ABOUT LANCASTER
Lancaster Custom Builder was founded in 2015, but the Lancaster team has delivered dream homes to Richmond families for more than two generations. Our family owned and operated building company has developed a reputation on the timeless values of uncompromising quality and integrity. It is our commitment to continue our rich tradition of building and improving the finest custom homes in Richmond, and creating lasting relationships with our homeowners.
Meet The Team
As of 2026, the Lancaster team has more than 40 years of combined experience in the custom home business offering uncompromising quality and integrity. Meet the members of our team who will help you bring your vision to life.
Robert Lancaster
CO-FOUNDER
As co-founder of Lancaster Custom Builder, Robert oversees the firm’s strategic growth, upholding its culture of excellence, cultivating exceptional standards and quality, and providing seamless, solution-driven support as needs arise.
Robert earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2003. He began his career with a custom home builder and developer in Wilmington, North Carolina. After graduating from William & Mary’s Mason School of Business in 2011, he gained valuable experience with a local land investment company before co-founding Lancaster Custom Builder in 2014 with his brother, Thomas.
Outside of work, Robert enjoys spending time with his family—especially traveling and beach trips. He’s also an avid outdoorsman who enjoys golfing, hunting, and fishing.
Thomas Lancaster
CO-FOUNDER
As Head of Construction, Thomas oversees the Project Managers from the preliminary stages of planning through job completion. Leading the company’s business operations, he provides leadership and structure to how jobs should be run. Thomas works closely with clients and the team to ensure every home reflects exceptional quality, thoughtful design, and lasting value.
Thomas earned his BA from Randolph-Macon College in 2001. Once he finished school he started his building career working in the family business with his father. In 2014, Thomas and his brother Robert formed Lancaster Custom Builder which focuses on new single family homes as well as additions and renovations. Thomas values the relationships he builds with clients and trade partners throughout every project.
When Thomas is not working, he loves to spend time on the golf course, hunting or time at the beach. He is on the Board of Trustees of Riverside School. Thomas and his wife Christiana have 2 children Caroline and T who are growing up way too fast in Thomas’s opinion.
Chas Armistead
ESTIMATOR & PROJECT COORDINATOR
As Estimator and Project Coordinator, Chas oversees budgeting and pre-construction planning while supporting project managers to maintain quality, accuracy, and efficiency across every build.
A 2013 graduate of James Madison University with a degree in Business, Chas began his career with a national homebuilder in Northern Virginia, managing a range of projects from single-family homes to urban infill developments. After relocating to Richmond, he shifted his focus to estimating and purchasing, bringing both field and operational experience when he joined Lancaster in 2020.
Outside of work, Chas enjoys traveling, live music, and golf. He and his wife are active supporters of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. A native of Morgantown, West Virginia, Chas is — unsurprisingly — a devoted Mountaineers fan.
Elizabeth Bowers
OFFICE MANAGER & BOOKKEEPER
As Office Manager and Bookkeeper at Lancaster Custom Builder, Elizabeth handles day-to-day office operations and manages client accounts with precision and care. Her attention to detail and strong organizational skills help keep the business running smoothly behind the scenes.
Elizabeth earned her bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University. She spent several years working in a law firm before transitioning into the arboriculture industry, where she earned valuable experience in client relations, account management, and overall business operations. She joined Lancaster Custom Builder in 2025.
Outside of work, Elizabeth enjoys spending time outdoors with her two dogs, taking care of her pet pigs, and escaping to the mountains. She enjoys hiking, quiet weekends at home, and any chance to unwind in nature.
John Barnes
PROJECT MANAGER
As a Project Manager at Lancaster Custom Builder, John is responsible for overseeing all phases of construction. He spends his days on-site managing subcontractors, vendors, and crews to ensure each project is completed on schedule, within budget, and to the highest quality standards—bringing clients’ dream homes to life.
John’s journey in construction began in 1996 while he was still in high school, working as a carpenter’s helper. He continued building his skills through residential fix-and-flip projects while attending Virginia Commonwealth University. After graduating, he moved into estimating and project management with custom home builders, where he developed a strong passion for high-end, detail-driven projects. This experience set the stage for John to join the team at Lancaster Custom Builder in 2022 and further his commitment to craftsmanship and client satisfaction.
Outside of work, John enjoys riding and working on bikes, fishing, attending concerts, and exploring Richmond’s vibrant food scene.
Justin Phillips
PROJECT MANAGER
As a Project Manager at Lancaster Custom Builder, Justin oversees the planning and execution of custom residential projects—ensuring every detail is delivered with precision, quality, and care. He joined the company in December 2023, bringing over 20 years of hands-on experience in the construction industry.
Originally from Bradford, Pennsylvania, Justin grew up in Chesapeake, Virginia, and has called Richmond home since 1999. His construction career began shortly after high school, working alongside his father who owned a small construction company that specialized in interior trim and cabinetry for large multi-family developments. Growing up on job sites instilled in him a strong work ethic and a deep respect for the trades.
Following his father's retirement, Justin transitioned into custom-trim carpentry and later into high-end residential remodeling carpentry before moving into project management. His background in the field gives him a practical, detail-oriented approach to managing complex projects, and he enjoys the processes and challenges in custom home building.
Outside of work, Justin enjoys spending time with his family. He and his beautiful wife, Danielle, were married in 2017 and welcomed their daughter, Harper, in 2021. They share their home with two dogs, Bill and Oliver, and a cat named Libby. In his free time, Justin enjoys woodworking, hunting, fishing, and being outdoors with his family.
Generations of Uncompromising Quality.
Whether you’re building a luxury home, addition, or guest house, Lancaster Custom Builder listens and works closely with each client to deliver a final product that satisfies your every design specification. While each client and project is different, what remains consistent is our commitment to delivering the highest quality and value through a process that’s efficient, fun, and deeply personalized. At the end of the day, we want a relationship as long lasting as your home.