Last updated on May 21st, 2024 at 07:07 am
Known as “The Heart of Screenland”, Culver City is home to major TV and film studios. It is also home to a vibrant downtown with trendy boutiques, restaurant chains, and private offices. Needless to say, the strong business climate makes it ripe for investment.
To help the process, we have gathered a list of the best commercial contractors in Culver City, California to help entrepreneurs and developers find the right partner. We chose these contractors for their skill, expertise, and reviews. Working with the right contractor will make it easier to set up shop in this dynamic city.
Swinerton Builders
1150 South Olive Street 27th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90015
Swinerton Builders provides access to specialized divisions with the skills and resources needed to overcome the challenges of modern building. It raises the bar for commercial contracting while reducing its impact on the environment. It delivers exceptional results while protecting worker safety and giving back to the community. A 100% employee-owned company, Swinerton Builders staff are personally invested in every project. The company fosters a culture of collaboration and teamwork.
Founded in 1888 and led by CEO Eric Foster since 1982, Swinerton Builders is one of the most established commercial contractors in California. It has worked on some of the most iconic commercial developments in Culver and surrounding LA county. Its many projects include the TikTok HQ. At 108,000-square-feet, the five-level buildout features open offices and break rooms. It also has a two-story glass-clad conference room with a Skyfold partition system. The design incorporates on-brand wall art and color accents that evoke the playfulness and creativity of the video sharing app.
Swinerton Builders landed a coveted spot in the Engineering News Record (ENR) 2021 Regional Rankings. It also won the 2021 AGC of CA #1 Safety Award of Excellence and the 2020 Silicon Valley Business Journal Community Impact Award for El Gabilan Library. The company has been featured in ENR Podcast.
KPRS
444 South Flower Street Suite 3860, Los Angeles, CA 90071
KPRS strives for perfect service and superior quality with each project. The company does this by building deep and meaningful relationships with clients, suppliers, and contractors. It also ensures that each project has a positive impact on the community it serves. KPRS includes leaders and specialists in different fields of construction. Founder and CEO Joel H. Stensby has over 20 years of experience in business leadership and construction management. He and his partners established KPRS in 1998. Orange County Business Journal included Joel in 2020 OC 500, an annual list of the most influential individuals in the business community.
As a result, KPRS is a highly respected contractor in Greater Los Angeles. Known for their quality construction and design, the company has been recognized by esteemed awarding bodies and featured in many media outlets. KPRS won the 2020 Pacific Coast Builders Conference Golden Nugget Award and Superior Performance in New Construction at the 2019 Spire Awards. The company has been featured in Los Angeles Business Journal, Orange County Business Journal, and Engineering News Record. It won the Silver Award for Mixed Use Project of the Year at the 2020 Los Angeles Business Journal Commercial Real Estate Awards for The Culver Steps.
Located in Downtown Culver City, The Culver Steps offers 40,000 square feet of retail and dining. It also features 75,000 square feet of office space with Amazon Studios as a tenant. An open-air plaza serves as a gathering space. It is the ultimate work-play environment that encourages creativity and personal enrichment.
MATT Construction
261 S. Figueroa St. Suite 120, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Established in 1991, MATT Construction delivers superior results through win-win teamwork. The company fosters a collaborative environment to come up with the best solutions for each project. For this reason, it has received the AIA LA Building Team of the Year Award for two consecutive years. Its ability to relate to its clients, architects, and suppliers makes it one of the most dependable contractors in the area.
As a family and employee-owned commercial contractor, MATT has built some of the most iconic developments in Greater Los Angeles. Its clients include prominent brands across different industries. One client includes the NFL. The company worked on the NFL Network Studio in Culver City. The 11,000-square-foot studio features an expansive production space, several edit bays, and audio and camera control rooms.
MATT also received the 2021 AIA Citation Award for The Harland and the 2021 Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute Best Theater Award for the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.
