We seem to be magnets for this type of work. I’m a big proponent for reusing existing, developed properties. We get great satisfaction from taking a nothing building and turning it into a something building.

A former foundry was purchased to house this client’s specialty vehicle business. 22,000 square feet were set aside for leasable, warehouse space. The remaining was dedicated to a new body shop, administrative office space with a private area for displaying the owner’s vintage cars, and hanging out.

We completely reconfigured the exterior to give it a unified, updated look. We tore off a bunch of the roof and inserted a pre-engineered clear span metal building structure for the 15,000 square foot body shop and 3,600 square foot car hang out.

The private car hangout was where we had the most fun. A couple of old brick walls stayed for the patina and we went from there. Kallwall translucent wall panels allow natural light from above, brick veneer creates “instant old” around the perimeter walls and a simple ground and polished concrete floor gives the space the feel of some old industrial garage. We designed the interior millwork and custom bar to complete the industrial look. 

D. Howe & Sons Construction pulled it all together, which was no easy feat. George Honeywell of D. Howe & Sons took up residence there for quite a while and without his skill and dedication this project would not be what you see… Thanks George. Also, a big thank you to Michelle Harris for coordinating the interior finishes and coming up with a kick-ass color palette.

After Photos by Jana Bannon Photography