Our History

From a single new home built to a world-class home builder and premium lifestyle brand, we celebrate the highlights of our journey so far.

Where It All Began

1931 - The O’Rourke story begins

In the early years of The Great Depression, Jacob Jost, great-grandfather of our company’s founder Joseph O’Rourke, constructed Vineland's first modern apartment. Here he is pictured building a new home in Texas, showcasing the same dedication and skill that defined his work. Jacob's commitment to quality and his passion for construction are values that continue to inspire O'Rourke Construction Company today.

Jacob's legacy is deeply rooted in ambition and a forward-thinking vision. He saw a future where quality homes and innovative design would define and elevate communities. This drive and dedication are the cornerstone of our company's ethos, propelling us to craft not just houses but homes that stand the test of time. Just as Jacob was, O'Rourke Construction Company remains committed to excellence. 

1995 - Breaking ground

In 1995, Joseph O’Rourke founded O’Rourke Construction Company Inc., laying the foundation for what would become a leading name in custom home building. Driven by the same dedication and passion as his great-grandfather, Jacob Jost, Joseph set out to create a company that would uphold the highest standards of craftsmanship and innovation. As a graduate of Drexel University with a degree in mechanical engineering, Joseph had the vision and the dedication to offer customers the diversification and skill to provide premium quality homes that would stand the test of time.

From the very beginning, O’Rourke Construction Company focused on delivering exceptional quality and personalized service. Each project was approached with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every home was not just built, but crafted to perfection. Throughout the years, one thing has remained the same— pleasing one customer at a time.

Expansion Days

2006 - Moving in

At the turning point of the millennium, O’Rourke Construction Company moved into its official office in Vineland, New Jersey. This significant milestone marked a new chapter in our journey, reflecting our growth and solidifying our presence in the industry. Since our founding, we have consistently aimed for excellence, and this move was a testament to our progress and future aspirations.

Always planning for the future, O’Rourke Construction has grown substantially since its inception. We have built a reputation for quality and reliability, pleasing every customer who chooses our service-oriented design/build firm. Our commitment to delivering exceptional results remains unwavering, and our official office in Vineland stands as a symbol of our dedication to creating lasting legacies through our work.

2010 - Setting sail

In 2010, O’Rourke Construction Company embarked on an exciting new venture, extending our expertise to the beautiful Jersey shore. This expansion marked a significant milestone as we began designing and constructing custom homes along the coast. Building on the shore presented unique challenges and opportunities, allowing us to innovate and adapt our techniques to create homes that harmonize with the stunning coastal landscape. This new chapter in our story demonstrated our ability to diversify and grow while maintaining the high standards that have always defined O’Rourke Construction.

The present

As we navigate through the present, O’Rourke Construction Company continues to sail forward, blending our rich heritage with innovative practices. With over 29+ years of experience, our commitment to excellence remains unwavering as we embrace new technologies and sustainable building practices to meet the evolving needs of our customers.

Our diverse portfolio now includes everything from luxurious coastal retreats to beautiful rural estates, each project reflecting our dedication to quality and craftsmanship. Our team at O’Rourke Construction is passionate about turning visions into reality, ensuring every home we build is a testament to our enduring legacy and forward-thinking approach.