Commercial construction in Chicago is thriving. The current scene is marked by diverse projects, including high-rise offices, retail spaces, and hospitality establishments. The city’s iconic skyline showcases the city’s architectural prowess, and fantastic commercial spaces are found in the downtown area and various neighborhoods. Firms from this list of the best commercial contractors in Chicago, Illinois, are behind in some of the city’s remarkable establishments. They have a deep knowledge of the city’s landscape, as well as its unique regulations. These firms were chosen for their expertise, professionalism, and ability to deliver top-quality projects on schedule and within budget.
Berglund Construction
8410 S. South Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60617
Family-owned Berglund Construction provides construction, renovation, and restoration services throughout the Midwest. Its portfolio includes various complex projects, including historic building restoration, medical facility renovations, and architecturally significant campus construction. With a hands-on approach, the firm collaborates with clients, consultants, subcontractors, and communities to deliver high-quality solutions. It has a diverse workforce of over 350 employees committed to innovation and safety.
The interiors of the three-story 2122 York Road Office Building were successfully renovated by Berglund Construction. It now includes a lower-level WiFi lounge, conference rooms, and training areas. Several of its spaces were modernized as well, including the lobby and offices. The Berglund team also renovated its exterior to include a new canopy and landscape improvements.
Pepper Construction Group
643 North Orleans Street, Chicago, IL 60654
With almost a century of industry experience, Pepper Construction Group has established itself as a strong contracting and construction management firm. It caters to the non-residential, private, and government sectors. The firm employs a client-focused approach, with project management and field supervisors focused on meeting each client’s unique needs. It has a dedicated team of experts specializing in specific requirements, providing comprehensive support from planning to delivery.
Starbucks’ new Reserve Roastery spans 43,000 square feet. It offers unique experiences on each floor, including a Reserve Coffee Bar, Bakery, Café, Experiential Coffee Bar, Arriviamo Cocktail Bar, and roof terrace. The firm partnered with the architects from Solomon Cordwell Buenz and interior designers from Perkins + Will to complete the project. This project received five awards, including “Best of the Best” Interior/Tenant Improvement in the ENR National Best Projects, and is LEED Silver certified.
Synergy Construction Group
2037 W. Carroll Avenue, Chicago, IL 60612
Established in 2009, Synergy Construction & Development Company has designed, developed, and constructed hundreds of successful projects in Illinois, Florida, Texas, Colorado, Indiana, and Michigan. With annual revenues surpassing $100 million, the firm’s principals actively engage with their team of over 50 employees to manage the firm. Its portfolio includes luxury multi-family units, medical buildings, and a substantial $74 million redevelopment of the former Ravenswood Hospital into an Elderly Independent and Supported Living Facility.
The firm collaborated with Four Corners Tavern Group to renovate a mixed-use commercial space into a new restaurant and bar called Steak Bar, located at 1500 N. Wells Street. The project involved interior and exterior renovations and transformed the space into a vibrant dining and entertainment destination.
International Contractors, Inc.
977 S Route 83, Elmhurst, IL 60126
International Contractors, Inc. (ICI) has been serving Chicago, Highland Park, Asheville, Vernon Hills, Jacksonville, and the surrounding area for over four decades. It specializes in construction management, general contracting, preconstruction, and design-build services. The firm prioritizes long-term relationships with clients and construction partners, with over 80% of its project coming from repeat clients and referrals. The firm encourages potential clients to connect with previous project partners to understand its work and expertise firsthand.
ICI completed the construction of a flagship location for Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant. by renovating the former Esquire Theater space. The tri-level, 24,000-square-foot restaurant features elegant polished wood wall panels and floors, brass and gray metal accents, and a striking chandelier. It also includes a three-story wine tower, retail space, and an open kitchen. The firm successfully addressed and met challenges, such as the lack of a service elevator, through careful examination and engineering.
Level Construction
4701 N Ronald Street, Harwood Heights, IL 60706
Level Construction, Inc. is a comprehensive construction firm operating in Chicago and Houston. The firm specializes in general contracting, construction management, and design-build for commercial and residential properties. From design support to post-construction property management, the firm provides tailored solutions and ensures 100% customer satisfaction. Its expertise covers additions, remodeling, renovations, and new building construction, with a detail-focused approach to project management and superior coordination.
In Chicago’s South Loop, Harbor is a premier American dining establishment helmed by Chef Anthony Bernal. Level Construction partnered with Barker/Nestor architects and Ingrassia Design to create this remarkable space that pays homage to the area’s history. The dining experience offers diverse options, including a raw bar, fireplace dining, banquettes, and a dining counter for guests to observe the chefs in action.
Englewood Construction
80 Main Street, Lemont, IL 60439
Highly regarded commercial general contractor Englewood Construction specializes in retail, restaurant, shopping center, senior living, office, industrial, and hospitality projects nationwide. Its success stems from the team’s unwavering dedication to project schedules and its ability to accommodate budget limitations. The firm has compiled and continually updated a comprehensive commercial construction cost database, as well as developed current pricing models for various local and national commercial projects. The firm also has a vast network of over 20,000 qualified subcontractors and suppliers nationwide that helps deliver high-quality products.
Englewood Construction partnered with Barker/Nestor to build Harry Caray’s 7th Inning Stretch, a 15,000-square-foot restaurant and bar in Chicago’s Water Tower Place. The design generates an urban industrial atmosphere inspired by Chicago’s EL stops and stations. It features decorative metal detailing, reclaimed brick, Tectum ceiling panels, and concrete flooring. The space is adorned with sports memorabilia and photographs, maintaining the spirit of broadcasting legend Harry Caray.
Kelly Construction and Design
4518 W Irving Park Road, Chicago, IL 60641
For over 30 years, Kelly Construction & Design, LLC (KCD) has established a strong reputation as a full-service general contractor. It has a strong track record of successfully completing commercial and residential projects, ranging in value up to $50 million. Offering superior general contracting and design/build services, the firm ensures the delivery of high-quality finished products. It prioritizes flexibility and attentive service while maintaining competitive pricing—always striving to meet the unique needs of its clients.
Founder and CEO Mike Kelly has always had a deep passion for construction, leading him to take on small client projects while still in college. As the CEO, Kelly plays a pivotal role in setting the firm’s direction and overseeing all aspects of its business functions. He actively engages with clients during preconstruction and contract negotiations and regularly visits job sites. While Kelly credits the highly qualified people at KCD for the firm’s success, his management style is characterized by being forthright, fearless, and by leading through example. He encourages a “get it done” attitude, emphasizes handling interruptions with composure, and fosters a culture of finding better solutions.
