Category: 75 for 75

Collaboration leads to Construction Management Innovation in the 1970s

Posted on by Michael Schroeder

In the dynamic world of commercial construction, innovation is rarely the product of a single mind. It flourishes when industry leaders, visionaries, and experts work together to solve complex challenges. This spirit of collaboration drove one of Kitchell’s most transformative developments in the 1970s: the pioneering of the Construction Management (CM) approach.

Kitchell was one of four national construction firms that developed and popularized what came to be called the Construction Management approach. In the early seventies, Sam and Vern Lindstrom began to market this team approach.

Prior to this shift, traditional construction methods often led to inefficiencies—projects were designed, then bid out, and only after contractor selection would cost and scheduling considerations take center stage. This approach left owners vulnerable to delays, budget overruns, and unforeseen complications. Recognizing these issues, Kitchell sought a better way—one that united architects, owners, and contractors from the very beginning.

Kitchell’s first true CM projects were three consecutive jobs for the DeVry Institute with CRS, a leading architectural firm. Sam, Vern, and the team flew to Chicago to collaborate with the design team in-person. The project was so successful, DeVry insisted on the same team doing its headquarters in Chicago and a school in Columbus, Ohio.

In an era before digital modeling and streamlined project management software, the team relied on real-time collaboration to create estimates and schedules. Architects sketched concepts on butcher paper on the wall while Kitchell’s experts provided immediate feedback on feasibility, cost, and timing. This iterative process enabled smarter decision-making and more predictable project outcomes—an approach that was groundbreaking at the time.

Kitchell initiated design-phase services like conceptual estimating, value engineering, and project scheduling, with construction provided under a negotiated Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) contract. Vern Lindstrom became chairman of the Construction Management Committee for the Associated General Contractors and helped author a textbook on the process. In its first year marketing the concept, Kitchell won 22 out of 24 jobs in a row.

The results were undeniable. Not only was the DeVry project a resounding success, but the model became a cornerstone of Kitchell’s project delivery philosophy. Owners responded enthusiastically, appreciating the increased transparency and efficiency. Soon, Construction Management was no longer a concept but an industry-standard best practice, proving that when key stakeholders unite from day one, the possibilities for innovation are limitless.

During the seventies, Kitchell built 12 of the 14 largest hospital projects in the Phoenix area and added new high-tech clients like Digital Equipment, Armour-Dial Laboratory, and Honeywell. More regional shopping centers were built in the rapidly developing metropolitan Phoenix, and Kitchell worked on eight of the ten largest. In spite of the 1974-75 recession, Kitchell grew steadily and continued to post strong earnings throughout the decade.

Women Leading the Way at the Berkeley City College New Academic Building

Posted on by Michael Schroeder

As Women in Construction Week comes to a close, the Berkeley City College Academic Building stands as a powerful example of women’s leadership in action. This project isn’t just about constructing a new facility—it’s about demonstrating the expertise, innovation, and impact of the all-women-led team driving it forward.

A Team of Experts
From project management to design, every aspect of this build is guided by skilled professionals who bring leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving to the forefront. Their work is shaping a space that will redefine the academic experience for Berkeley City College students, faculty, and staff. With women at the helm, this project highlights the depth of talent and expertise shaping the future of the built environment.

A behind-the-scenes look at the project offers insights from key players, including representatives from Peralta Colleges, XL Construction, and Ratcliff Architects. Their perspectives underscore the vital role of women in the industry and the lasting impact of their work.

Transforming a Campus, Shaping a Future
Located at 2118 Milvia Street, the new six-story, 60,000-square-foot academic and administration building will replace an outdated three-story structure, creating modern learning environments and essential student resources. The facility will feature expanded classroom and conference space, faculty and administrative offices, a Health Center, Student Services and Learning Communities, a Student Lounge, and a Learning Resource Center. Designed with sustainability in mind, the project is targeting LEED Silver certification and includes an outdoor roof deck offering fresh air and city views.

