Oakland, California, a city brimming with diversity, creativity, and a rich cultural tapestry, is the jewel of the East Bay. Known for its bustling arts scene, historic neighborhoods, and stunning waterfront views, Oakland captures the essence of the San Francisco Bay Area. It’s a place where innovation and tradition coexist harmoniously, creating a unique and dynamic atmosphere.
If you want to embark on a commercial construction project in Oakland, look no further than this list below, which has been meticulously curated to showcase the best commercial general contractors in the city. Our team has carefully selected these firms based on their impressive track records, extensive expertise, glowing client testimonials, and industry acclaim. These contractors are renowned for their meticulous attention to detail, groundbreaking solutions, and unwavering dedication to transforming commercial spaces into architectural masterpieces that exceed all expectations.
Skyline Construction
100 Pringle Ave, Suite 330, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Skyline Construction, a people-first organization specializing in commercial interior construction projects, operates from eight offices across Washington, Illinois, and California. As a 100% employee-owned company, it is dedicated to fostering superior construction outcomes every day. With a current valuation of $700 million, it is rapidly expanding its national construction delivery platform, guided by the belief that transparency, predictability, and consistency are key ingredients for improving its employees’ experiences and, ultimately, delivering better end products.
Since 1996, Skyline has stood at the forefront of commercial interior construction in California, promoting a culture of respect and inclusion while championing a diverse workforce that fuels innovation. Its commitment to environmentally sustainable practices is evident in its many LEED-certified projects, and it was also included as part of the 2022 Inc. Magazine list of Best Workplaces and the 2023 Inc. Magazine Best Places to Work award. Skyline’s visionary CEO, Jessica Carps, has been honored with a Woman of Influence award from GlobeSt, Silicon Valley Business Journal, and Bisnow for her outstanding leadership in the real estate industry.
Hathaway Dinwiddie
275 Battery St, Suite 300, San Francisco, CA 94111
Hathaway Dinwiddie Construction emerged in 1996 from merging two of California’s longest-standing companies: E.A. Hathaway & Co (established in 1923) and Dinwiddie Construction (founded in 1911). Over the course of a century, the company has played a pivotal role in shaping California’s landscape, aiding leading corporations and institutions in erecting iconic structures across the state. It leaves an indelible mark on a multitude of sectors, including commercial offices, higher education, bio-pharmaceutical, healthcare, technology, entertainment, finance, and special-use facilities.
Hathaway Dinwiddie Construction has LEED Certified projects and holds membership in the Construction Employers’ Association (CEA), reflecting its dedication to sustainable building practices and upholding industry standards. Its work has garnered recognition in esteemed publications such as California Views and Engineering News-Record. This has occurred under the guidance of president and CEO Greg Cosko, who continues to lead the team toward a future where the firm’s legacy of quality construction endures.
DC Construction
1068 44th Ave, Oakland, CA 94601
Established in 1986, DC Construction is a full-service construction company with a rich history of delivering exceptional project management and top-tier craftsmanship. From ground-up building construction and building renovation to historical restoration and seismic upgrading, DC Construction offers a comprehensive range of services to meet its clients’ construction needs. As an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm and a Bay Area Builders Exchange member, its commitment to quality and safety is unwavering. DC Construction also has long-standing partnerships with respected organizations, including the City of Oakland, the City of Alameda, the City of Hayward, the City of San Leandro, the City of Fremont, Union City, Los Altos, and East Bay Regional Parks.
Donny Chu, a seasoned professional with 42 years of experience in the construction industry, leads DC Construction. Chu’s expertise spans a wide variety of project types, including multi-tenant commercial ventures, multi-million dollar historical rehabilitations, and large-scale residential renovations. Under his guidance, the company’s commitment to excellence and dedication to its clients drive everything it does.
Bali Construction
2600 N Main St., Walnut Creek, CA 94597
Named one of the Fastest-Growing Private Companies in the Bay Area for five consecutive years (2015 to 2021), Bali Construction is a full-service construction firm focusing on creating distinguished spaces. It excels in various areas, including pre-construction services, construction services, design-build, construction management, and maintaining rigorous job site safety standards. It associates itself with the Retail Contractors Association, reflecting its commitment to industry excellence and collaborative growth. While the firm has garnered substantial recognition over the years, its team remains dedicated to the work, prioritizing quality and innovation.
