The NEW Oral & Facial Surgery facility has been recognized as one of the most impressive and unique construction projects completed by a Wisconsin contractor in 2025. Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) of Wisconsin will honor Keller, Inc. with a GOLD Projects of Distinction – Excellence in Construction Award for this project on Thursday, January 15, 2026, in Wisconsin Dells.
Project Overview
What began as a literal napkin sketch evolved into an 8,000 square-foot state-of-the-art clinic that redefines how modern oral surgery spaces can support both patient care and clinical performance. The facility was designed and constructed through a seamless partnership between the doctors and Keller’s employee-owner design-build team, resulting in a space that is highly functional, welcoming, and future-focused.
Every aspect of the design was guided by the doctors’ priority for patient safety, comfort, and efficiency. Keller’s architects incorporated wider, straighter corridors, enlarged doorways, and a protective entry canopy to make patient movement safe and effortless – particularly for those using wheelchairs after procedures.
The clinic’s layout was thoughtfully planned to support the flow of both patients and staff. Treatment areas, consultation spaces, sterilization rooms, and recovery zones were strategically positioned to reduce unnecessary travel distances and maintain privacy while maximizing daylight. The expansive operatory windows not only create a bright and calming environment but also reduce patient anxiety and enhance staff morale.
Throughout the building, design elements blend durability with warmth. The use of natural stone, wood accents, and metal paneling gives the facility a contemporary character that aligns with the doctors’ modern approach to care. Inside, materials were selected for both aesthetic appeal and cleanability, ensuring a space that feels professional yet comfortable.
Employee well-being was equally important. The facility includes a large breakroom, adjacent locker rooms, and an outdoor patio – spaces designed to foster collaboration and rejuvenation for staff between surgeries. The open-concept reception area, highlighted by natural light and a calm color palette, creates a first impression that is both professional and inviting for patients and families.
Keller’s integrated design-build process streamlined decision-making and coordination, ensuring the design intent carried seamlessly from concept through completion. Daily collaboration between architects, engineers, and field teams helped maintain precision, efficiency, and accountability from start to finish.
A True Partnership
In her letter of recommendation to the Awards Committee, Dr. Puja Bhakta shared:
“From the earliest planning stages to the final touches, Keller was a true partner in every sense. Their team took the time to understand the unique needs of a modern medical practice, balancing aesthetics, function, compliance, and efficiency with a level of thoughtfulness and attention to detail that exceeded every expectation.”
She added,
“Construction can be daunting, especially for someone without technical knowledge, but Keller’s clear communication, organization, and transparency put us completely at ease.”
Commitment to Excellence
The NEW Oral & Facial Surgery project exemplifies Keller’s core values of collaboration, innovation, and accountability. By leveraging its full in-house design, project management, and construction expertise, Keller delivered a facility that will serve as a model for patient-centered oral surgery practices across Wisconsin.
About the Projects of Distinction Awards
The Projects of Distinction Awards recognize Wisconsin’s most remarkable construction achievements, judged by a panel of industry experts on quality, safety, craftsmanship, and owner satisfaction.
“Projects of Distinction demonstrate the excellence in construction services by ABC of Wisconsin members,” said Kelly Tourdot, President of ABC of Wisconsin. “These projects showcase the professionalism, craftsmanship, and commitment to safety that set merit contractors apart.”
Keller, Inc. is an award-winning, 100% employee-owned design/build general contractor headquartered in Kaukauna, Wisconsin, with additional offices in Madison, Milwaukee and Wausau. With on-staff architects, interior designers, project managers, and more than 180 skilled teammates in the field, Keller serves a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, financial, warehouse, agricultural and municipal markets. Keller builds new facilities, enhances existing spaces and supports long-term growth. If you’re considering a building project, experience the difference that is Keller at www.kellerbuilds.com.
