CCR Issue 2 - 2023

FEATURES

30 New beginnings

How the Samaritan Inn became a blueprint for modern and peoplecentric homeless shelter design

52 Holy Smokes!

Colorado school constructed with support of WPA solves unique challenge with horizontal smoke vents

62 Designing buildings to last

At look at the Eisemann Performing Arts Center 20 Years Later

70 Anchors down

How the CNY Group helped Lidl expand its corporate vision

Navien...the proven commercial cascade system, install after install after install

NPE-2 condensing tankless water heaters

• Navien cascade system continuously matches operation to demand

• Meets temperature demands up to 185°F

• Redundancy allows servicing one unit, while others handle demand without interruption

• Cascade up to 32 units and common vent up to 12 units

• Navien EZNav™ multi-line intuitive control for easy set up and diagnostics

• Same day easy to install Navien Ready-Link® manifold system for wall or rack mounting

To learn more, visit Navieninc.com.

Building for the future

Learn. Explore. Pursue. The strategy is as strategic as it is simple. Construction Ready, the not-for-profit organization focused on building a skilled construction workforce, held its annual CareerExpo in March at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta (see "Welcome to the Show, page 18").

Just how much interest is there for the construction industry from the next generation? Try more than 7,000 students from across Georgia. As one of the state’s largest youth workforce development events, the Expo sits at the heart of the Construction Ready. The group came together after leading construction industry leaders recognized a need for quality construction skills training in Georgia.

And there is no question—in Georgia and across the country—that the need for skilled workers in our industry remains high. In what is the ultimate networking event for our next generation of workers, students met with industry professionals, trade association representatives and educators from scores of organizations across the state.

Students were privy to hands-on displays that gave students the opportunity to work with industry leaders, equipment and materials. The sights. The sounds. The passion. Everything is on display at events like this—one that shows the promise the future holds.

And students are not the only believers. Some of the names on hand included The Home Depot, Georgia Power, Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Georgia and the Technical College System of Georgia.

Construction Ready complements groups like YouthBuild, a community-based pre-apprenticeship program that provides job training and educational opportunities for at-risk youth ages 16-24 who have previously dropped out of high school.

Administered by the Office of Workforce Investment's Division of Youth Services, YouthBuild serves more than 5,000 youth in approximately 175 YouthBuild programs in more than 40 states. The programs teach youth vocational skills in construction, as well as in other in-demand

industries including health care, information technology, and hospitality.

In a time when finding skilled labor employees is a real challenge for companies everywhere, engaging with young people with an interest in what we do is a godsend. Scores of industry companies are holding similar events on their own.

That said, we want to continue to spotlight these programs, so if you are doing anything related to helping build the next generation, reach out to us. Send a note. Share photos. Help spread the word.

On your mark, get set, teach...

“The foundation of every state is the education of its youth.” — Diogenes

From Midtown to Manhattan Beach.

We’ve expanded to the West Coast Bringing decades of experience building high profile retail and office environments for the world’s largest brands.

We’re ready to build for you.

Tom Fenton, Business Development Manager (914) 244-9100 x 322

tfenton@schimenti.com

F&J PUBLICATIONS, LLC

P.O. Box 3908

Suwanee, GA 30024

678.765.6550 • Fax 678.765.0886

EDITORIAL

EDITOR: Michael J. Pallerino

678.513.2397 • mikep@ccr-mag.com

SENIOR ART DIRECTOR/AD PRODUCTION MANAGER: Brent Cashman 404.402.0125 • bocdesign@me.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER: Ron Treister Rontreister@gmail.com • 207-712-2233

ADVERTISING PUBLISHER/EDITOR

David Corson • davidc@ccr-mag.com

678.765.6550 (fax) 678.765.0886

SUMMIT DIRECTOR

David Corson • davidc@ccr-mag.com

678.765.6550 (fax) 678.765.0886

CCRP MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR: Kristen Corson • kristenc@ccr-people.com 770.990.7702

LIST RENTAL: Brian Clotworthy • bclotworthy@inforefinery.com 800.529.9020

SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES 678.765.6550 corpcirc@ccr-mag.com

F&J PUBLICATIONS, LLC

CCR EDITORIAL BOARD

RETAILERS

AARON ANCELLO Facilities Asset Management

Public Storage

DEDRICK KIRKEM Facilities Director Fragracenet.com

BOB MEZA Senior Construction Project Manager Target

JOHN MIOLOGOS Director, Store Standards Store Design and Planning Walgreens Company

LAURA GROSS Retail Facilities Manager American Signature Furniture

RESTAURANTS

RON BIDINOST Vice President of Construction Bubbakoo’s Burritos

DAVID SHOTWELL Construction Manager Atticus Franchise Group

RON VOLSKE Development Director Focus brands

HOSPITALITY

JOHN COOPER

Principal Executive Vice President

Stormont Hospitality Group LLC

SAMUEL D. BUCKINGHAM, RS

CMCA AMS President & Co-Founder Evergreen Financial Partners LLC

GARY RALL Vice President of Design and Development Holiday Inn Club Vacations

ROBERT RAUCH CEO RAR Hospitality Faculty Assoc. Arizona State University

JOE THOMAS Vice President Engineering Loews Hotels

LU SACHARSKI Vice President of Operations and Project Management Interserv Hospitality

ANDY BRIGGS, CHA Managing Principal A14 Capital Management

REAL ESTATE

GENERAL CONTRACTOR

DAVID THOMPSON Vice President TCB Construction Group LLC.

MATT SCHIMENTI President Schimenti Construction

JOHN STALLMAN Marketing Manager Lakeview Construction

JEFFREY D. MAHLER RCA Advisory Board Member

DEVELOPMENT/PROJECT MANAGEMENT

KAY BARRETT NCIDQ, CDP Senior Vice President Cushman & Wakefield

CLINTON “BROOKS” HERMAN, PMP Construction Project Manager Hill International, Inc.

PAM GOODWIN Goodwin Advisors, LLC Goodwin Commercial The Pam Goodwin Show

JIM SHEUCHENKO President Property Management Advisors LLC

PERMITTING

VAUN PODLOGAR

CEO, Owner, Founder State Permits, Inc.

ARCHITECTS/ENGINEERS

MICHAEL MAGEE Studio Leader Retail, Store Design Senior Associate Little

FRED MARGULIES Director of Retail Architecture Onyx Creative

STEVEN MCKAY Managing Principal, Global Design Leader DLR Group

STEVEN R. OLSON, AIA President CESO, Inc.

ADA

BRAD GASKINS Principal The McIntosh Group

ACADEMIA

DR. MARK LEE LEVINE Professor Burns School/ Daniels College University of Denver

BOB WITKEN Senior Project Manager Fox Restaurant Concepts

ROB ADKINS, LEED AP CDP Senior Tenant Coordinator, Retail Peterson Companies

MEGAN HAGGERTY Founder Legacy Capital Investment

GINA MARIE ROMEO Senior Consultant, Key Accounts Rarefied Real Estate Partners

CHRIS VARNEY Principal, Executive Vice President EMG

STEPHEN HEKMAN Executive VP Kingsmen Retail Services US

KEN DEMSKE Vice President Jones Lang LaSalle

Enhanced Glass and Window Performance One

Nationwide Source

Window Film Depot makes it easy to upgrade the performance and function of your building’s existing glass. Explore our extensive range of 3M™ window film with solutions to fit every need, including enhanced energy efficiency, safety, security, privacy, glass protection, and more. You can also create vivid graphics, wall murals, or even building wraps with our in-house custom design team and printing capabilities. Unlock your design and function possibilities with Window Film Depot, your nationwide window film and graphics source.

AroundtheIndustry

GROCERS

Dollar General

Dollar General plans to open 1,110 more stores this year, expanding both its namesake chain and its higher-end Popshelf format, which sells most merchandise for $5 or less.

H.E. Butt Grocery

H.E. Butt Grocery’s newest store in Lake Austin, Texas, features community-focused design elements, including dine-in eateries such as an in-store coffee and breakfast counter, a Southflo pizza and a True Texas BBQ that also serves Texas craft beers. The two-story 97,000-square-foot store also features natural lighting, pitched roofs and vine-covered walls as well as art from The Art of Texas Parks Collection.

Lidl

German-founded discount grocery chain Lidl is planning to expand its supply chain capacity in Pennsylvania. The grocer has purchased nearly 70 acres in Bucks County, Pa. for a future warehouse at the site of the Keystone Trade Center, located along the Delaware River across from Trenton, New Jersey.

Lowes Foods

Over the next several years, Lowes Foods has scheduled five new store openings in North and South Carolina and will cut the ribbon on a Pittsboro, N.C., location this year that will follow a new entertainment-forward model.

Kroger

Kroger is adopting e2Cos.’ R3Di system to guard its Ralphs distribution center in California against power outages. Installation for the backup energy storage solution is expected to wrap up by early summer, allowing the on-site system to be used as primary or standby backup power as needed.

Meijer’s

Midwest retailer Meijer is opening smaller-footprint locations in the Detroit area. The inaugural Meijer Grocery stores spotlight locallysourced products in nearly every department, from Michigan-made spirits to seasonal produce to foods from artisan makers.

ALDI

ALDI opened seven new stores last week across California, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey and South Dakota as part of efforts to open around 150 new locations in 2022. ALDI plans to open its first Staten Island store in the new year.

HOSPITALITY

Hard Rock Bristol

Hard Rock Bristol has opened a 30,000-square-foot temporary gaming facility with a sportsbook, approximately 900 slot machines and 20 table games in a former department store in Virginia. The casino, which is the first in the state, will have a permanent home on the grounds of Bristol Mall in 2024 and feature a nearly 100,000-square-foot gaming floor, 300-room hotel, concert venues and multiple dining options.

Red Hawk Casino

A new entertainment complex, along with a five-story, 120,000-square-foot hotel, is set to open at Red Hawk Casino in Placerville, Calif., later this year. The 85,000-square-foot complex will house an 18-lane bowling alley, an indoor go-kart track, an arcade and golf simulation bays.

Great Wolf Lodge

Plans are underway to build a Great Wolf Lodge water park resort in Webster, Texas. The resort, to open in 2024, will house a 75,000-squarefoot water park, roughly 400,000 square feet of entertainment and lodging space and a 10,000-square-foot indoor convention center.

ROOST

The opening of ROOST Cleveland, a concept known for bridging boutique hotels with apartment style living, marks the first location outside of Philadelphia for the ROOST brand and the first high-design extended-stay hotel concept for the city of Cleveland.

Snoqualmie Casino

Cumming Group and Skanska are leading construction on a $400 million renovation and expansion of the Snoqualmie Casino in Snoqualmie, Washington. The work will add a 210-room hotel and 11,000 square feet to the casino’s gaming floor, as well as a fitness center, spa, convention center, garage and two restaurants.

Caption by Hyatt

Memphis, Tennessee has been chosen for Hyatt Hotels Corp.’s first Caption by Hyatt, an upscale, limited-service brand with emphasis on culinary innovation, social spaces, diversity and sustainability. This summer’s opening of the Caption by Hyatt Beale Street Memphis will be followed by debuts in Shanghai, Osaka, Tokyo and Saigon through 2025.

