Last updated on May 21st, 2024 at 04:13 am
Located east of Downtown Los Angeles, San Gabriel Valley spans 31 cities. Today, almost the entire valley is urbanized, and it plays an integral part in the Greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. It is one of the most diverse regions in the country with an outstanding quality of life and a thriving market.
With nearly two million residents, the commercial industry is booming with business. San Gabriel Valley is home to leading educational institutions, rocket scientists, and entertainment industry professionals. There’s no shortage of sites to visit with historic places, sporting events, and horse racing tracks. These assets have attracted developers and executives for business opportunities.
We have compiled a list of the 15 best commercial contractors in San Gabriel Valley, California. These firms have a strong workforce, diverse portfolios, and a wide range of certifications and awards. Ready to contribute to the growth of the local economy, clients can find the right contractor to partner with for their next commercial undertaking.
Alpha Construction Co. Inc.
14601 Aetna Street, Van Nuys, CA 91411
With over half a century of experience, Alpha Construction has served Southern California as a premier general contractor. To date, it has completed over a billion dollars worth of construction projects. The firm offers full-service, large-scale building capabilities and develops long-lasting relationships with its business partners. By sharing its expertise through every stage of planning and construction, the team achieves the highest level of service.
The award-winning firm can meet all general contracting needs from pre-construction through completion. Its pre-construction services include cost estimating, budget development, value engineering, and constructability consulting. Participating from the very beginning of construction can help mitigate unnecessary costs and maximize efficiency. It also gives clients the full experience that Alpha Construction has to offer.
Alpha Construction specializes in commercial projects with a focus on tax-credit affordable housing and market-rate multi-family housing. For over 50 years, developers have relied on the contractor to deliver commercial and government building projects. What makes the firm a dependable construction partner is its customized approach to the unique requirements of each project. Regardless of the job, Alpha Construction has the experience and expertise to ensure successful outputs.
Gafcon, Inc.
660 South Figueroa Street, Suite 1790, Los Angeles, CA 90017
Gafcon, Inc. provides comprehensive construction services to public and private clients. Incorporated in 1987, the firm has core expertise in managing complex design and construction activities. It uses technology and management tools to add value to every client’s investment. The firm understands that the combination of its people, technology, and processes is the reason behind its success. With services in project management, construction management, constructability reviews, technology solutions, and labor solutions, Gafcon has become a one-stop shop for its clients. It has a diverse client base in the educational, government, commercial, and residential markets.
The firm provided its full range of construction services to the Alhambra Office Campus. The Gafcon team was called on to reuse the existing one-million-square-foot office space. The firm was tasked with making facility improvements and repairs to the building and its infrastructure. The underutilized building was turned into a vibrant mixed-use community space that can be used for commercial, retail, and residential purposes. Gafcon managed the development and construction of The Shops, the LA Fitness Building, and a 700-stall multi-level parking structure. It also designed a 300-unit condominium complex, which will be built in the future.
The award-winning firm has received recognition for its work. It was named a Top 100 Construction Management Firm List by Engineering News-Record and has been called one of the fastest-growing architectural, engineering & environmental consulting firms in the country. Gafcon was also a recipient of the Gold and Silver Constructech Vision Awards for its application of technology in its business practices.
PNG Builders
2392 South Bateman Ave, Irwindale, CA 91010
PNG Builders is a high-end general contractor with over 60 years of building experience. The firm has completed over $6 billion worth of construction projects and hosts an extensive portfolio in highly specialized industries. Large, established clients in Southern California trust PNG to deliver exceptional results no matter the scale. By involving itself from day one, PNG ensures that projects begin smoothly and maintain a problem-free environment at every step. From planning to ribbon-cutting and beyond, PNG breathes life into its buildings. The firm also offers post-construction maintenance services, making sure that properties are well-kept for a long time to come.
The contractor performs competitively in different markets. Its team has done work in aerospace, healthcare, entertainment, and retail. The firm understands the needs of each project and is equipped with resources to address all issues. PNG is so successful thanks to is its ability to embrace differences. Its employees all come from different backgrounds and different skill sets. By combining them, it morphs into a powerhouse of unparalleled skill and experience. This thriving company culture elevates each team member, enabling them to perform at their best every day.
