In an industry known for its demands and challenges, success is often measured by the ability to build something lasting—not just in terms of structures but in relationships, community impact, and legacy. High-end construction today is not merely about creating luxurious spaces; it’s about developing homes that support the diverse needs and dreams of families, providing them with a foundation for growth and security. True innovation in this field emerges from a blend of vision, empathy, and the commitment to quality that stands the test of time.
This approach is embodied by Ioana Maria Savos, CEO of New Explode Construction, Inc., whose influence has shaped the high-end construction landscape since the company’s founding in 2006. With her extensive experience in construction management, strategic insight, and passion for client-centered design, Ioana has driven the company’s success by creating homes that prioritize beauty and functionality. Recognized by Marquis Who’s Who for her industry contributions, she continues to set a high standard in luxury homebuilding, blending professionalism with an unparalleled dedication to client satisfaction and sustainability. We, The Enterprise World Magazine, are honored to feature Ioana Maria Savos as one of the most visionary leaders of 2024.
Building Dreams from the Ground Up
Ioana’s journey into the construction world began with a simple yet profound idea: to create homes that are as personal as they are functional. She and Sebastian established New Explode Construction as a family-owned business committed to crafting custom family homes that speak to clients’ unique visions. “Starting New Explode Construction was a passion project for both me and my husband,” Ioana shares. “We wanted to go beyond building houses—we wanted to build homes where memories are made, where families grow together.”
However, as with any great endeavor, the path was challenging. Building a company that balances personalized service with increasing demand requires ingenuity and tenacity. In recent years, the pandemic introduced new hurdles, including labor shortages and fluctuating material costs. “Maintaining that personalized touch while scaling up was challenging,” Ioana reflects. To navigate these obstacles, she adopted flexible project timelines, sourced materials creatively, and emphasized transparent communication with clients. These adjustments have ensured that New Explode Construction remains resilient, adaptable, and deeply committed to its original vision, even as the industry evolves.
Crafting Quality Homes with Heart
New Explode Construction, headquartered in Lake Forest, a wonderful suburb of Chicago,, is a family-owned business specializing in custom home building, large-scale renovations, multi-family developments, and select commercial projects. Since its inception, the company has established a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and a personalized, relationship-driven approach. Serving the Chicago area and the entire North Shore neighborhoods, it is known for creating spaces that families can grow into and cherish for years.
Looking to the future, the company’s growth plans remain firmly rooted in relationships and quality. “Our vision has always been about more than just structures; it’s about creating places where people can build their lives,” Ioana quotes. With a focus on long-term client satisfaction, New Explode Construction aims to continue its legacy of trust and excellence.
Services Reflecting a Commitment to Quality
New Explode Construction’s service portfolio includes custom-family homes, major renovations, remodeling, and multi-family developments. The company also handles commercial projects that span retail locations and restaurants, ensuring a balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal. “Our goal is to provide a seamless building experience from start to finish, where every detail is tailored to the client’s needs,” Ioana asserts.
Beyond construction, the company focuses on building strong client relationships. Ioana believes that each project should reflect the client’s unique needs and lifestyle, from initial design consultations to the finishing touches.
Embracing Technology to Enhance the Client Experience
New Explode Construction prioritizes a client-centric approach through traditional communication channels. Ioana emphasizes the value of personal connection and clear communication over automation. “Our clients value the transparency we provide through regular updates, whether by phone, email, or in-person meetings. This hands-on approach has been the foundation of our client trust,” she says.
While the company continues to explore technological advancements, Ioana believes that New Explode Construction’s strong client relationships have been a key differentiator. Moving forward, the company is excited to incorporate more technology to enhance client experience further.
As CEO, Ioana keeps a close eye on client feedback and industry trends, which drive the company’s decision-making. “We regularly incorporate client feedback, especially as we adopt sustainable practices and energy-efficient designs that reflect our clients’ values,” she says. By staying informed on market developments, New Explode Construction is exploring modular construction and smart home technologies to diversify its offerings.
A Leadership Style Centered on Empowerment and Transparency
For Ioana, leadership is not only about setting a direction but also about fostering a team that is as committed to the company’s mission as she is. Her leadership philosophy is rooted in transparency, empowerment, and trust. She explains, “I believe in leading by example, staying engaged with the team at every stage, from design consultations to project execution, to ensure we all align with our values.”
Empowering her team is integral to Ioana’s approach. She prioritizes mentorship, personally guiding team members and helping them see the broader impact of their work. “It’s important that everyone here understands their role in our mission and has the tools to develop their potential,” she says. This mentorship-driven culture enables a sense of ownership among team members, which translates to a higher level of care and commitment across every project.
