Our History


Painting has been in the Kooperman family for five generations. Starting with Kooperman Painting in 1890 and continuing today with Harbour, we have always maintained a reputation of excellence.

Edward Kooperman began the family business as Kooperman Painting in 1890. Kooperman Painting was a paperhanging and house painting business. Edward thrived on meticulous work and making sure that every customer was 100% satisfied.

Edward’s son Sam took over the business in the 1930’s and the company was renamed to S.W. Kooperman. At the time, Sam developed an incredible reputation within the industry. He was hard working, honest, and well-liked by everyone. Sam built the company up and expanded S.W. Kooperman’s operations to commercial and industrial painting. S.W. Kooperman quickly became the leader in the Contract Painting Industry.

Sam’s two sons, Bill and George Kooperman took over operations after WWII, in the late 1940’s. They built upon their fathers’ creation and successfully continued the tradition of S.W. Kooperman. They secured contracts with oil refineries, chemical plants, utility companies and many Philadelphia institutions. No matter the size, complexity, or scope, S.W. Kooperman was awarded and trusted to complete assignments from every major industry.

George’s son Marc and Bill’s son Steve became the 4th generation of S.W. Kooperman in 1970. They took over an incredibly successful company and worked hard to further expand their technical knowledge in the preparation and application of specialty coatings and finishes. Marc ran operations in Philadelphia and quickly gained contracts with Lukens Steel Company, Mobile Oil Company, Philadelphia Electric, Limerick Nuclear Facility, Philadelphia bridges, stadiums and much more. Steve opened up operations in Atlantic City, NJ and S.W. Kooperman added many casinos to its portfolio. Bally’s Park Place, Caesars, Harrah’s, Sands, and the Taj Mahal to name a few. From a technical and customer satisfaction perspective, S.W. Kooperman enjoyed an enviable reputation.

After over 25 years with S.W. Kooperman, Marc founded Harbour Painting, Inc. in 1993. Harbour was created as open shop and has allowed Marc to explore new opportunities within the painting industry. Marc has brought his wealth of knowledge and experience with him to Harbour. While continuing to thrive with commercial and industrial projects, Harbour has now expanded to include residences, featuring the new Green Tech Coating System, a cleaner and healthier way to have your home painted. We have continued the roots of Kooperman Painting, providing meticulous workmanship and making sure that every customer is 100% satisfied.

Marc was joined in 2003 by his son Kevin, the 5th generation in the Kooperman family of painting. As always, Harbour will exceed your expectations with any project you may have.