Shangri-La Construction
660 S. Figueroa St. Suite 1888, Los Angeles, CA 90017
Shangri-La Construction (SLC) takes the most cost-efficient approach to building and renovating commercial spaces, helping clients maximize their budget and stay on schedule. Serving the Los Angeles area, SLC is a design-build construction and tenant improvement commercial contractor that is committed to the highest standards of building and service. It fosters a collaborative environment in which the client determines the parameters of the project. This client-centric approach allows SLC to build meaningful and long-term relationships. As a result, the company is the top choice among commercial developers and business owners.
CEO and Owner Andy Meyers has over 12 years of industry experience. Under his leadership, SLC has worked with reputable brands since its founding in 2008. It has built some of the most distinctive commercial developments in LA County. Its many projects include the Hotel Figueroa Renovation. The company worked on the 109,240-square-foot hotel over a period of two years. SLC updated 268 hotel rooms and suites while preserving the hotel’s 1920s Spanish Colonial design elements. Business Insider ranked the Figueroa Hotel among the 13 Best Hotels in Los Angeles in 2020.
For its outstanding builds, SLC won the 2018 Preservation Design Award in the Rehabilitation category and the Gold Award for the Top Redevelopment Project of the Year at Los Angeles Business Journal. Its projects have appeared in Forbes, LA Times, and The New York Times.
MODAA Inc.
15260 Ventura Blvd. Ste. 1200-33, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
MODAA Inc. is a fully insured and licensed commercial contractor serving clients in the Los Angeles area. The company provides full service new construction and remodeling services. Certified by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), it builds Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-certified structures that meet the needs of the developers. With a full-time LEED AP certified project manager on board, and a vast network of industry partners, it builds energy efficient, to-notch commercial spaces where businesses can thrive. MODAA has built many beautiful commercial spaces thanks to its founder Patrick Ahounber who has over 10 years of industry experience, founding the firm in 2008. He leads a team of architects, designers, and Realtors for the firm.
Many of MODAA’s retail developments are in and around LA. One example of its work is Stanley’s Wet Goods in Culver City. This retail space reflects the business owner’s love of wine and carpentry. It features intricate millwork, custom wine racks, and stone and steel finishes. For intricate projects such as these, many of the company’s completed works have appeared in Architectural Digest, LA Times, Interior Design Magazine, and vmsd.
Letter Four
8695 Washington Blvd. #205, Culver City, CA 90232
Letter Four streamlines new construction and remodeling with turnkey design-build services. Established in 2010, the company has worked on retail projects across Greater LA, including Culver City and Beverly Hills. Its mission is simple, which is to “design and build great spaces with great people”. The secret to its success is a team of AIA and National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB) members who execute projects with superior skill. Co-Owners Lauren Adams, Licensed Architect, AIA, NCARB and Jeremy Baker, Licensed General Contractor, combine design sensibility with hands-on construction experience to lead the firm. They each have over 20 years of design and construction management experience.
The company’s design-build process starts with research. It gathers information at the earliest stages of the project before proceeding with conceptual design. It prepares preliminary pricing to help clients stay on budget. While design development is underway, the company assists clients with required permits and finish and fixture selections. Once the project is approved by necessary departments and construction documents are complete, the company will move on to construction.
One of its successful projects includes L’Assiette, a steak frites restaurant on famed Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles. Letter Four created a space that is a mix of traditional and modern elements to coincide with the client’s modern take on a traditional French bistro menu. They visually split the restaurant’s dining area from the bar by using sleek wood panels on the wall and ceiling to define the table seating area. At the bar there is traditional moulding and marble, with the brand’s red on seating and the base of the bar. Whether having a meal or a glass of wine, the space feels fresh and fun, encouraging diners to indulge in an amazing experience.
McCormick Construction
2507 Empire Ave., Burbank, CA 91504
McCormick Construction is one of the oldest and most established contractors serving the Los Angeles area. Founded in 1914, the company has over a century of experience, growing deep knowledge of construction, remodeling, and permitting. The secret to the company’s longevity is a talented team of design-build professionals, some of whom are LEED AP and AIA members.