Hotel Ella

Austin, Texas’ historic Hotel Ella will see a quadrupling of its guest rooms in an expansion planned by owner Rex LLC with an estimated cost exceeding $100 million. A rooftop garden, extensive underground parking and a restaurant of “Paris-level quality” are in the offing.

AroundtheIndustry

RETAIL

Century 21

Value fashion retailer Century 21 will reopen its New York City store in lower Manhattan next spring, reviving a brand that was liquidated after a 2020 bankruptcy filing.

Target Stores

Target Stores opened a 30,000-square-foot store in Times Square in New York City with a merchandise assortment tailored to both tourists and local residents. The store also features an 84-foot-high digital display and bold and colorful design elements to fit the Times Square setting.

Container Store

The Container Store is returning to brick-and-mortar growth with plans to open 76 stores during the next five years, including two locations this year.

Walmart Canada

Walmart Canada has opened a 300,000-square-foot distribution center in Surrey, British Columbia, that was built using a vertical design to reduce its land mass and carbon footprint. The facility, which will supply 45 stores, will be zero-waste, use LED lighting and become a hub for the company’s fleet of electric semi trucks.

Walgreens ahead of schedule on clinic openings

VillageMD clinics at Walgreens stores are opening at a faster-thanforecast rate of one every three days. The retailer invested $6 billion in VillageMD, with plans to open about 1,000 of the physician-staffed clinics by 2027 and have at least 50% of them in areas that lack doctors and medical services.

Macy’s

Macy’s plans to build a $584 million, 1.4 million-square-foot fulfillment center that’s expected to bring about 2,800 new jobs to the Charlotte region and handle about 30% of digital orders for Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s when it opens in 2024.

IKEA

Ingka Centres, the real estate arm of IKEA parent Ingka Group, has transformed an aging mall in West London into Livat Hammersmith, a $230 million project that gave the former Kings Mall a Scandinavian design and created a community gathering space, which the company plans to replicate in San Francisco and Toronto.

RESTAURANTS

Krispy Kreme

Krispy Kreme will expand its delivery-only “dark shops” to the US and Mexico after testing the concept in the UK. The shops act as daily drop-off points for doughnuts that can then be used to fulfill delivery orders from customers within 20 minutes of the location.

Dave and Steve’s Big Dreams Pizza

The founders of Famous Dave’s and Rainforest Cafe are unveiling a new pizza concept in St. Louis Park, Minnesota with the goal to build it into a new chain. Dave and Steve’s Big Dreams Pizza, which will serve Chicago-style pizza, will open its first unit in a former Clays Galaxy Drive In, which will include a dine-in pizzeria and curbside pickup.

Papa John’s

Papa John’s is partnering with private-equity firm FountainVest Partners to develop at least 1,350 Papa John’s stores in China by 2040. In addition, Papa John’s franchisee CFB Group, which operates about 160 restaurants in China, has agreed to sell a majority stake to FountainVest.

Potbelly

Potbelly has plans to grow over the next decade from its portfolio of 443 mostly company-owned locations to 2,000 restaurants that are 85% franchisee-owned. The Chicago-based sandwich chain will target a 10% annual unit growth rate by 2024, with a focus on adding suburban and drive-thru locations.

KFC

KFC has opened three of its new small-format Next Generation units since the prototype first debuted in Kentucky late last year, and growth plans call for further expanding the new format and using it to grow in urban markets. Next Generation stores focus on off-premises dining with self-serve kiosks, curbside delivery and drive-thru lanes and cubbies dedicated to mobile orders.

Wingstop has raised its growth goals

Wingstop has raised its goals for domestic expansion and is now looking to grow to 4,000 locations throughout the US and 3,000 in international markets in the years ahead.

Dairy Queen

China’s rising middle class is making it a key growth market for Dairy Queen and India seems likely to be close behind. Dairy Queen has an upward of 1,100 units in China, with plans to add 600 more locations over the next eight years.

Our specialized project management teams are highly effective in maintaining affordable budgets, meeting tight deadlines, and delivering quality construction turnovers on time, every time. From coast to coast, Alaska to Puerto Rico, Hunter Building Corporation has you completely covered on your next construction project!

We offer a multitude of services nationwide ranging from tenant improvements, buildouts, remodels, ground-up construction, and project management. Hunter Building Corporation takes pride in the fact that many of our clients have been repeat customers for many years.

We don’t strive to be bigger. We strive to deliver the best quality and service in the industry.

They said it...

— Bellevue Collection VP of Marketing Jennifer Leavitt on how mall owners are increasingly moving away from the traditional food court and instead bringing in celebrity chefs, influencers and food halls to create destination dining experiences

Did you

know Who has the best resort?

are courting new shoppers with

Acqualina Resort & Residences in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida was named the top hotel in America by “U.S. News & World Report.” No. 2 on the list was the Canyon Suites at The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona. Others included Pendry West Hollywood in West Hollywood, California; The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort and The Inn & Club at Harbour Town - Sea Pines Resort— both in South Carolina—rounded out the top five, respectively.

The numbers game

176

The total number of new hotel projects in the Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas area as of year’s end 2022, which led the nation, according to Lodging Econometrics. There also are 20,790 rooms planned. The nationwide project total is 5,465, with Atlanta ranking second among cities with 145 hotels planned.

The percentage of grocers that have made sustainability a top priority in 2023, with 43% reporting they have or will name a senior executive to lead the year’s sustainability efforts, according to a survey from Grocery Doppio. Grocers cited waste reduction, energy utilization and packaging improvement as their primary sustainability focus.

1.3

The number, in billions, of occupied room nights that are expected this year, up from 1.29 billion in 2019, according to American Hotel & Lodging Association’s “State of the Hotel Industry Report.” Revenue is predicted at $197.48 billion, up from $170.35 billion in 2019.

“Our strategy has been to spread the food around.”

“As this trend continues to pick up pace, expect more chains to experiment with concepts like these to improve the overall experience in-store and the efficiency it enables.”

— Placer.ai’s Senior VP of Marketing Ethan Chernofsky on how grocers

small-format stores

“We believe this will translate into a greater opportunity for us to both invest in growth, through our licensed retail store model, and, coupled with our on-going sale of excess real estate, provide a path to potential meaningful debt reduction that will further strengthen our balance sheet and accelerate growth.”

— Save A Lot CEO Leon Bergmann

on the brand’s three-year refinancing journey to transform it into a wholesaler

Where Your Vision Meets Our Expertise

Terrazzo is a handcra ed building material; its primary components are assembled on the construction site. For 100-years, the contractor members of the National Terrazzo and Mosaic Association have brought integrity and skill to countless installations. The NTMA has the expertise your project needs. Find specifications, information, color samples, contractor and supplier members at www.ntma.com or call 800-323-9736.

1271 Avenue of the Americas

Architect Pei Cobb Freed & Partners Architects New York, NY

Designer/Artist Rockefeller Group New York, NY

General Contractor Turner Construction New York, NY

Photographer David Laudadio

Welcome to the show

Georgia Students learn about careers in construction, design and energy at Construction Ready CareerExpo

If you're looking for the next generation of commercial construction professionals, Construction Ready is giving you a head start. The group, which works with high school students, parents, employers, teachers, counselors and partners to strengthen the youth workforce and address the skilled labor market, held its annual CareerExpo in March at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta.

More than 7,000 students from across Georgia attended the Expo, the state’s

largest youth workforce development event for the construction industry. The students explored interactive exhibits that demonstrated the scope of the industry and learned about specific career paths. In addition, they were able to meet with industry professionals, trade association representatives and educators from hundreds of organizations across the state, including The Home Depot, Georgia Power, Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Georgia and the Technical College System of Georgia.

Inside the CareerExpo

` More than 17,000 Georgia public school students enrolled in 150 skilled trade construction and metals programs throughout the state

` Industry professionals from over 300 companies in the state of Georgia participated in the CareerExpo to speak with students about their organizations’ work and career paths in the building and energy industries

` Trades Represented include contracting, highway construction, electrical, energy, roofing, tile, more

` Dozens of colleges and universities representing eight different career clusters: Architecture and Construction, Arts, A/V Technology and Communications, Energy, Government and Public Administration, Human Services, Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security, Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM), and Transportation, Distribution and Logistics

“Our goal is to encourage students to explore and pursue careers in construction, design, and energy,” says Scott Shelar, President & CEO of Construction Ready.

The CareerExpo had many hands-on displays that gave students the opportunity to work with industry leaders, equipment and materials. Attendees experienced the sights and sounds of a real construction site. The interactive experience allowed students to learn more about the industry and introduced them to specific career paths.

SkillsUSA Competition: CareerExpo 2023 also featured the SkillsUSA State Championship, a competition that allows students to showcase their skills in a number of construction-related disciplines. Winners will represent Georgia at the SkillsUSA Nationals Championship in Atlanta, June 19-23, 2023. CCR

On your mark. Get set. Plan.

How pre-project planning will determine success more than ever in 2023

By Adam Wemhaner

The role of project planning is difficult to overstate, especially when the traditional ways of working have been completely upended in recent years. Fluctuating material costs and supply chain shortages are leading to protracted schedules and unpredictable budgets, and this is not changing in the near-term.

SERIES | ENAMELED GLASS PARTITIONS

DESIGNED TO AMAZE.

The elegant design of Bradley’s exclusive new collection of Euro style partitions flawlessly combines beauty and performance raising the standard in commercial washrooms. These three new models utilize high-design features, increased privacy, and seamless construction to provide an elevated look and welcoming spaces. Commercial Washrooms. Brought to Life.

bradleycorp.com/euro-style-partitions

LUCENT

It has become apparent that for a project to be completed successfully—on time and on budget—all pieces must be placed together as early into a project’s lifespan as possible.

Today, projects require a level of proactivity and preparedness from all project teams that owners and project stakeholders are unaccustomed to. With supply chain constraints affecting everything from budgets and lead times, having a detailed plan in place can be the deciding factor between a project running optimally and one that will be difficult to navigate throughout each stage of its lifecycle, with the potential for financial exposure.

Getting ahead of issues, such as unrealistic constraints or expectations, workforce issues, budgets, and schedule timelines is imperative, and planning ahead will help mitigate and alleviate the impact of these challenges on the project.

An experienced project manager will be able to identify what aspects of the project may be high-risk and whether the budgeting is adequate, and then continue and refine the analysis as the design develops.

For owners, having effective financial processes and administrative skills, which are essential project management duties, is crucial for project success. This includes all of the key project related items, but also frequently includes a working knowledge of bank operations, the filing of paperwork, requesting jurisdictional approvals, and organizing items so that they will be readily accessible and available to other members of the project team.

One mistake in paperwork, as an example, can result in costing projects thousands of dollars.

The recent pullback from lenders, along with fluctuations for inflation and interest

this type of procurement, it can no longer be taken for granted that all materials will be available within four to six weeks like the industry became accustomed in prior years. To have materials and equipment ready when they will be needed now requires that procurement to happen several months earlier than folks are accustomed to.