Balancing Innovation with Stability
In an industry where trends evolve rapidly, Ioana has mastered the art of balancing innovation with stability. New Explode Construction has been at the forefront of introducing sustainable building practices and energy-efficient designs, which meet client demand and align with Ioana’s vision of responsible growth. “While we’re always exploring new materials and sustainable practices, we make sure to take calculated risks that align with our clients’ needs and our company values,” she says.
This balance has kept the company financially stable and positioned it as a leader in eco-conscious building. Ioana believes that innovation should be approached responsibly, ensuring that each new project maintains the company’s commitment to quality and longevity.
Cultivating Talent through Mentorship and Development
At the core of New Explode Construction’s success is a team that shares Ioana and Sebastian’s values of integrity, commitment, and client focus. From the very start, new hires at the company receive formal training and continuous mentorship to build both technical expertise and interpersonal skills. Ioana explains, “We prioritize talent that resonates with our mission. I personally meet with team members one-on-one to ensure their growth aligns with our company’s vision.”
In addition to in-house mentorship, Ioana participates in Vistage, a renowned business coaching organization, which offers valuable insights into leadership and business management. This commitment to professional growth has allowed New Explode Construction to cultivate future leaders who are well-equipped to carry forward the company’s mission.
A Legacy of Transparent and Client-Centered Solutions
New Explode Construction has disrupted traditional construction practices by emphasizing transparency, collaboration, and client-centered solutions. By involving clients in every phase of a project, Ioana and her team foster a collaborative environment that builds trust and satisfaction. The company also integrates sustainable practices and innovative construction techniques, continually challenging industry norms.
Although New Explode Construction’s technological integration is a work in progress, its adaptive and relationship-focused approach continues to set the company apart from competitors.
The Path to Future Growth
Staying competitive in the construction industry requires a commitment to continuous learning and adaptability. Ioana actively encourages her team to bring forward ideas and rewards creative problem-solving. “We prioritize market research, client feedback, and team development to ensure we stay responsive to market changes,” she explains. By fostering partnerships with suppliers and industry experts, New Explode Construction continually enhances its offerings, providing clients with the highest standard of service.
One of New Explode Construction’s recent successes was a large-scale renovation project for a notable commercial client. This project, which required meticulous planning and consistent client communication, exceeded expectations, leading to positive referrals and repeat business. “It was a testament to our commitment to quality and client satisfaction,” Ioana shares. This accomplishment reinforced the company’s reputation and highlighted its ability to deliver tailored solutions reflecting clients’ needs.
Thoughtful Risk-Taking and Proactive Decision-Making
Ioana’s approach to decision-making is a careful blend of boldness and caution. Every venture begins with a thorough risk assessment, and decisions are made through collaboration and data-driven insights. “Transparency is key,” she says. “We ensure everyone understands the risks and works together to find proactive solutions.”
As Ioana continues to steer New Explode Construction forward, she remains committed to the values that have defined her journey: quality, client relationships, and integrity. Her story is one of resilience, growth, and inspiration, making her a true leader and a businesswoman to watch in 2024.
Testimonials of Fulfilled Dreams
| Cristina Giurgea | I am incredibly pleased with the outstanding service and workmanship provided by New Explode Construction. From the start, they proved themselves to be reliable and professional, demonstrating a strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. Their genuine care for our home, surroundings, and even our pets made the entire process stress-free. Communication was seamless, and they were always available to address any questions. The final result exceeded our expectations, with exceptional attention to detail. I highly recommend Ioana, Sebastian, and the New Explode Construction team for their reliability, professionalism, and personal touch. |
| Ann | I recently hired New Explode for a full kitchen and basement remodel, and I couldn’t be happier with the results. The team was professional, and detail-oriented, and kept me informed throughout. As a busy mom, I appreciated their one-stop service, handling all permits and contractor needs, which saved me a lot of time and stress. The remodel not only transformed my kitchen into a modern, functional space but also gave my basement a fresh, inviting look, adding significant value to my home. Their craftsmanship and attention to detail were outstanding. I highly recommend New Explode Construction; they truly exceeded my expectations! |
| Florin Blideran | Working with New Explode Construction on building my new house was an impressive experience. From start to finish, Sebastian and his team demonstrated professionalism, expertise, and a commitment to excellence. They handled emergencies and tight deadlines calmly without compromising quality. Their attention to detail and problem-solving skills were exceptional, making them stand out from other contractors I’ve worked with. Communication was seamless, and Sebastian consistently listened to my ideas, offered valuable insights, and kept me informed. Thanks to them, we now have our dream home, and we couldn’t be happier. I highly recommend New Explode Construction to anyone seeking a skilled, reliable contractor who goes above and beyond. Thank you, Sebastian, for making this process so positive and memorable! |