McCormick Construction has delivered projects across California, Nevada, and Arizona. These buildings reflect the unique collaboration between the contractor, owner, and environment. The company makes use of the finest materials for commercial spaces that will last for generations. It also provides consultation services for clients in the public and private sectors.
Its many projects include Cumulus Radio in Culver City. The 45,000-square-foot facility features 21 radio broadcast studios, 35 private offices, and 75 cubicles. The company also installed new conference rooms and kitchens. The state-of-the-art facility is home to NBC Sports Radio and Zach Sang and the Gang.
J.T. Magen & Company
4041 Sepulveda Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90230
J.T. Magen strives to add value to every project. As a leader in commercial construction, the company is known for delivering quality projects that generate interest around businesses. It offers preconstruction, design-build, and construction management services for clients across a variety of sectors. It works with the best subcontractors for quality workmanship, and provides its own team of architects, engineers, construction professionals, and quantity surveyors. CEO Maurice Regan has over 30 years of industry experience. Establishing the company in 1992, he has led the firm through many years of success, earning the company accolades such as: ENR Contractor of the Year, The Real Deal Top Interior Construction Goliath, and the Sidney Freedman Craftsmanship Award.
Photo credit: Jordan Brand / Mo Daoud
With offices in LA, New York, Chicago, and South Florida, the company has substantial experience working with different sites and building codes across the country. It has developed a remarkable portfolio including the Jordan Brand x Foot Locker partnership location, Jumpman LA. For the project, JTM built a new building inside a 1928 structure, retaining only the original exteriors. The company added a third floor, where the regulation-size rooftop glass basketball court is located. The result is a dynamic retail space that reflects the Jordan sports brand.
Alonzo Construction Inc.
11556 Barman Ave., Culver City, CA 90230
Alonzo Construction, Inc. was founded in 1985 by namesake Ernesto Alonzo. The firm works with highly experienced architects, designers, and construction professionals to help clients turn their vision into reality. Known for quality craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail, the company specializes in commercial construction across Southern California. It provides preconstruction, design-build, and construction management solutions. Over the years, the company has built a reputation for superior service, effective coordination, and strategic project management. It is known for delivering projects on time and within budget, always exceeding expectations. As a result, it is one of the most trusted contractors serving Culver City.
The company is highly knowledgeable in a variety of architectural styles. It has built retail spaces and showrooms for leading brands such as this New Balance Store in Santa Monica. The branch has an excellent layout that facilitates the flow of customers into the store. The glass storefront allows for maximum street visibility and plenty of natural light. Outstanding projects like these are led by project manager Alexandra Alonzo, who has 13+ years of industry experience.
Pacific Empire Builders
500 North Brand Boulevard Suite #2120, Glendale, CA 91203
Pacific Empire Builders (PEB) delivers world-class retail, office, and industrial projects for a variety of markets. The company is committed to staying on schedule and on budget without compromising worker safety. It provides general contracting, preconstruction, and construction management services for clients in Culver City. The firm coordinates with the development team during construction. It also collaborates with architects and design consultants to create optimal and brand-specific designs. This allows the company to identify opportunities to minimize cost and prevent delays. It operates in a cost-effective manner, executing projects with ease and skill.
Dan Mahoney and Jason Tolleson founded Pacific Empire Builders in 2005. They are also the founders of Serrano Development Group, a real estate investment and development firm. Jason has an extensive background in civil engineering, having worked as a structural engineer on various commercial and industrial projects. Under this duo’s leadership, the company has created many outstanding projects. One such project is the Del Rey Square along Culver Boulevard. This 125-unit senior housing development features Mediterranean-style architecture with exquisite tilework and woodwork. PEB completed the project in January 2013.
