The Quiet Founding of Ceci Bates Custom Homes

The founding of a company is often conveyed as a singular moment — a specific year, a handshake, a name on a sign. In truth, the creation of a business is usually a longer and quieter process, rooted in years of prior work and carried forward through continual refinement.

Tom Ceci had been constructing homes in the Lake Texoma region since the 1980s, long before Ceci Bates Custom Homes bore his name. He developed his approach, established standards, and formed relationships with local tradespeople well in advance of its founding date in 1999. When Scott Bates joined Tom, the two formed a partnership that would define their namesake company. This partnership, expressed through the company name Ceci Bates, marked the beginning of a journey that’s now spanned over twenty-six years.

The company began as a modest, two-person operation, with Tom and Scott directly involved in the design and construction of every home. Over time, their shared vision has guided its evolution into a firm known for its bespoke approach. Today, Ceci Bates employs nine core professionals and collaborates with a network of specialists extending to multiple countries.

Even as the company has expanded in scale and complexity, the partnership remains grounded in the strengths established at its inception. Tom continues to oversee the production aspects, leveraging his vast experience, while serving as the mayor of Pottsboro. Scott maintains focus on client work and the intricate details of design and engineering. The strength of their partnership lies in a shared understanding of the purpose and value of their work.

The longevity of Ceci Bates Custom Homes is a testament to the early agreement between its founders about the kind of company they wanted to build. To learn more about our enduring approach, visit cecibates.com.