About Us
Multi-Generational. Local. Award-Winning.
You can’t talk about Cornerstone Homes without starting with Mark Downing, who brought decades of lumber knowledge to the homebuilding experience and earned the respect of the local building community, including serving as President of the Northeast Florida Builders Association.
Mark believed craftsmanship wasn’t about counting your money at the end of the day. It was about being proud of the work you left behind. That belief shaped CornerStone from the very beginning. Mark believed in creating the ultimate customer service experience while delivering a quality built home. He is known for creating the Warranty Process we still uphold to this day which proves Cornerstone’s responsibility doesn’t end when the job is done.
Mark’s son, Caleb, grew up learning the home building business and started with a broom in his hand sweeping houses (something you will still catch him doing today). His Dad taught him that shortcuts always show up later, and that details matter because people live with them every day. Trust, once earned, had to be protected.
When Caleb and his wife, Taylor, took ownership of CornerStone, they didn’t try to change that foundation. They strengthened it and continue to evolve it into the Custom Home Experience you get today.
Today, Caleb brings deep construction knowledge and remains closely involved throughout every build. Taylor brings creativity and a thoughtful eye for the design details and custom touches that make a home feel personal. Together they enjoy working with clients on the choices that turn a house into something that truly fits them.
Outside of work, Northeast Florida is home for the Downings, too. They have 4 beautiful children and enjoy spending time with their large extended family, the outdoors (especially the beach!), as well as cheering on the Jacksonville Jaguars—even when it’s a long season.
At its heart, CornerStone is, and will always be, a family business grounded in care for the people who live in the homes we get to build.
Why Choose Cornerstone
We’re in Your Corner
Over two decades serving
Northeast Florida
Building homes throughout Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and surrounding communities for more than 25 years.
Family-owned, owner-led & guided by strong values
A hands-on approach shaped by faith, family, and pride in the work, with a focus on closer attention, clearer communication, and real accountability.
Full-service,
collaborative approach
Planning, design coordination, construction management, and follow-throughs are handled in-house, with the homeowner involved throughout. From architectural drawings to the finished product, you work with the owners of Cornerstone throughout.
Award-winning
customer service
Recognized by the Northeast Florida Builders Association with multiple Golden Service Awards for exceptional client experience.
Award-winning
craftsmanship
Honored with multiple Golden Laurel Awards recognizing excellence in building.
Meet the Team
Mark Downing
CONSULTANT
Caleb Downing
BUILDER, Co-OWNER
Taylor Downing
Sales COORDINATOR, Co-oWNER
Darold Wallace
building contractor
Jessica Boyett
Closing and office Manager, pre-construction coordinator
Maria Wallace
Comptroller, Accounting Manager
Chris Beckner
Builder SUPPORT
Steve Forrest
Builder