The firm delivered a sophisticated and sleek design for the ArtCenter Mullin Gallery, which showcased Peter Mullin’s exotic car collection. Built above an existing parking structure, the job required the construction of a new cafe with a full kitchen and supporting student spaces. Fin walls were bolted at precise angles with vinyl graphics to read MULLIN from the southern direction and GALLERY from the northern direction. This entire project was done while surrounding businesses were operational.
PNG Builders was a finalist for the 2021 Edison Award for its work on Alamitos 400 MWH BESS. The contractor was recognized for its innovative work, as its project was one of the five selected nationwide. With convenient offices located across Los Angeles, PNG is a centrally-located contractor that delivers world-class structures.
Caliber Construction
240 North Orange Avenue Brea, CA 92821
Caliber Construction has been the hand behind the commercial spaces of leading brands for nearly three decades. The firm has reflected the brand image of each client, creating a beautiful backdrop for its clients’ larger goals. The award-winning contractor develops partnerships with property developers, architects, and designers. Its deep-rooted relationships and dedication to customer service are why the firm has a 90% repeat client rate.
Caliber’s projects have earned the contractor a TOBY Award, an AIA’s Citation Award, and a LEED Gold certification. With a broad range of construction services, the firm was listed as a Top 20 Tenant Improvement Contractor by Orange County Business Journal. For Caliber Construction, it is always more than the project. As a premier construction company, it aims to be a business partner to its clients. The team brings hard work and dedication to create ideal spaces. A better building partner results in a better creative space.
The firm was called to increase the value and profitability of a 93,000-square-foot single-tenant corporate space in Azusa. The three-story building remained unleased for several years until Caliber Construction stepped in. The contractor added contemporary amenities that meet the demands of today’s labor force. Collaboration spaces were also added for better creative thinking and multi-disciplinary cooperation. The modernized space included updated restrooms, an on-site gym, and a newly refurbished atrium.
Caliber Construction brought so much potential to the building that demand for tenancy began before the project was even complete. In the end, Caliber Construction achieved its goal, increasing the building’s value so much that the owners were able to sell the property and earn a profit.
DEB Construction
2230 E. Winston Road, Anaheim, CA 92806
As a certified minority-owned business, DEB Construction puts a special emphasis on quality construction and customer service. The firm has office locations in Northern and Southern California and serves the construction needs of clients in California, Nevada, Arizona, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. It has specialty services in the financial, corporate, and healthcare sectors. With a broad knowledge of niche industries, DEB Construction brings convenience and efficiency as an all-in-one shop for its clients. It can address the design, technical, and construction needs.
The firm also delivers LEED-certified projects with its green building service. Every project manager and engineer in DEB Construction is a fully-certified LEED Accredited Professional (AP). The contractor can use sustainable building practices and environment-friendly materials for any commercial application. The firm is also a member of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). DEB Construction has completed green building projects in California. It has renovated the entire Citibank branch at this Menlo Park using green building practices. The finished building received a LEED Gold certification.
DEB Construction is a construction leader of these unique and high-technology buildings. By giving its employees the right resources and support, the company is able to approach any project with confidence. The firm also knows that a healthy work culture brings out excellent output. Although the contractor is a medium-sized business, it brings a large-corporation experience to its clients, thanks to its dedicated employees. Listed as one of the Top Work Places from 2017 to 2020, the company has seen steady growth in 5-star customer reviews and repeat business.
McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.
20401 SW Birch St., Newport Beach, CA 92660
McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. is the longest-standing firm on our list with over 150 years of building experience. Founded in 1864, McCarthy has played a part in building the nation by working on essential projects and helping communities. As one of the oldest American-owned construction companies, the firm has a tradition of knowing how to maneuver each project as early as the design phase. It continuously strives to challenge and positively impact the building industry. With offices nationwide, McCarthy has built projects in nearly every state. Its projects vary in size from $1 million projects to over $500 million worth in the healthcare, energy, commercial, and government sectors.
The firm strives to be the best builder in America. This burning desire pushes its team to be the best building partner for its clients, maximizing their outcomes and exceeding strategic goals. McCarthy is also advancing green building construction in a bid to stay ahead of the competition. Staying true to its goal, the firm is one of the top 20 green builders in America today. The team uses its green practices and weaves them through all aspects of a commercial building.
