Since 1932
Vance Brown is a fourth generation family owned and operated business
Owner, CEO
3rd Generation
Owner, CAO
4th Generation
1932
With over 90 years of continuous operation, Vance Brown Builders is one of the most established and respected general contractors in Silicon Valley
A legacy of thoughtful evolution
93 –––––––––––––––––– YEARS
Vance Brown Builders was founded in 1932 by Vance M. Brown in the garage of his Palo Alto home.
Four generations later, Vance Brown is still family owned and operated by Loren Brown CEO | 3rd Generation and Brittany Brown Chavez CAO | 4th Generation
Vance M. Brown FOUNDER
1932
ORIGINS ––––––––––––––––––
Vance Brown & Sons started in 1932 and specialized in custom homes and small commercial buildings. Under Vance’s sons, Allan and Robert, the company expanded into public school construction and private sector projects.
1960 ––––––––––––––––––
By the 1960s, Vance Brown Builders had shifted its focus to negotiated private contracts, forming long-standing relationships with influential developers such as Tom Ford and Peery/Arrillaga – contributing to the development of millions of square feet of commercial space across Northern California.
PRESENT ––––––––––––––––––
Today, Vance Brown Builders continues to deliver a wide range of complex projects including office and R&D facilities, biotech labs, clean rooms, housing, athletic venues, schools, and high-end residences.
Our strong family roots shape a company culture grounded in commitment, trust, and long-term relationships.
OUR –––––––––––––––––– VALUES
01
Anticipatory Stewardship
We think three steps ahead because that's how you deliver projects on time and on budget. Our anticipatory approach means we're solving tomorrow's challenges today while stewarding every client investment with genuine care.
02
Collaborative Partnership
True partnership means we're in this together—client, architect, subcontractor, and community. We foster relationships built on trust because the best construction happens when everyone's expertise contributes to breakthrough results.
03
Adaptive Excellence
Every project is unique, so we adapt our proven expertise to meet your specific needs while maintaining unwavering quality standards. Whether it's a biotech laboratory or historic renovation, we're flexible in our approach, never in our commitment to excellence.
04
Generational Integrity
Four generations of family leadership have built lasting relationships through honest, straightforward business practices. Our reputation is how we secure future work—clients return when they trust your word and value your transparency.
05
Everyone Goes Home Safe
Safety isn't just compliance — it's personal accountability to each other and our communities. We create work environments where everyone goes home safely because a safe workplace reflects genuine care for people.
06
Innovation Through Tradition
We've been building Silicon Valley since before it was Silicon Valley, combining 90+ years of construction wisdom with cutting-edge approaches. Our deep knowledge provides the foundation for innovative solutions that build tomorrow's breakthrough spaces.
“ They’re home grown. When you think of Palo Alto you think of Vance Brown. Family operated. I am very proud of the projects we have done together and their legacy. ”
Ken Hayes, Architect, THG
“ Vance Brown has been a valued general contractor for Stanford University for over 50 years, during which time, we have partnered on well over 300 projects. ”
Ray M. Purpur, Deputy Director of Athletics, Stanford University
OUR IMPACT
93
Years in Business
94%
Satisfaction Rate
0.82
EMR
100+
Awards
150+
LEED Certified Projects
Our Team
Nearly half of our staff has been with Vance Brown Builders for over 10 years, with many for over 20 years
Owner, CEO
3rd Generation
Owner, CAO
4th Generation
COO
27 years at Vance Brown Builders
We are a service forward, and collaborative team that has earned us repeat business, loyal subcontractors, and trusted partnerships across the industry for over 90 years
1932