This is by no means a reflection of anyone’s own merit or abilities; the unpredictability miring the post-pandemic supply chain will often catch them by surprise as well.

Taking advantage of this process requires planning on contracts and defining these activities up front. This impacts how the design team, contractors, and sub-contractors are engaged. Mapping out these strategies is part of the pre-planning and validation on budget, schedule and delivery approach, to ensure the entire team is positioned for success.

Working through this pre-planning is a great way to establish trust and credibility with the client team. This trusting relationship is important from project onset, particularly as it pertains to those clients who have a specific budget or proforma in mind. Invariably, there will be an issue or item that will impact the initial budget, which will require skillful communication to convey effectively.

According to a January report from the Association of General Contractors (AGC), construction material supplies alone were up 20% from the previous year, and the prior year we saw incredible spikes in lumber and then variability across several other raw materials that impacted construction costs across multiple trades.

When working with construction budgets, every line item is up for scrutiny.

rate increases, has impacted project funding globally. According to a September 2022 Bloomberg article, lending from the biggest banks is on pace to likely be down 50% in the second half of the year compared to the first six months of this year.

One strategy for mitigating supply chain issues is to plan for the early procurement or pre-ordering of various materials and equipment for the project. This should be identified from the beginning to meet and stay ahead of deadlines.

Working with a client’s standards or with the design team on new, custom projects, the more we can identify the at risk items and work towards a specification as early as possible will help to mitigate these exposures.

Regardless of one’s history or relationship with a contractor or subcontractor doing

The benefits that can be reaped by preparing a project in this way, however, is that all materials will be ready when they are needed with a significantly reduced chance for last-minute changes. While this admittedly could require storage capabilities—in addition to the costs associated with it—the peace of mind and potential capital savings greatly outweigh these costs, particularly as this storage space can be used across multiple projects.

Virtually all sectors of today’s real estate industry either meet or exceed their pre-pandemic figures, so it is far more financially unviable for multimillion-dollar projects to be held up by items as small as doors.

As the construction industry adapts to the new ways of working, it is an opportune time to introduce some improvements in delivery strategies and new methodologies to avoid the linear thinking and legacy approach to material procurement. By implementing additional levels of pre-planning, it will set a new precedent, process and expectations, therefore creating standards from which the industry will only benefit in the future. CCR

Adam Wemhaner is Senior VP at MGAC. Wemhaner has spent more than three decades working as a senior construction executive on both the client and contractor ends of a project.

By implementing additional levels of pre-planning, it will set a new precedent, process and expectations.

Not done yet

How technology is transforming suburban office parks to thriving, mixed-use spaces

By Kevin Clinger & Michael Westerfield

The mid-20th Century saw the explosion of suburban office parks construction with a peak in occupancy levels in the 1990s. Built to cluster white-collar workers out of urban areas and closer to their homes in the suburbs, these complexes were perceived to be a solution to urban congestion. However, their relevance has declined rapidly in the past 20 years.

The isolated nature of these closed-off office parks, their dependency on singleoccupancy cars and the distance from dining and retail, caused new generations of employees to grow disenchanted with the concept. They were designed with only work in mind, and barely had space for cafeterias, let alone the many amenities we think of in modern workplaces.

Globalization, aging infrastructure and an evolution in work styles shifted employers away from these monuments to worker centralization. The pandemic accelerated the change to remote work, reducing the need for large employee facilities—and now millions of office spaces sit empty or are vastly underutilized. But the story is not as simple as that. While many structures built in the heyday of

suburban office construction are struggling to keep occupancy, there is a growing realization of their potential. And while some office centers have returned to the urban centers, 67% of all office space built in the last 20 years is happening in America’s suburbs. Work still hinges on collaboration and structure, and this transformation of the workplace offers new possibilities for communities.

Many large corporations have long understood the value of designing their corporate environments around the rhythms of life, rather than solely for work. Corporate campuses like Apple and Facebook run like mini-cities, with close integration of childcare, dining, retail, and personal care services like hair salons, massage therapy and yoga.

Their landscapes include running trails, ponds and green zones—rolling meadows and orchards that pay homage to Silicon Valley’s agricultural past. These work campuses are ringed by housing, so employees can easily get into the office while accessing essential amenities throughout the work day.

As office park building use evolves, developers and property owners are integrating new technologies to update infrastructure and help them manage fluctuating occupancy levels and diverse activities. Software and hardware that work in union can compile continuous data and create solutions to changing environments. This enables office park structures to operate as highly adaptive mixed-use spaces that provide value for both owners and occupants.

Transforming formerly static built environments into living spaces that react to occupants and changing conditions starts with understanding how people interact with that particular environment. Collecting information is the first step as it helps facility managers create targeted resource planning; continuous analysis expands the data’s accuracy and predictability and in turn the platform increasingly can respond to ever-changing conditions.

For example, digital solutions can help workers see who is in the office and when, which aids in planning collaboration sessions. Building control solutions can also help facilities managers lower costs by metering energy when buildings are at low

occupancy. Lighting can be managed much more effectively when it is connected to software that understands where people are congregating in a space.

Sensor-equipped HVAC systems can detect changes in internal environments and anticipate changing external weather in order to maintain comfortable indoor conditions. Advanced technology that tracks and analyzes building energy use provides the data to switch to renewable energy at optimum times.

Because buildings are responsible for more than 40% of all US energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, it is imperative operators look for ways to lower energy consumption and reduce emissions. Buildings equipped with hardware and software that “speaks” to each other can adjust utility consumption and monitor equipment to detect problems will have a significant environmental impact.

Suburban office parks could be viewed as relics from the past, but with

the integration of smart building systems, they hold the seeds of a reimagined worklife balance. Retrofitting older buildings with technology that can improve energy use and give occupants an modern experience is often less costly than erecting new buildings.

Updating older infrastructure also avoids the heavy carbon load of the construction process, and as corporations integrate sustainability into their missions, decarbonization is key.

Reactive buildings that can sense, think and act with autonomy can increase efficiencies in energy use, comfort and personnel allocation. A retrofit is all that is needed to bring new life to these suburban spaces and smart technologies are allowing developers and facility managers an opportunity to reimagine the suburban office park into a richer and more dynamic space. CCR

Kevin Clinger, Director, Global Enterprise, Distech Controls™, is an accomplished sales, marketing executive in the Connected Buildings & Energy Management space with emphasis on connected devices and systems. He has a proven track record of success in accelerating brand growth, cultivating and developing new markets, and obtaining optimal levels of brand awareness in highly competitive market segments.

Michael Westerfield, Director of Product, Atrius®, Acuity Brands, is an experienced professional with product development expertise in commercial building automation, data centers and IoT applications.

Many large corporations have long understood the value of designing their corporate environments around the rhythms of life, rather than solely for work.

Photo by Song Yi on Unsplash

IT’S THAT SIMPLE

We’re a company with a fresh approach. We are highly skilled and passionate design and construction experts brought together and bonded by mutual trust and respect.

Every member of the PMC team stands ready to deliver, regardless of location, complexity or challenge. We will bring your projects to market with a focus on quality, performance and speed.

Professional Design and Project Management Services for the Retail, Restaurant, Hospitality, Entertainment and the Commercial Markets.

Better. Faster. Smarter

By Bryan Moore

New beginnings

How the Samaritan Inn became a blueprint for modern and peoplecentric homeless shelter design

Shelters are not intended to be homes but temporary residences where inhabitants can land back on their feet. Yet, as of this year, over half a million people are reported as being homeless in the United States alone. As residents spend extended periods of time in a shelter, architects and designers are finding ways to design shelters without reinforcing trauma, and as places where residents feel welcomed and supported.

Designed by DBA Architects, The Samaritan Inn is a first of its kind US-based 16,000 square foot homeless shelter thoughtfully created to inspire learning, growth and, ultimately, new beginnings to meet the rising challenge of increased demand for long-term homeless housing and people-centric amenities.

Located in McKinney, Texas, the Samaritan Inn provides vital resources such as job retraining, mental health services, financial counseling, and day care services alongside residential units and market-rate apartments with subsidized rent to make those seeking shelter feel normal, at home, and hopeful.

First McKinney Church began the Samaritan Inn project over 30 years ago. Intended to help willing people gain dignity and independence, it initially emerged as a comprehensive homeless program. DBA Architects offered their services pro bono as a part of their Architecture With A Purpose Program to bring this project to fruition and create space for the program to make an impact.

The design team placed an emphasis on creating spaces that go above and beyond to fulfill human needs and necessities. The innovative project includes an impressive pavilion building for administration, dining, day care, job retraining, counseling offices, job search, library, chapel and recreation. The shelter offers 200 residential housing units—100 family units, 50 single male units and 50 single female units.

Even more, the designers have also taken into consideration those who have gone through their training and are saving up to rent or purchase their own home—the Samaritan Inn offers market-rate apartments with subsidized rent available to residents who are in this transition period.

Future plans also include a village green and outdoor recreation facilities for children. It is not your typical overnight stay homeless shelter—it is more akin to a college campus. Its ultimate goal is educating,

feeding, sheltering, counseling and eventually graduating its residents to go back out into the world as productive and contributing members of society.

Most homeless shelters refuse to accept pets, resulting in those seeking help refusing to accept it as they are unable to bring their four-legged companions with them. To accommodate this, the design firm pinpointed pet kennels as essential in the development’s design. Other must-haves included a dining/flex space, classrooms and donations center.

The Samaritan Inn operates solely off private donations, receiving no government grants or assistance. This posed a challenge

regarding the budget for construction. Therefore, the designer needed to find a solution to provide the space and units needed at the lowest possible cost.

This was accomplished by utilizing wood framing in lieu of concrete and steel; stained concrete flooring in lieu of more expensive finishes; and exposing the roof rafters which eliminated costly ceiling systems. The team also focused on utilizing masonry on the pavilion, and used less expensive Hardy panels on the residential buildings.

The Samaritan Inn is inspiring and uplifting with lots of natural light, creating a space where residents can feel welcomed and supported without reinforcing trauma

The Samaritan Inn is an ongoing development. Phase 1 of the project, which began in May 2015, was completed in 2022.

ARE YOU PLANNING A PROJECT IN PUERTO RICO?

Located at the island of Culebra, Puerto Rico, the Eco Villas feature an environmental-friendly lodging experience. The site has amazing views to Ensenada Honda and an on-site dock with direct access to Fulladosa Bay. This project aims to enhance its Caribbean context through sustainable tropical design. Photovoltaic panels, rainwater collection, a water pond, cross ventilation, environmental impact reduction are some considerations. A modular concept proposes minimum impact on site, which in turn provides a shortened construction time.

After Hurricane María, the Waterfront Port of Mayagüez Puerto Rico was exposed to high winds, waves, and tidal surge that caused severe damages to the facilities. This forced the US Coast Guard to shut down the pier. Extensive damage and precarious conditions of the Port required significant work to restore it to its pre-event condition and bring it up to code and industry standards. After a broad evaluation, which included multiple studies, the recommendation was to redesign the dock incorporating measures to provide a long-term solution. The objective is to provide protection of essential commercial public services to the Island and reduce the risk of damage in future events.

