both big and small. For the past 3 years, Magnolia has been the presenting sponsor of the Glebe Halloween Village, a daytime trick-or-treating experience for children and families who may find traditional Halloween activities challenging. This heartwarming community event makes Halloween fun, inclusive, and accessible for everyone.
Next month, they’ll be a sponsor of the Ottawa Fire Fighters Help Santa Toy Parade for the fourth year in a row. The beloved holiday tradition, which features festive floats and music overseen by Santa Claus himself, collects unwrapped toys for children and families in need through the Toy Mountain initiative. Both events are wonderful examples of Ottawa’s community spirit, bringing people together to make special occasions more inclusive and joyful for local children and families.
For Peloso, giving back is more than just a commitment; it’s a reflection of his belief in making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Supporting local youth is particularly close to his heart, as he believes every child deserves the opportunity to participate, grow, and feel part of a community. For the past several years, Magnolia has proudly sponsored the Ottawa Sting youth hockey team and the Fisher Park children’s soccer team, helping make organized sports more accessible to young athletes. Peloso also provides annual support to a local Girl Guides unit, continuing his dedication to creating opportunities for children to learn, build confidence, and make lasting memories.
His commitment to community extends well beyond youth programs. Magnolia has proudly supported local tennis clubs and a lawn bowling club, recognizing the important role recreational activities play in bringing people of all ages together.
Beyond sports, Magnolia has partnered with a local coffee shop to provide free coffee to morning commuters and regularly supports the Glebe Neighbourhood Activities Group (GNAG) through community events and pizza parties for children attending day camps. For Peloso, giving back is about more than donations or sponsorships; it’s about building meaningful connections, creating lasting memories, and supporting the community that has supported Magnolia.
“My parents came off the boat in the 50s, at Pier 21 in Halifax, and they always gave. We’re big Catholics, we were at the church and we just saw our parents always giving back. We just followed their footsteps,” Peloso said.
Those same values continue to shape Magnolia today. They’re present in every renovation, every client interaction, and every community event. For Peloso, a member of the Knights of Columbus, building a successful business is about earning the trust of the people who invite Magnolia into their homes.