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do both.
Lead architect Tim McMinn, director of design at FGM, said designing the adaptive reuse of an old building on such an
immense scale required a significant design statement to remove the feeling of an old 1960s retail store.
With Holland Construction Services Inc. as general contractor, the renovation was completed in June, resulting in 120,000
square feet of manufacturing space and 6,000 square feet of office space. McMinn said the facility was designed with safety
and the needs of the company's employees in mind.
The "industrial contemporary" building exterior combines the original brick with new metal and synthetic stucco. The
dramatic structural steel canopy, McMinn said, is reflective of construction used inside of the facility. The canopy
identifies the entrance and creates a new focal point of corporate identity, providing a striking image during the day and at
night.
A major upgrading of power sources - and conversion of the original fire and safety measures from a retail space to meet
the needs of a manufacturing environment - were a high priority.
Nearly two-thirds of the original asphalt parking lot was removed, replaced by lawn and green space. Landscaped islands
provide shade and add to the aesthetic appearance of the property. The parking area is designed with smooth transitions that
are completely wheelchair accessible up to the building.
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The entrance of the building includes a reflecting pool that separates the lobby from the employee patio. It
features fountains on each side; one is for the employees' benefit, providing a relaxing sound and serving as background for
conversation privacy. Visitors view the second fountain as they enter the building. Freestanding sculptural aluminum panels on
the patio move with the wind.
Leading-edge technology in the manufacturing area includes high-pressure water jets that cut materials. Also featured is
computerized tracking of products at all stages and specific manufacturing processes performed in enclosed areas to maintain
the overall air quality of the facility.
A state-of-the-art loading dock is recessed to create little visual impact on the building's exterior, McMinn said. The new
dock provides maximum safety for employees and drivers with lighting to assist drivers' entrances. A safety bar then grabs the
truck and holds it in position, he said, so there is virtually zero potential for truck movement to ensure maximum safety.
The building provides a safe, clean and comfortable work environment with high levels of lighting along with upgraded
heating and cooling systems.
graphic designer and staff writer: Vicki Bennington
email: vbennington@ibjonline.com
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