This project is more than just a building—it’s a statement about leadership, innovation, and the future of construction. Watch the video to hear directly from the professionals shaping this milestone moment for Berkeley City College.

Embracing Innovation in the 1960s

Posted on by Michael Schroeder

By the mid-1960s, Kitchell was poised for transformation. Sam Kitchell saw the need for stronger project controls and systems that would ensure profitable, sustainable growth. To drive this evolution, he promoted Vernie G. Lindstrom, Jr. (pictured above) to general manager of Kitchell Contractors in 1964. Vern, who had joined the company as an engineer-estimator in 1961, quickly proved to be a sharp strategist. “An exceptionally astute manager,” Sam later said, “Vern brought us the project controls, advanced scheduling systems, and people development programs we needed for profitable and sustainable growth.”

The Digital Shift: Kitchell’s First Computer
While construction sites still relied on hand-poured concrete and mechanical calculators, Vern saw the future in technology. In 1966, he attended an IBM training on business applications—where he was the only contractor in the room. Recognizing the potential for computers to revolutionize cost tracking and project management, he returned and ordered Kitchell’s first computer: the IBM 1130.

This wasn’t just a change in hardware—it was a shift in how the company operated. Tracking project costs had previously meant stacks of ledger sheets, hours of manual calculations, and endless paperwork. With the new system, Vern worked with Controller Carl Naegeli and an accounting programmer to design Kitchell’s first computerized cost control reports. By 1969, data was no longer locked in filing cabinets—it was stored on punch cards.

Technology Adoption Creates New Career Paths
But while technology was reshaping operations, it was also creating new career pathways—especially for Kitchell’s emerging women leaders. Kay Ellis, who had joined the company in 1965 as an accounting clerk, quickly became one of the key figures in this transition. She helped manage the growing volume of financial data, ensuring that Kitchell’s systems kept up with its expanding project portfolio. The shift to computer-based accounting gave her a critical role in modernizing Kitchell’s back-office operations—experience that would later propel her to become the company’s first Director of Human Resources.

The company’s adoption of computing wasn’t just about efficiency—it was about building a smarter, more structured organization. Vern’s vision for project controls, coupled with a growing team of forward-thinking leaders like Kay, ensured that Kitchell didn’t just keep pace with the industry—it set the standard.

The Timeless Legacy of Hotel Valley Ho

Posted on by Michael Schroeder

When Kitchell first built the Hotel Valley Ho in 1956, Scottsdale was on the verge of transforming into a modern desert oasis. Designed as a sleek, mid-century retreat, the hotel quickly became a magnet for Hollywood’s elite, hosting the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Bing Crosby, and Humphrey Bogart. It was a vision of modern luxury, where the desert met design in a way that captivated visitors for decades.

But even icons need a refresh. By the early 2000s, the beloved hotel had begun to fade, and restoring its former brilliance required both technical expertise and a deep respect for history. In 2004, Kitchell returned to Valley Ho—not just as builders, but as preservationists—to breathe new life into a structure they had helped shape nearly 50 years before.

Honoring the Past, Elevating the Future
Kitchell’s approach to the Hotel Valley Ho restoration was as much about preservation as it was about expansion. Working in accordance with the City of Scottsdale’s Historic Preservation Commission, the team carefully analyzed the original construction plans—many of which had been designed to allow for future vertical expansion. This forethought allowed Kitchell to add a seven-story tower, seamlessly blending new guest rooms and luxury condominiums with the existing structure.

Key elements of the original 1950s design were meticulously recreated. Specialty artisans were brought in to replicate concrete panels, pivoting privacy screens, and stone veneers—materials and techniques no longer commonly used but essential to maintaining the hotel’s authentic mid-century aesthetic. Even landscaping elements were preserved, with 90% of the existing trees salvaged and reused.

