Kaljian Construction Inc.

Robert Kaljian: A Natural Builder

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

CONCORD — For Robert Kaljian, a career in the construction industry was a natural fit. “I started doing construction work back in high school,” he remembers. “It came pretty naturally to me. I particularly enjoyed the process of diagnosing and solving problems.” Later, Robert ran a cabinet shop where he designed, built and sold custom cabinetry. However, as time went on, he began to think bigger. “I started to get more interested in trades like electrical and plumbing. In 2002, I got my contractor’s license and started doing home remodeling. In recent years, I’ve pared down the business to focus more on bathroom and kitchen remodeling, as well as handyman work.”

Today, as owner of Kaljian Construction Inc., Robert says his favorite part of his job is making his customers happy. “I enjoy helping my clients realize their visions and seeing them happy with their finished products. When I stop by a few months later and they’re still happy with what we did for them, it’s a very satisfying feeling.”

A resident of Clayton, Robert spends his time outside of work on a variety of active pastimes. “I enjoy being out and about, whether that’s mountain biking, skiing at Tahoe or going to concerts,” he details. “Skiing is probably my biggest hobby—I try to hit the slopes as much as I can during the season.”

In regard to his professional career, Robert credits much of his success to careful attention to detail. “When you pay attention to detail, it makes for a better-than-average result,” he affirms. “I learned a lot about that back when I was making custom cabinets. From the design to the actual construction, it required a lot of precision to ensure the final product turned out correct. I think the same principle applies to customer service—when you’re proactive about communication and planning, it makes the customer a lot happier.”

When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Robert says he’d head to Lake Tahoe. “I spend a lot of time at Tahoe in the winter, but I’m not able to get up there as much during the summer because it’s my busiest season. So, if I were to retire tomorrow, I’d probably rent a cabin and go enjoy Tahoe for a couple of weeks.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: Are you an early bird or a night owl?

A: An early bird.

Q: What’s your favorite venue for food and live music?

A: Lucca Bar & Grill in Benicia. They have a great beer garden and great live music.

Q: What was your first concert?

A: Probably New Riders of the Purple Sage or Commander Cody. That goes way back!

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

A: Thailand. I’m actually going there later this summer.

Q: What’s your favorite snack?

A: Fruits, vegetables and nuts. I like to eat healthy.