A Foundation Built on Relationships.
In November 2000, Jim Fowler, Robert Williamson, and Arne Ericson embarked on a mission to establish NOVO, a commercial construction company based in the Bay Area, with the aim of fostering enduring relationships. Despite modest origins, NOVO has since risen to prominence as one of the most highly regarded contractors in both the Bay Area and Texas.
General Contractor Building in the
Bay Area Since 2000.
The foundation of NOVO is built on relationships. NOVO’s first jobs were from the principal’s relationships that Jim Fowler, Robert Williamson & Arne Ericson had made from past companies. The initial clients didn't care about experience or the size of the company, they knew that these three would deliver projects on time and under budget. These relationships built at inception have been carried throughout the years and built NOVO to what it is today.
Our mission has always been inspired by our vision: to create a mid-size nimble commercial construction company dedicated to providing enhanced customer value. Today, with many loyal repeat clients and a reputation for excellence, we know exactly how to succeed. We deliver projects of superb quality and build rock solid relationships.
NOVO Values
Build Rock Solid Relationships.
We build long-term partnerships — not one-off projects.
We would rather build one hundred projects for one customer than one project for one hundred customers.
Empower Our People.
Small teams. Real ownership. Fast decisions.
Project Executives run focused teams with autonomy and accountability.
Be Customer Centric.
We adapt to the client — not the other way around.
Flexible delivery and customized service aligned to each client’s needs.
Quick Facts
November 2000
350
40+
0.51
Menlo Park (HQ) • San Francisco • South San Francisco • Austin
Local 22 (San Francisco) • Local 212 (Menlo Park) • Local 405 (San Jose)
High Tech & Software • Life Science • Professional Services • Campus
Corporate Interiors • Manufacturing • Facilities • R&D Labs • Data Centers • Sustainability
Minority Business Enterprise (MBE)
Building a rock solid community.
Community initiatives are of the highest priority to NOVO. Our NOVO for Change committee fosters relationships with different organizations throughout the Bay Area and Texas. Giving back to our community makes us whole.