A Collaborative Effort in Preservation
Reviving the Valley Ho was not just about construction; it was about collaboration. Kitchell worked closely with architects, historians, preservationists, and local artisans to ensure every detail aligned with the hotel’s original spirit. The result was not just a renovation, but a reinvention—one that honored the past while embracing the future.

The project expanded the hotel to 220,000 square feet, adding 194 guest rooms, 37 luxury condominiums, a new guest wing, ballrooms, a spa, boardrooms, and the now-iconic Café ZuZu. Every aspect of the renovation was designed to merge historic charm with modern comfort, creating a space that remains as relevant and captivating today as it was in 1956.

The restoration of the Hotel Valley Ho is a testament to Kitchell’s ability to unite craftsmanship with innovation. It represents more than just a construction project—it’s a story of revitalization, collaboration, and vision. The project embodies Kitchell’s ethos of bringing people together to create something lasting, ensuring that the Valley Ho remains an architectural and cultural landmark for generations to come.

From its origins as a Hollywood hideaway to its resurgence as one of the country’s best-preserved mid-century modern hotels, the Valley Ho stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when history, craftsmanship, and collaboration unite. And for Kitchell, it’s a project that brings us full circle—back to a place where our legacy in Scottsdale first began.

Good Samaritan Phoenix: The Start of Kitchell’s Healthcare Construction Legacy

Posted on by Michael Schroeder

In 1962, Kitchell embarked on a journey that would shape Arizona’s healthcare landscape, beginning with the construction of Good Samaritan Hospital in Phoenix. This flagship project not only marked Kitchell’s first hospital build but also set the foundation for decades of leadership in specialized healthcare construction, including pioneering efforts in ICRA (Infection Control Risk Assessment) and interim life safety during active construction.

Good Samaritan Groundbreaking (Sam Kitchell is second to the right).

Throughout the 1960s and 70s, Kitchell’s work at Good Samaritan included transformative projects like a 21,370-square-foot E Wing addition in 1964, a 104,035-square-foot series of additions in 1966, and a 75,035-square-foot extended care addition in 1967. These projects, alongside investments in critical infrastructure such as a 9,000-square-foot central plant and a 200,000-square-foot parking garage, showcased Kitchell’s ability to build complex, large-scale healthcare facilities with precision and care.

The impact of this early work is clear—today, over half of Arizona’s hospitals have been built by Kitchell. The company’s expertise and dedication to healthcare construction continue to support medical professionals and improve patient experiences from California to Texas. Good Samaritan was just the beginning of a lasting legacy, one that proves Kitchell is more than a builder; it’s a partner in advancing community health across the nation.

Creating Space for Interdisciplinary Collaboration at the University of Arizona

Posted on by Michael Schroeder

For 75 years, Kitchell has been at the forefront of delivering complex, high-performance facilities that push the boundaries of innovation. The Grand Challenges Research Building (GCRB) at the University of Arizona is a testament to this legacy, bringing together world-class researchers in quantum computing, optics, and materials science under one roof.

As the design-builder, Kitchell collaborated with ZGF Architects and BWS Architects to construct a cutting-edge facility that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration. The building’s cast-in-place concrete structure ensures the stability required for highly sensitive experiments, while modular lab spaces provide the flexibility to support evolving research needs. Designed for both function and connectivity, the GCRB features communal areas that enhance teamwork and state-of-the-art mechanical systems that maintain precise environmental conditions, even in Arizona’s extreme climate.

Sustainability is a key focus, with all-electric systems and energy-efficient infrastructure aligning with the university’s ambitious goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. The GCRB is more than just a building—it’s a hub for discovery, a space where breakthroughs happen, and a reflection of Kitchell’s unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence in construction.

Read more about this transformative project: Lab Design News

Safety Innovation: Transforming Job Site Observations with Meta Glasses

Posted on by Michael Schroeder

At Kitchell, innovation and safety go hand in hand. As we continue to push the boundaries of technology to enhance construction site safety, we’re exploring new ways to make hazard identification more seamless, efficient, and effective.

