The Best Recording Studio Contractors in the US

Last updated on October 29th, 2024 at 03:13 am

Choosing the right contractor for your recording studio project can be daunting, especially considering the significant investment. Finding a good contractor to build a recording studio in the U.S. is essential because they have the expertise to execute the specialized requirements of acoustic design, electrical wiring, and equipment installation. A skilled contractor ensures that the studio is constructed to meet industry standards, providing optimal sound isolation, acoustics, and functionality, which are critical for producing high-quality recordings. On average, a commercial recording studio project in the U.S. can range from $150,000 to $400,000 or more, depending on the size, design, and materials used. These projects can take up to 39 weeks to complete, provided no unforeseen issues are common in the construction industry. Given the complexities and costs, selecting a trustworthy and experienced contractor is crucial to ensure your project is completed on time and within budget.

With a population of approximately 333 million and a median home value of $495,100, the United States offers a vast market for commercial construction projects. According to permit data from building departments across the country, there are about 4,745 contractors specializing in commercial projects. The competition among these contractors can be fierce, but this also means plenty of highly qualified professionals can take on your recording studio project. The average cost for construction projects over the past two years has been around $67.98 per square foot, underscoring the need for meticulous budgeting and contractor selection to ensure financial security. According to permit data pulled, 1,834,787 construction projects have occurred in the U.S. over the past two years.

When embarking on the journey to build a recording studio, the importance of choosing a reliable contractor cannot be overstated. To help you navigate this process, we have compiled a list of the best recording studio contractors in the U.S. These professionals have a proven track record of delivering high-quality projects that meet the specific needs of the music industry, ensuring your studio is built to the highest standards.

Overview: The Best Recording Studio Contractors in the US

See Ranking Methodology at the bottom of this article to learn more.

CK Commercial

1520 Jabez Run Road, Suite 302, Millersville, MD USA

CK Commercial has earned its place in the construction industry by prioritizing quality craftsmanship and top-notch customer service. Its success in tackling complex projects has garnered attention, leading to features in respected publications like Inc. Magazine and local BizJournal. Teamwork is at the core of its approach, with seamless collaboration between craftsmen and clients ensuring that projects are completed to perfection. This collaborative ethos has led to long-lasting partnerships and diversified its portfolio across various commercial, education, healthcare, and hospitality sectors.

The Cybrary project featured is a cybersecurity and information technology (I.T.) workforce development facility. The 9,474-square-foot project includes a recording studio, office areas, conference rooms, and common community spaces. Services rendered by C.K. in the construction of the Cybrary include a fast-track schedule and an open plan concept that allowed seamless collaboration. The structure’s industrial design concept features brick and wood walls, floor to ceiling glass windows, concrete flooring, and exposed ductwork. This recording studio contractor is a 2023 Inc. Best Workplaces honoree!” from Inc. Magazine.

Wardell Builders

649 Valley Avenue, Suite A, Solana Beach, CA 92075

Wardell Builders is a firm that is constantly innovating its building methodology to meet current construction standards. Barry Fennell heads the firm as its principal. Fennell’s portfolio of projects showcases a wide array of home styles, from fabulous modern mansions to traditional craftsman homes. His passion for home building and remodeling has earned the firm many accolades, including the Bath of the Year Award from the San Diego Home and Garden Lifestyles Magazine in 2016. A commitment to building sustainable structures has been ingrained in the firm’s core, which extends to its roster of building professionals. Its skilled crew of designers and builders aims to bring homeowners’ visions to life in collaboration with the clients, striving to create dream homes with structural stability and absolute precision. An open communication channel includes the clients in the managing and building stages. It allows them to fully understand the whole procedure from the budgeting facets until the post-construction phase.

The company has a track record of exceeding expectations regarding quality and service. Its projects implement keen attention to detail, thorough planning, and management. The firm also practices complete transparency in its process, finishing structures on the agreed-upon schedule and budget with no surprise costs. The pictured project is the Huber music room, a personal recording studio built inside the residential property of owner Chris Huber.

Cinergy Construction

2412 Federal Ave #1, Los Angeles CA 90064

Building a recording studio requires a deep understanding of the acoustics and sound, whether for commercial or personal use. This system is perfected by Cinergy Construction and its talented crew of project managers and craftspeople who are masterful in acoustic construction, finish carpentry, stretched fabric systems, and technical assemblies. Co-founders Greg Francise and Graham Osbourne have synced their skills to create a firm that offers top-notch construction and the expertise to develop collaborative partnerships with designers and engineers. Their joint forces have led to Cinergy’s prominence as an elite builder of recording studios and other specialty spaces such as theaters, acoustically sensitive spaces, and safe rooms.

Cinergy believes in keeping a low project-to-manager ratio, which allows it to concentrate on one workspace at a time and ensures organized and efficient outcomes. The team values open communication with clients, welcoming their input, and fostering collaboration. With a keen eye for detail and thorough documentation, it consistently delivers exceptional results, earning praise from clients for its craftsmanship and ability to stay on schedule and budget.

