Vern Hardman and the Making of Westshire — A Neighborhood with Heart
Vern C. Hardman Jr. — A Builder with Vision, Heart, and Humor
“Vern” Hardman (1927–2018) was more than a builder — he was a creator of communities. Born in Salt Lake City, Vern grew up with a deep sense of family and faith that guided every part of his life. After serving in the United States military during World War II, he returned home, married his sweetheart Virginia “Gin” McCleve in the Salt Lake Temple in 1948, and together they raised five children.
With a sharp creative mind and an unwavering work ethic, Vern became one of Utah’s most respected homebuilders and developers. As president of Research Homes, Inc., he helped shape modern residential design in the Salt Lake Valley. His innovative spirit and partnership with architect Ronald L. Molen led to the creation of Westshire — a unique Granger subdivision built in the early 1960s that became a national model for family-centered living.
In 1965, Vern’s craftsmanship and imagination earned international recognition when he was named the winner of the Concrete Industries Horizon Homes Program, a prestigious building and merchandising contest covering the U.S. and Canada. His award-winning “Horizon Home” in Westshire featured modern design, open gathering spaces, and Utah-made materials — a reflection of both his ingenuity and his local pride. Vern and Virginia celebrated the honor with an all-expenses-paid world trip, joined by architect Ron Molen and his wife.
Vern’s approach to homebuilding was rooted in community. “A builder must produce something to build up the community,” he said, “instead of just chewing up the land and putting up houses.” That philosophy was evident in every detail of his work — from the family-friendly layouts of Westshire’s homes to the warm materials and spaces that encouraged togetherness.
Outside of his professional life, Vern was known for his kindness, humor, and generosity. A devoted husband and father, he was the person everyone turned to for advice, and he had a gift for lifting others with laughter and practical jokes. A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he served faithfully in many callings and quietly gave to those in need.
Vern often shared his favorite saying: “If we don’t try, we don’t do. And if we don’t do, what are we on this earth for?”
That simple wisdom captured his life’s purpose — to build, to give, and to inspire others to do the same.
Even today, the homes and neighborhoods Vern helped create stand as lasting testaments to his vision and heart — places where families still gather, laugh, and grow, just as he intended.
Home #20: The “The Habitable” – Research Homes
In 1970, the MBA & FHA Home Show showcased 22 model homes built under the FHA 235 Program, highlighting innovation, style, and modern living. Among them, Home #20, known as the “The Habitable”, was designed and decorated entirely by Research Homes and quickly became a favorite of attendees. The home exemplified thoughtful design, creative use of space, and practical features that inspired families across the region. Its popularity reflected the skill and vision of the Hardman-Molen team, who aimed to make every house not just livable, but a home.