Culebra, P.R. Eco Resort Proposal

Mayagüez, P.R. Waterfront Proposal

and staff can feel rejuvenated in their challenging line of work. It is a space that they can be proud of. It features “fun” architecture—soaring shapes and architectural sails that give both residents and staff a place they can all be proud of and look forward to doing life together every day.

The Samaritan Inn’s corporate blue color symbolizing heaven and God’s healing power is incorporated throughout—The Sail at the main entry sets the mood as you enter the compound. A blue brick wainscot wraps around each building and ties the earthtoned campus together. The interior boasts exposed wood trusses with high clerestory glass, allowing light to cascade through the trusses to the stained concrete flooring.

The “Good Samaritan” brick wall in the main lobby displays the names of all “The Good Samaritans” who donated money to make the dream of a people-centric, well-designed homeless shelter a reality. Intersecting with the blue, the firm employed Earth tone reds and tan brick.

The Samaritan Inn is an ongoing development. Phase 1 of the project, which began in May 2015, was completed in 2022. Phase II envisions the addition of a 5,000 square-foot-day care center and a 20,000 square-foot-retail strip. Phase III will see the addition of 45,000-square feet of 50 single female single male units. CCR

Bryan Moore is President and CEO of DBA Architects, a full service architectural, masterplanning and Interior Design firm that he founded in 1989 with headquarters in DFW, Texas

The innovative project includes an impressive pavilion building for administration, dining, day care, job retraining, counseling offices, job search, library, chapel and recreation.

And we’re live...

13th Annual CCR Summit connects with in-person and virtual attendees

As Stephanie Stuckey strode onto the stage during the 13th Annual Commercial Construction & Renovation Summit, she was greeting a live studio audience and scores of Zoom participants. Stuckey, CEO of Stuckey’s Corporation, was the first in-person keynote speaker (see, “The Tao of DIY Marketing”) CCR has featured since the pandemic.

And that wasn’t the only thing attendees of the hybrid event were able to participate in. Also included was a Q&A, lunch provided by local restaurant favorite, Maggiano’s Little Italy, the vaunted one-one-one meetings (both live and on Zoom) and a closing by Young Elvis.

The event, hosted by Commercial Construction & Renovation magazine, was held at the Rich Hart Global Studio in Atlanta in January. Check out some of the highlights on the following pages.

See the young Elvis in action: https://youtu.be/tOBUTVqj_eU

The Tao of DIY Marketing

Stuckey’s CEO Stephanie Stuckey explains the art of understanding your ‘why’

Branding is all about understanding your “why.” What makes your product or service special, different, and unique, and communicating it in an effective way. That was the message Stephanie Stuckey, CEO of Stuckey’s, conveyed to attendees of Commercial Construction & Renovation’s 13th Annual CCR Summit in January at the Rich Hart Global Studio in Atlana in January.

More than anything else, word-of-mouth is the best way to make stories about your brand stick. Stephanie said that people are 90% more likely to try something new if it has been recommended by a trusted source, a friend or colleague. So, the key to driving sales is to connect your brand with these influencers who can spread the word to their network.

“Influencer does not refer to folks who are paid to talk about what you do on TikTok. “Rather, they’re people who are actual customers who will honestly communicate to others about how fabulous your business is. They’re the folks who are always eager to try out

new products or services because they’re genuinely geeking out on the latest pair of sneakers or techno gadget. They love to tell folks they know about it on social media, in line at the supermarket, and at the PTA. These folks are worth 10x what a paid social media star with millions of followers could ever do for you.”

In addition to DIY Marketing, Stuckey discussed the value of storytelling to sell your brand. For example, she said a good story should have an “AIR” to it, i.e, it should be Authentic, Interesting and Relevant. The premise is based on a book by Ted Wright called, “Fizz Marketing,” which breaks down how people without marketing degrees can be successful promoting their business using word of mouth techniques he has perfected.

“If your story relates to your brand and is real, entertaining and of value to your audience, it will stick.”

Applying these lessons to the Stuckey brand, Stephanie said the experience has been all about the road trip, and the freedom and independence she received from getting in her car and exploring what America represents.

She shared stories about visiting small towns, pulling over at quirky roadside attractions and exploring Georgia-grown products. They all relate in some way to eating Stuckey’s delicious pecan snacks and treats. This strategy has resulted in features in the Sunday Business Section of the New York Times and an appearance on the “TODAY” show. So it works.

The roadside oasis made famous for its pecan log rolls, Stuckey’s was founded by Stephanie’s grandfather, W.S. Stuckey, Sr., as a pecan stand in Eastman, Georgia in 1937, eventually growing to more than 350 stores across the country. It was sold in 1964.

Taking over the company in 2019, Stephanie’s leadership acumen quickly took over. She purchased a pecan-shelling and candy-manufacturing facility in Wrens, Georgia, revamped its distribution operations based in Eastman, acquired a healthy pecan-snack company, rebranded its products and website and added four new franchised stores. She also expanded its B2B retail customer base, and increased online sales 550%—all while weathering the pandemic.

“For businesses in the construction industry, find what your ‘secret sauce’ is—the thing that sets you apart from others in the field. Share stories about your entrepreneurial journey with those who will relate to—and buy—what you’re selling. Make sure it’s real, interesting, and targeted to the right audience, and you’ll see results as well.

View the keynote presentation: https://youtu.be/wcCI63_xqAY

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR SPONSORS

DWM Inc.

Paul Haupt

Director of Sales & Business Development

2 Northway Lane

Latham, NY 12110

(518) 542-4492

phaupt@dwminc.com

Renovations/Facility Maintennace Services

Galaxy Group

Robert LaGrega Owner

44 Ramsey Road

Shirley, NY 11967

(516) 356-5447

rob@galaxyfms.com

Facility Maintenance Services

Harrison Contracting

Sharon Milton

Director of Facility Maintenance

65 East Industrial Court

Villa Rica, GA 30180

(770) 823-7402

smilton@harrisoncontracting.com

Facility Mainetenance Services/ Construction

Identicom Sign Solutions

John DiNunzio

President NA

24657 Halsted Road

Farmington, MI 48335

(248) 320-5866

jdinunzio@identicomsigns.com

Signage & Facility Facility Mainetnance Services

Lakeview Construction

John Stallman

Marketing Manager

10505 Corporate Drive

Pleasant Prairie, WI 83158

(262) 308-5437

john@lvconstruction.com

General Contractor

Permit.com

Erika Aultman

Project Manager

309 Elaines Court

Dodgeville, WI 53533 (609) 999-9998

erika@permit.com

Permitting Services

Pivotal Retail Group

Chris Pruitt Director

889 Franklin Gateway, Suite 100 Marietta, GA 30067 (770) 402-8921

chris.pruitt@pivotalretail.com

Project Management, Construction, Renovations, Installations, Construction

Porcelanosa USA

David Carmona Sales Director

600 Route 17 North Ramsey, NJ 07446 (301) 503-1348

dcarmona@porcelanosa-usa.com

Architectural Surfaces & Building Products/ Flooring

The Beam Team

Tim Hill

Vice President

1350 Bluegrass Lakes Pkwy

Alpharetta, GA 30004 (630) 816-0631

timhill@thebeamteam.com

Fixture Installation/Construction/Rollouts/General Contractor

Wolverine Building Group

Mike Houseman

President NA

4045 Barden SE

Grand Rapids, MI 49512 (616) 299-4381

mhouseman@wolvgroup.com

General Contractor

Check out our annual fixture listing

If you want fixture suppliers, we have fixture suppliers. This month, our survey hightlights the some of the industry’s leading fixture manufacturers in the retail, restaurant, hospitality, healthcare (and other) sectors. Our annual listing provides the contact information and contact person for each firm. If you didn’t make the list, contact Publisher David Corson at davidc@ccr-mag.com.

Beam Team Construction

Tim Hill, VP

1350 Bluegrass Lakes Pkwy.

Alpharetta, GA 30004

(630) 816-0631

www.thebeamteam.com

timhill@thebeamteam.com

Fixture Materials: Fixture Installations

Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Office

Bradley Corp.

Abigail Heppe

W142 N9101 Fountain Blvd.

Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin 53051

1-800-BRADLEY

Fax: 262-251-5817

www.bradleycorp.com

abigail.heppe@bradleycorp.com

Fixture Products/Materials:

Other: Bathroom Fixtures

Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Federal, Multi-Family, MixedUse, Craft Brew, Industrial, Other: Airports, Travel

CaraGreen

Jessica McNaughton, President

1406 TRANSPORT DR

Raleigh, NC 27603

(919) 348-6679

www.caragreen.com

jessica@caragreen.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Cabinets, Cashwraps/Checkout Counters, Islands/Back Islands, Architectural Millwork, Shelving, Furniture/ Upholstery, Wallcoverings, Wood, Other: Countertops and Surfaces

Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Federal, Multi-Family, Cannabis, Mixed-Use, Craft Brew, Industrial

Ceiling Outfitters

Thomas Stanley, President

2445 Midway Rd., 103 Carrollton, TX 75006

(972) 588-1555

Cell: (214) 325-8203

Fax: (866) 525-0687

tstanley@ceilingoutfitters.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Cable & Rod System, POP, Wire, Other: Fixture and sign hanging hardware and systems

Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Cannabis, Industrial, Other: Construction

Chicago Faucets

Perrie Hayes, Marketing 2100 Clearwater Des Plaines, IL 60018 (847) 803-9975

www.chicagofaucets.com

perrie.hayes@chicagofaucets.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Other: Plumbing Products

Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Federal, Multi-Family, Cannabis, Mixed-Use, Craft Brew, Industrial

Delta Commercial

Robert Peters, Business Development Leader

55 East, 111th Street

P.O. Box 40980 (46280)

Indianapolis, IN 46280

(317) 848-1812

Cell: (602) 531-7036

Fax: (317) 574-5567

www.deltafaucet.com/commercial

robert.peters@deltafaucet.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Other: Plumbing Markets Served: Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Multi-Family

DesignedBuilt LLC

Greg Slamowitz, CEO PO Box 161000

Big Sky, MT 59716 (646) 373-2054

Cell: (646) 373-2054

www.designedbuilt.com

greg.slamowitz@designedbuilt.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Other: Custom Wood Doors Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Craft Brew, Other: High End Custom Homes

Displayit Inc.

Tricia Mayer, Sr. Director of Client Services

16680 Armstrong Ave. Irvine, CA 92606 (951) 757-0017

www.displayitinc.com

tmayer@displayitinc.com

Fixture Materials: Acrylic, Backroom Storage, Cabinets, Cashwraps/ Checkout Counters, Display Cases, End Caps, Garment Racks, Gondolas, Rid racks/Grid Systems, Islands/Back Islands, Kiosks, Metal, Architectural Millwork, Perimeter, POP, Shelving, Furniture/Upholstery, Veneers, Wood Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Multi-Housing, Cannabis, Craft Brew/Distillery, Office

Solutions For Crimpless Installations with Push-Button Accuracy Just Got Even Better

Our UrbanTrapeze cable grippers work with steel cable to create adjustable connections. Make installations quick and easy without crimps or traditional aircraft cable fittings. Simple solution promotes efficient and safe installations for displays, aisle markers, signs, ceiling grids, acoustic baffles, and lighting systems.

