LAFAYETTE, Colorado — July 10, 2025 — Watson Mills & Design (WMD), a national leader in custom architectural woodworking, announces the acquisition of Genesis Innovations, a premier multigenerational woodworking firm based in Loveland, Colorado. Expected to close in early July 2025, the acquisition marks a major step in expanding WMD’s national presence, enhancing operational scale, and uniting three respected millwork entities under a shared vision—while maintaining their individual identities.
Genesis Innovations brings over four decades of experience shaped by four generations of the Preuss family. While known for its work with premier hospitality destinations such as The Little Nell, The Broadmoor, 1 Hotels, and Four Seasons, Genesis is firmly rooted in the high-end residential market. Its longstanding showroom in the Vail Valley serves a loyal base of single- and multi-family residential designers and general contractors, reflecting its deep connection to the region’s residential design community. The company operates a 70,000 sq. ft. production facility with an additional 45,000 sq. ft. expansion planned, supporting continued growth and client demand.
With the addition of Genesis, WMD significantly expands its production capabilities across multiple locations in Colorado. WMD operates from a 50,000 sq. ft. facility in Lafayette with a team of 60, while Schacht Mill Works—acquired by WMD in 2019—adds another 55,000 sq. ft. of production space and a team of 40. SMW enhanced WMD’s capabilities with advanced wood processing, kiln drying, and veneering services.
The acquisition of Genesis brings the combined workforce from approximately 100 to 175 team members. Collectively, WMD, SMW, and Genesis represent an operational model that leverages scale and shared expertise while preserving the unique identities of each business. “The combination of these three companies brings an unprecedented amount of experience, capability, and capacity to the residential markets,” said Gunter Preuss, owner of Genesis Innovations.
“Together with Genesis Innovations, this acquisition allows us to serve more market segments and clients with a broader range of capabilities,” said Todd Palmer, Owner of WMD. “We are welcoming 75 experienced professionals, bringing an immense amount of knowledge into the company while fostering a culture where people can learn and grow. That’s where my heart is.”
The companies are united by a culture grounded in people-first leadership, professional growth, humility, and excellence. Genesis’ location strengthens access to labor markets in Northern Colorado and enhances the organization’s reach in key mountain regions including the Vail Valley, Jackson Hole, and the Yellowstone Club area. The combined group will be better positioned to support a wider range of high-end projects.
“The Preuss family has interviewed a few select buyers in recent years and we have found that the personal and business values we have witnessed in the Palmers exactly align with the goals for our company’s future,” added Preuss. “We are excited about the legacy that this leaves for our family, our employees, and our customers.”
This acquisition is centered on long-term opportunity and expansion. With complementary talent, enhanced operational capacity, and a shared commitment to quality and service, Watson Mills & Design and its affiliated companies are positioned to set a new benchmark for architectural woodworking nationwide—delivering value to clients while building a future defined by craftsmanship, trust, and enduring partnerships.
About Watson Mills & Design
Watson Mills & Design specializes in the design, fabrication, and installation of custom woodworking for monumental residential estates across the United States. With a 50-year legacy built on word-of-mouth referrals and repeat work, the company is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and highly skilled team. Watson Mills & Design primarily partners with builders and developers on new construction and large-scale remodels, delivering complex, detail-driven projects that result in true works of art. To learn more, visit www.watsonmills.com.
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Media Contact:
Todd Palmer
Owner, Watson Mills & Design
tpalmer@watsonmills.com