Enter Meta Glasses—a game-changing technology that’s redefining how we observe and document job site conditions.

Safety Manager Ory Layton has experienced firsthand the challenges of capturing potential hazards in the field. Traditional methods—taking notes, snapping photos on a phone—often create a disconnect between safety professionals and crews. These approaches can be cumbersome, disruptive, and, at times, limit open dialogue.

That’s why Kitchell is embracing hands-free, real-time documentation. Meta Glasses enable Ory to capture site conditions effortlessly, without interrupting workflows or pulling attention away from the task at hand. Without a phone or clipboard in the way, conversations flow more naturally, workers stay engaged, and the documentation is more precise and comprehensive.

But this technology isn’t just about recording observations—it’s about enhancing the culture of safety.

“At the end of the day, it’s not about catching people. It’s about keeping people safe,” says Ory. “These glasses help me do that in a way that’s seamless, effective, and innovative.”

By leveraging smart solutions that prioritize safety without compromise, Kitchell continues to lead the industry—creating safer, smarter, and more connected job sites that move our vision forward.

A New Era for K-12 Learning: Santa Monica High School’s State-of-the-Art Exploration Building and Gold Gym

Posted on by Michael Schroeder

A Campus Designed for the Future
When Santa Monica High School (SAMOHI) first broke ground on its new Exploration Building and Gold Gymnasium, it marked more than just the addition of modern facilities—it signified how far K-12 education has come in creating dynamic, future-ready learning environments. With cutting-edge spaces dedicated to arts, engineering, medical sciences, law, and athletics, this project sets a new benchmark for student-focused design.

The newly unveiled Exploration Building embodies the evolution of project-based learning, providing students with specialized spaces that encourage collaboration, creativity, and hands-on experience. From its expansive film and photography studios to its fully equipped darkroom and architectural design labs, the facility ensures that SAMOHI students have access to the latest tools and technology to hone their skills. Meanwhile, the Gold Gymnasium delivers an elite training ground for student-athletes, fostering school pride and performance at the highest level.

The Evolution of School Construction
The transformation of SAMOHI is part of a broader shift in K-12 construction, one that Kitchell has been at the forefront of since the late 1970s. At that time, schools faced skyrocketing costs, lengthy schedules, and quality concerns. In response, Kitchell introduced the construction management (CM) model to the public sector, launching its first major CM project with the Amphitheater School District in Tucson, Arizona. This innovative approach allowed schools to efficiently manage complex projects across multiple campuses, leading to higher-quality outcomes and better financial stewardship.

Building Schools That Build the Future
Today, those early CM principles remain at the heart of Kitchell’s work, ensuring that projects like SAMOHI’s new facilities are not just buildings, but carefully designed environments that empower students to succeed. The success of the Exploration Building and Gold Gymnasium—made possible through the support of Santa Monica voters and forward-thinking school leadership—underscores a continued commitment to reimagining learning spaces for the next generation.

As SAMOHI students step into these new spaces, they’re not just walking into classrooms; they’re stepping into the future. And Kitchell is proud to play a role in shaping that journey.

The Bold Move that Launched Kitchell Development Company

Posted on by Michael Schroeder

By 1953, Kitchell wasn’t just constructing buildings—it was constructing a future. Recognizing the inevitable ups and downs of the construction industry, founder Sam Kitchell made a game-changing decision: diversifying into real estate development. The experience building during the Korean War, coupled with economic fluctuations in the industry, reinforced the need for stability through counter-cyclical markets.

This foresight led to a partnership with Utah Construction and Mining Company, marking the beginning of Kitchell’s real estate development legacy. Their first major venture? A 100,000-square-foot office building in downtown Phoenix, developed and leased back to Mountain States Telephone & Telegraph (which later became CenturyLink). The success of this project propelled them to expand into Albuquerque, New Mexico, where they developed another office building.

