F.C. Batton & Sons, Inc.
A Legacy to Build On

The builders at F .C. Batton & Sons have been plying their trade since 1902. That's right, 1902! But Rick and Scott Batton don't have the white hair one might associate with someone nearly a century old; they are quite clearly today's generation of the Batton builders who trace their beginnings proudly to the turn of the century.

The original company was incorporated in 1947 with Rick and Scott's grandfather and father. The younger Battons were reared "on the job" and have been running the business since returning home from college in the early '80s. This fourth generation is still modeling the way they run things on the success of their predecessors- and it is paying off. In fact, just recently a client came to Rick and Scott requesting that they build his retirement home with the same caring attitude their grandfather had displayed in building the gentleman's first house.

A dentist, for whom the elder Battons had done some work in1957, contacted F.C. Batton & Sons to inquire whether this was the same builder. Their father's main focus was building custom homes. Fred Batton's success stemmed from his relationship with his clients, which in turn brought referrals that kept him busy in the decades of the' 50s, '60s '70s.

A view of the dining room, through the columned doorway, is just to the right of the entry. Click picture to see larger view.

Using their father as a role model, who still gives Scott and Rick building advice, makes people feel confident in the substantiality of F.C. Batton & Sons. The prospective buyer knows this builder will be around because they have been around. The philosophy of 1902 is the philosophy of today. The outstanding quality for a fair price and having the experience to bring a project to completion within schedule and budget are goals that have been attained by all generations of F.C. Batton & Sons.

Although the history of the company speaks for itself, the Battons are quick to point out that other factors have also contributed to their success. The loyalty and working relationships that Rick and Scott have with their subcontractors and employees are definitely a positive force.

Batton has not laid off an employee for over 20 years, and their subs are experienced and dependable. Their electrician has been a part of the operation for 35 years; the heating sub, 15 years; the plumber, five years; the excavator, 30 years; the painter, 10 years; and the drywall man, 25 years. Natural attrition brings in just enough new blood to keep things fresh and up-to-date.

To the left of the entry is this stately but comfortable living room. Click picture to see larger view.

Rick and Scott are experienced themselves in stonework, framing, concrete, roofing, siding, trim and flooring. They have their own trim and frame crew. The Battons know what their subs are doing and whether the work is being done correctly. Their suppliers are tried and true, for an all-around 100% understanding among everyone on the job.

All of their work is custom, and much of it comes from architect referrals, because the Battons believe that an architect's professional experience helps the team concept with the client to achieve the final goal of a satisfied customer. Some notable architects they are currently working with are Jeffrey Penza, Bruce Finkelstein, Edward Haladay and Donald Radcliff.

Another ingredient for success, according to Rick Batton, is simply, "We don't turn away work because of the size or location of the job." F.C. Batton & Sons has the ability to do a wide variety of building - whether it be a $35,000 garage or a $3 million custom job. Renovations and additions make up approximately 20% of the business to complete the new home production.

The luxury bath displays the tasteful use of marble in the home, as well as the skylights and glass block that give a feeling of warmth from utilizing the natural light. Click picture to see larger view.

They have built in many locations, ranging from Ann Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Harford and Howard Counties to Baltimore City, Gibson Island and the Eastern Shore. Most of their work comes from the client who has their own lot and puts their project out to bid. Staying competitive and doing a good job is a balance that can't be sacrificed. Knowing the construction business in every minute detail allows the diversity that ensures constant work.

A history of quality building and reliability almost 100 years old certainly includes a close working relationship with the clients. But Rick Batton goes one step further when he talks about getting to know his clients. "We pride ourselves in the realization that when we finish a house, we have gained a new friend." Members of HBAM, Rick and Scott are also members of the Better Business Bureau.

In another home in Hunt Spring, an interesting combination of cherry, pine and oak blend together well in the kitchen. The home was designed by Bruce Finkelstein, A.I.A. Click picture to see larger view.

Congratulations to F.C.Batton & Sons, Builder/Architect Magazine's Builder of the Month!