Blog

What began in a one-room office in 1990 has grown into one of the Mid-Atlantic region’s premier commercial painting and wallcovering contractors. As we celebrate 35 years of Cochran & Mann, we’re reflecting on the journey that got us here—and looking ahead with purpose.

35 Years Strong: A Legacy of Excellence and Growth

What began in a one-room office in 1990 has grown into one of the Mid-Atlantic region’s premier commercial painting and wallcovering contractors. As we celebrate 35 years of Cochran & Mann, we’re reflecting on the journey that got us here—and looking ahead with purpose.

From our first projects in Washington, D.C., to becoming a trusted partner for general contractors across Northern Virginia, Maryland, and the Baltimore area, we’ve remained family-owned, relationship-driven, and quality-focused.

Awards That Reflect Our Commitment

Over three decades, we've been honored with many accolades, but our most recent milestone stands out. Cochran & Mann is now a 10-time winner of the Associated Builders and Contractors’ Excellence in Construction Award as Subcontractor of the Year.

This award isn’t just a trophy. It’s a testament to the trust our partners place in us, the integrity of our team, and our ability to consistently deliver high-quality work—on time and on budget.

Signature Projects

We’ve had the opportunity to bring life to spaces that shape our communities. Here are just a few of our recent standout projects:

• T. Rowe Price Headquarters, Baltimore
  Partnering with Armada Hoffler, we contributed to this modern corporate landmark.
  
  
• The Homer Building Atrium Remodel, Washington, D.C.
  A historic space revitalized with precision and attention to detail.
  
  
• Montgomery College
  Enhancing educational environments for future generations.
  
  
• Laurel Multiservice Center Exterior Renovation
  Partnering with Keller to revitalize this important community hub.
  
  
• Crown High School, Gaithersburg, MD
  Building environments where students can thrive.
  
  

These projects reflect the depth and breadth of our capabilities—and our dedication to craftsmanship at every scale.

Celebrating the People Behind the Paint

Over 35 years, we’ve grown not just in size but in strength—thanks to our incredible team. From promotions to retirements, we’ve celebrated many milestones alongside our staff. Their loyalty, hard work, and pursuit of excellence are the foundation of Cochran & Mann.

We’re proud to have leaders who’ve climbed the ranks through dedication and skill, and we’re equally grateful to the veterans who’ve retired after years of service. Their legacy continues to shape who we are and how we work.

Supporting Women in Construction and Trade Education

At Cochran & Mann, we're committed to building an inclusive future for the industry. We proudly recognize and support Women in Construction (WIC) Week, held annually by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). It’s an important time to celebrate the women shaping our field and to encourage more to join.

We also support trades education through organizations like Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), helping ensure the next generation of painters and finishers are well-prepared for the demands of the industry. Whether it’s through apprenticeships, mentoring, or ongoing education, we believe in raising the bar and opening doors.

A Culture Built on Core Values

Throughout the decades, our mission hasn’t changed: deliver exceptional painting and wallcovering services with integrity and precision. We stand by values that have carried us since day one—transparency, reliability, craftsmanship, and loyalty.

We’re proud of the family culture we’ve cultivated. It’s what allows us to provide the personalized service of a small company with the capabilities of a large contractor. This balance is what keeps clients coming back and employees growing within our organization.

What Does the Future of Paint for Cochran & Mann Look Like?

Just like every other sector in the United States, the paint industry is changing at a rapid speed. In order to stay on the bleeding edge, the Cochran & Mann team must be constantly evolving and pushing the envelope.

When asked how we plan to hone our skills and evolve with this rapid pace, the team pointed to our core strengths: passion, precision, and open communication.

“Our team has mastered the skills required to do this work at the highest level and that will never change,” said Cochran. “We must continue to keep open and honest communication as our guiding principle to ensure we evolve with the times and keep our clients and employees satisfied.”

From embracing sustainable products to integrating new application technologies, we’re excited about what’s next. And we’re ready to lead the way into a future that’s more efficient, more inclusive, and more impactful.

Let’s Build the Next 35 Together

Are you looking to start a commercial paint or wallcovering project? Whether it’s a renovation, a new build, or a complex interior upgrade, the team of experts at Cochran & Mann would love the chance to discuss your project goals and how we can help you achieve them.

Ready to get started?

Let’s talk about your commercial painting and wall-covering needs. Contact us today to get started.