Our Story
CREATING BELONGING THROUGH DESIGN.
Terra Nova is a family-owned design-build construction company located in St. Louis, Missouri. Established by Mike White in 2000, he founded the company on the notion of building homes with integrity and customers for a lifetime. By relying solely on client referrals as a means of growth, Terra Nova's success has been measured by our ability to service customers and build a quality reputation.
Family has always been our foundation.
Mike's vision was to create a company that he was proud of, which could also support his wife and daughter. Little did he know as the years went by, not only would Terra Nova support his family, but his family would support Terra Nova into the next generation of building. In 2010, Adam Schmitz became a great addition to Terra Nova as Mike’s son-in-law and architect. In 2016, Mike’s daughter and interior designer, Ashley, realized the time was perfect to join Terra Nova after starting a family of her own.
Design-minded construction.
Terra Nova has evolved through the years. The cornerstone was established with Mike's reputation as a builder and expanded with Adam and Ashley's design backgrounds. We speak design and know what will work to bring out the character of a home. We believe in creating spaces that help families find a sense of belonging in their own home.
Building the next generation.
In 2023, Terra Nova began a new chapter in its story. Adam and Ashley took over as owners of the company and moved Terra Nova into the heart of Kirkwood. Terra Nova remains a family to them, from the employees to the homeowners and the community. With a strong foundation and fresh vision for the future, they are committed to helping you tell the next chapter in the story of your home.
"Every home has a story, we help build the next chapter."
Ashley Schmitz
COLLABORATOR. ENCOURAGER. HELPER.
Missouri State University, Bachelor Degree in Housing & Interior Design
WIth a passion for design and love for the history of St. Louis area homes, Ashley's desire is to help restore area homes and communities while creating a sense of belonging for local families. She thrives at working alongside a larger team of professionals to build out a vision for each home. Relationships are important to her, and she demonstrates it through her genuineness and care for others. Her hope is to use her knowledge, skills, and experience for the benefit of others as she continually looks for ways to generously give back to the local community.
Adam Schmitz
DREAMER. DESIGNER. BUILDER.
Drury University, Bachelor Degree in Architecture
Adam Schmitz is a licensed professional Architect and has used his education and training to help mold Terra Nova into the design-build firm that it is today. He shares in Ashley's passion for the history of St. Louis homes, and enjoys the complexity of working on them. Adam values uplifting others and demonstrates that through his commitment to nonprofit work, caring for employees, parenting, and coaching youth sports. He believes in creating a better world around him by serving others with care, compassion, and respect.