• Easy to use, self locking cable adjusters

• Reduce dependence on swaging tools and crimps

• Sleek, modern design and finish

• Press and hold clutch button to unlock and make adjustments or remove for reuse

DuPont

Corian Design, Contact Center

200 Powder Mill Road

Wilmington, DE 19803

1-800-426-7426

www.coriandesign.com

na-info@dupont.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Acrylic, Islands/Back Islands, Wallcoverings, Other: Solid Surface, Quartz, High-Performance Porcelain Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Multi-Family, Mixed-Use, Other: Residential, Transportation Terminals

East To West

Dean Nichol, President

514 Larkfield Rd., Suite 3A East Northpoint, NY 11731

(631) 368-2269

Fax: (631) 368-2267

www.easttowestsales.com

dean@easttowestsales.com

Fixture Materials: Kiosks, Veneers, Wallcoverings, Wood, PPE, All Flooring Markets Served: Retail, Healthcare, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Craft Brew/Distillery, Office, All

Flexecution

Nick Harbaugh

VP The Americas

16601 Blanco Road, 200 San Antonio, TX 78232

(888) 611-3539

Cell: (858) 752-1168

Fax: (210) 481-3798

nickh@flexecutioninc.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Acrylic, Backroom Storage, Cabinets, Cable & Rod System, Cashwraps/Checkout Counters, Display Cases, End Caps, Garment Racks, Gondolas, Rid racks/Grid Systems, Islands/Back Islands, Kiosks, Metal, Architectural Millwork, Pallets & Pallet Racking, Perimeter, POP, Shelving, Slatwall, Furniture/ Upholstery, Veneers, Wallcoverings, Wire, Wood Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Federal, Multi-Family, Cannabis, Mixed-Use, Craft Brew, Industrial

Futuristic Store

Fixtures Pte. Ltd.

Rachel Cheong, Head of Business Development

801 Lorong 7 Toa Payoh WBL Building #07-01

Singapore, NIL 319319

(65) 6365 2822

Fax: (65) 6365 2855

www.futuristicgroup.com

rachelcheong@futuristicgroup.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Cabinets, Cashwraps/Checkout Counters, Display Cases, End Caps, Garment Racks, Gondolas, Rid racks/Grid Systems, Islands/Back Islands, Kiosks, Metal, Architectural Millwork, Perimeter, POP, Shelving, Slatwall, Furniture/Upholstery, Veneers, Wood Markets Served: Retail, Healthcare, Restaurants, Shopping Malls

GP PRO

GPXpress, Sales

133 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30303 (866) 435-5647

www.gppro.com

gpxpress@gapac.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Other: Paper Towel Dispensers, Toilet Paper Dispensers, Soap Dispensers, Sanitizer Dispensers, Air Care Dispensers

Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Industrial, Other: High Traffic

Holman, Inc.

Jon Holman, Vice President

1225 Ellis Rd. South Jacksonville, FL 32205

(904) 781-4531

www.holman-inc.com

sales@holman-inc.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Shelving, Wallcoverings, Other: Bathroom Partitions & Accessories

Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Industrial

Imagine Tile, Inc.

Lynda Portelli, VP of Sales + Marketing

45 N. Broad Street, 317 Ridgewood, NJ 7450

(800) 680-8453

Cell: (973) 464-0786

www.imaginetile.com

Lynda@imaginetile.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Wallcoverings, Other: Floor Tile + Wall Tile Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Federal, Multi-Family, Cannabis, Mixed-Use, Craft Brew, Industrial

Impression Sales Inc.

Kevin J Fitzgerald, Principal

3155 N Buttercup Circle

Frederick, CO 80516

(303) 339-0585

Cell: (630) 207-9580

www.isincco.com

kevin@isincco.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Cabinets, Architectural Millwork, Furniture/Upholstery

Markets Served: Hospitality, Restaurants, Corporate, Multi-Family

Indiana Furniture

Paula Schmidt, Director of Marketing

1224 Mill Street Jasper, IN 47547

(812) 482-5727

www.indianafurniture.com

paula.schmidt@indianafurniture.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Furniture/Upholstery Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Corporate, Education, Federal, Industrial

Kaston Fixtures & Design Group, LLC

John Steger, President 8610 Directors Row Dallas, TX 75247

(972) 243-5334

Fax: (972) 243-1545

www.kastongroup.com

john@kastongroup.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Acrylic, Backroom Storage, Cashwraps/Checkout Counters, Display Cases, End Caps, Garment Racks, Gondolas, Kiosks, Metal, Perimeter, POP, Shelving, Wire, Wood Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Federal, Multi-Family, Cannabis, Mixed-Use, Craft Brew, Industrial

Kingsmen Projects US

Stephen Hekman, Executive Vice President 7157 Colleyville Blvd, Suite 101 Colleyville, TX 76034

(619) 719-8950

www.kingsmenprojects-us.com

stephen@kingsmen-usa.com

Fixture Materials: Acrylic, Backroom Storage, Cabinets, Cashwraps/ Checkout Counters, Display Cases, Garment Racks, Gondolas, Islands/ Back Islands, Kiosks, Architectural Millwork, POP, Shelving, Slatwall Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Shopping Malls, E-Entertainment

Kirei

Anne Kulinski, Director of Marketing 8330 Arjons Dr. San Diego, CA 92126

www.kireiusa.com

kirei@upspringpr.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Wallcoverings

Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Federal, Cannabis

Laminators Incorporated

Stephanie Burke, Marketing Communications Specialist 3255 Penn St Hatfield, PA 19440 (215) 703-5124

stephanie.burke@laminatorsinc.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Kiosks, Metal, POP, Wallcoverings

Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Federal, Multi-Family, Cannabis, Mixed-Use, Craft Brew, Industrial

Lang & Schwander

Callie McClanahan, Business Development Manager

7400 NE 4th Ct, Suite 102 Miami, Florida 33138

(850) 687-3179

langschwander.com

callie@langschwander.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Cabinets, Display Cases, Garment Racks, Islands/Back Islands, Metal, Architectural Millwork, Shelving, Furniture/Upholstery, Veneers, Wood Markets Served: Hospitality, Restaurants, Mixed-Use

LG&P In-store Agency

Ashley Plaugh, Senior Business Director 610 Winters Ave Paramus, NJ 7652

Cell: (334) 220-8115

www.lginstore.com

aplaugh@lginstore.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Acrylic, Cabinets, Cashwraps/ Checkout Counters, Display Cases, End Caps, Gondolas, Rid racks/ Grid Systems, Islands/Back Islands, Kiosks, Metal, Architectural Millwork, POP, Shelving, Slatwall, Veneers, Wallcoverings, Wire Markets Served: Retail, Other: Brands

Nationwide

Fixture Installations

Mike Haddon, COO

15600-28th Avenue North Plymouth, MN 55447 (763) 540-0232

Cell: (612) 807-5416

www.nfi-usa.com

mhaddon@nfi-usa.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Backroom Storage, Cashwraps/ Checkout Counters, Display Cases, End Caps, Garment Racks, Gondolas, Rid racks/Grid Systems, Islands/Back Islands, Kiosks, Metal, Architectural Millwork, Perimeter, POP, Refrigerated Cases, Shelving, Slatwall, Furniture/Upholstery, Veneers, Wood Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Shopping Malls, Multi-Family, Cannabis

Niagara

Jenni Steele, VP of Marketing

300 Old Gerault Road Flower Mound, TX 75077

(888) 733-0197

Fax: (682) 200-6962

www.pro.Niagaracorp.com

jsteele@niagaracorp.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Other: Toilets

Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Corporate, Education, Federal, Multi-Family

Pioneer Millworks

John, PR and Content Manager 1180 Commercial Drive

ATTN: J. NEVADOMSKI

Farmington, NY 14425

(585) 924-3860

johnn@pioneermillworks.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Architectural Millwork, Wallcoverings, Wood, Other: flooring and decking

Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Federal, Multi-Family, Cannabis, Mixed-Use, Craft Brew, Industrial, Other: residential

Pivotal Retail Group

Chris Pruitt, Director, Program Development

889 Franklin Gateway, Suite 100 Marietta, GA 30067

(678) 293-6874

Cell: (770) 402-8921

www.pivotalretail.com

Chris.pruitt@pivotalretail.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Other: Fixture Installations

Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Shopping Malls

Porcelanosa

David Carmona, National Sales Director

600 Route 17 N

Ramsey, NJ 07446

(301) 503-1348

www.porcelanosa-usa.com

dcarmona@porcelanosa-usa.com

Fixture Materials: Wallcoverings

Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Multi-Family, Mixed-Use, Industrial

Prime Retail Services Inc.

Donald Bloom, President & CEO

3617 Southland Dr.

Flowery Branch, GA 30542

(866) 504-3511

Fax: (866) 584-3605

www.primeretailservices.com

dbloom@primeretailservices.com

Fixture Materials: Fixture Installation for Backroom Storage, Cabinets, Cashwraps/Checkout Counters, Display Cases, End Caps, Garment Racks, Gondolas, Kiosks, Metal, Architectural Millwork, Pallets & Pallet Racking, Perimeter, POP, Shelving, Slatwall, Wood

Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Federal, Multi-Housing

Recrylic

Paul Richardson, VP, Marketing + Strategy

6050 Nathan Lane N Minneapolis, MN 55442 (763) 270-6800

Cell: (612) 281-3134

www.Recrylic.com

prichardson@recrylic.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Acrylic, Display Cases, End Caps, Kiosks, POP, Wallcoverings, Wood Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Federal, Multi-Family, Cannabis, Mixed-Use, Craft Brew, Industrial, Other: Banking / Financial

Rockerz Inc

Robert Smith, Director of Business/National Accts.

100 Commonwealth Dr. Warrendale, PA 15086

(724) 612-6520

www.rockerzinc.com

rsmith@rockerzinc.com

Fixture Materials: Polished Concrete, Tile Removal Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Federal, Cannabis, Craft Brew/ Distillery, Office, Industrial

SAJO Inc.

Rocco Raco

Director of Marketing & Business Devlopment

1320 Graham Boulevard

Montreal, QC H3P 3C8

(514) 385-0333

Cell: (514) 927-7398

sajo.com

rocco@sajo.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Acrylic, Cabinets, Cashwraps/Checkout Counters, Display Cases, Gondolas, Kiosks, Metal, Architectural Millwork, Perimeter, Shelving, Slatwall, Veneers, Wire, Wood Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Restaurants, Corporate, Shopping Malls, Cannabis

Sloan

Alison Heitman, Director, Global Marketing Communications

10500 Seymour Avenue Franklin Park, IL 60131

(847) 994-3214

www.sloan.com

alison.heitman@sloan.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Other: Commercial Restroom Products Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Federal, Multi-Family, Industrial

Sparks Marketing Corp

Angel Carra, President, Retail 2828 Charter Rd Philadelphia, PA 19154

(215) 671-8827

www.WeAreSparks.com

acarra@wearesparks.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Acrylic, Cabinets, Cashwraps/ Checkout Counters, Display Cases, End Caps, Garment Racks, Kiosks, Metal, Architectural Millwork, Perimeter, Veneers, Wood Markets Served: Retail, Corporate, Shopping Malls, Cannabis, Other: Banking

T C MillworkTRICON

Construction

Leo Couchara, Vice President Sales 3433 Marshall Lane

Bensalem, PA 19020

(215) 245-4210

Cell: (609) 847-0196

www.TCMillwork.com

L.Couchara@TCMillwork.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Acrylic, Cabinets, Cashwraps/ Checkout Counters, Display Cases, End Caps, Garment Racks, Gondolas, Rid racks/Grid Systems, Islands/Back Islands, Kiosks, Metal, Perimeter, POP, Shelving, Veneers, Wire Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Cannabis

Taylor Bros.