Founded by Kevin Balestrieri, Bali Construction carries forward his vision and leadership. As it continues to evolve, the company maintains a steadfast commitment to its clients, consistently delivering outstanding construction solutions that enhance the built environment.
W.A. Rose Construction, Inc.
1010 Calcot Place, Suite A, Oakland, CA 94606
W.A. Rose Construction, an esteemed Bay Area general contractor boasting over eight decades of experience, is synonymous with quality craftsmanship. Established in 1936, The firm’s areas of specialization include the commercial, educational, nonprofit, public works, and residential sectors, with a keen focus on tenant improvement projects, school renovations, structural upgrades, and home remodeling endeavors. As a recognized Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) serving the City of Oakland, Alameda County, and Port of Oakland, the firm has nurtured a network of skilled artisans to ensure consistently superior outcomes.
In alliance with esteemed affiliations such as the Better Business Bureau, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, and Build It Green, W.A. Rose Construction demonstrates its unwavering commitment to excellence. Its commitment also extends to supporting the community, championed by principal Dan Pitcock. With roots dating back to 1960, Pitcock, a second-generation owner, ensures that the firm’s legacy endures. A UC Berkeley graduate and a Certified Green Building Professional, he actively leads East Bay community initiatives and serves on Oakland’s Parks and Recreation Board, all while maintaining the company’s rich heritage.
Branagh Construction
750 Kevin Ct, Oakland, CA 94621
A family-owned business, now in its fourth-generation leadership, Branagh Construction has been a cornerstone of the Bay Area’s building industry for over nine decades. Founded by John Branagh in 1917, its core belief in the power of quality people to create exceptional results remains unwavering. Throughout its history, the company has primarily operated as a collaborative partner within construction teams, emphasizing continual budget oversight to keep projects on course. Its commitment extends to construction techniques, methods, and materials that uphold quality while efficiently managing costs.
Branagh Construction has a long-standing affiliation with the Construction Employers’ Association and has garnered recognition from reputable sources such as The Business Journals. Led by president John Branagh, a fourth-generation leader with a background in public relations and extensive experience in construction, the team is dedicated to delivering excellence.
ZCON Builders
780 West Grand Ave, Oakland, CA 94612
ZCON Builders, a full-service contractor, offers clients a comprehensive range of preconstruction and construction services for new builds and improvements. Its expertise encompasses preconstruction and value engineering services, building information modeling (BIM), general contracting, and comprehensive residential and commercial construction management. The firm specializes in diverse project types, focusing on high-density housing and commercial ventures.
The firm is led by Charles Zakskorn, the founder and president, who brings over three decades of industry experience and meticulous attention to construction details. Under his guidance, what sets the company apart is its commitment to exceeding traditional contractor boundaries. It strives to provide exceptional customer service, unparalleled artistry, and unmatched efficiency, resulting in outstanding project outcomes. As an Oakland Chamber of Commerce member, ZCON also actively contributes to the local business community. The studio’s dedication to excellence has been acknowledged in the pages of Lamorinda Weekly.
Black Creek Builders
4096 Piedmont Ave. #240, Oakland, CA 94611
Black Creek Builders, a local expert in home remodeling and commercial contracting, serves the vibrant communities of Oakland, Berkeley, and the greater Bay Area. It brings its dedication and craftsmanship to every project, achieving its mission to transform spaces and exceed expectations. The company’s specialties are vast, including kitchen and bathroom remodeling, home repair and restoration, and restaurant and cafe construction. Regardless of the project type, Black Creek Builders is equipped to bring its clients’ vision to life.
Black Creek Builders is also noted for upholding LEED Certification standards, reflecting its dedication to creating environmentally responsible spaces. The firm’s founder, Travis Wirt, brings a rich legacy as a third-generation professional home builder, embodying the firm’s commitment to excellence and tradition. He and his team invite homeowners to join its community of satisfied clients who have experienced the transformative power of its work.
