Our Story

For more than a century, Johnson & Galyon has shaped the landscape of East Tennessee through integrity, craftsmanship, and innovation. From landmark civic projects to state-of-the-art facilities, our work reflects a deep commitment to quality and community. What began in 1914 as a small local builder has grown into one of the region’s most respected construction firms—guided by the same principles of hard work, honesty, and excellence that defined our founders. Every project we take on is more than a structure; it’s a lasting contribution to the people and places we’re proud to serve.

HOW WE WORK

Our Approach

Cultivated to ensure the highest quality control, Johnson & Galyon adheres to a unique and efficient building process. We recognize that most residential projects do not fit a specific mold, so we customize our process for each client.

At Johnson & Galyon, we begin each project with the same goal: complete client satisfaction. Whether large or small, we treat each project as an opportunity to earn the trust and support of the communities we serve. Johnson & Galyon is committed to being approachable and flexible with our clients. Whether we are helping you select an architect, manage an overall project budget, or execute a set of design plans, we take pride in being able to serve you in any capacity needed.

Johnson & Galyon has a long history of residential construction excellence in the greater Knoxville area. We use our experience as builders in conjunction with the latest technology to manage every detail of every project and to offer the following to our clients:

Budget Control

Johnson & Galyon has the expertise and experience to provide a comprehensive budget and keep you updated on costs throughout the building process. This ensures we meet your goals without any unexpected expenses.

Schedule Control

Johnson & Galyon proactively manages each project, seeing it through to completion without sacrificing quality or deviating from the agreed-upon specifications.

Quality Craftsmanship

Johnson & Galyon employs a confident and highly skilled team. Our reputation in Knoxville is unmatched, and we have cultivated long-term relationships with the area’s most reliable, pre-qualified, and quality subcontractors.

community impact

Progress built year by year

1914

A.H. Whisman starts the company

After its founding, the company was off to a quick start with W.K. Johnson joining the company in 1919. By 1920, the company had built two area landmarks in Cherokee Country Club and the Knox County Courthouse, both of which stand today as a testament to their construction.

1924-1933

Continued Growth & Impact

The company continues building its legacy with projects like St. Mary's Hospital and several projects for the University of Tennessee: Strong Hall, Ferris Hall, and the James D. Hoskins Library.

1934-1953

Legacy Projects

This twenty year span includes the construction of the Alumni Gymnasium for the University of Tennessee, First Presbyterian Church in Kingsport, East TN Baptist Hospital, the State Office Building, and Grainger County Courthouse.

1954-1973

Healthcare Facilities

During these years, the company builds the Healthcare facilities that will continue to serve the community for decades to come: Ut Medical Center in 1956, Fort Sanders Professional Building in 1961, and East TN Baptist Hospital additions.

1974-1993

The World's Fair & Downtown Knoxville

The 1982 World's Fair changed the trajectory of Knoxville - and the company played a large role with the construction of The Holiday Inn and L&N Station - both staples of the fairgrounds. The late 80s and early 90s changed the landscape in Knoxville with the addition of the Riverview Tower, Thompson Cancer Survival Center, and the Whittle Building/Howard Baker Courthouse.

1994-2008

Community Impact

The 21st Century ushered in a new wave of recognizable landmarks, including Volunteer Landing, Jefferson Memorial Hospital, Millers Building, Pilot Headquarters, Park West Hospital, Tennova North, and additions/renovations to Neyland Stadium, Children's Hospital, and the East TN Historical Society.

2009-Present

Continued Legacy

Ayers Hall at the University of Tennessee is fully renovated, University of Tennessee Natalie L. Haslam Music Center, Knoxville Transit Center, and UTMC Heart Hospital Surgery addition all carry on Johnson & Galyon's impact on the community.

meet the Team

Leadership

Doug Kennedy

Chief Executive Officer

Susan Bacon

Chief Financial Officer

Craig Daniel

Executive Vice President of Preconstruction

Chad Brewster

Vice President of Operations

Jeremy Shipp

Director of Residential Preconstruction Services

rooted in community

Community Support

For more than a century, Johnson & Galyon has taken pride in helping Knoxville and the surrounding region thrive. Giving back is part of who we are. Our team volunteers time, contributes resources, and serves on boards across a wide range of community organizations, including:
‍
• United Way
• Emerald Youth Foundation
• The First Tee of Greater Knoxville
• Knoxville Area Chamber of Commerce
• Dolly Parton Children's Hospital
• UT Medical Center Trauma
• Carson-Newman University
• Patricia Neal Rehabilitation Center
• East Tennessee Community Design Center
• American Heart Association
• Several Colleges of the University of Tennessee

Dolly Parton's Children's Hospital Golf Classic

Doug speaking at the 2026 American Heart Association event.

Our Approach

Progress built year by year

Leadership

Let us build the perfect home around you.