FW Construction

13500 Saddleback Pass, Austin, TX 78738

Passion for construction has fueled F.W. Construction for over 40 years, ignited by the fire of its builders and designers hungry to prove their mettle in the field. The firm is driven by a “build it, live it” mantra, which encapsulates the company’s approach to its work. A strong priority is allocated to quality, which serves as the focal point of every project. The opportunity to craft structures that match a customer’s vision is always taken as a challenge; one completed successfully based on testimonials about the firm.

Former clients have commended the firm for its ability to exert “cordial, thoughtful, and trustworthy efforts” during construction. Fred Williams, whose initials represent the letters of the company title, has earned praise for his outstanding work quality and his fair and honest leadership. These traits have earned Williams strong relationships with long-term clients, some of which have been business partners for decades.

F.W. Construction is a member of the Texas Association of Builders and the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin. The firm also does finish-outs and accessory dwelling units (ADUs).

Martin Horn

210 Carlton Road, Charlottesville, VA 22902

Forty years in the industry and thousands of projects built have solidified Martin Horn’s status as a top-tier builder in the country. Founder Jack M. Horn serves as the cornerstone of the company’s operations. He built the firm from the ground up, expanding it into a multi-million dollar entity from its distant humble beginnings. His company is renowned for its integrity in the field and proficiency in its craft, traits ingrained in his team of industry professionals. Community involvement is also a major focus of Horn, an active participant in local organizations such as the Building Goodness Foundation.

It wouldn’t be a fifty-million dollar company without solid bonds with people, from architects and engineers to its vast client base, some of whom have been partners of the firm for years and even decades. These customer relationships helped elevate Martin Horn to its current position, complementing its mastery of construction and design.

The company’s versatility can be observed through its work, showcasing apartment buildings, healthcare facilities, residential homes, educational buildings, and stadiums. The majority of Martin Horn’s projects are commercial establishments, including multiple facilities at the University of Virginia, structures for the Coca-Cola brand, and office buildings in the Charlottesville Downtown Mall. Martin Horn is a proponent of green and sustainable building and holds accreditations from LEED and Alternative Energy.

RWT Design & Construction

2901 Floyd St, Burbank, CA 91504

RWT Design and Construction is synonymous with top-notch service and quality construction. The company showcases a versatile portfolio that includes recording studios, kitchens, bathrooms, and more. Founder Romney Tripp is a veteran builder with over 40 years of experience specializing in home remodeling, restoration, and addition projects. His longevity in the business gave him a solid grasp of the ins and outs and allowed him to mold RWT into a firm focused on integrity and exceptional results. Tripp and his team hold every project to a high standard and provides high-grade materials and service to every customer. Project schedules, permit handling, and management are also strictly observed to minimize snags. The firm’s outstanding craftsmanship and customer service have earned rave reviews from former clientele, commending the firm’s strengths in building quality projects with mastery and ease.

Other specialties offered include landscaping and handyman services for clients looking to build a backyard garden or have fences and pergolas installed. RWT also provides custom cabinetry and furniture upon request. It is accredited by the Los Angeles chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), the California License Board, and the California Real Estate Association.

SRKO, LLC

24 NW Chipman Road, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063

With SRKO, LLC at the helm of any project, innovative solutions are guaranteed. The company is one of Kansas City’s Business Magazine 100 Fastest Growing Companies in the city based on Ingram’s Corporate Report. It is a recognition well earned as the firm consistently strives to build projects that exude quality and stability and create enduring client bonds. The firm is known for providing an innovative approach to construction and completing each project within the set budget and schedule. These qualities have gradually increased recognition, leading SRKO to become a regional top builder.

Dean Kirby is the company’s founder and chairman, an industry stalwart with almost 60 years of field experience. He is joined by firm CEO Stephen Rupp, whose forged partnerships with local brands reflect his proficiency in customer service. Rupp is a fellow of the Helzberg Entrepreneurial Mentoring Program (HEMP), a program that invests in future entrepreneurs through the mentorship of the top business leaders in the country. Other sectors that SRKO, LLC worked in included corporate, retail, healthcare, and specialty markets. This recording studio contractor is accredited by the BBB.

Landis Commercial

7059 Blair Rd., NW Suite 300, Washington, DC 20012

In response to the increasing demand for builders during the early ’90s, brothers Chris and Ethan Landis established Landis Commercial to provide contracting services. The company is an award-winning commercial building contractor. Its team implements an innovative building approach and stays current on construction trends to ensure the best structural results. The firm’s expertise includes commercial construction contracting, space planning, and tenant fit-out. Landis also practices green construction in its building process, ensuring environmentally efficient structures and sustainable living.

A firm composed of architects, designers, and builders require the leadership skills of someone who has a knack for excellence and lucky for Landis, the company has two of those. Chris is a licensed architect in Washington, DC, New York, Maryland, and Virginia. He is an American Institute of Architects (AIA) member who has worked on office building construction and design with Fortune 500 companies in the country. Ethan holds an MBA from George Washington University and has countless construction and restoration projects on his resume. He is a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP) and a part of the D.C. Mayor’s Green Building Advisory Council. The partnership of the Landis brothers is a core asset in the firm’s arsenal, steering the company to quality building and customer satisfaction without any hitch. This Washington-based recording studio contractors project was featured in an article from the Washington Post.

