About Us

Your Vision,
Our Commitment.

Headquartered in Philadelphia, PA since 1979, Clemens Construction Company is a full-service general and carpentry contractor with a proven track record in delivering high-quality, logistically complex urban projects. Our diverse portfolio spans multifamily, hospitality, historic restoration, education, healthcare, life sciences, commercial, banking, office, and retail markets—each built with the same dedication to precision, safety, and client satisfaction.

What sets Clemens apart is our ability to self-perform key scopes through our in-house Carpentry Division, fully equipped Millwork Shop, and agile Special Projects Division. This capability gives us greater control over quality, schedule, and cost—particularly on fast-paced or logistically challenging jobs. From ground-up developments to high-end interior fit-outs and renovations in occupied facilities, our team’s craftsmanship, attention to detail, and problem-solving mindset consistently deliver exceptional results.

Clemens is an award-winning contractor recognized for craftsmanship, innovation, and historic preservation, but our true success is measured by the trust of our clients and the strength of our industry relationships. We approach every project with the belief that every detail matters, every partnership deserves respect, and every job is an opportunity to build smarter, safer, and better for our client and the communities we serve.

Union Strong

Clemens Construction is proud to be union strong, standing shoulder to shoulder with the skilled trades that power our projects and our city. As a signatory of the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters, the International Painters & Allied Trades District Council 21, and the Laborers’ District Council of Philadelphia, we are committed to providing fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for professional growth. Our partnership with these and other respected unions ensures that every Clemens project benefits from the highest standards of craftsmanship, integrity, and teamwork—delivering exceptional results while supporting the strength and dignity of organized labor.

Our History

Clemens Construction Company was founded in 1979 by James X. Clemens, who landed his first job renovating a small office with no staff and minimal resources. Through hard work, determination, and a commitment to quality, Clemens turned that one job into a thriving business, earning over $1 million in sales within the first year. Early success was fueled by Jim’s ability to attract top talent and consistently deliver exceptional results on increasingly complex projects.

Initially focused on interior commercial work—particularly in retail, banking, and high-end corporate offices—Clemens quickly developed a strong reputation for quality craftsmanship and personalized service. In 1997, Jim Clemens retired and sold the company to architect Stephen W. Pouppirt, who continues to lead the firm as president. Under his leadership, Clemens has grown into one of the Northeast’s most trusted general contractors, known for its expertise in urban infill, historic preservation, creative fit-outs, and full-scale renovations and new construction. Today, Clemens serves a wide range of market sectors including multifamily, hospitality, education, healthcare, life sciences, and public facilities.

Teamwork + Collaboration

We view our client relationships as a true partnership with a common goal – achieving full vision of the project down to the last detail. We are here to solve problems big and small, from pre-construction and planning phases all the way to ribbon-cutting and beyond.

Unmatched Quality

Many companies say they value quality, but for us it’s non-negotiable. Our clients see this in our painstaking, meticulous attention to detail through all phases of work. We employ the most highly trained labor force available, and demand the best from all employees and subcontractors. And even though we pride ourselves in finding innovative cost-saving solutions for our clients, we never compromise on quality – period.

Creativity + Vision

We take the time to understand the project vision all the way down to the smallest details. We leverage the depth of our experience to find creative and cost-effective solutions to stay on-budget and on-schedule without sacrificing the project vision.

Community

A respected leader in the community, we develop meaningful, long-lasting relationships with owners, developers, architects, designers and local unions, and maintain affiliations with the GBCA and AIA.

Exceptional People

Our team has both energy and experience and truly loves what they do. We are committed to inclusion and diversity on all projects as well as maintaining an open and collaborative environment for all.

Safety

We are dedicated to providing the safest workplace possible. We are continuously elevating our standards and training our personnel to maintain our excellent safety rating. Our Project Managers and Superintendents have earned OSHA 30 certifications and the company has earned the Safety Committee Certification issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.