Illia Zotos, owner of Z Custom Builders in Hollis, recently received the Cornerstone Award from the New Hampshire Home Builders Association for his work on a $2 million residential project in Hollis. Courtesy photo

HOLLIS – Illia Zotos, owner of Z Custom Builders, was recently recognized with the Cornerstone Award from the New Hampshire Home Builders Association for his work on a $2 million residential project.

“This recognition feels especially meaningful because it reflects the care and pride that goes into each project,” he said. “I’m proud to be building locally and contributing to the community I live and work in.”

Working in concert with Babin Landscaping, Zotos said the project began in August 2024 and was completed in May 2025. Work on the 15,000-square-foot home included a theatre room, pool house, free floating watch tower and an 80-foot swimming pool.

“This is one of the better ones I’ve done,” he said, adding that he had done work for the prior homeowner.

Zotos also incorporated the use of air curtains, a technology he brought from his native Australia. Using high-velocity airflow, the curtains push warm air out and keep cool air inside. The curtains, which can be used with an air conditioner, also prevent insects, dust and fumes from getting in the house.

The 80-foot pool and surrounding patio completed by Illia Zotos, owner of Z Custom Builders in Hollis. Courtesy photo

“Every project I take on is personal,” said Zotos. “I’m proud to build locally and to have this work recognized among so many talented builders across New Hampshire.”

Zotos got his start in construction in 2012 flipping houses in Sydney, Australia.

In 2018, he received a call from a friend in the U.S. who needed a project manager. This prompted Zotos to move to Hollis and he built 52 houses in one year.

“I enjoyed what I was doing,” said Zotos.

However, at the same time, he also wanted to have his own company and established Z Custom Builders in 2021.

“I started Z Custom Builders with a very hands-on approach,” he said. “I love seeing a smile on someone’s face at the end of the day. You want to leave a job with the homeowner happy.”