The Fine Art of Building: Killian Group's New Headquarters

Springfield-based general contractor Killian Group of Cos. moved in mid-September to a 40,000-square-foot headquarters at 2664 E. Kearney St. Beyond a gated entrance, sits a modern office building outfitted with high-tech gadgets, a helicopter landing pad and evidence of President Bill Killian’s appreciation of the arts.

The signature of the complex is a 35-foot steel sculpture of the famous Charles Ebbets’ circa 1932 photo called Lunch Atop a Skyscraper. The replica, above, suspended outside the entrance, is one of two by New York sculptor Sergio Furnari, who Killian met on a business trip.

“He and I talked for several months before he agreed,” including two visits to Springfield, Killian said. Killian calls the piece a tribute to his workers and “guys that get it done working with their hands.” Furnari’s original piece was stationed in Central Park and at ground zero for a year. The replica was built in New York and transported to Springfield.

Killian’s personal office is decked out with an original of contemporary artist Todd Camp, above, and a Marc Chagall print.

A Peter Max original hangs in the lobby. Interior designer Leslie Funk of Thistle Grove Designs said Killian employees selected artwork for their offices.

Killian Group operated from Plaza III near Glenstone Avenue and Sunshine Street since the 1960s. Now, flat-screen TVs, modern furniture and a hidden projection screen synchronized with a window shade adjustment and light dimmer adorn the headquarters.

“When we have clients come visit us, we want to show them what we can produce,” Killian said of the new digs. “We hope they can see the quality construction.”

A center-aisle Main Street highlights the company’s notable projects, many completed for hotelier John Q. Hammons.

“I owe a lot to him,” Killian said of their 20-year business relationship. “He’s been very good to me and to our success.”