About Us
Rooted in Fairbanks: the DWELL story
As they say, everyone is connected by 6 degrees. But in Fairbanks, we believe our community is only separated by 3 degrees. While both of us grew up in Fairbanks, it wasn’t until a happenstance meeting that we met while training for the Equinox Marathon in 2019. Although we both had different personal motivations for running, the goal was the same: to raise money for Leukemia research. We both shared the determination to complete the marathon and began a lasting friendship and creative partnership to build DWELL in Alaska.
DAVID COSTELLO
I was born and raised in Fairbanks to a fine arts major and a dog musher, both who moved to the Interior of Alaska from the East Coast in the late 60s. Consequently, I spent my early years exploring with my folks by dog team and boat and gained a love for everything wild and outdoors. I graduated from public high school and after several attempts at degrees from the University of Alaska Fairbanks (interrupted by trips to Europe and Canada) I graduated with a bachelors of English and Journalism. After a brief stint as a newspaper reporter around Washington D.C., I began experimenting with finish carpentry, cabinet making and eventually found my sweet spot as a remodeling contractor in Alexandria and Arlington, VA.
After 911 and subsequent Anthrax attacks, I drove home to the comparatively slower life in Alaska. In the following two decades, I raised three kids and operated a successful remodeling business here in Fairbanks. Shortly after running the marathon with Rebecca, I embarked on a 2-year renovation of her family home. Once completed and fast approaching 50 years old, I wanted a change. It was 2021 when I found vacant property near the heart of the City of Fairbanks. Centrally located to the hospital and downtown life, it was perfect, and I took a chance.
The Dwell in Alaska project would be a natural next challenge from remodeling bathrooms and kitchens to standing up two, eight-plex buildings and a steel winged carport. My construction background complemented Rebecca’s design and marketing skills, and three years later we are realizing a dream to provide safe and modern residences to professionals.
REBECCA BRICE HENDERSON
A lifelong Alaskan, I was born at the old St. Joseph’s Hospital in Fairbanks, along the banks of the Chena River. I grew up traveling throughout the state, often by small plane with my family. After graduating with a Social Work degree from UAF, I spent the first decade of my professional life working with at-risk children and families.
Fairbanks is a great location to raise a family, so I did. My boys enjoyed public schools, youth sports, and outdoor adventures before moving on to follow their paths.
As the current owner of Santa’s Travel, I have shared my passion for adventure and love for Alaska, especially Fairbanks, with many clients and friends.
In my spare moments, like so many others in our giving community, I participate in volunteer activities that include family-friendly events such as MUSH FOR KIDS, and answering phones during the KUAC Public Radio and TV pledge drive. My almost decade-long service as a trustee with the Rasmuson Foundation gave me a unique perspective on issues important to Alaskans. Housing is undoubtedly one of our most significant challenges. DWELL in Alaska fills a niche for professional living in the heart of downtown.
I love this new chapter of my life, as I immerse myself in the design and logistics of DWELL in Alaska. If I’m not onsite greeting guests, you can often find me with my dog, St Elias, walking the beautiful nature trails around my home.