Chris van Hartesveldt, general manager and owner of Eleven Ten Development, is committed, responsible, and talented. He was contracted with Covenant Baptist Church to do a remodel of the church’s lobby and sanctuary. The criteria were to lighten and brighten both areas, update and change the amount of seating, and provide year round climate control on a limited budget. This allowed for some open interpretation. Though several bids were reviewed, his exceeded our expectations with his creativity, cost projection, and time lines. He suggested we tell our story, update the current facility from the moment guests walk into the building until the time they enter the sanctuary.
He visited our church as a guest to get a feel for the congregation’s needs, attitudes, and journeys. Chris presented his ideas to the membership and had overwhelming support. He was patient with all the questions the congregation had along the way, was open to suggestions and ideas, and always stayed focused on the task. He met with Mission Forward, the renovation team, on numerous occasions and again demonstrated commitment and creativity.
During the course of the renovation, he took responsibility and repaired items that were noticed only during or after the work. Many of these were on his own time, using his skills and attention to detail. He understood the needs of many and incorporated them into his plan. He was open to changes along the way and shared his practical thoughts as an experienced contractor.
Chris’s talents are many. He has an eye for detail, has many skills, and only settles for the best, whether it’s his work or his crew. He knows the most efficient way to complete a task and offers to research products to make sure we purchase the best for our needs.
As a result of his remodel, we have grown in number. People have come to Christ in an environment that is welcoming, relevant, and relaxed. Our goals have been met. Through his creativity and talents, our story is being told in many ways including:
- A wall sized map showcasing missionaries, mission trips, and service connected members;
- A history wall to include relevant dates, artifacts, etc., from the 1800’s to present day;
- A welcome table to orient guests and share the good work at Covenant;
- Copy and mount some original architectural drawings of the facility;
- A celebration wall with Bible related inscriptions; and
- A patio for reflection and socialization
In addition to the above reasons and examples, I would highly recommend Chris van Hartesveldt, because his jobs were accomplished in a timely manner and under budget.