Audio One

35 SW 12th Ave – Suite 101, Dania Beach, FL 33004

Audio One understands the importance of technology and how it affects every homeowner’s way of life. This understanding of efficiency and complex systems resulted in prioritizing client lifestyles and optimizing work to suit their needs. From custom audio-video technology to smart home automation, the company aims to build the best installations to ensure top-notch output and quality living. Audio One’s support team is available all year round for assists, modifications, and upgrades.

Recording engineer, studio installer, audio technologist, and audiophile consultant⁠—founder David Frangioni wears many hats professionally. At his core, the home innovation leader’s passion for sound technology has driven him to success. This dedication has guided him to dozens of gold and platinum albums for his work as a technical consultant, engineer, and programmer for top musicians in the industry. These include Aerosmith, Shakira, Elton John, Ozzy Osbourne, Cher, and Journey, to name a few. Audio One is a member of several prestigious bodies, including Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association (CEDIA), InfoComm, The Recording Academy (formerly NARAS), and more. Accolades received by the company include numerous CEDIA awards.

Fairweather and Associates

140 Todd Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95407

Innovative design, excellent craftsmanship, and stellar customer service—are three attributes that have defined Fairweather and Associates since its establishment three decades ago. Founder and CEO Simon Fairweather spearheads the firm’s operations. The veteran builder has over 30 years of experience, utilizing modern building techniques to craft projects that meet both customer and industry standards. The firm practices Sustainable building, with green and efficient elements integrated into every Fairweather project. Close collaboration with clients allows a smooth flow of information that makes every project an uncomplicated experience. Cost transparency has also been synonymous with the firm, and it is practiced with integrity to put clients at ease.

The unconventional music recording studio featured is a Fairweather project. Instead of a typical studio in an urban facility, the studio is inside a cabin under a sparse canopy of trees in the middle of a forest. Though verdant in setting, the furnished wooden house stands out amidst the backdrop. Its unpainted exterior and contemporary interiors evoke a playful balance between a city aesthetic and a natural charm. Large glass windows on its walls and wide-opening front doors let the beauty of its surrounding nature through—a serene view that could enhance artists’ creativity while recording their craft. The architecture was done by Schwartz and Architecture, and Pete Aigner helmed the project as its superintendent.

Kaiser Comm Construction

17333 Lockwood Valley Road, Frazier Park, CA 93225

Successful projects and excellent customer service have helped Kaiser Comm Construction gain recognition in the industry. The company was established by Kevin Kaiser, a professional musician with over 45 years of experience in the industry. He has worked with some of the top celebrities, studio architects and designers during his industry tenure. His hard work bore fruit when he created Kaiser Comm Construction, which started as a builder of custom log homes before integrating recording studio construction. Decades in the music business have molded the company’s framework. Kaiser’s deep knowledge of sound and building has allowed his firm to rise and become one of the best companies in the music construction field.

A strong dedication to music has allowed Kaiser to produce a streamlined method that has earned acclaim from former clients. Kaiser collaborates with top-notch contractors, architects, acousticians, and electrical engineers to build quality recording studios. Featured is a recording studio built by Kaiser Comm Construction.

Ranking Methodology

To evaluate the performance of contractors, our methodology employs a systematic approach that considers various factors contributing to customer experience and satisfaction. We focused on assessing the recording contractors in the US. The methodology involves assigning weightings to specific categories based on their significance in determining customer service quality. Here’s the breakdown of the categories and their respective weightings:

• Average Customer Satisfaction (35%): This metric represents the average rating given by customers across the same review platforms as the Average Customer Satisfaction Score. A higher average rating indicates greater overall satisfaction with the service provided.
• Service Rating Score (25%): We analyze the ratio of high (4-5 stars) to low (1-2 stars) ratings for each business across multiple review platforms: Google, Houzz, and Yelp. A higher percentage of positive reviews contributes to a higher score, reflecting better customer satisfaction.
• Complaint Percentage (25%): We analyze the ratio of complaints to total reviews for each business. A lower complaints ratio indicates better service quality and results in a higher score.
• Business Hours and Availability (10%): The operating hours of each business are assessed to gauge accessibility. Companies with extended operating hours are awarded a higher score, as they offer greater convenience to customers.
• License Status (5%): We verify the licensing status of each contractor with their local licensing board to ensure legal compliance. Companies with valid licenses receive a higher score, reflecting professionalism and adherence to regulations.
• Total Score: We determined the overall rating for every contractor by calculating a weighted average, with the category weight determining the amount the subscore contributed to the total score 

Additional Note: Service Rating Score, Average Customer Satisfaction, and Complaint Percentage are calculated with a Bayesian estimate to account for if the contractor has a low number of total reviews. A Bayesian average is a statistical method used to calculate the average of a set of data points while taking into account prior information or beliefs about the distribution of the data. It combines the observed data with a prior distribution to generate a more accurate estimate of the true average.