Construction Co., Inc.

Jeff Chandler, Vice President

4555 Middle Road

Columbus, IN 47203

(812) 379-9547

Fax: (812) 372-4759

www.tbcci.com

tonya.paradise@tbcci.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Backroom Storage, Cabinets, Cashwraps/Checkout Counters, Display Cases, End Caps, Garment Racks, Gondolas, Architectural Millwork, Pallets & Pallet Racking, Perimeter, POP, Shelving, Slatwall, Furniture/Upholstery, Other: Fixture Installations

Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Education, Industrial

Trial Design Inc.

John French, Director of Accounts & Business Development

570 boul des Erables Valleyfield, Quebec J6T 6G4 (450) 370-1377

www.trial-design.com/en jfrench@trial-design.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Acrylic, Cabinets, Cashwraps/Checkout Counters, Display Cases, Garment Racks, Gondolas, Islands/Back Islands, Kiosks, Metal, Architectural Millwork, Perimeter, POP, Shelving, Slatwall, Furniture/Upholstery, Veneers, Wallcoverings, Wood Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Shopping Malls, Cannabis

Wayne Dalton

Alexandria Ligorotis, Brand Manager

2501 S, TX-121 Bus Lewisville, TX 75067

(469) 549-7100

www.wayne-dalton.com

alli@multistory.media

Fixture Products/Materials: Metal, Other: Garage Doors, Access Systems

Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Federal, Multi-Family, MixedUse, Craft Brew, Industrial

Wilsonart

John Bann, Director, Commercial Marketing

2501 Wilsonart Drive Temple, TX 76504

(254) 718-7692

www.wilsonart.com

john.bann@wilsonart.com

Fixture Products/Materials: Other

Markets Served: Other: Surfacing Materials

Window Film Depot

Krissy Mosby, President

4939 Lower Roswell Rd., Suite 100

Marietta, GA 30068

(866) 933-3456

Fax: (770) 973-3986

www.windowfilmdepot.com

krissy@windowfilmdepot.com

Fixture Materials: Window Film

Markets Served: Retail, Restaurants, Corporate, Education, Shopping Malls, Federal, Multi-Housing, Any Commercial Properties

Simons Galeries de la Capitale, Québec, QC, Canada

Holy Smokes!

Colorado school constructed with support of WPA solves unique challenge with horizontal smoke vents

By Thomas Renner

It has been more than 80 years since the Works Projects Administration (WPA) was active in Colorado, but the agency’s impact still lives in the expansive western state—especially in its schools.

Colorado was one of the biggest beneficiaries of the program instituted by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. He created the WPA in 1935 as part of the New Deal plan to lift the nation out of the Great Depression. Colorado received more per-capita federal dollars than any state except Washington.

The WPA constructed 113 schools in the state and reconstructed or improved 381 others, according to HistoryColorado.org. Many areas of the state, particularly its eastern communities, could not keep pace with enrollment growth during the Great Depression due to westward migration.

Palmer High School in Colorado Springs School District 11 was built with the support of WPA workers in 1940, and remains one of the most highly-rated in its District. With nearly 1,600 students, the school earns high marks from Niche for its diversity (more than 53% of its students are minorities) and has the oldest International Baccalaureate program in the area.

Structurally and mechanically, the school is sturdy. There are, however, subtle signs that reflect the building’s age. That was quite evident when a team of experts and school officials investigated options to replace the school’s smoke vents. The existing vents had been installed vertically.

The team that helped construct a new solution included Vernon Champlin, Senior Consultant with the fire protection engineering firm Jensen Hughes; the Colorado Springs School District 11 Facilities Team; and Frank Kaiser, an architect at LKA Partners.

Photography by Jennifer Baker/Jenn’s Breathtaking Moments

Palmer High School in Colorado Springs was among 113 in Colorado built by workers in the Workers Project Administration. The school was built in 1940.

“This is the first time we’ve ever run into this particular design,’’ Kaiser says. “The existing vents were all connected with a series of pulleys and ropes, and the panels did not seal very well. There was no way to replace them.”

The team met with several leading experts to determine if replacing the vents in their current orientation was an option or if new vents installed on the roof was the best way forward.

Unusual Solution

The scope of the project included a total roof replacement. Addressing the issue with the smoke vents, however, was one of the dilemmas that faced the architects.

The aging vents were installed in the vertical walls of the pop-up, cast-in-place concrete structure on the roof.

“They designed other schools in the area the same way,’’ says Don Johnson, Executive VP of iiCON Construction, the general contractor on the project. “I don’t know how they got them to function.”

Situated in an urban environment, the school sought to install acoustical smoke

vents to limit noise intrusion from exterior sources. The vents were located above the school’s stage, and city fire officials recommended that they be replaced. The existing vents did not have an acoustical rating.

“Considered advanced technology over a hundred years ago, the existing non-conforming smoke ventilation system in the Palmer High School consisted of 24 vertically hinged doors that could be remotely opened 45-feet above the floor,’’ Champlin says. “The complex system of jute ropes and pulleys allowed the ventilation doors to fall open simultaneously via gravity from a single manual releasing point on the stage.”

As codes and technologies advanced, these antiquated systems have become obsolete, and worse, there is no applicable standard for inspection, testing or maintenance.

“The greatest concern of the existing system was an inability to effectively test and reset the system to ensure proper operation,” Champlin says.

LKA recommended an unusual solution. The architects abandoned the existing vents and left them in place. They were sealed and insulated to improve energy efficiency and acoustics but remain on the structure. “In our evaluation, we developed numerous code-compliant solutions that considered refurbishing the existing vent configuration, replacing the existing assembly with a modern manual system, or eliminating the entire assembly in place of a new electronic smoke control system,” Champlin says. “A priority was placed on cost effective solutions that provided for ease of on-going testing and maintenance.”

Nathan Loges iiCON Construction, Brian Garcia D11 ESH Manager, Jennifer Hotaling, Project Manager, Mike Willis, Asst. Facilities Director, Angelo Martinez, Palmer Building Manager, Sara Valentine ESH Asst., and Jessica Quinn, CAD/Engineering Asst.

The scope of the project included a total roof replacement. Addressing the issue with the smoke vents, however, was one of the dilemmas that faced the architects.

Jennifer Hotaling, Assistant Capital Program Manager for D11 Schools, credits the collaborative approach with multiple experts that led to the success of this complex project. “Student safety is paramount and cutting any hole in a roof is a big deal. At the end of the day, our whole team of dedicated professionals came together to provide taxpayers with the best possible solution.”

Concrete Steps

The decision to abandon the vents in place created one other decision, however: how to install new vents. Portions of the existing concrete roof deck were removed to provide openings where the new smoke vents were to be installed. With assistance from a crane, saw cutter and intense labor, workers removed nearly 4,000 pounds of concrete.

“I’ve done a lot of different things and we always find challenges,’’ Johnson says.

“Anybody can build from the ground up. It’s when you go in and do renovation that you’re always going to find some challenges.”

Johnson says workers paid particular attention to concrete removal, because they were afraid of pieces falling into the school. All the removal work was done while school was out of session. “There was no easy way to shore up the concrete. And because it was above the fly loft for the stage it was a long way down.”

Workers from iiCON and Weathercraft

Roofing cut the concrete to match the opening of the new vents, starting at the four corners and running a cable through the core to make sure it didn’t break loose. “We were watching it the whole time while we were sewing,’’ Johnson says. “We stopped as soon as the piece started to break loose and then removed it with the crane. It took four hours, which was pretty fast. It was very quick and clean.”

“It was a very specialized project. We also worked with the local building department and the fire department to make sure it passed muster.”

— Frank Kaiser, Architect, LKA Partners

Smoke vents at the school were installed in vertical walls of a pop-up, cast-in-place concrete structure on the roof. The vents were loose, uninsulated and were not UL listed.

Smoke vent installation

Roofers installed four acoustical smoke vents from BILCO, the manufacturer of specialty access products. The 5x7 vents include burglar bars to prevent unauthorized entry and a manual winch.

Creating the opening for the vents and extricating concrete was only the first part of the process to install the vents. Theatrical spaces present challenges due to rigging and cables that limit the work area under the roof.

“There was a lot of concern to protect the interior space when they were installed, and the logistics of getting up there and working from above the stage,’’ Hotaling says. “They had to build a platform under the concrete to catch the water, dust and debris. While they were cutting, we were checking for leaks and making sure there was nothing falling on the stage floor. We’re always concerned about these projects that once they start, they become bigger than anticipated.”

Architects abandoned the smoke vents in place. Portions of the existing concrete roof deck were removed to provide openings for the new smoke vents.

Acoustical smoke vents are designed to prevent noise intrusion and are installed at theaters, concert halls and other applications that require limiting noise from external sources. The vents have an industry-high OITC-46 and STC-50 sound ratings. The vents include a fusible link to ensure operation should a fire occur.

“Palmer High School is in a downtown area where there is a lot of siren noise,’’ Kaiser says. “Even weather, such as hail, can be loud. We wanted to make sure during performances we could mitigate any exterior noise that could be a potential problem. We like the BILCO products. They seem to be the ones that we see on most of our projects.”

Kaiser said the firm’s relationship with a distributor, Dalco in Denver, helped secure the vents, and workers completed the installation by sealing the flashings to guard against leaks and testing to ensure they operated properly. “The vents themselves seem to be well built,’’ Kaiser said. “The walls are thicker than the average vent and they’ll help limit noise infiltration.”

History Lesson

Palmer High School dates back to the earliest days of Colorado Springs. The first incarnation of Palmer opened in 1875, at a cost of nearly $27,000. A new version of Palmer opened in 1893 at a cost of $100,000, at the current site. With the assistance of the WPA, construction on the latest version of Palmer began in 1938 at a cost of $670,000. Then known as Colorado Springs High School, the building was designed by Edward Burns, a 1921 graduate of the school.

“At the time, the building was called one of the West’s most attractive architectural designs,” according to an article published in the Colorado Gazette. “The school offered numerous amenities, including six porcelain drinking fountains and a spacious, well-lit cafeteria,’’ according to the article.

The school was renamed to honor the founder of Colorado Springs, William Jackson Palmer, in 1959. The original clock tower bell from the building in 1893 is in the school courtyard.

And while Kaiser and his firm have worked on projects of far greater scope and breadth, solving an issue with oddly installed smoke vents from WPA workers is certainly memorable.

