Our People


Jamie Lyren

Jamie Lyren has over a decade of residential construction experience, including new home construction, custom renovations, remodels and additions. Before forming Cornerstone, Jamie worked for a leading national homebuilder in two capacities. He worked as a field project manager, and later became a manager of the purchasing department where he oversaw the building costs and all financial contracts for the Delaware Valley Region. This is where Jamie's expertise in cost engineering and exceptional project management took root.

Jamie received his Bachelor of Science, Economics with a major in Management & Marketing from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania where he also served as captain of the men's varsity basketball team. At Penn Jamie honed his leadership skills, as well as developed a love for the Philadelphia area. It gives him great satisfaction to serve the beautiful community he now calls home.

Jamie currently resides in Upper Merion with his wife and two sons. He enjoys all sports, the great outdoors, and vacationing at his family's fishing cabin in Quebec.

"I take pride in helping our clients achieve their dreams on time, as well as on budget. There is nothing better than watching a project transform our customer's lives."

Melanie Smart

Melanie Smart achieved a Bachelors of Architecture from Virginia Tech while interning for several award-winning firms in the Washington, DC area. After relocating to Chester County, Melanie joined a design firm out of Kennett Square where she was involved in a wide variety of projects, ranging from historical preservation to institutional to high-end residential projects. Here, Melanie achieved LEED certification to aid clients wishing to incorporate green measures.

Melanie joined Cornerstone to pursue her desire to focus primarily on residential design as well as be part of a design/build team. "Cornerstone provides me with the unique opportunity to be continuously involved in the building process. The design/build model allows everyone to be on the same team. It's an organic business model that gives the client a better product for a better price." With over 15 years experience, she offers clients the creativity and knowledge needed to complete a successful design.

Melanie lives in West Bradford, PA with her family where she's able to enjoy both the urban and rural aspects of this beautiful area.

"I thoroughly enjoy helping clients create a space that is integral in their lives, a space where families make memories. I feel honored to design a place so personal."