Rooted in Highlands.
Built on Relationships.
We help builders, architects, and homeowners bring exceptional projects to life with quality products, honest service, and true local expertise.
Built Here. Backed by Experience.
Our History of
Building Great Things
Highlands Hardware & Lumber was built for the people who build here. Our company exists to make sourcing premium materials simple, reliable, and personal for professionals and homeowners across Highlands, Cashiers, Franklin, and Western North Carolina.
We combine trusted brands, hands-on guidance, and local follow-through that national suppliers can’t match. When you work with our team, you get more than great products. You get partners who understand your project, your timelines, and your expectations for quality.
We combine trusted brands, hands-on guidance, and local follow-through that national suppliers can’t match. When you work with our team, you get more than great products. You get partners who understand your project, your timelines, and your expectations for quality.
meet our team
Built by People Who Build Here
Local expertise. Proven leadership. A shared commitment to serve this community with excellence.
Derek Taylor
Owner and President
Derek Roland
Vice President of Operations
Phil Potts
Window and Door Manager
Jonathan Austin
Hardware Manager
Our Story
Highlands Hardware began in 1983 when Mike Bryson opened a small local hardware store built on one simple idea: serve builders well.
Through the 1990s and 2000s, Jack Taylor and John Bauknight expanded that vision, bringing in Phil Potts, who launched the first dedicated window and door division.
In 2005, Derek Taylor took ownership and grew the business into a trusted name across the Highlands area. After selling in 2019, Derek saw a clear need for something the market was missing: a locally owned, full-service supplier focused on premium building materials and real relationships.
Now, in 2025, that legacy continues with Highlands Hardware & Lumber Company, led by Derek Taylor, Derek Roland, Phil Potts, and Jonathan Austin.
Our mission is simple. Help builders, architects, and homeowners get the right products and the right support every time.
Through the 1990s and 2000s, Jack Taylor and John Bauknight expanded that vision, bringing in Phil Potts, who launched the first dedicated window and door division.
In 2005, Derek Taylor took ownership and grew the business into a trusted name across the Highlands area. After selling in 2019, Derek saw a clear need for something the market was missing: a locally owned, full-service supplier focused on premium building materials and real relationships.
Now, in 2025, that legacy continues with Highlands Hardware & Lumber Company, led by Derek Taylor, Derek Roland, Phil Potts, and Jonathan Austin.
Our mission is simple. Help builders, architects, and homeowners get the right products and the right support every time.
THE HIGHLANDS STANDARD
Quality That Lasts
Every product we supply meets our standard for strength, beauty, and performance. From aluminum-clad casement windows to Emtek hardware, we choose materials that stand up to the mountain climate and look exceptional doing it.
Built for Every Project
From new builds to renovations, we deliver precision and reliability. Our process is built around accuracy, timing, and trusted supply so your job runs smoother.
Partners You Trust
Builders, designers, and homeowners rely on our team for deep product knowledge and consistent follow-through. We understand mountain construction and help you get every detail right.
Service With Purpose
From first consultation to final delivery, our team stays hands-on. We focus on clear communication, careful coordination, and results that reflect the quality of your work.
Trusted Brands.
Proven Performance.
We partner with Jeld-Wen, PlyGem, Plastpro, Therma-Tru, LaCantina, Arcadia, Simpson, Windsor, and Emtek to give builders and homeowners access to premium materials backed by local support.
Why Builders
Choose Highlands Hardware & Lumber
We are not just a supplier.
We are partners in execution. We know what it takes to build in the mountains and get it right the first time.
Every order reflects decades of combined industry experience and the pride of a team that calls Highlands home.
Every order reflects decades of combined industry experience and the pride of a team that calls Highlands home.
Testimonials
The people who build in these mountains set a higher standard.
Here’s what they have to say about working with Highlands Hardware and Lumber.
Let’s Build Something Exceptional
Remarkable homes start with the right materials and the right team.
