About Our Team

Welcome to Tomlinson Schultz. For over 30 years we have built and assisted in designing fine custom homes in western Minnesota and eastern North Dakota. Our approach is informed by our commitment to quality craftsmanship, honest practices and the unique needs of each client, resulting in projects with aesthetic integrity and practical usability.

Our Team

The quality of the work we do is a reflection of our dedicated and skilled team. Our in-house carpenters are the backbone of this company. On each project our team is actively supervising, building and ensuring the quality of work meets our clients' satisfaction. This seasoned group welcomes the new challenges that each job brings. We are a company that says, “Yes” in response to our client’s needs. This positive spirit is shared by the sub-contractors and craftsmen involved, all of whom share our commitment to detail and integrity.

Our Story

The Tomlinson’s history of building began with the unlikely marriage of lumber and dairy. In 1940 Dana’s father, Mack Tomlinson, was the owner and operator of a creamery when he recognized a need in his community of Callaway, Minnesota. Farmers were complaining about the driving distance to purchase lumber, and being an entrepreneur, Mack began selling building materials as a side business. This venture marked the beginnings of the longstanding Tomlinson Lumber. Dana’s roots in the lumber yard acted as a springboard to a career in carpentry, which led him and his wife, Rita to starting their business building spec homes in northern California early in their marriage. Encouraged by this experience they moved their business back home to Detroit Lakes, Minnesota in 1991 and began building custom homes in the lakes area.

Our Partners

Dana Tomlinson

Dana has been in the building trade for over thirty years. This experience in the field has equipped him to understand the complex components involved in building a satisfying and sound home. Coupling his expertise with clients' vision is something he greatly enjoys. His anticipation of needs and eye for detail has created a culture of perfection in the company.

Rita Tomlinson

Even before her career in the building business Rita enjoyed the art of creating beautiful environments. Her sense of hospitality informs her approach to welcoming and practical design. This talent has also been shaped by her involvement in the hands-on work of building alongside her husband, Dana. She is an instigator of encouragement and unity within her team and takes joy in extending this generosity to clients.

Mark Schultz

Before becoming a partner with Dana and Rita, Mark was involved in various business ventures. His diverse background and entrepreneurial spirit has brought strength to the company. He believes meeting new challenges with excitement is what makes his team distinct and leaders in the industry.

Testimonials

“We don't have enough words to say how great building a home with Tomlinson Schultz was. The entire building process was so positive, a blessing for our family.

Integrity, respect, attention to detail, timeliness, excellence, and outstanding are all words to describe our experience building a home with them. Perhaps the highest praise is to simply say we'd only use Tomlinson Schultz for any future project!”

–Larry and Julie Leitner

“Rather than see issues as problems, they see them as challenges with a visionary opportunity to improve on the status quo.”

–Dr. Paul Hendrickson

“We are so grateful for Dana, Rita, Mark and the entire Tomlinson Schultz team. Having built two totally different projects with them, we couldn't be happier with both places. Our cabin is perfect for our family and is a retreat for us in the summer and our home is the most beautiful place for us to raise our three boys! The Tomlinson Schultz team does such great work and are great people!”

–Matt and Bridget Cullen

“Thanks for your amazing skill and ability in realizing our ideas! As always, it’s a pleasure working with you. Your clients are fortunate to have your expertise and fine craftsmanship!”