His story

Born in North Carolina, Tony Collins moved to the Virginia Peninsula at a young age, where he developed a passion for design and construction that would shape the rest of his life. During high school, he enrolled in a drafting class and was recognized with an award for creating the best and most original house plans in his class. That achievement sparked his lifelong interest in residential design.

After graduating, Tony continued his education at the Newport News Shipbuilding Apprentice School, where he further developed his skills in drafting and design. He later joined Anheuser-Busch, where his dedication, work ethic, and commitment to excellence earned him several awards and recognition from the company. After five successful years, Tony felt called to pursue his dream of owning his own business.

In 1984, he left Anheuser-Busch and founded Custom Design Works, operating the business out of his garage with a vision to provide exceptional craftsmanship and personalized home design. His talent and determination quickly gained recognition, and just one year later, in 1985, he was honored as Outstanding Remodeler of the Year.

As the company continued to grow, Tony opened a storefront on J. Clyde Avenue in Newport News, where Custom Design Works would remain for many years. He expanded his team, hiring skilled employees who shared his commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Under his leadership, the company earned numerous prestigious awards and industry recognitions, including being named one of the Top 50 Remodeling Contractors in the Nation by Remodeling Magazine, receiving the Most Creative and Original Award in the Parade of Homes, and earning the Peninsula Remodelers Council Award recognizing Tony's leadership while serving as chairman. He also received the Peninsula Home Builders Association Award for his leadership of the association's Home for the Homeless community project.

In 1986, Tony was elected President of the Peninsula Remodelers Council, marking the beginning of more than four decades of leadership and service within the remodeling and homebuilding industry.

Tony believed that successful construction began with strong relationships. He took pride in getting to know every customer, listening to their ideas, and working alongside his crews on job sites to ensure every project met his high standards. He had an exceptional ability to transform a client's vision into a home they truly loved, always adding his own creative touch while remaining faithful to their dreams. His passion for design, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction became the foundation of Custom Design Works and the reputation the company continues to uphold today.

Anyone who knew Tony knew his favorite color was red—a color that became synonymous with Custom Design Works and remains part of the company's identity. More than a business owner, Tony was a mentor, leader, craftsman, and visionary whose lifetime of dedication built not only beautiful homes but also lasting relationships throughout the community.

Tony Collins passed away on June 13, 2026, at the age of 70. His legacy lives on through Custom Design Works, the countless families whose homes he helped transform, and the values of integrity, creativity, and craftsmanship that continue to guide the company he built from the ground up.