About NJ&J Builders
Rhode Island Design-Build Contractor
One Source of ResponsibilityFrom Concept Through Completion
We are a truly integrated design build company serving Rhode Island — a single source of responsibility for both the design and construction of custom residential and commercial projects. In years past, a single professional was responsible for the design and construction of a structure — this was known as the Master-Builder method. Our model operates on that same principle. We manage every phase in sequence: site planning, zoning, and regulatory permitting; collaborative design development; building science and construction design decisions; final documentation and construction.
We work directly with our clients through a collaborative process to bring their design ideas to life. Our integrated approach ensures that their aesthetic vision is perfectly balanced with the critical design decisions that ensure structural performance, building envelope integrity, and long-term coastal resilience. From the earliest planning stages through our Design Build Services, we provide a seamless model where design and technical precision work together, proactively eliminating potential issues before they reach the field.
The professionals who design the project directly oversee its construction. We employ our own team of carpenters and manage execution on-site daily, from foundation through finish. With long-term employees and established subcontractors incorporating best field practices into every project, we translate complex plans into a high-performance reality.
Since 1999, we have built a broad portfolio of residential and commercial projects across Rhode Island — from Narragansett and South Kingstown to Charlestown, Westerly, Jamestown, and Newport. As building codes, materials, and building science have advanced — particularly for high-hazard coastal construction — our approach has evolved with them. That progression has led us to Net Zero construction, and where site conditions support it, we design and build Net Zero homes that produce as much energy as they consume. We are developing proprietary analytical systems to optimize every aspect of the Net Zero process — from building envelope through mechanical systems to financial viability. It is the future of high-performance building.
Design. Detail. Build.
3D modeling, construction documentation, and on-site execution.
Reinforced Concrete Formwork
Column Construction
Construction Drawings
Permit Set Documentation
Structural Frame
Field Execution
Helical Pile Installation
AutoCAD Structural Design
Elevated Reinforced Concrete Column & Grade Beam Foundation
Field Installation
Kenneth A. Hayes
Credentials
Licensed General Contractor
State of Rhode Island (Reg. #17761)
Established NJ&J Builders LLC
1999
Principal of South County Design Group Inc.
Established 2003
Education
University of Rhode Island
Master of Science: Civil & Environmental Engineering
Concentration: Structural and Geotechnical Engineering
Design and engineering services provided by South County Design Group Inc., an independent entity.
“Ken and his crew were great to work with! Extremely knowledgable about living in a coastal area, from the elevated design, to the final touches with woodwork, floors etc. Ken was always availabe for any question, and lots of video calls since we were living out of state at the time. He used only local sub contractors that were so easy to deal with and we would absolutely go back to any of them for future needs. Thank you Ken for building our dream home at the beach!”
“There is no one better to work with than Ken Hayes when taking on a major home renovation project. Not only is he an expert engineer—so you know whatever he designs will be built to last—but he is also highly skilled in the software programs used to visualize design changes throughout the process. I can't begin to count the number of video calls we had where he would incorporate my ideas in real time so I could clearly see the outcome: "Here's what it will look like if we add a window," or "This is how the room will look if we move that wall." That ability to see changes before construction began was invaluable. Ken is honest and straightforward about costs and timelines. The saying, "the best surprise is no surprise," absolutely applies when working with him. He is professional, talented, and dependable, and I wouldn't consider using anyone else.”
“I hired NJ&J Builders to lift and renovate my ocean front beach house in Narragansett. The project went extremely smooth from start to finish. They took care of all aspects include structural design, interior design and build, hurricane windows and doors, plumbing, electrical and HVAC. I wanted a single source contractor that could take responsibility for it all. No finger pointing! NJ&J did it all. I would recommend NJ&J to anyone looking to for an A++ job!”
“Our experience with Ken and NJ&J Builders was exceptional, as my wife, designer, used the same software, Chief Architect, as Ken, facilitating seamless collaboration on our challenging design layout. Ken's expertise in permitting, environmental challenges, and design/build perspectives was invaluable, and his dedication to perfection was evident throughout the process. The use of 3D models, video conferencing, and constant communication ensured our concerns were always addressed. Ken's ability to handle environmental obstacles and maintain high-quality standards, especially for our oceanfront property, was crucial. His commitment to resolving issues, even years after completion, and his approachable nature made the entire Design-Build process enjoyable and rewarding.”