GREAT OAK is a premiere builder, restorer, renovator and seller of fine Philadelphia-area homes and businesses. Based in Chestnut Hill, we combine the detail and craftsmanship of historic design with the conveniences and amenities of a modern lifestyle.

Built on Passion

Having moved to the Chestnut Hill area of Philadelphia in 1994, William S. "Bill" Smilow immediately became enamored with the classic architectural style of this historic area. In 1996, Bill established Great Oak Holdings, Inc. in order to bring modern amenities to the interiors of these homes, while restoring and preserving the original integrity of their exterior structures. Today, Bill and his architectural and design team employ only the finest craftsmen, who utilize the best techniques and building materials available on the market. By combining old-world, on-site custom construction and the finest mill shops in the area, Great Oak can produce and install cabinetry to your personal specifications — for kitchens, baths, or and other special place in your home. In addition, Great Oak has successfully carried these building practices into the construction of new homes in the metropolitan Philadelphia region. All new homes by Great Oak are designed and built in keeping with the existing area's architecture — many constructed of stone indigenous to the area, with steeply pitched slate roofs and copper-wrapped, arched-top dormers.