I’m Chris O’Connell, founder and builder behind Innovative Escapes. After more than twenty years working in carpentry and construction, I found myself increasingly drawn to projects that required more than straightforward building—the spaces that called for imagination, thoughtful details, and creative problem-solving.

In 2021, burned out from the grind and ready for a change, my wife and I sold nearly everything, renovated a camper, and hit the road. Over the next few years, we met fellow nomads and toured countless rigs, from full-size tour buses to minivans. No matter the size or style, the best of them shared something in common: every inch had been considered. Function, storage, comfort, and design all worked together to make a small space feel personal, capable, and truly like home.

I became fascinated by that challenge—creating spaces that do more with less while still feeling beautiful and intentional. That interest soon expanded into tiny homes, music and art studios, geodesic structures, and retreat spaces, eventually crystallizing the idea behind Innovative Escapes: a space can serve a practical purpose while also shaping how someone feels within it.

Today, I bring together hands-on construction experience, an eye for design, and a deep attention to detail to create spaces for creativity, gathering, restoration, and connection.

Clients work directly with me throughout the process, from the earliest idea to the final details.

Life can be chaotic. We all need a space that helps us step away, reconnect, and feel more like ourselves.