Meet Jeff & Lesley McGinnis | General Contractor and Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jeff & Lesley McGinnis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jeff & Lesley, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
Integrity. J & L Dwellings always strives to provide a finished renovation that delivers beyond what a homeowner expected. We renovate to stand the test of time in structure, design and in function based on how homeowners live today. When working with our clients, we listen to their needs and desires and always advise when needed towards the best outcome. We never compromise on the level of craftsmanship or materials, are transparent in the costs of the renovation, and keep the homeowner informed throughout the process of the renovation in both costs and next steps of the renovation.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
The combined talents of both of us (Jeff & Lesley) has created a unique team that provides both the knowledge of structure and space planning with an eye for timeless design. We consider not only the homeowners desires but also the architecture of the home that keeps it true to itself and the neighborhood around it. The road to our business was a bit of happenstance. Before meeting we had each renovated or started renovations on 3 of our own homes. Once married, we finished the renovations including renovating a rental property. Meanwhile we were purchasing a home for ourselves … that probably should’ve been condemned … to renovate for the way we live. Having two strong opinions on our personal renovation was not always easy but we learned to compromise and created a beautiful home for ourselves. As we started purchasing homes to “flip” (we prefer to use the word “renovate” as we see MANY bad flips), we have grown to understand each others strengths which in turn has made the process much smoother. The final outcome has always been exceptional by trusting each others opinions. We are passionate about creating beautiful, well designed spaces and have a knack for providing modern amenities with a bit of vintage charm.  We take great pride that our homeowners keep referring us to their friends and colleagues after working with us.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Dallas Arboretum – choose a beautiful day that you can take your time to wander and enjoy.
Downtown McKinney – a day of great shopping (love the antique stores) and food experiences, and driving through their historic homes.
Bishop Arts – an afternoon/evening of unique shops to explore (especially the vintage boutiques and art galleries) with amazing restaurants to satisfy any craving.
Canton 1st Monday Trade Days – Plan on spending the entire day, bring cash and be ready to barter for your one of a kind treasures at the largest flea market in Texas!
Swiss Avenue – drive or walk this street for a historical look at homes in Dallas.
Neighborhood Favorite Eateries: Ku Sushi – we do weekly take-out for our movie nights at home, Princi Italia – our all time favorite pizza, Mesero – sit on the patio and enjoy a jalapeno margarita.
Must plan on a Texas Barbecue experience at Pecan Lodge in Deep Ellum. We can’t help ordering the Hot Mess, mac and cheese and banana pudding EVERY time!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
A Shoutout of thanks to our dear friends that encouraged us when we were renovating our own home to use our gifts and talents in starting a business of purchasing, renovating and selling homes that grew into a community of followers on IG and FB that have now asked us into their own homes to renew their spaces.

Instagram: jandldwellings

Facebook: J & L Dwellings

Image Credits
Melinda K. Casanova (photo of Jeff & Lesley)