by KV Construction
Home Renovations in Ottawa
When you work with KV Construction, you're working with a third-generation carpenter who's on-site, hands-on, and fully invested in your project from start to finish. While other companies send project managers to check in for 30 minutes a day, owner Shawn Villeneuve is physically present for the entire duration of your renovation.
Full-Time Presence. One Project at a Time. Three Generations of Craftsmanship.
Three Generations of Craftsmanship
Shawn wanted to be a carpenter since he could walk. There are childhood photos of him at three years old with a tool belt and hammer in hand, following his grandfather around job sites.
That grandfather, a carpenter and cabinet maker, founded Kathmann Construction. His son took over the business. And now Sean carries on the family tradition – including maintaining relationships that span nearly a century.
One client, Luzon Music (one of the biggest guitar retailers in North America), has worked with all three generations of the Villeneuve family. Sean's grandfather was their carpenter, his uncle was their carpenter, and now Shawn continues serving them.
But Shawn’s path wasn't automatic. His uncle actually tried to discourage him from the trade, working him hard during summer jobs at age 16, hoping he'd choose an easier career. Instead, it became obvious that Sean loved carpentry and had a genuine passion for it. He spent his entire final semester of high school on the job site, working full days when he only needed to be there for three hours.
After completing his Red Seal certification (8,000 hours of on-the-job training plus schooling), Shawn climbed the ranks in residential construction – from finishing foreman to framing foreman to site supervisor, eventually becoming senior residential project manager overseeing 300-700 homes at any given time.
Then he returned to his roots and started KV Construction, bringing decades of experience back to hands-on carpentry work.
1950’s Ottawa - Kathmann Construction
Founded Kathmann Construction as a carpenter and cabinet maker, establishing the family tradition of quality craftsmanship.
1970’s - Family Business
Shawns uncle over the family construction business, maintaining relationships and continuing the legacy of exceptional construction work.
2009 - KV Construction
After working for his uncle, Shawn carries on the family tradition with Red Seal certification and modern expertise, serving the same clients for generations.
What Makes KV Construction Different
Direct Access to the Owner-Carpenter
Most renovation companies assign project managers who oversee multiple jobs simultaneously, checking in on each site for perhaps 30 minutes per day. They might spend an additional 20 minutes handling change orders or solving problems remotely.
Sean operates differently. He's physically on every job site for the entire duration. When the electricians are there, he's there. When problems arise, he addresses them immediately. Clients aren't getting him for one hour a day during a two-month project – they're getting his full attention throughout.
This approach means faster problem-solving, real-time adjustments, and direct communication. There's no telephone game between homeowner, project manager, and tradespeople. Issues get resolved on the spot.
Sean works on one large project at a time, focusing all his attention on it before moving to the next. While clients might wait a month or two to get on his schedule, once their project starts, it becomes his sole focus.
No juggling. No divided attention. Just complete dedication to getting the renovation done right.
One Project at a Time
Even on smaller projects, KV Construction maintains commercial-level safety and professionalism. Every job includes:
Notice of project filed with Ministry of Labor
Safety board on-site with hospital map and emergency procedures
Fire extinguisher and first aid kit
Proper insurance and liability coverage
One Professional Standards on Every Job
These details matter. When homeowners see this level of care applied to what seems like a small thing, they recognize they're in capable hands.
Sean understands that Ottawa's diverse neighborhoods demand different approaches. With experience ranging from century-old Victorian homes downtown to modern suburban builds, he matches his work to each property's character.
Downtown in areas like the Glebe, he preserves the traditional aesthetic of century-old red brick Victorian homes – pine railings, substantial columns, and the detailed trim work that defines that era. He appreciates the craftsmanship from that generation and takes pride in maintaining those standards.
In suburbs like Kanata, the approach shifts to contemporary design: white walls, white kitchens, gray hardwood, clean corners, and rectangle casing. Modern homes call for modern finishes.
Services That Reflect Ottawa's Character
Full Home Renovations
From studs to finish, including design consultation
Kitchen Renovations
Maximizing function in Ottawa's downtown narrow homes or creating modern spaces in suburban settings
Basement Finishing
Complete buildouts with proper permits and inspections
Custom Millwork & Trim
Victorian wainscoting downtown or contemporary clean lines in the suburbs
Featured Projects
Explore our portfolio of completed projects showcasing our expertise in construction and interior design
Why Hire a Professional?
Many people think DIY will save substantial money, and while it can reduce costs, the reality is more complex
Tools
01Professional trim work requires roughly $10,000 worth of specialized tools. Most homeowners aren't prepared for that investment.
Time
02Too many renovation projects start with enthusiasm but drag on endlessly. What should take six weeks stretches to six months when homeowners get in over their heads.
Expertise
03From proper permit handling with BCIN-certified architects to understanding building codes and inspection requirements, professional experience prevents costly mistakes.
Liability
04Homeowners acting as their own general contractors don't always understand the liability they assume for injuries or issues on their job sites.
The KV Approach
Sean doesn't force clients through 19-page change orders when they want to add a pot light. He figures it out and keeps projects moving. Being on-site full-time means he can gauge client reactions in real time and address concerns immediately
Functionality drives every decision. Things need to be beautiful, but they must be functional first. Everyone wants their renovation to work well for daily life.
Quality is backed by a two-year warranty. If something needs attention down the line, Sean takes care of it. Happy clients provide more work and better referrals.
Typical Timelines
Kitchens
1 month
Basements
6 weeks
Full Renovations
Full Renovations
Permits
2 weeks
Ready to Start Your Ottawa Renovation?
Sean loves working with clients and helping them create functional, beautiful spaces they'll enjoy for years. With Red Seal certification, full insurance, and three generations of family craftsmanship behind every project, KV Construction delivers the quality and attention to detail Ottawa homeowners deserve.