“It was a very specialized project,” Kaiser says. “We also worked with the local building department and the fire department

to make sure it passed muster. The school was well-built and plenty strong to handle the new smoke vent openings. We didn’t have to do any remedial structural work. Everybody in Colorado Springs knows about Palmer High School, and we were glad to be a part of this project.” CCR

Project at a Glance

What: Palmer High School, which was built by the Works Projects Administration in 1940, needed new smoke vents installed on the roof.

Where: Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Why: The existing vents, which were installed by WPA workers, were loose, uninsulated and did not have a UL listing. The existing vents were also installed in vertical walls of a pop-up, cast-in-place concrete structure on the roof of the school.

The solution: Architects abandoned the existing vents in place and were sealed and insulated. Workers installed four acoustical smoke vents manufactured by The BILCO Company. Workers removed nearly 4,000 pounds of concrete and cut openings to match the size of the 5 x 7 vents.

Did you know? The WPA constructed 113 schools in Colorado and improved or reconstructed 381 others. The WPA served in Colorado from 1935-1942, with a peak employment of 43,200 by 1937.

Thomas Renner writes on architecture, construction, engineering and other trade industry topics for publications in the United States and Canada.

Workers installed 4 BILCO acoustical smoke vents. Acoustical smoke vents are designed to prevent noise intrusion and were particularly important for this project, which is located in the heart of Colorado Springs.

At look at the Eisemann Performing Arts Center 20 Years Later

By Eurico Francisco

Designing buildings to last W

hen developing a new institutional or civic building, it is essential to design for the long term. No facility owner wants to replace building materials every five to 10 years. In fact, many owners are willing to make long-term investments up-front to avoid costly repairs down the line.

When designing The Eisemann Performing Arts Center in Richardson, Texas, in 2002, we selected noble materials with the intention for them to last for many decades. Today, over 20 years later, The Eisemann Performing Arts Center looks and performs as well as it did when it was first built. The facility continues to serve as a beacon for the community, inspiring locals and visitors alike with its timeless design.

Over the years, thousands of people have come through the Eisemann Center’s doors, yet the building does not show wear and tear. For example, the original terrazzo floors still look great, the cast stone hasn’t and will never age, the wood details are pristine, and the quality fabric auditorium seating has maintained its look and feel.

The material palette reflects the concern with maintenance and durability while simultaneously communicating the idea of permanence from a design language standpoint.

Dan Johnson, former Richardson City Manager, had the vision to create a place that would be “home” for the different arts organizations in Richardson and surrounding towns and a catalyst for community building and placemaking. At the time of its construction, the Eisemann Center was considered an element of a larger vision within Galatyn Park.

Our team exceeded the client’s vision by creating a performing arts center that is versatile, approachable and dignified. The facility anchors a nascent sub-center in the city with a transit station, public plaza, residential, hotel and office uses.

Designing the Eisemann on undeveloped land allowed us to work with civic leaders, land owners, public transit officials, and developers to craft a master plan that would maximize synergies among all building types and constituents. Through the masterplan, we could locate the transit station, determine the

The Eisemann Center was positioned at a spot that worked well for the facility and allowed it to become a catalyst for future development and investment in the area.

Aspirational design that creates and defines memorable experiences.

Architecture, Engineering, Interior Design, Environmental Graphics, Branding

Cleveland

Tucson Los Angeles

Ventura

Atlanta

Baltimore

Portland

www.onyxcreative.com

Cleveland APL | Cleveland, OH

Tim Murphy / Foto Imagery

hotel’s general location and organization at the ground level, and allocate land for future residential and commercial uses.

A catalyst for the future

The Eisemann Center was positioned at a spot that worked well for the facility and allowed it to become a catalyst for future development and investment in the area.

The construction budget grew over the design process because city leaders realized that the initial vision for the Eisemann Center was incomplete and didn’t fulfill the community’s aspirations. Taking into account community input and evaluating all the potential of the project, the added construction cost was understood as a wise investment in the community’s future, as the Eisemann Center reflects the needs and desires of the arts community and the citizens of Richardson and North Texas.

The city and its civic leaders have never looked back and have been extremely pleased with the building as designed and built. The extra investment early on has paid off many times over for The Eisemann Performing Arts Center.

The building was designed with people in mind, and it truly comes alive when 300500 people fill the lobby space buzzing with excitement for an upcoming performance. When community members enter the Eisemann Performing Arts Center, they are greeted by a two-story-tall curtain wall that opens up the lobby to the adjacent plaza. This area is inviting and approachable, with

views to the different lobby levels making circulation and navigation easy and intuitive.

The upper mezzanine also doubles as a space for art exhibits, adding an extra layer of usability to the building. The wood panels in the main hall were custom-built in place and mounted to the walls, with a geometry that is not only a visual delight but also designed to precisely modulate the acoustics of the hall for optimum sound. The facility has three venues and is designed so that all three can host concurrent performances without acoustics or flow issues.

On the exterior, having three of its four sides exposed to public roads meant that

The facility continues to serve as a beacon for the community, inspiring locals and visitors alike with its timeless design.

the Eisemann Center didn’t have a “backside” that was not visible to the public and neighbors. Everything was designed to work well and add value and character to The Eisemann Performing Arts Center’s immediate physical context.

Often referred to as the “gem” of Richardson, The Eisemann Performing Arts Center is a space that brings community members together to enjoy the arts. The city is proud of the building and has done a fantastic job of keeping it in perfect condition—and our design, intended from the very beginning to stand the test of time from spatial organization, construction techniques, and material selection standpoints, also has played a key role in the fact that The Eisemann Performing Arts Center looks as good today as it did 20 years ago or as it will look 20 years from now. We are proud of having designed a building that looks—and performs—for the ages. CCR

Eurico Francisco, AIA, LEED, AP, Principal at CRTKL, is an architect and lead designer whose passion for buildings and cities inspires his clients, drives him to create memorable spaces, and encourages his students and colleagues to achieve excellence in all that they do. Eurico has received multiple design awards for his work in the US and abroad, and has taught design studios at the University of Sao Paulo, Boston Architectural College, Rhode Island School of Design, and Texas Tech University. He is a contributor to “Texas Architect’’ magazine and is also active in civic and professional organizations that aim to elevate the quality of the urban environment.

Anchors down

How the CNY Group helped Lidl expand its corporate vision

Located in Syosset, Long Island (New York), Lidl’s newest corporate location serves as an anchor for its growing presence across the Northeast. The expansive state of the art workspace is on par with the brand’s freshfood-at-discount-prices commitment.

At the heart of the project is CNY Group, which has overseen construction administration for nearly a dozen new Lidl supermarkets across New York over the last few years. Working with Lidl’s aggressive timelines, the New York City-based construction and development firm seamlessly helped turn around each of the projects, including the regional office.

Sharing a passion for sustainability, Lidl and CNY Group are committed to redeveloping the concept of today’s supermarket by creating greener solutions, supporting farmers and reducing the overall ecological footprint. That means adaptively reusing and renovating each project.

We sat down with David Brown, Project Executive for SPACES, CNY Group’s interiors team that worked on the project, to get his insights into what the new space means to the grocer.

Give us a snapshot of who the client, Lidl, is. What is your relationship with them?

LIDL is a multinational Germany-based discount grocery store chain with over 13,000 stores around the globe. Over the last five years, LIDL has rapidly expanded into the American market, and we are proud to have joined them in the construction efforts on several of their supermarkets and offices in the New York metropolitan area.

What were the client’s main goals for this project?

LIDL’s goals for this project were to expand the footprint of their Syosset, New York supermarket to accommodate their new Northeast Regional Headquarters. One of Lidl’s main priorities for this office expansion was to build out blocks of meeting and focus rooms, general office areas with open workspaces, printing and storage areas and break rooms for employees; all under an aggressive 12-week construction schedule.

How does the construction reflect what everyone was looking for

Much like LIDL themselves, our SPACES team is united under the common goal

of driving the highest efficiency and value without compromising quality or sustainability. Through the repurposing of an existing structure, the ecological footprint of this project is significantly reduced, while also providing schedule certainty in a way that could not be achieved through ground-up construction.

What’s the secret to creating the right project in today’s competitive landscape?

No matter how competitive the current landscape is for construction, the requisite ability to be adaptable and value-driven will always be a key differentiator when it comes time to begin construction.

At SPACES, our rigorous and comprehensive pre-planning processes are integral

Communication is key in construction; it is crucial to have a firm grasp on whatever subject you’re talking about.

to the ongoing success and enhanced value of our projects. Throughout our planning stages, our team carefully considers all potential variables to ensure the expeditious and economical delivery of the final product without impedance. A dynamic team is a successful team.

What are some of the biggest areas companies look for in their headquarters operations/what trends are you seeing in the construction/design landscape?

Following the effects of COVID and the subsequent labor shortages, more companies are looking to distance themselves from the “cubicle-farm” office designs from yesteryear and are looking at their office design through the lens of providing employees and tenants with a “home away from home” experience. Open-concept office plans, access to public transportation, collaborative and amenity areas, and improved lighting and acoustic design are among the most popular items companies look for when designing headquarters, as of late.

Give us a snapshot of who SPACES is and describe a typical day.

SPACES is a dynamic interior construction firm that delivers schedule certainty and budget consistency to a wide range of private and institutional clients. Our team provides the full spectrum of advisory, risk management, and construction services while leading the phased interior buildout of occupied spaces, the modernization of critical building systems, and the restoration of historic features and materials.

In the world of construction a typical day is hard to come by, however, our team starts every morning prepared to take on whatever comes our way.

What makes SPACES unique?

Our team of industry professionals strikes a careful balance of working for some of the top companies in commercial and institutional real estate and development while limiting the number of projects accepted to maintain our transparent, proactive, hands-

on approach. Honesty, collaborative open communication, continued education and empowerment are hallmarks of our company culture that we bring to each of our projects.

What are you doing to promote sustainability in your projects?

SPACES and sustainability go hand in hand. Reinforced through our commitment to ESG, our team unites stakeholders to adapt to the most sustainable, efficient, and equitable producers through innovative construction practices that drive progress, create value, and exceed expectations.

The moment a project enters our doors, our team immediately is thinking of the ways we can promote and influence wellness, social equity, and sustainable building practices across each stage of the construction process.

What have been some of the biggest adjustments you see in the future?

Within the New York City metropolitan area, we see the implementation of Local Law

97 and its correlated compliances as one of the most significant adjustments that will affect projects in the near future.

What was the best advice you ever received?

The most important advice I’ve ever received was very early on in my construction career, and that was to always be thorough and extremely well-versed when you’re communicating with anyone. Communication is key in construction; it is crucial to have a firm grasp on whatever subject you’re talking about.

What’s the best thing a client ever said to you?

Just a few months ago, a client referred to our team as “Herculean,” due to our persistence and ability to overcome the project’s many challenges, while still being ahead of schedule. I can tell you from now—that compliment is going to remain as one of our team’s favorites. CCR

Putting the ‘Smart’ in Parking

See why parking footprints deserve a great deal of attention and planning

Putting the ‘Smart’ in Parking

See why parking footprints deserve a great deal of attention and planning

By Paul Chacon

As one of the largest single land uses in municipalities’ footprints, parking deserves a great deal of attention and planning. Well-designed and efficient public parking facilities are the heart of thriving and livable communities.

