Though VCC Construction is the No. 1 retail contractor in the nation since its founding three decades ago (its 30th anniversary is on March 17), the company has since diversified into office, theater, multifamily, student housing, warehouse, industrial and hospitality markets across the nation.

VCC first opened its doors in 1987 with one small office in Little Rock, Ark., nurturing a vision from day one to build smartly and more efficiently. The firm has continued to achieve this as it opened offices in Tampa; Atlanta; Phoenix; Dallas; Houston; McAllen, Texas; Fayetteville, Ark.; and Irvine, Calif.

In honor of VCC's anniversary, Bisnow looked at the overarching principles that make it successful, and major projects benefiting from its expertise.

Tech And Modernization

The VCC team's early, ongoing commitment to creativity and innovation manifests itself through its use of high-end technologies on each project. From virtual reality and BIM to laser scanning and more, VCC focuses on an integrated project delivery process.

Since the beginning, the company has utilized Endeavor, a comprehensive construction management software. Endeavor's platform allows full owner and team access to projects anytime and anywhere, with daily diaries uploaded from people on the field and within the office and automatic updates of the schedule. It is an extension of the design team, keeping VCC's workforce up-to-date and in sync every step of the way, and part of the strategy that propelled the firm to the top of Building Design & Construction's rankings.

Philanthropy And Caring

VCC’s community services are an integral part of its operations and company identity. The VCC Cares Foundation is centered around fundraising for local charities, including the Arkansas Children’s Hospital and Community Connections. In October 2015, the firm hosted its inaugural VCC Cares Golf Charity Classic to raise money for these and numerous other local charities.

This deep concern for community has earned the company the title of Best Place To Work In Arkansas and Healthiest Employers in 2016.

Major Projects

“We’re 30 years old, but we continue to be a leader and serve our clients with just as much energy as when we first started,” VCC managing director Derek Alley said.

It employs that energy at developments across the United States. Some recent highlights include:

River Oaks District

The River Oaks District in Houston is especially crafted to call to mind the character and elegance of Rodeo Drive. The district hosts a number of boutique shops and luxury retail chains, including Dior. The area includes a bevy of dining options and will also be home to a number of condos, hotels, apartments and offices spread throughout four towers.

Downtown Summerlin

The mixed-use retail community of Downtown Summerlin is a part of an urban development move for this western neighborhood in Las Vegas. The Summerlin center — the entirety of which is LEED Gold certified — spreads over 106 acres, and includes a nine-story office structure, 125 dining and shopping options, and 33 one- and two-story parking garages and buildings.

IKEA In Burbank, Calif.

Everyone’s favorite DIY furniture store doubled in size from its previous location, with 50 room settings, 10,000 custom-designed items, a play area for children, the classic Swedish restaurant and three model home interiors. The store sits on 23.2 acres of fresh land resulting from the rerouting of First Street and the gradual removal of 27 older buildings in the area.

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