But Kitchell didn’t just develop and build—it innovated. These projects incorporated a state-of-the-art construction technique: the lift-slab system. Instead of the traditional floor-by-floor approach, all concrete slabs were poured in the basement, then jacked up and welded to the steel columns. This pioneering method streamlined construction and set new efficiency benchmarks in the industry.

“We constructed what was then a Class A building for Mountain States for $8.50 per square foot and leased it to them for $1.10 per square foot per year, triple net,” Sam Kitchell recalled. It was a strategic and profitable move, proving that Kitchell’s approach to development was as smart as it was ambitious.

What started as a hedge against industry volatility became a defining force behind Kitchell’s long-term success. Today, Kitchell Development Company continues to shape communities, carrying forward the same spirit of innovation and calculated risk that laid its foundation decades ago.

How the Maricopa County Government Complex Launched Kitchell’s Enduring Collaboration with the Public Sector

Posted on by Michael Schroeder

For the last 75 years, Kitchell has played a vital role in shaping Arizona’s built environment. One of its most defining projects was the construction of the Maricopa County Government Complex in the early 1960s—a transformative development that centralized county services, modernized infrastructure, and set a new standard for public buildings in Arizona. Today, Kitchell continues to collaborate with Maricopa County, reinforcing a long-standing partnership built on trust, innovation, and excellence.

A Vision for Progress
In May 1961, Maricopa County voters overwhelmingly approved an $11 million bond to construct a state-of-the-art government complex in downtown Phoenix. The goal was to replace aging, scattered facilities with a modern, efficient hub for county operations. The two-block site between Jefferson and Madison Streets, First and Third Avenues, was selected as the foundation for this ambitious project.

Kitchell, already recognized for its expertise and commitment to quality, was awarded the contract. The firm was tasked with bringing the vision to life—on time and within budget.

Building for the Future
Ground was broken on December 20, 1962, and the project was officially completed in December 1964. The complex included four distinct buildings, designed to integrate seamlessly into a unified governmental center:

The Six-Story Administration Building – A 130,000-square-foot facility consolidating key departments like the Board of Supervisors, County Manager, Elections, Planning & Zoning, and the Treasurer’s Office.

The Nine-Story Superior Court Building – Housing 13 superior courtrooms, a law library, and offices for the County Attorney and Clerk of the Superior Court.

The Four-Story Sheriff’s Office and Jail – A 94,000-square-foot, maximum-security facility designed for efficiency and safety, including an underground tunnel to securely transfer prisoners to courtrooms.

The Supervisors’ Auditorium – A uniquely designed 5,500-square-foot structure with a six-vaulted shell roof, offering seating for 252 people and serving as a public meeting space for county hearings.

Innovation and Engineering Excellence
Kitchell’s approach to the project incorporated cutting-edge construction techniques to maximize durability, efficiency, and long-term usability. The precast concrete wall panels (totaling 200,000 square feet) helped create a uniform, modern aesthetic while ensuring structural integrity.

To handle the scale of the project, construction required:

  • 3,410 tons of reinforcing and structural steel
  • 23,000 cubic yards of concrete
  • 140 miles of electrical wiring
  • 1,400 tons of air conditioning systems

By the time the complex opened in January 1965, it was the most advanced governmental facility in the state, designed to meet Maricopa County’s needs for decades to come.

A Partnership That Endures
The Maricopa County Governmental Complex was more than just a project—it’s success led to Kitchell’s long-standing collaboration with Arizona’s public sector. This effort laid the foundation for future government developments and reinforced Kitchell’s reputation as a leader in complex, large-scale public sector construction.

Kitchell’s legacy of delivering transformative projects continues, shaping the communities where we live and work. The Maricopa County Government Complex remains a cornerstone of that legacy, a project that not only met the needs of its time but helped define the future of government facilities in Arizona and beyond. And with Kitchell still working alongside Maricopa County today, that tradition of excellence continues.