Building teams for successful quality projects

Barbecues for exemplary safety statistics, parties for reaching construction milestones ahead of schedule, repeat business for exceptional performance - DPR has always recognized the important role subcontractors play in the successful completion of its projects. “Today’s subs are very sophisticated and bring a lot to the table,” said DPR’s Loyd Acreman. “From budgeting and scheduling to design and value engineering, they bring real world experience to every step of the construction process.”

Portland-based EC Company has been working with DPR on a variety of projects over the past several years and has quickly earned a reputation for providing excellent service.

One of the first demonstrations of EC Company’s initiative and commitment to getting the job done happened late one afternoon when Jon Orrell of EC Company’s Voice and Data Division was contacted by DPR Portland’s Jeff Thiede with a request that went beyond fast track. A DPR client needed a back up power system installed immediately. EC Company assigned electricians to the project right away and completed the job in record time, surpassing the owner’s expectations and helping to solidify DPR’s relationship with the client.

“EC Company brings depth and experience, working among challenging project dynamics, while still performing at the safest level in the industry,” said Thiede. “They have been key to meeting project goals and to DPR’s success.”

E & S Masonry Corp. has truly brought a hands on approach to its work at the new Pixar headquarters in Emeryville, Calif. The Castro Valley, Calif.-based company is hand laying more than 423,000 bricks and pavers for the two-story building. “The individuals at E & S brought a tremendous amount of experience to this project,” said Chris Strock with DPR’s Redwood City office. “They were in a position to give advice and offer solutions for design and budget issues.”

Every detail of the masonry work, down to the manufacturing process for the brick and mixture of the mortar, was taken care of by E & S. When a choice of colors and patterns had to be made for the walkways, E & S built several eight-sq.-ft. mock-ups. When a decision on the size of a design detail for the exterior of the building was needed, E & S was there with two options, hoisting them up to the top of the structure.

“From the beginning, there has been a great team spirit on the project,” said Ron Bennett of E & S. “DPR brought us in early, giving us the opportunity to streamline the process at the design stage.” As a result of this preplanning and E & S know-how, the construction process has progressed without a hitch.