Premium Material Choices: How a Master Builder Created His Own Custom Home

Posted 6/16/2025 by Marketing

In the competitive California construction landscape, few professionals bring the depth of experience and commitment to quality that Asiri Perera does. As the founder of Perera Builders (commercial and custom home building) and partner at HTIWC, Asiri has built a reputation for excellence in both residential and commercial construction. We recently sat down with him to discuss his most personal project yet – his own custom home, known as "The 808 Project" – and how Edge products helped bring his vision to life.

From Commercial Construction to Personal Passion

Asiri's journey in construction began immediately after undergrad, when he entered the commercial construction field. His educational background in urban planning and years of experience working with major general contractors provided him with a solid foundation before he ventured out on his own.

"I've been in construction all my life," Asiri explains with evident passion. "Construction is in my DNA. After working for big general contractors for a while, I wanted to do my own thing."

That "own thing" has since grown into a successful enterprise that stands out in California's crowded construction market. With over 2,000 apartment units completed across mid-rise and high-rise builds, Perera's experience speaks for itself.

The Full Package Approach

What sets Perera Builders apart? According to Asiri, it's their comprehensive service model.

"We provide the full package service which separates us from other contractors," he notes. "We're there for you. We manage the subcontractors, schedules, budgets. Those fundamentals were instilled in me from working with bigger general contractors, and it's something that's lacking for a lot of general contractors today."

This meticulous attention to detail and project management expertise proved invaluable when Asiri decided to build his own home.

The 808 Project: No Corners Cut

When it came to designing and building his personal residence, Asiri was unwavering in his commitment to quality.

"I didn't cut any corners. For this project, I wanted the best of the best," he states firmly.

This pursuit of excellence led him to collaborate with Mary Rivas from Nativa Design, based in Denver, Colorado. It was Rivas who first recommended Thermally Modified Wood from Edge for the project.

"Initially, I was going to use another product," Asiri recalls, "but she was like, 'Oh, that's not going to look natural or great.' And once we got the Edge sample, I fell in love with the product."

Why Edge?

Asiri's decision to use Edge products for his home wasn't made lightly. As someone who specializes in structural steel fabrication and erection in Los Angeles alongside his general contracting work, he understands building materials intimately.

"The weathering that's baked in was a big factor," he explains when asked about his choice. "And the product itself just looks natural and great."

The practical aspects of installation further cemented his appreciation for the product line.

"It worked out really well. The different lengths worked really great. The install was easy and quick. We mitered the corners and it looks great. It terminates well at the windows and doors."

Sustainability Matters

As a California-based builder, environmental considerations play a significant role in Asiri's approach to construction.

"Everything in California is green and eco-friendly, and I think it makes a difference to consumers here. I want to do my part to mitigate effects on the environment," he shares.

His take on sustainability is practical and focused: "I aim to minimize waste.”

The Results Speak for Themselves

The completed home has become something of a showpiece, garnering compliments from everyone who visits.

"It's a beautiful product. I definitely plan to use it on future projects," Asiri confirms. "It's a natural, beautiful looking building. I think my house speaks for itself. Everyone who's seen my house in person and seen the wood, they compliment how great it looks."

Advice for Fellow Builders

When asked what advice he would give to other builders considering their material options, Asiri doesn't hesitate:

"Don't look at anything else. Just look at the Edge product. There's plenty of product selection and color options."

Coming from someone with thousands of successfully completed units under his belt, that's a powerful endorsement.

Asiri Perera is the founder of Perera Builders and  partner at HTIWC, specializing in high-quality construction services and structural steel fabrication and installation in California. His companies are recognized for community-driven projects and sustainable building practices. To learn more about his work or to inquire about services, visit pererabuilders.com or htiwc.com.