Local joint venture team completes two major projects for Hope College

January 18, 2016

Local joint venture team completes two major projects for Hope College

Play Video
""
,

(HOLLAND, MI) - G.O. Construction, a local joint venture team composed of GDK Construction of Holland, and Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. (O-A-K) of Grand Rapids, is pleased to announce they have completed two major construction projects for Hope College; the new Jack H. Miller Center for Musical Arts and the new Kruizenga Art Museum.

Jack H. Miller Center for Musical ArtsThis 64,000 square-foot new construction project features a structure made of 65-foot tall precast concrete panels. Each panel weighs over 80,000 pounds, making the total weight of the concrete structure over ten million pounds. The structure was designed and built to isolate the transmission of sound and vibration from both the musical activities within the building, and from the adjacent rail tracks.

Other specialized components include a glass-enclosed two-story lobby area, an acoustically superior main performance hall with 800 seats (550 main floor and 250 balcony), an intimate recital hall with flexible seating for up to 125, new instrumental and choral rehearsal rooms, multiple faculty studios and practice rooms, and a dedicated organ studio.

Unique scheduling considerations were taken for the installation and tuning of the Casavant Opus 3903 organ. The organ was installed over a four-week span in June 2015. The facility opened to students in August 2015, while the main performance hall was in the final stages of completion. After the project was substantially complete, ahead of schedule in October 2015, five weeks were reserved to thoroughly and accurately tune the instrument.

The total project cost for Jack H. Miller Center was $35 million, which includes construction and an endowment for maintenance.

Kruizenga Art MuseumThe new Kruizenga Art Museum provides exhibition space for Hope College’s permanent art collection, a gallery for visiting exhibitions, and a central multi-purpose space for educational use and events. The building shell consists of 27 granite slabs, each soaring 22 feet high, with LED lights illuminating the space between each panel.

Other unique features include: A building footprint in the shape of an artist’ pallet; a Building Automation System (BAS) to monitor and control the heat, ventilation, and air conditioning system; full height entrance window with low-E coating; low-VOC paint in all interior spaces; steel beams in the ceiling to support potential hanging installations; and polished concrete floors.

The total project cost for Kruizenga Art Museum was $7.8 million, including construction and an endowment for ongoing building maintenance.

History of joint venture teamThe partnership between GDK and O-A-K initially formed in 2010, when they were hired by Holland Public Schools to manage $40 million worth of construction for three district facilities: Holland High School, West K-7 School and Jefferson K-7 School. In 2011, G.O. Construction was hired by a privately-held corporation along the lakeshore, to manage several additional projects. The joint venture team is currently working with Holland Township, West Ottawa Public Schools, and Zeeland Public Schools on several additional projects.

“If there is one thing our projects have in common it is that they are deeply intertwined with our West Michigan community. We are fortunate to have found a great niche in the community-driven market as we partner with our friends at GDK,” said O-A-K President and CEO, Frank Stanek. “We come to work every day and have fun.”

“The relationship between GDK and O-A-K is grounded in shared values. We are like-minded organizations, and we enjoy the challenges and successes of every project we complete together,” adds GDK President, Chuck Geenen.

Both Hope College facilities are open and operational for the 2016 winter semester. Architectural partners included HGA of Minneapolis (Jack H. Miller Center for Musical Arts), and C Concept Design of The Netherlands (Kruizenga Art Museum).

""

Related Stories

O-A-K Employee March Madness Event

Each year, our March Madness event brings our team together at the Operations Center for an afternoon of connection and celebration. From lunch and tournament games to golf simulator competitions, it’s a chance for our field and office teams to come together, strengthen friendships, and celebrate the work we do every day.

April 6, 2026
Learn More

Grand Rapids Archives Construction Update

Join O-A-K team members Dave Fleece and Trevor Anderson, along with Kristin Pfauth from the City of Grand Rapids, for a tour of the Archives & Records Center. While only about 10 percent of the city’s collection is on display at the public museum, the remaining 90 percent, over a quarter million items, are housed here at the archives.

This project will create a bright, open space designed for access and collaboration. Visitors will be able to request items, collector groups can gather, and teachers can bring students for hands-on learning experiences. One classroom will feature a retractable glass wall, allowing the space to be opened up or closed off as needed, while a permanent glass wall will offer visitors a direct view into the archives, connecting the public to the city’s rich history.

March 30, 2026
Learn More

Women in Construction at Owen-Ames-Kimball

The construction industry is built on teamwork, problem-solving, and a shared commitment to creating spaces that serve communities. At Owen-Ames-Kimball Co., women play an important role in bringing projects to life, whether they are working in the field or supporting projects behind the scenes. Their contributions help drive both our company and the communities we serve forward.

While construction has traditionally been a male-dominated industry, more women are pursuing careers in the field and helping shape its future. Their perspectives, skills, and leadership strengthen project teams and help inspire the next generation of construction professionals.

“I think women often bring strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a collaborative mindset. Having that diverse perspective strengthens our team.” - Alyson Heitzman, Project Superintendent

Many women in construction say one of the most rewarding aspects of the industry is the variety. Each project presents new challenges, new teams, and new opportunities to learn. From managing timelines and budgets to coordinating with subcontractors and clients, women at O-A-K bring dedication and expertise to every stage of a project. Their work helps ensure projects run smoothly, and that communities receive high-quality spaces where people can learn, work, and gather.

For many, construction is also about being part of something bigger. Seeing a project take shape, from early planning to the final walk-through, is a rewarding experience that reflects months, or even years, of collaboration and hard work.

“It’s a great industry to be in, and it’s fun, collaborative, and there’s room for women at every level.” - Jane Leahy, Project Manager

As the industry continues to evolve, mentorship and representation are helping open doors for more young professionals exploring careers in construction. By sharing their experiences and supporting future leaders, women across the industry are helping build a stronger, and more inclusive workforce.

At O-A-K, we’re proud to recognize the contributions of the women on our team. Their dedication, leadership, and passion for the industry help move projects and our communities forward every day.

March 3, 2026
Learn More