ABOUT US

The Mercatus group was founded in 2001 by Joao Coutinho. It offers full general contracting, build and historic preservation and new construction services to owners and architects who share a commitment to Nantucket’s rich architectural heritage and early building trades.

We help homeowners to preserve Nantucket’s distinctive historic buildings and to produce new buildings that faithfully continue this architectural tradition. We take pride in every project. As experienced tradesmen and preservationists, we have developed an intimate, hands-on understanding of the unique virtues of the historic building tradition. The old home carries unique subtleties that one gradually appreciates over time. Worn thresholds, hand-planed woodwork, wavy glass, nostalgic widows-walks … these are the nuances that give life and soul to the home. We offer the ability to recreate or restore these textures while fully accommodating the demands of modern living.

Preservation of our historic built environment depends on a centuries old legacy of traditional building trades. Every one of our projects is an opportunity to pass on a worthwhile and lasting architectural tradition therefore preserving Nantucket and its history for future generations. Our mission is to help to maintain the viability of these important skills and to preserve their availability to the historic built environment.

Joao Coutinho

Born in Lisbon, Portugal, Joao started coming to Nantucket since 1996. He spent the summers working on the island and the rest of the year attending Derby University and University of Southampton both in England; where, despite studying history of arts and architecture for a few years, Joao went on to attain Bachelor degrees in Film Studies and American Studies. With his background of History of Art and American History together with his love for construction, Joao found in Nantucket a perfect fit for his undeniable skills and interests.

Preservation of our historic built environment depends on a centuries old legacy of traditional building trades. Every one of our projects is an opportunity to pass on a worthwhile and lasting architectural tradition therefore preserving Nantucket and its history for future generations. Our mission is to help to maintain the viability of these important skills and to preserve their availability to the historic built environment.