The Musco Center for the Arts at Chapman University serves as a prime example of McCarthy’s featured works. Enhancing the visibility of the arts on campus, the facility features a proscenium-style theater hall. It can house over 1,000 guests and is equipped with rehearsal spaces, associated performer and support spaces, storage, and a multi-level lobby. The world-class arts center serves as a cultural destination for the Orange County community. Though the project came with its challenges, McCarthy used Lean Construction delivery methods to solve problems quickly. Completed on time, performers and audience members gave glowing reviews at the project’s completion.
Pankow Builders
199 S. Los Robles Avenue, Suite 300, Pasadena, CA 91101
Pioneers of design-build and integrated project delivery, Pankow Builders is a leading contractor specializing in complex projects and work in operational facilities. Established in 1963, the Pankow team hones engineering expertise and building innovation. The firm offers design-build, design-assist, and general contracting services to different markets
As a responsive and service-oriented builder, Pankow Builders strongly advocates for its clients. With fresh ideas, greater efficiency, and less waste, its team provides expert guidance to add value to each project. Utilizing its half-century of experience, Pankow Builders has successfully implemented Lean Practices in several healthcare clients. Its team members practice continuous efforts on the Lean Methodology, resulting in safer and cost-efficient work.
Pankow Builders closely coordinated with architects and engineers for the Arcadia Hospital project. It was the first structure to use the Myers/Nelson/Houghton steel moment frame connection system, which strengthens column and beam joints. This system also minimizes damage during seismic events, making it a more structurally sound building that lasts for generations. Key support areas were centralized and advanced healthcare tech was installed to meet the needs of patients and their families.
Pankow’s innovative work does not go unnoticed. The firm is well-decorated with awards as a recent winner of the 2020 Education and Healthcare Building Award and the 2018 Gold Award for Central Shops Replacement Facilities under the Public Infrastructure Construction Buildings over $30M. The company was also named the winner of 2021 Bay Area’s Best Places to Work by the San Francisco Times and the Silicon Valley Business Journal. Pankow Builders is proof that a thriving environment produces quality work, making it a sought-after commercial contractor in San Gabriel Valley.
Swinerton Builders
1150 South Olive Street, 27th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90015
With roots reaching as far back as 1888, Swinerton Builders is one of the longest-standing contractors featured on our list. The firm has withstood historic events such as two world wars, the Great Depression and Recession, and natural disasters. Relying on its expertise, Swinerton has created landmark projects in California and beyond. The firm provides construction services nationwide with offices strategically located throughout different states.
Now staffed with more than 4,000 employees, Swinerton has helped build communities across the nation from Alaska to Hawaii. Many of its projects have claimed a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. It delivers innovative building solutions to clients in different sectors, further strengthening its legacy. The firm’s wide array of clients allow it to stay up to date in the latest technology and sustainable business practices. It is well-renowned in the industry for its work on affordable housing. With LEED AP BD+C accredited and USGBC certified staff, it can achieve the highest quality of service and exceed client expectations.
Its local projects in California have received awards. The firm was given the 2021 Design-Build Award for Coachella Valley Water District Palm Desert. It also received the 2021 Safety Award of Excellence from the AGC of California Construction Safety Excellence Awards (CSEA). It continues to make its mark in history by working on historic landmarks. The Caltech Thomas Laboratory Renovation project was a historic renovation that received LEED Gold certification after close-out. Swinerton’s specialized divisions have the skills and experience to meet the demands of modern building.
C.W. Driver
468 North Rosemead Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91107
C.W. Driver is a premier builder serving California for over a century. Founded in 1919, the company has a distinguished past and a dynamic future in the construction industry. It is a multi-faceted builder with affiliate companies. Providing general contracting, design-build, and construction management services, C.W. Driver offers a technological edge to its clients. The firm has a diverse portfolio spanning different markets such as retail, academic, commercial, hospitality, gaming, healthcare, and residential.
As a leading provider of construction to the Western United States, its professionals have the requisite experience, training, and technical expertise to back it up. Regardless of the chosen project delivery method, C.W. Driver has the resources to get it done. The contractor also has the numbers to live up to its reputation. To date, it has completed over 5,000,000 square feet of office space in California alone. It has LEED Accredited Professionals (AP) in its team and is represented by highly skilled builders with a proven track record.
