Meet Hylas!

Hylas Stemen

At Compass Homes, we take pride in our team of dedicated professionals who breathe life into every custom home we create. Today, the spotlight is on a key player who has been integral to shaping the look and feel of Compass Homes: Hylas Stemen, our Director of Design. With decades of experience and a love for every detail of the home-building process, Hylas brings passion, creativity, and thoughtfulness to everything he does.  

After earning dual bachelor’s degrees in architectural design and construction management from Bowling Green State University, Hylas began what has now become a 30-year journey in home building. Having worked with various Columbus-based builders, his experience spans every aspect of home building, from field supervision to estimating to everything in between. But design is where he found his true calling. “I love architecture, color selections, and interior details,” he explains, and his expertise shows in every home he touches. 

However, Hylas believes that success in home design goes beyond just technical skill – it’s about truly listening to clients and delivering those small, meaningful touches that they light up about. “I’m a great listener when it comes to clients’ needs and wants,” Hylas says. His ability to understand and implement those unique details is what brings joy to his work. 

His journey with Compass began when Mark Braunsdorf – owner of Compass Homes – was looking for outsourcing. What started as a temporary role in 2011 quickly grew into a full-time position, and according to Hylas, working for Compass has been unlike any previous role he’s had.  

“Compass Homes’ team members are the most dedicated I’ve ever worked with in all my years.  For our clients’ experiences.  For what we do each day.  For moving the company forward.  We deliver great homes to wonderful families.” 

According to Hylas, this heart and thoughtful nature is what sets Compass apart from other home builders. It’s also what ensures that every home Compass builds is more than just a structure; it’s a deeply personal experience for the families who live in it. 

Hylas is also thrilled to be a part of the upcoming projects Compass Homes is taking on in Upper Arlington.  

“For me, personally, it’s an honor to create homes to blend with the history and character of a neighborhood I fell in love with when I first moved to Columbus after college.”

At Compass Homes, we’re lucky to have Hylas Stemen as our Director of Design. He has been a key player in making Compass Homes a leader in the custom home building industry as we continue to shape the future of Central Ohio’s communities.

Get to know him further at the Q&A below! 

What are the three things you can’t live without?  ` 

1. Winding country roads  
2. Cool things to photograph  
3. Coffee  

How do you like to spend your free time when you are not working?     

Painting, reading, golf and photography.  Hanging with friends and family. I love to repurpose furniture.  Even I like a Pinterest idea or two!  

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?  

“Keep Going.”