Construction Business Review

DPR Construction
Elevating Modern Construction With Innovation

George Pfeffer, DPR Construction | Construction Business Review | Commercial Contractor of the YearGeorge Pfeffer, CEO
Bridging the gap between field realities and model-based designs is key to shaping construction projects from the ground up. DPR Construction has consistently delivered constructioninforming design workflows for over three decades, completing complex structures in a virtual environment even before construction begins.

A global self-performing commercial contractor and construction company, it helps clients with mission-critical jobs of all shapes and sizes, including greenfield builds, first-generation fitouts and retrofits of existing structures.

DPR takes a design-to-build approach to fine-tune design components and make them easier to build and faster to assemble, maximizing offsite fabrication and simplifying field assembly. Adopting virtual design and construction (VDC)- driven digital processes equip clients with comprehensive information upfront, enabling them to mitigate uncertainties and achieve their goals faster and more predictably. The company works hand in hand with clients to deploy a detailed process framework that supports consistent delivery and predictable outcomes. Its design-to-build processes ensure every job is executed with accountability, whether a multi-milliondollar technical facility or a conference room renovation.

“By encouraging ideas from all corners of our organization, we are accelerating innovation in areas proven to make a difference in project delivery, like virtual design, prefabrication and self-perform work,” says George Pfeffer, CEO.

DRP’s journey started with the determination to innovate in an industry resistant to change. Its first job as a contractor on a six-month tenant improvement project for Argo Systems included building out the elevator and bathroom areas and installing electrical and HVAC systems. Today, the company specializes in complex, technical projects across healthcare, life sciences, advanced technology, higher education and commercial markets.

The foundation of any project’s success is established long before the shovel hits the dirt. DPR relies on datadriven decisions derived from building information modeling (BIM) and VDC to take the guesswork out of construction. Identifying potential design conflicts early on prevents costly rework. Its preconstruction services go beyond traditional open-book cost projections and value engineering to create reliable schedules and estimates, breaking the mold of traditional cost reporting that typically lags behind design.

  • By Encouraging Ideas From All Corners Of Our Organization, We Are Accelerating Innovation In Areas Proven To Make A Difference In Project Delivery, Like Virtual Design, Prefabrication And Selfperform Work

In one instance, Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, Massachusetts, contacted DPR to centralize all critical care services to streamline patient flow and reduce transport times between key departments, including the emergency and intensive care units. The focus was on performing a complete makeover of 24 operating and eight interventional procedure rooms and installing a new chiller and air handler unit to support the expanded facilities. The hospital also wanted dedicated spaces for staff support, faculty offices and an extended lobby area for better patient and visitor access. The catch, however, was to complete the project without bringing the medical operations to a halt.

DPR employed VDC techniques to align design elements and plan construction activities. Laser scanning assessed existing mechanical, electrical, plumbing and architectural conditions, ensuring accurate integration with new installations. Early sequencing of floor grinding and leveling work prevented schedule delays and facilitated the timely mobilization of trades. By precisely modeling the placement of piping, the team reduced wall thickness to enlarge room sizes and provide easier access to service lines from the corridor.

Driving eco-friendly practices is an important part of DPR’s identity. Its net-zero-energy office buildings serve as living laboratories for sustainable design. These facilities incorporate advanced energy systems, smart lighting and efficient HVAC solutions, demonstrating the company’s dedication to creating environmentally responsible workspaces.

Backed by a history of excellence and a commitment to quality, DPR continues to redefine the boundaries of modern construction. It delivers more predictable outcomes through the application of VDC and prefabrication to help customers realize their strategic goals.