Substrata
5800A Hannum Ave. Ste. 240, Culver City, CA 90230
Substrata is known for precision-based workmanship and remarkable attention to detail. The company specializes in ground-up construction and commercial tenant improvements in Culver City. It is sought after for its ability to deliver projects that fully capture the client’s vision. As a USGBC Member, Substrata integrates green components and sustainable building techniques into its projects. Its principals are well-certified and highly experienced. CEO Cecille Maristela is a LEED-certified prime contractor with over 10 years of industry experience. She takes a methodical approach to general contracting, delivering efficient and top-notch results for clients. CSO Majid Riahi has over 12 years of experience in commercial real estate. He has substantial experience in structuring retail leases and negotiating triple-net real estate acquisitions. With a strong leadership team, the company is well-rounded and also works with various humanitarian organizations to continue to widen its perspective.
Some of its outstanding projects include The Ashby on Hobart Street. This multi-family development spans 11,900 square feet in Koreatown. Its eclectic design incorporates colorful Spanish tiles, Mayan Revival-style stonework, and Art Deco-inspired balustrades.
DGR Construction
1999 Ave. of the Stars #1100, Los Angeles, CA 90067
The DGR Construction Co. has a reputation for quality craftsmanship and exceptional service. It is the leading commercial construction company in the Los Angeles County area. Known for creative space construction, DGR transforms commercial properties into retail and dining destinations. Its president Danny Ramirez has over 20 years of experience in commercial construction. He leads a team of highly capable construction professionals at DGR. Established in 2015, the firm has now completed 510 projects to date.
DGR credits its success to its trained and experienced staff. It has also cultivated a robust company culture over the years, keeping employees motivated to deliver quality results. Over the years, the company has built some of the most vibrant commercial developments in LA County.
Its projects include Panda Inn, a casual dining restaurant that serves Mandarin and Sichuan dishes. The restaurant features brand-specific design elements that tie back to the local chain’s Asian roots. The result is a warm and inviting dining space with elegant interiors.
CalAsia Construction
3050 Fletcher Drive., Los Angeles, CA 90065
CalAsia Construction strives for the best possible service and the most reasonable schedule at fair prices. The company’s goal is to help clients minimize stress while saving time and money. It is also eager to educate clients on the construction process and building codes to help them gain a deeper understanding of commercial contracting. This has helped CalAsia build partnerships with developers and business owners.
The company offers a wide range of construction services for different markets. It has completed over 500 projects, three of which are located in Culver City. Its remarkable portfolio includes retail spaces, restaurants, and ground-up buildings.
Its many projects include the Copenhagen Culver City. This bake shop serves authentic Danish pastries and traditional breads. For this project, CalAsia built a contemporary space with glass displays showcasing the store’s offerings.
CEO of CalAsia Construction John Murawski has over 30 years of construction experience. As a top restaurant builder, he has worked with premier brands like Cheesecake Factory, Wolfgang Puck, and Ben and Jerry’s. He established CalAsia Construction in 2003 with his wife Myrna Murawski.
DPT Construction
19201 Parthenia St. Unit #B, Northridge, CA 91324
DPT Construction makes new construction and tenant improvements easier for clients by offering a broad range of services under one roof. The company designs, manages, and administers the construction process from start to finish. It works closely with developers and general contractors to create some of the most vibrant commercial spaces in Greater Los Angeles. By offering a single point of contact for comprehensive construction services, DPT helps clients stay organized and on schedule. Established in 1996, the firm is led by president and CEO David Daoud, who has over 24 years of leadership experience. With his team of talented professionals, he builds many beautiful, lasting commercial spaces.
With a speciality in retail spaces, restaurants, and hospitality projects, DPT construction has a diverse portfolio. One outstanding project is The Boy & The Bear, a coffee roastery and café in Culver City. The space has an industrial feel with exposed ceiling pipes, polished concrete floors, and steel chairs. The design showcases the roastery’s products with custom shelving.
