Here’s a look at some prominent Seattle construction companies:
- Sellen Construction (Seattle): A local titan since 1944, Sellen’s all about complex commercial projects—think high-rises, hospitals, and tech hubs like the Seattle Aquarium Ocean Pavilion. They’re employee-owned, with over 700 staff, and emphasize sustainability and innovation (e.g., mass timber expertise). They’re a go-to for big-budget, high-profile builds.
- Turner Construction Company (Seattle office): Established in Seattle since 1976, this national giant employs over 500 locally and tackles diverse projects—life science labs, aviation (SeaTac upgrades), and tech offices. They’re known for self-performing trades like concrete and carpentry, with a strong virtual design and construction (VDC) team. Recent wins include awards for the Seattle Aquarium project.
- Lease Crutcher Lewis (Seattle): Around since 1886, they’ve got deep roots and a rep for commercial and institutional work—schools, offices, biotech labs. They handled parts of the Waterfront Seattle overhaul and are praised for collaborative management and sticking to timelines.
- Mortenson (Kirkland, near Seattle): Operating locally for over 40 years, Mortenson’s a top-20 U.S. builder with a Seattle-area focus on healthcare (e.g., Swedish First Hill North Tower), data centers, and renewables. They’re big on alternative delivery methods and relationship-driven projects.
- Clark Construction (Seattle office): A national firm with a strong Pacific Northwest presence, Clark’s behind massive builds like Amazon’s Bellevue 600 towers and the Western State Hospital forensic facility. They employ over 4,200 nationwide and lean on tech like Bridgit Bench for workforce planning.
- Andersen Construction (Seattle office): Based in Portland but active in Seattle since the ‘90s, they’re employee-owned and excel in healthcare, education, and multifamily projects. They’re known for lean construction and navigating occupied sites—like hospital expansions.
- GLY Construction (Bellevue, near Seattle): Led by Ted Herb, GLY’s been shaping Seattle’s skyline for decades with office towers, life science facilities, and retail spaces. They’ve won AIA awards (e.g., Chophouse Row) and handle tricky sites with shoring systems for hillside builds.
- Absher Construction Company (Puyallup, near Seattle): Family-run since 1940, Absher focuses on public works—schools, community centers—plus some private gigs. They’re smaller but punch above their weight with a safety-first ethos and community ties.
- JTM Construction (Seattle): A boutique firm with a flair for creative office spaces (e.g., Summit III—a 370,000-square-foot tower with high-tech HVAC). They blend practicality with innovation, serving clients like Amazon with a mix of work and play environments.