Jeff Sweenor began working with This Old House as the builder for the 2017 Idea House in East Matunuck, Rhode Island. The project won a platinum Best in American Living™ award from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), and This Old House teamed up with Sweenor for a second time to build the 2018 Idea House in the historic pier of Narragansett, Rhode Island.
His first on-air series project with the show was the 2018 Net-Zero Bungalow in Jamestown, where Jeff led the extensive renovation that transformed the 1920s Rhode Island shingled cottage in a net-zero home for the 21st century. Both subsequent project collaborations with This Old House received numerous accolades including two more awards from NAHB in 2018 and 2019.
Sweenor credits his success to the influence of his father and the experience he gained at his family’s fifth-generation chocolate business. He was raised on hard work and the mantra: “When you’re through improving yourself, you’re through.” Sports were also a driving force in Jeff’s life, honing his focus, discipline, and willingness to go the extra mile in pursuit of a goal. Among his athletic accomplishments, Jeff was a member of the 1984 National Champion University of Rhode Island men’s rowing team, and he competed on the US National Rowing Team at the Pan American Games.
Focused on continually improving Jeff built his career in construction from the ground up. He founded Sweenor Builders in 1989, carefully assembling a team of craftsmen who shared his passion for creating high-performing, quality homes. Today the firm is one of the area’s most sought-after builders. The company has been consecutively named one of Rhode Island’s “Best Places to Work,” and Jeff is distinguished as a NAHB Custom Home Builder of the Year Finalist.
Jeff enjoys sharing his love of building with others. He lives in southern Rhode Island with his wife Sheila where their two young-adult children have a hand in the family business. Jeff’s passion for fitness has not wavered since his competitive rowing days, so outside of work you’re likely to find him on the move.
Follow Jeff on Instagram at @sweenor_builders and @jeffsweenor.
