About Viking Builders & Our Team

Crafting Exceptional Homes, Led by Passion and Precision

Viking Builders isn’t just a construction company—it’s a legacy of craftsmanship, innovation, and passion. Founded by James van de Veerdonk, Viking Builders brings together decades of experience, a commitment to excellence, and a deep respect for Costa Rica’s natural beauty. Every project we take on is more than a build—it’s a partnership, a vision brought to life with precision and care. From luxury homes to sustainable retreats, we create spaces that inspire and endure

A balcony with a small table and two stools overlooking a lush green jungle with tall trees and palm fronds in Costa Rica
Bathroom with beige stone walls, black vessel sink, black faucet, wooden countertop, with a mirror framed in wood, beige towels in a basket, and a sliding glass door leading outside. There is a woven rattan light fixture on the ceiling and some outdoor greenery visible through the door.

Meet the Visionary Behind Viking Builders

James founder of Viking Builders in Costa Rica

Born into the construction world, James van de Veerdonk’s journey began alongside his father at Dutchman Contracting. By the age of 22, he was managing teams of 40+ in Manhattan’s fast-paced luxury building scene, mastering the art of balancing grit with finesse.

After a decade of high-pressure projects in New York, James followed his dream of living by the ocean, moving to Costa Rica in 2021. What started as a personal project to build his own home quickly evolved into Viking Builders—a company rooted in his passion for craftsmanship, sustainability, and creating spaces that connect with nature.

Today, James leads a team of over 50 skilled craftsmen with the same hands-on approach and attention to detail that has defined his career. No job is beneath him, and no detail is overlooked. For James, this isn’t just a career—it’s a calling. Costa Rica is just the beginning of his vision to expand the family legacy with builds that are as thoughtful as they are exceptional

Our Team: The Heart of Viking Builders

  • James founder of Viking Builders in Costa Rica

    James van de Veerdonk

    FOUNDER

    James brings over a decade of experience leading luxury construction projects in New York before founding Viking Builders in Costa Rica. With a passion for craftsmanship, sustainability, and hands-on leadership, he continues his family’s legacy by creating exceptional spaces that connect people with nature.

  • A smiling man with dark hair and a beard standing outdoors with a scenic green landscape and cloudy sky in the background.

    Stif Carrillo Rojas

    ENGINEER

    Stif is a seasoned Civil Engineer with over a decade of expertise in infrastructure design, structural engineering, and construction project management. With a proven track record across diverse real estate, structural, and condominium development projects, he combines technical precision with innovative thinking to deliver high-quality results. Passionate about overcoming complex engineering challenges, Stif is committed to creating sustainable, efficient, and forward-thinking solutions that elevate every project he leads.

  • A woman with shoulder-length black hair smiling in a green indoor garden or greenhouse.

    Carlos Alberto Centeno Rivera

    FIELD SUPERVISOR

    Carlos, originally from Nicaragua, has dedicated the past 10 years to the construction industry in Costa Rica. He has successfully completed high-end projects of all sizes and complexities, bringing expertise and attention to detail to every phase of the work. Skilled in all aspects of construction, Carlos leads and supervises multiple projects with professionalism, setting the standard through his example, dedication, and passion. Fluent in both Spanish and English, he is able to communicate effectively with workers, vendors, and international clients, ensuring clarity and efficiency across every project.

  • Close-up of a young woman with wavy blonde hair outdoors, with water and trees in the background, wearing a colorful top and gold hoop earrings.

    Megan van de Veerdonk

    DESIGN DIRECTOR

    With a love of color, texture, and materials, Megan studied textiles at FIT in New York and spent ten years creating footwear in the city’s fashion district. Today she lives in Costa Rica, turning her eye for detail and passion for design into full-service interiors—styling, planning, and bringing spaces to life from the ground up

  • A man with short dark hair and light skin standing outdoors, wearing a light blue polo shirt, with a serious expression, and a background of trees and a building.

    Graham Weiner

    LANDSCAPE GARDENER