About Green Elephant Construction
Our LEED and Project Manager certified team brings decades of experience on designing custom homes tailored to your unique lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and long-term plans.
- Scottsdale
- Paradise Valley
- Arcadia
Meet the Leadership Team
The strength of Green Elephant Construction comes from the combined vision, experience and leadership of its executive team.
Bryant Aplass - CEO
As CEO, Bryant Aplass guides Green Elephant Construction with a commitment to innovation, sustainability and design excellence. His passion for environmentally conscious building is reflected in the company’s philosophies, materials and long-term vision.
Bryant is also responsible for the company’s philanthropic efforts — including donations supporting elephant conservation — which inspired the Green Elephant name.
His leadership ensures every project integrates thoughtful design, efficient systems and the highest construction standards.
Garrett Schmidt - General Contractor
Garrett Schmidt brings over 20 years of leadership and management experience to the company’s construction operations. Since entering the industry in 2016 and forming Green Elephant Development in 2018, Garrett has managed more than 35 renovation and construction projects, ranging from cosmetic remodels to complex rebuilds.
Originally from California, Garrett earned his degree from Rochester Institute of Technology, where he also played collegiate soccer. Before entering construction, he built and oversaw multiple successful franchise operations throughout the Valley.
As Green Elephant Construction’s general contractor, Garrett is known for his attention to detail, rigorous quality control and commitment to ensuring every home is built right the first time.
Brian Yelder - Qualifying Party / General Contractor
Brian Yelder brings over 15 years of experience in real estate development, new construction, and large-scale renovations. Beginning his career as a licensed Realtor in 2012, he has developed, renovated, and built residential properties across Arizona and Detroit.
As founder and qualifying party for Black Diamond Signature Homes, Brian has led multiple ground-up and spec home projects ranging from 2,000 to 4,500 sq. ft. Known for his strong subcontractor relationships and investor-minded approach, he emphasizes quality craftsmanship, transparent cost management, and timeless design.
Bryant Aplass — CEO
As CEO, Bryant Aplass guides Green Elephant Construction with a commitment to innovation, sustainability and design excellence. His passion for environmentally conscious building is reflected in the company’s philosophies, materials and long-term vision.
Bryant is also responsible for the company’s philanthropic efforts — including donations supporting elephant conservation — which inspired the Green Elephant name.
His leadership ensures every project integrates thoughtful design, efficient systems and the highest construction standards.
James Drestler — Co-owner / Main GC
Co-owner and lead General Contractor, James Drestler brings years of hands-on construction experience and a passion for delivering exceptional homes. He oversees every project from initial planning and design through final construction, ensuring each detail meets the highest standards of craftsmanship. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and commitment to client satisfaction, James works closely with homeowners to turn their vision into reality.
He takes pride in maintaining transparent communication, managing timelines and budgets efficiently, and creating homes that blend functionality, style, and lasting quality. Whether tackling complex remodels or building custom homes from the ground up, James’s expertise ensures a seamless, stress-free experience for every client.
Our Proven Design–Build Process
A clear, predictable process is at the center of every project we deliver.
A luxury home is more than a collection of finishes and floor plans. It is the result of deep listening, thoughtful design and a builder who understands the balance between aesthetics, function, and long-term livability. At Green Elephant Construction, we begin by understanding your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences and functional requirements. From there, we align architecture, design and construction under one roof to give you clarity, predictability and a seamless build experience. We believe in: Transparent communication Structured, predictable phases Architectural precision Homes built level, plumb, square and straight Respect for your investment Craftsmanship that stands the test of time
Your home should not be built on guesswork or unclear expectations. Our approach ensures structure, clarity and transparent communication throughout the entire process. Clients benefit from: Clear expectations and upfront alignment on scope, budget and timeline Consistent updates and a single point of contact throughout the project A team that listens, explains options and follows through You remain informed and supported from concept to completion.
Luxury demands technical precision. Every Green Elephant home is built with strict quality standards to ensure each detail is level, plumb, square and straight. Our team brings decades of combined experience in luxury residential construction, specializing in: Modern, Contemporary, Desert Modern, French Provincial, Country Modern, Santa Fe and Post-Modern homes Complex site conditions, including grading, drainage and hillside coordination Navigating approvals, design boards and community requirements We balance innovation with proven methodologies to deliver homes that are architecturally compelling and built to last.
Our Philosophy
A luxury home is more than a collection of finishes and floor plans. It is the result of deep listening, thoughtful design and a builder who understands the balance between aesthetics, function, and long-term livability.
At Green Elephant Construction, we begin by understanding your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences and functional requirements. From there, we align architecture, design and construction under one roof to give you clarity, predictability and a seamless build experience.
We believe in:
- Transparent communication
- Structured, predictable phases
- Architectural precision
- Homes built level, plumb, square and straight
- Respect for your investment
- Craftsmanship that stands the test of time
A Building Experience Built on Integrity, Excellence and Trust
Your home should not be built on guesswork or unclear expectations. Our approach ensures structure, clarity and transparent communication throughout the entire process.
Clients benefit from:
- Clear expectations and upfront alignment on scope, budget and timeline
- Consistent updates and a single point of contact throughout the project
- A team that listens, explains options and follows through
You remain informed and supported from concept to completion.
Architectural Precision and Superior Craftsmanship
Luxury demands technical precision. Every Green Elephant home is built with strict quality standards to ensure each detail is level, plumb, square and straight.
Our team brings decades of combined experience in luxury residential construction, specializing in:
- Modern, Contemporary, Desert Modern, French Provincial, Country Modern, Santa Fe and Post-Modern homes
- Complex site conditions, including grading, drainage and hillside coordination
- Navigating approvals, design boards and community requirements
We balance innovation with proven methodologies to deliver homes that are architecturally compelling and built to last.
What Sets Us Apart
A True Design–Build Team
With architecture, design coordination, materials guidance and construction management under one roof, we eliminate the disconnects that often create surprises during a custom home build.
Precision Craftsmanship
We uphold strict building standards — ensuring all structural and finish elements are level, plumb, square and straight. This discipline is fundamental to luxury homebuilding.
Expertise in Complex Site Conditions
From grading and drainage to hillside committees and utility constraints, we navigate the technical challenges that come with high-value Arizona properties.
Process Transparency
Weekly updates, predictable milestones and itemized budgets give clients complete visibility throughout their 20–26 month homebuilding journey.
Our Commitment to You
Whether you’re building a new luxury residence or transforming an existing property, we are committed to delivering:
- A home aligned with your lifestyle
- A smooth, guided process
- Transparent communication
- Architectural beauty and structural integrity
- A lasting sense of pride when you walk through your finished home
Clients consistently describe feeling supported, energized and confident — and ultimately in love with the home they move into.
Build With Green Elephant Construction
We proudly serve Tempe, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and Phoenix, bringing together design, craftsmanship and clarity to create homes that last for generations.Start your journey with a design consultation.
Green Elephant Construction designs and builds luxury custom homes and renovations across the Greater Phoenix area.
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