Based in Memphis, Tennessee, RKA Construction is a residential and commercial contractor serving Memphis, Oxford, Pickwick, Horseshoe Lake, and surrounding areas. RKA Construction builds on homegrown values, a love for the community, and a commitment to giving back through impactful projects. 

Keep reading for a round-up of RKA’s latest projects and more on how RKA has gone beyond the build and positively influenced the local community.  

RESIDENTIAL

RKA focuses on a detailed, craftsman approach with each project, whether custom building from the ground up or seamlessly crafting additions and renovations.   

Central Gardens Modern Traditional Custom Build 
Architect: David Anderson
Designer: Lindsey Black
Photographer: Sélavie Photography (Interior), Hannah Joyce (Exterior)

RKA blended modern and traditional elements with the Central Gardens Modern Traditional Custom Build. The commitment to modern living and a craftsman approach is evident in the home’s classic design and well-integrated state-of-the-art amenities. 

The custom new build captivates the historic style of the Central Gardens Neighborhood while incorporating contemporary elements. Features of the home also include a screened-in porch, pool, and gourmet kitchen. 

East Memphis Modern
Architect: archimania
Designer: archimania
Photographer: archimania

RKA partnered with local architecture firm archimania to build an “East Memphis Modern Home” project, As Seen In The Scout Guide Volume 9. 

The family home serves form and function. Key elements include the steel and oak staircase in the entry foyer, a luxurious pool, and plenty of room for entertaining.

Addition + Renovation (kitchen, dining room, living room, and master suite)
Architect: Charles Shipp
Designer: Greg Baudoin Interior Design 
Photographer: Sélavie Photography

RKA partnered with architect Charles Shipp and Greg Baudoin Interior Design for a second-story garage addition and renovation project, including the primary suite, kitchen, dining room, and powder bath. 

COMMERCIAL

Like the residential projects, the RKA Construction commercial projects share the vision of high quality, customer service, and community. 

Benjamin L. Hooks Institute for Social Change:
Architect: A2H
Designer: A2H
Photographer: RKA & Hooks Institute

The Hooks Institute has a multi-faceted program spanning from student interaction and support to community education. The renovation of the 5000 sqft. floor of the existing 1970s Wilder Tower presented multiple challenges, including budgetary constraints, outdated systems, multiple agency participation, and an active building. 

RKA worked with A2H and the Institute and University representatives to provide budget solutions and options while maintaining the original concept of the owner, end user, and design team. 

RKA facilitated the ongoing, weekly communication among all parties throughout construction. RKA’s priorities were to execute the build, remain faithful to the original intent, and be the absolute best stewards of our clients’ finances.

Memphis River Parks
Photographer: RKA 

RKA partnered with Memphis River Parks to renovate and restore the existing ceiling and lighting installations in the park’s circulation areas. These structures have been a part of Mud Island Park since the 1980s. 

Due to the exterior application and exposure of most of the installations, the fixtures, finishes, and systems had experienced significant deferred maintenance, specifically due to the closure of the Park’s attractions. 

RKA successfully navigated an urban setting, multiple agencies, and a high-profile location. RKA exhibited skill in facing multiple challenges, including weather and dated materials, and communicating effectively with various entities.

Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare Germantown Hospital Expectant Mothers Room
Photographer: RKA 

With meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to excellence, RKA transformed the space into a tranquil haven for expectant mothers, offering comfort and serenity. The newly renovated room boasts modern amenities, soothing décor, and state-of-the-art facilities tailored to meet the unique needs of mothers-to-be. 

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

RKA goes beyond the build by engaging the local community. With each project, RKA constantly reflects on the interactions among the community, trade partners, and clients, asking themselves how to improve these relationships. RKA also heavily emphasizes giving back to the community with partnerships with various organizations.

Community Foundation: Through RKA’s fund with the Community Foundation, each employee chooses a local non-profit to donate to in their name. In 2023, RKA supported over 38 organizations, including St. Jude, the Hospitality Hub, A Way Out Ministry, the Madonna Learning Center, and more. 

Clean Memphis: RKA partners with Clean Memphis to host an annual Tillman Street Clean Up. The team takes an afternoon to pick up trash along the street and beautify the local neighborhood. 

Carpenter Art Garden: RKA is currently working with the Carpenter Art Garden, Clean Memphis, and Republic Services to improve and update the outdoor classroom space and art building. 

Room in the Inn: RKA partners with the Room in the Inn for a Clothing Drive.

Snowden School: RKA partners with Snowden School for School Supply Drives. 

The Hooks Institute: Throughout the commercial building process, RKA partnered with the Hooks Institute and A2H to create a learning module for students. RKA had two classroom sessions to teach the students about their space’s design and the building process. The sessions also included a question-and-answer session for students interested in pursuing a career in construction, interior design, architecture, or engineering. Along with the classroom sessions, RKA did two site walks with the students to see how the paper plans became a reality. 

“It was important for us to involve the students who will be using the finished space throughout the construction process and provide insight into our industries,” explained Ann Cooper, Director of Marketing and Communications at RKA. 

“We build spaces that change our city, one individual at a time.”

Written by Haley Clift