Its consistent achievement of excellence has earned the firm awards in its collection. C.W. Driver was a recipient of the 2020 San Diego Orchid Award, the 2020 Government/Public Building Award of Merit, and the 2019 DBIA National Award of Merit. In the past ten years, the firm has worked on more than $2.8 billion worth of education facilities. C.W. Driver worked on Pomona College’s Smith Campus in California with its design-build services. The three-story 70,000-square-foot campus was built to serve as a gathering place for students. The facility was fitted with a 250-seat theater complete with stage, curtains, lighting, and state-of-the-art audio systems. Students can enjoy the exterior space that was built with a fireplace and pool tables. After a job well done on the project, C.W. Driver was given the ACI Excellence in Concrete Award.
MATT Construction
9814 Norwalk Boulevard, Suite 100, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670
MATT Construction is a family- and employee-owned general contractor that’s staffed with great builders, resulting in great buildings. With a core belief that buildings are the signature of civilization, its team performs at its best when working on each project. As symbols of humanity’s highest-reaching achievements, MATT Construction aims for perfection and nothing less. The firm has built some of the most memorable buildings in the western states.
With a win-win teamwork approach, the contractor has earned its fair share of awards. It was given the Building Team of the Year Award for two consecutive years. The firm also won three awards in 2020 alone: a President’s Safety Award, a Citation Award, and an Interior Architecture Award. MATT Construction has significantly enriched the practice of architecture through its meaningful partnerships and collaborations.
Harvey Mudd College entrusted MATT Construction with the design of its R. Michael Shanahan Center for Teaching & Learning. The design of the four-story facility reflects the modernist architecture of the campus, using square metal shingles, horizontal lines, and BubbledDeck. The contemporary twist to the architecture meets the sleek feel of the campus, with better interior functions and support flexibility. The finished building received a LEED Gold certification. The firm’s work was so impressive that the engineering faculty incorporated the construction site into the curriculum as a case study for its students.
As one of California’s top general contractors, the firm matches the client’s intention and the architect’s vision with the best people for the job. Its impressive track record is preceded by one policy: get it right the first time. From the very beginning, MATT Construction ensures that all stakeholders are harmonized in the goals and objectives of the project. With a plan uniquely tailored to each project, it can streamline the process and efficiently coordinate budgeting, bidding, and building. The simple process and disciplined execution minimize risk and maximize product value.
DPR Construction
88 West Colorado Blvd., Suite 301, Pasadena, CA 91105
Our list crowns DPR Construction as the best commercial contractor in San Gabriel Valley, California. As a forward-thinking and self-performing general contractor, DPR Construction brings a high degree of service to its clients. The firm specializes in technically complex projects for advanced technology, life sciences, higher education, and commercial markets. Its expansive portfolio covers all kinds of projects, from large-scale ground-up work to small tenant improvements. Its growth to being ranked as one of the top general contractors makes for a great entrepreneurial success story.
Since 1977, the DPR team has been characterized by skilled technical builders with a passion for results. The firm has grown with its clients by adding more value to every project it touches. Whether it’s a multi-million-dollar job or a conference room renovation, the contractor abides by rigorous building standards. Its team is also dedicated to innovation, ensuring that clients can benefit from its expertise in the latest construction techniques. DPR Construction strives to push the industry forward and improve project delivery by constantly searching for better ways to work together.
The firm is nationally recognized as a premier construction provider in its niche industries. In 2021, it was ranked 2nd in Modern Healthcare Construction and Design. It also received the 2020 Design Excellence Award for its work on the Facebook Fort Worth Data Center and the 2020 Year in Infrastructure Award for Biogen LSM DS Tech Upgrade at Bentley Systems.
The multi-award-winning contractor has a unique focus on the higher education sector. Understanding that every campus is unique, its team engages academic groups to ensure that they are building functional environments. By putting themselves in the shoes of educators and students, they ensure that the infrastructure supports the latest tech and fosters a healthy learning environment. Through this method, the firm brings tailor-made spaces that will enhance the campus experience. DPR Construction used this exact approach when working on the Scott A. McGregor Computer Science Center at Harvey Mudd College.
The firm provided a new home for the college’s growing computer science department. The three-story academic building features an expansive lobby with amply study, hangout, and collaborative spaces for students. Its second and third floors consist of faculty offices, clinics, and project studios. Its research laboratories were designed specifically for the college’s computer science program. The new facility nurtures the aspirations of faculty and students alike, giving them the resources they need to showcase their talents.
