A Complete Package

Construction Resources is a one-stop shop for builders, designers and homeowners

by Robin Howard

With an unwavering commitment to quality and a knack for evolution, Construction Resources stands as a premier partner for builders, designers and homeowners across the Southeast. As a company founded on family values and driven by a spirit of innovation, Construction Resources is more than just a business—it’s a legacy.

The story of Construction Resources began in Decatur, Georgia, in 1970, when Fred Hires and his partners opened Atlanta Marble Manufacturing, specializing in cultured marble. The business grew steadily for more than two decades, eventually setting the stage for a family-led transformation. For Hires’ sons, Mitch and Sonny, the journey was deeply personal. They grew up immersed in the business and purchased a partners share in 1996 with a vision to expand beyond their father’s legacy and meet the evolving demands of the design and construction industry.

What started as a small marble manufacturing company has grown into one of the Southeast’s most prominent design and turnkey installation companies, known for its broad product offerings, expertise and commitment to customer experience. From cultured marble to kitchen countertops, and now a vast array of specialty building products, Construction Resources has become a go-to destination for high-end products and exceptional customer experience.

Recognizing the need for a more comprehensive approach to the design and construction process, Mitch and Sonny Hires expanded the company’s focus by introducing Atlanta Kitchen, which marked the company’s foray into the kitchen countertop market. This expansion set the stage for what would become a period of rapid growth, as the company diversified its product offerings to include everything from appliances and flooring to decorative plumbing and garage doors.

In 2015, Construction Resources took another strategic leap by merging with Builder Specialties, Inc. This merger brought together two powerful entities, creating a true one-stop shop for builders, designers and homeowners. Today, Construction Resources offers a complete range of products and services across nine categories: appliances, countertops, fireplaces, flooring and tile, garage doors, lighting, outdoor living, shower doors and mirrors, and sinks and faucets.

This breadth of offerings has established Construction Resources as a comprehensive resource for any construction or renovation project, big or small. “Our goal has always been to simplify the process for our clients,” explains Amanda Darley, vice president of marketing. “By bringing diverse product categories like appliances, countertops, flooring and more under one umbrella, we’re delivering a one-stop solution that simplifies the selection, planning and installation process—making our customers’ design visions a reality.”

As the company grew, so did the need for physical spaces that could cater to the high demands of both residential and commercial projects. Construction Resources now operates several showrooms across key locations, providing customers with a hands-on experience of the products and services available. Each showroom is designed as a collaborative space where builders, designers and homeowners can explore, envision and bring their projects to life.

In 2025, Construction Resources will unveil two highly anticipated new locations: the CR Design Studio in Buckhead, opening in January, and the Design Center at Westside Paper, which opens in April. These spaces promise to elevate the showroom experience with a blend of high-end products, interactive design tools and curated experiences.

“Our Buckhead and Westside Paper locations are more than just showrooms—they’re design destinations,” says Whitney Klinkenborg, vice president of showrooms. “These spaces will feature a portfolio of luxury brands, including Sub-Zero, Wolf, UMI and Kohler, inspiring clients and allowing them to see and feel the quality firsthand.”

The new design centers are crafted to facilitate the design process, offering digital renderings and curated palettes to help clients visualize their choices. “We want to make the experience as seamless as possible,” adds Klinkenborg. “When clients visit, they’re not just selecting products—they’re building a vision. We’re here to guide them through every step, ensuring they feel energized and excited in the process and confident in their decisions.”

At its core, Construction Resources is a family-oriented company, not only for its leadership but also for its employees and clients. “Our culture is one of support and passion,” says Darley. “Many of our employees have been with us for decades. It’s a testament to the vibrant, inclusive environment we strive to create.”

This family-centered culture also extends to the companies it acquires. “We’re intentional about the businesses we bring into our fold,” says Mitch Hires, CEO. “They’re often family-owned, sharing the same values and dedication to quality and innovation that we stand for. It’s important to us that every acquisition strengthens our mission.”

This commitment to quality and integrity has earned Construction Resources a reputation as a trusted partner in the industry. Whether it’s a kitchen remodel or a multimillion-dollar project, the company’s dedication to excellence shines through in every detail. “We’re a partner that architects and designers can rely on to bring ambitious ideas to life,” says Hires. “Our in-house fabrication capabilities are unmatched and allow us to execute even the most challenging projects to the highest standards.”

As the construction and design industries evolve, so do the defining trends. Klinkenborg and Darley have their fingers on the pulse of these shifts, noting a recent move away from cool grays and toward warmer tones like browns and beiges. “Warm colors are coming back. People are using colors as focal points, layering them up walls, and even using darker colors for cabinets,” says Sonny Hires, executive vice president.

Other trends include the growing popularity of stone used in unexpected ways, such as in doorways and vertical surfaces and the integration of appliances into the home’s overall design. “Lighting is huge right now, especially backlighting and iridescent stones that glow when lit,” Klinkenborg says. “Appliances are becoming more integrated, with more flexibility in hardware and design, giving clients more options to customize.”

As Construction Resources approaches its second half-century, the company remains steadfast in its commitment to quality, service and innovation. With the upcoming Buckhead and Westside Paper showrooms, Construction Resources is poised to continue its legacy as a trusted partner for builders, designers and homeowners alike.

“Our mission is to simplify and elevate the design process for our clients,” Sonny Hires says. “This is a big investment for them, and we want to make it as enjoyable and rewarding as possible. We’re here to support them every step of the way.”

Whether you’re a homeowner envisioning your dream kitchen, a builder executing a complex project or a designer looking to bring a unique vision to life, Construction Resources offers an unparalleled combination of products, expertise and personalized service. For clients across the Southeast, Construction Resources is more than a supplier—it’s a partner in making dreams a reality. *

Robin Howard is a freelance writer in Charleston. See more of her work at robinhowardwrites.com

More Information

CONSTRUCTION RESOURCES

CR Design Center

224 Rio Circle

Decatur, GA 30030

404.378.3132