Warehouse Redux

Additional Info

Award Winner : Jobsite Mobile Offices

Architectural Excellence : This project began as a permanent modular office building in 1987. When it was no longer needed as office space in 2003 the modules were returned to the dealer, dismantled and brought pack to the original plant. The original intention was to simply demolish the structures and recycle the waste. The modules sat empty for several years awaiting their fate. Once the wrecking crew started removing surface materials, it became clear that the underlying structure and much of the interior were still quite sound. A change of plan was warranted. Implementing the sustainability concept of “Cradle to Cradle” along with a new aesthetic concept, the project team decided to breath new life into this building. Along with overall reuse, other Green construction methods were applied. Now, well over 20 years old, the building looks solid, new and fresh, and it has a new life as a Green building. We expect it to last at least another 20 years, probably much more.

Cost Energy Effectiveness : The original modules for this project were bought and paid for over twenty years ago. As such, the basic building blocks for this renovated building had near zero cost. When the already planned cost of demolition was subtracted from the project budget the cost/benefit decision of this major renovation became compelling. When the future cost savings from the Green building effort are added to that mix, the overall project, including the aesthetic upgrades, made the choice on how to proceed very easy to make.

Design Firm Name : Miletus Group, Inc.

Occupied Date : 11/20/2007

Production Start Date : 10/20/2007

Project Location City : Rochester

Project Location State Name : IN

Technical Innovation : The most dramatic innovation in this project is its transformation from a 1980’s candidate for the scrap heap into a solid and aesthetically pleasing modular Green building. This structure went through a major renovation which included a use change from office to light warehouse. In the renovation process the floor was reinforced; insulation was increased throughout the exterior envelope; floor, walls and roof were repaired; the roof line was redesigned, exterior cement board siding was added; and doors and windows were reconfigured for a warehouse use, including a loading dock with roll-up door for forklift access; insulated windows were used for added energy efficiency; and the HVAC system was down-sized to meet the new reduced demands. The building sits on a permanent foundation and a new architectural aesthetic was implemented. All materials used were selected for both the building’s new use and their contribution to sustainable construction.

Total Square Feet : 1344

Category : Renovated Reuse: Greatest Renovation: under 10,000 sq. ft.