Our History
Brisa Builders Corp. is a family-owned development, construction management and general construction contracting firm founded by the late Lilly W. Keller under the advisement and support of her husband the late Thomas B. Keller. Together, the couple had a combined 70 years of experience in general contracting, construction management, real estate development consultation and property management. Beginning with Bedford-Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation — the nation’s first community Development Corporation created by the joint efforts of Senators Robert Kennedy and Jacob Javits, Mr. Keller began his career as “a true community builder- for the community- by the community”.
For both faith-based and community based organizations, as well as New York City agencies Mr. Keller served as liaison between architects, lawyers, and owners and other general contractors in the building of housing for senior citizens, homeless persons, low and moderate-income persons. He distinguished himself as human resource engine in the minority community, employing numerous sub-contractors and providing invaluable training in the construction and real estate management industries.
1967
Restoration Plaza
Thomas joined Restoration as VP/General Manager of Construction. He was responsible for building the headquarters for Restoration in the former Sheffield Milk Farm in Bedford Stuyvesant and led construction for the organization’s first 800 units of affordable housing.
1997
Brisa Builders Corp.
Lilly and Thomas Keller founded Brisa Builders Corp. and completed 8 HUD 202s projects.
2012
Ericka Keller
Brisa Builders participates in its first development project, Berean Apts. Ericka Keller joins the organization.
2016
Brisa Builders Development LLC
Brisa Builders Corp. constructs its second development project, Thomas and Lilly Keller (TLK) Manor. Brisa Builders Development LLC is founded with a focus on developing affordable housing with faith- based organizations.
2018
Brisa Builders Development LLC
Winner of NYC RFPs in which the organization expands its client base to work with secular nonprofit organizations for the development of affordable housing.
