About Us
About The Team, The Inspiration and
The Vision of The Modern Builder
Who We Are
We are a UK-based construction technology platform connecting modern construction supply with real demand. The Modern Builder brings together self builders, developers, and construction suppliers in one place, helping projects move from idea to delivery with greater clarity, speed and confidence. By combining live planning data, cost insights and a curated supplier marketplace, we give customers the tools to understand their build and the access to engage the right people at the right time. For suppliers, we provide early visibility of opportunities and the ability to connect with high intent customers easily, and at the right time.
The Inspiration
Rhys, one of the founders of The Modern Builder, was inspired to start the company after a pivotal call with a self-build client. This client had meticulously prepared building regulations and planning-approved drawings but had already spent over £100,000 on plot reservations and design fees. With a remaining budget of £200,000 to £300,000 for a 250m² luxury house, this was not feasible and Rhys recognised the need for early professional intervention to manage costs and guide clients effectively from the start of their projects.
Realising that many self-build clients could benefit from early-stage advice, Rhys reached out to David and created The Modern Builder to address these needs. The platform aims to simplify the self-build process, providing essential tools and initial services for free. The company earns revenue through construction opportunities passed to builders and advertising, ensuring that clients receive valuable guidance without initial costs.
The Modern Builder helps clients navigate the self-build process, offering solutions to control costs, connect with trusted suppliers, and manage projects efficiently.
The Founding Team
DAVID JOHNSON (CO-OWNER)
Co-Owner
David Johnson's construction journey began as a qualified Engineering Geologist, moving to Contracts Manager in ground engineering, then Commercial Manager at Yorkon Ltd, Portakabin's permanent building division, Managing Director of Foreman's RBS, a Portakabin Group business, and finally MD of Yorkon Ltd. His tenure in the modular sector saw him deliver over 1,000 diverse projects with a total value exceeding £1,000 million at today's prices. After his time at Portakabin, David established Off Site Construction Advice Ltd, disseminating his expertise in modular and MMC to clients and construction consultants.
1,000+
Diverse Projects
£1,000+
Million
RHYS-EVANS EDET (CO-OWNER)
Co-Owner
Rhys-Evans Edet completed a Project Management degree at Leeds Metropolitan University, transitioning into construction management thereafter. Over the span of a decade, he has been involved in the delivery of construction projects totaling approximately £150 million. Rhys's career trajectory has been characterized by remarkable versatility, navigating diverse projects ranging from upscale high-rise apartments in Central London to office complexes in Manchester, school refurbishments, storage warehouses, and more. Following this, Rhys established a project delivery consultancy, which successfully executed numerous high-end MMC housing projects in Scotland. His approach combines traditional construction coordination expertise with dedicated research and development, enabling him to bring together traditional and MMC construction effectively.
10+
Years
£150+
Million
Guiding You Through Every Stage:
Plot Identification and Planning
Discover real opportunities using live UK planning data. Identify viable plots and projects early.
Building Control
Connect with professionals who can support compliance and reduce delays as your project progresses.
Site Investigation and Groundworks
Access the right specialists to assess feasibility, risks and groundwork requirements early.
Cost Control
Get a clear understanding of your build costs from the outset. Compare suppliers, refine your specification.
Why Choose Us?
Our Value
We simplify how construction projects are discovered, planned and delivered by combining data, cost insight and access to the right suppliers.
Our Vision
To transform how construction projects start, by giving customers and suppliers access to real time data and better connections at the earliest stage.
Our Mission
To build the leading platform for construction supply and demand, helping customers move faster and suppliers win more of the right work.
Value Statement
“ We turn planning data into real opportunities, helping customers build with clarity and suppliers win work quicker and easier “
