Chris Rapczynski didn’t begin with a grand vision of leading Boston’s luxury construction industry. He started as a landscaper, learning the fundamentals of outdoor design and construction from the ground up. Moving into residential construction, he began buying and flipping condominiums in Boston. His eye for detail and commitment to quality caught the attention of clients requesting his services for their projects. This organic growth laid the foundation for one of Boston’s most respected construction firms.

“I’ve never divided real estate development, construction, and designing as individual disciplines,” Chris Rapczynski explains. “I’ve always thought of them as all the same thing but from different perspectives.” This integrated approach led him to found Sleeping Dog Properties in 1993, naming the company after his black lab, which could often be found sleeping on job sites. The name stuck, becoming a memorable brand that resonates with clients and contractors alike. Today, the company spends upwards of $15,000 annually on branded merchandise that’s highly sought after by clients, subcontractors, and team members.

Built on Strong Foundations

A mentor’s advice early on shaped Rapczynski’s business philosophy: take everything one day at a time. “Construction is different than many things in life,” Rapczynski shares. “Running a company is in perpetuity, chaotic, and evolutionary. While you must be mindful of longer-term prospects as a business owner, I don’t let them affect me emotionally. I look at the day-to-day and take it day by day.” This approach has proven valuable during challenging times, including the recent pandemic and supply chain disruptions.

Under Rapczynski’s leadership, Sleeping Dog Properties developed five key strengths: disciplined processes, uncompromising quality, exceptional people, proven durability, and substantial resource networks. “We deliver quality with the spare-no-expense mentality,” Rapczynski states. “There’s never a project out there that we’ve done that’s not great.” This commitment to excellence has attracted top talent to the company, with Rapczynski often paying above-market rates to retain the best professionals in the field.

Masters of the Market

The firm has flourished during various market conditions, including economic downturns. “In most recessions, we flourish,” Rapczynski notes. There’s more of an employee base available, more subcontractors available, and our client base tends to be buyers in the low time.” This adaptability has helped the firm complete over $500 million in construction projects across residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors. Notable projects include work on Boston’s Millennium Tower, Newton Pediatrics, and numerous high-end residential properties throughout the greater Boston area.

The company’s success stems from its strong relationships with clients and subcontractors. Rapczynski’s team has built such solid partnerships that they maintain access to resources even during industry-wide shortages. “Because we’re so durable and we deliver such a high-quality product, we’ve built strong relationships. We represent and have the communication of all the suppliers, material men, and subcontractors that make us a formidable challenge to any of our competitors.”

The Success of Sleeping Dog Properties Continues

After three decades leading Boston’s construction scene, Chris Rapczynski remains focused on sustained excellence. His company continues expanding into new markets while maintaining its reputation for exceptional quality. With a growing portfolio of projects and a strong team, Sleeping Dog Properties stands among the top five contractors in its market. The firm’s success stems from its founder’s commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and client service, proving that taking the road less traveled can lead to remarkable destinations.