Business Details
32 Years
experience
Expert Architectural Glazing & Construction Solutions
G M I Contractors was founded in 1994 by Stephen Gilchrist and James McDonald with a vision to redefine excellence in architectural glazing. Our hands-on leadership approach and commitment to quality have positioned us as a trusted partner for architects, developers, and building owners across the Mid-Atlantic region. With over 30 years of combined experience, our team delivers turnkey glazing solutions that balance design intent with budgetary constraints. We specialize in pre-construction consultation, historic window replacement, and high-rise glazing systems while maintaining rigorous attention to detail throughout every project phase. As industry pioneers, we completed Philadelphia's first unitized curtainwall system at Temple University's Science and Education Center. Our workforce receives training from the Finishing Trades Institute, which received U.S.Department of Education accreditation in 2009. Through strategic partnerships with leading manufacturers and trade organizations, we provide comprehensive design-assist services that address specification writing, detail refinement, and glazing option selection. Our proven track record includes award-winning projects like the Kimpton Hotel Monaco renovation and the 47-story Broad and Spruce high-rise development. We maintain active memberships in the Architectural Glass & Metal Association and Building Owners & Managers Association to stay at the forefront of industry advancements. This combination of technical expertise, collaborative problem-solving, and unwavering commitment to client satisfaction has established us as Philadelphia's premier architectural glazing contractor.
Services
Window Replacement
Curtain Wall Installation
Historic Restoration
High-Rise Glazing
Interior Fit-Outs
Storefront Systems
Design Consultation
Budgeting Services
Glass Facades
Project Management
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- 28+ years of expertise in architectural glazing and fenestration systems
- In-house design team with CAD capabilities and detail development expertise
- Proven track record with award-winning historic renovation projects
- Collaboration with all leading glazing manufacturers for optimal product selection
- Union-certified workforce trained through U.S. Department of Education accredited programs
Services
Window Replacement
Our comprehensive window replacement solutions combine modern efficiency with historical accuracy. We specialize in preserving architectural character while implementing energy-efficient upgrades that meet current building codes. The process includes detailed condition assessments, material matching, and phased installation to minimize building disruption. Our team handles both residential and commercial projects, from single-family homes to large institutional buildings.
Curtain Wall Installation
We deliver precision curtain wall installations for new construction and retrofit projects. Our services include system design review, structural integration, and weatherproofing implementation. We work with both unitized and stick-built systems, ensuring proper thermal performance and aesthetic continuity. Our technicians are trained in complex high-rise applications and maintain strict safety protocols during installation.
Historic Restoration
Specialized historic restoration services maintain architectural integrity while improving functionality. We replicate original designs using traditional materials and techniques while incorporating modern weatherization features. Our team collaborates with preservation boards and historic commissions to ensure compliance with regulatory standards while achieving energy efficiency improvements and structural longevity for landmark buildings.
High-Rise Glazing
Expert glazing solutions for high-rise structures combine safety, durability, and aesthetic appeal. We handle complex installations on buildings exceeding 40 stories, employing specialized rigging techniques and fall protection systems. Services include wind load analysis, thermal expansion accommodation, and ongoing maintenance planning to ensure long-term facade performance in urban environments.
Interior Fit-Outs
Comprehensive interior glazing solutions create modern, light-filled spaces. Our services include custom shower enclosures, office partitions, decorative glass walls, and mirrored surfaces. We offer a range of finishes and safety films that meet fire-rated and ADA requirements while maintaining design flexibility for commercial and residential applications.
People
Stephen Gilchrist
President & CEO
Co-founder Stephen Gilchrist leads G M I Contractors with 30+ years of architectural glazing expertise. A former apprentice, he specializes in union industry advancement and serves on labor/management committees to shape regional construction standards through collaborative innovation.
James McDonald
Vice President & CEO
Co-founder James McDonald directs operational strategy with deep knowledge of Philadelphia's architectural landscape. His hands-on approach ensures project execution aligns with client expectations while maintaining technical excellence in complex glazing applications across diverse market sectors.
Michael Lopuszanski
Sr. Project Manager & CEO
Senior partner Michael Lopuszanski oversees major projects with expertise in high-rise glazing systems. He brings strategic leadership to complex developments while maintaining GMI's commitment to quality installation and schedule management for large-scale construction initiatives.
Questions
What markets does G M I Contractors serve?
We work with commercial, multi-family residential, institutional, healthcare, educational, and historic building sectors throughout Philadelphia and South Jersey regions.
Do you handle both new construction and renovation projects?
Yes, our capabilities span new construction installations and historic preservation projects, including curtainwall systems, window replacements, and interior glass solutions.
What makes GMI different from other glazing contractors?
We combine union-certified workforce training, in-house design expertise, and 30-year manufacturer relationships to deliver comprehensive solutions from initial consultation through final installation.
Are you equipped for complex high-rise projects?
Yes, we currently work on a 47-story project at Broad and Spruce, demonstrating our capability with advanced rigging techniques and high-rise safety protocols.
How do you handle historic preservation requirements?
Our team collaborates with preservation boards to maintain architectural integrity while implementing modern efficiency improvements through traditional craftsmanship methods.
What pre-construction services do you provide?
We offer specification writing assistance, detail refinement, glazing product selection, and budget analysis services to optimize project outcomes before construction begins.