The availability and demand for public parking options also impacts the way corporate tenants and retailers conduct their site selection and where developers build new projects. Even the perception of available parking can influence the economic competitiveness of an area.

IS open

FIND IT HERE! Wide Format. Inks and Substrates. Wrap and Vinyl. Digital Signage. Education. Networking. Community. And so much more... Whether you’re looking to grow your business or advance your career, everything you need to be successful is all in one place: ISA International Sign Expo® 2023! Join us at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV, April 12-14 to find latest products and solutions, learn from the experts, and HAVE FUN!

Use code COMMERCIAL for a free trade show pass!

APRIL 12–14, 2023

SIGNEXPO.ORG

LAS VEGAS, NV

The recent trend toward urbanization and higher density environments have significantly elevated the importance and desirability of structured parking, particularly in markets that do not offer readily available transit systems as an alternative.

As development of public parking facilities trend upward, there are some critical factors that need to be considered during the early phases in the development of public parking facilities. Space planning, materials and structural engineering issues and traffic circulation systems are always top of mind.

But parking operations—and the systems and technologies that support it— are as important and need to be prioritized during these early phases of development. Taking a closer look at carbon reduction plans and identifying clear sustainability goals should also be addressed.

Importance of Parking Operations

Regardless of who the owner/developer of the public parking facility is, the development issues are virtually the same. The

typical team usually includes the architect, contractor, construction manager, parking operator and engineer.

Parking operators often serve as consultants who provide advice and input into the type of equipment that best serves and optimizes the proposed parking operation— both near-term and into the future.

Improved parking operations can lead to increased revenue, improved customer satisfaction, and reduced expenses.

` Increased revenue through higher rates, demand pricing, and more efficient use of space.

` Improved customer satisfaction by providing easier access to parking and better information about available spaces (such as wayfinding and online reservations).

` Reduced expenses by reducing labor with automation, cutting the need for maintenance and repair and increasing equipment lifespan.

Chicago’s Navy Pier, one of the most visited destinations in the world, recently

tapped the ABM Parking Services team to implement new business intelligence platforms, technology, and equipment. The result was a 25% increase in cost savings in year one, optimized revenue through dynamic pricing, creation of new revenue sources and an increase of 97% in customer satisfaction.

On the flip side, inefficient parking operations and management can lead to long-term challenges. Drivers can become frustrated and waste time and fuel searching for a spot. There may be an empty parking lot two blocks away, but without proper management of the more desirable spaces, wayfinding signage or online reservations, it sits vacant while people complain about the shortage of parking in the downtown area.

Sustainable Future

Developers also need to evaluate and plan for future needs. The demand for e-mobility and EV infrastructures are growing rapidly. More than 10 million electric cars are on the road across the world—and the number is

You can find answers to these and other important questions to help you market your products in construction and renovation from one of the leading B2B research firms in the country. Just spend some time at www.a-i-m.com. Then call 847-358-8558 for a confidential conversation with Jim Nowakowski, President.

AIM is a full-service B2B marketing research, information company with 30+ years experience.

Companies who want to innovate use AIM’s custom-designed research and analytical data services to get needed answers quickly, neatly and efficiently.

Why Not Have a Conversation Now?

The market doesn’t wait for anyone. Our studies have helped major manufacturers gain brand share, specification share, and position themselves in very competitive markets.

Call 847-358-8558 for that confidential conversation with Jim Nowakowski, President.

Or email him at jnowak@a-i-m.com.

Let AIM help shed some light on what you’re doing.

Thank you.

Manufacturer Brief: How COVID-19 is Changing the Way Interior Designers Get Product Information

Manufacturer Brief: How COVID-19 Changed the Way Architects Get Product Information

Accountability Information Management, Inc. 553 N. North Court, Suite 160 Palatine, Illinois 60067 847-358-8558 www.a-i-m.com

projected to reach 30 million by 2030. Some states even aim to phase out combustion vehicles completely, such as California, where Gov. Gavin Newsom has issued an executive order requiring all new vehicles to be zero-emission starting in 2035.

Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) recently completed one of the largest EV charger installations in the United States installing 1,200 charging stations at the new economy parking facility at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

The technology factor

The good news is that the parking industry is becoming ever-more technology-enabled. The growing availability of integrated automation solutions, advancements around the Internet of Things (IoT) and wireless technologies as well as intelligent software provides the opportunity for parking operators to achieve strategic differentiation and really transform how people interact with their parking facilities.

An essential part of today’s parking infrastructures are smart parking technology suites that include Parking Access and Revenue Control Systems (PARCS) and parking guidance technology. PARCS are real time computerized parking systems that automate the entry, exit, and payment of all customers accessing a parking facility. There are multiple forms and levels of functionality, security and complexity offered by these systems to enable parking facility owners and operators to control access and collect revenue. Elements of these systems include parking facility entry and exit control systems, pay stations (pay-on-foot and payin-lane), ticket dispensers with gate arms, license plate recognition systems and valet equipment systems.

Navigating the Maze

The ever-growing options of equipment, technologies and solutions can seem overwhelming – particularly for a team without experience in technology implementations.

But an experienced parking operations consultant can help walk through the various operational options and provide recommendations on the type of parking equipment and systems that can best serve the unique needs of your public parking operation.

This can include valuable insight into the history, use-case and longevity of the specific software and equipment, in addition to other considerations related to your IT strategy such as deploying SaaS versus on-premise solutions.

Once the equipment and technology decisions are made, parking operations consultants can also help bring the data these systems provide to life. Mobile payment systems and PARCS provide a wealth of granular data that can be leveraged to prevent cost overruns and effectively address customer needs. Linking the PARCS data with the parking operator’s management and reporting program can offer real-time insights from data and analytics to maximize your revenue, forecast optimal use of each space, and create new revenue streams.

Some additional examples include using license plate recognition (LPR) to streamline the parking permit process or installing electric vehicle charging stations that customers can use with a smartphone app.

Technology upgrades—such as touchless technologies, mobile payment integration, contactless card readers, and license plate readers and sensors—can work together to provide actionable data to maximize revenue and forecast optimal use of spaces.

A smart parking infrastructure with connected EV charging stations can offer new revenue streams, improve sustainability metrics, and deliver a key differentiator.

Just a few of the technology factors that need to be considered include:

` EV charging station requirements versus demand

` Online parking apps for reservations

` Wayfinding programs

` Data analytics programs

` Demand pricing capabilities

` Touchless/cell phone payment capabilities

` Webpage apps for direct reservations and prepayment

And, creating exterior signage consistent with a directional and marketing plan. In the end, these types of details will make your parking facilities safer, build customer confidence, maximize your bottom line, and enable smart operational decisions.

With long-term urban revitalization and densification trends on the rise, there continues a sustained demand for public parking facilities. But you don’t need to go it alone. Look to an experienced parking operator to help create a smart, efficient, and sustainable facility. FC

Paul Chacon is the Business Development Manager – Northern California for ABM Parking Services. While building the business in this market, which includes San Francisco, East Bay, South Bay, and Sacramento, he takes the lead role on acquiring company growth through building lasting relationships.

PARCS are real time computerized parking systems that automate the entry, exit, and payment of all customers accessing a parking facility.

TRADE SHOW: MAY 23-25 |

CONFERENCE: MAY 21-25

JAVITS CENTER, NEW YORK

Bright Ideas for Bold New Builds

From products that improve human performance to energy-efficient technologies, the latest lighting innovations that benefit commercial facilities will be on display at LightFair 2023. Meet leaders from across the entire lighting industry and generate new ideas at the industry’s most comprehensive conference and trade show.

Opening the door

It was her sister that introduced Allison Sellers to the world of construction. When a position opened with her sister's general contractor company, where she was an accountant, Allison applied.

It wasn't long before she realized just how much she loved the construction industry. Learning everything and anything she could, she worked her way up the corporate ladder, eventually landing as the Assistant Controller with Evergreen Construction Company, which is a part of the Evergreen Real Estate Group in Chicago.

We sat down with Allison to get her thoughts on the industry, what she does and why there is nothing like it.

Tell us your story. How did you get started in the industry?

I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater with my bachelor's degree in operations management. I knew I wanted to get into a business role but wasn’t sure exactly which industry in which I wanted to work. My sister was working as an accountant with a general contractor, and they had an opening for another construction accountant, so I interviewed and got the job.

I quickly realized how much I enjoyed both construction accounting and all other aspects of construction. I took all opportunities that were made available to me to learn all aspects of construction, from start to finish, and it continued to pay off as I made my way up into more senior roles including here at Evergreen Construction Company.

What are some of the biggest changes you have seen over the past few years?

Over the past two years, the pandemic really brought on major changes to the way all companies do business. Learning new ways to communicate, accomplish a task and prioritize tasks are challenges I have faced and believe many in the industry have also

Our conversation with Evergreen Construction's Allison Sellers

Based in Dallas, TX a nationwide company with more than 30 years of experience in:

> Brokerage - We will find the right properties to lease or buy for you –guarantee to find hidden opportunities and off market sites.

> Consulting - We will manage the entire development process –land acquisition, entitlements, zoning, and leasing.

> Development – Ground up and redevelopment specializing in single tenant net leased.

What clients are saying:

“Pam’s expertise in commercial real estate brokerage and development is strong. Recommending Pam to anybody is easy especially after seeing her aggressiveness in evaluating a market and securing the best opportunities within days not months.”

“Pam is a detail-oriented person who is able to bring projects in on time and under budget while maintaining excellent customer service. Additionally, Pam is a skillful negotiator.”

faced. In the last five years, the change in technology has been fascinating to see.

Where once companies operated solely in Word and Excel, there now are numerous software systems to streamline nearly every operation in construction management, construction accounting, monthly expense reports, etc. These software systems have not only cut down the time needed to accomplish a task but removed a great portion of the manual entries needed, therefore reducing human error.

What opportunities are out there for the industry as we move forward in 2023? For women?

There are endless opportunities in all aspects of construction moving into 2023. In recent years, this statement is as relevant to women as it is to men. Though we still do not see as many women in the field, there are more and more taking on the physical role of working on-site on a construction project.

Within the office, we are no longer seeing women holding only administrative/ support roles. Some of the greatest project managers I have had the pleasure to work with are women. In addition to traditional roles in the construction industry (project management, HR, accounting), technology roles are becoming just as important to the completion of construction projects.

Technology roles are not limited to only an IT department but include BIM (Building Information Modeling) and marketing. Each of these departments help grow the business in their own way and are a perfect role for both men and women.

What type of trends are you seeing today?

Although we’re moving out of the extreme price increases in construction materials we saw during the pandemic, we now are operating in a completely different world than we had been just a few years ago. There is a great deal of competition within the construction industry not only for securing new projects but also for securing quality employees.

Finding a position that aligns with one’s personal values and work-life-balance are a top priority for employees. This alone forces

companies to continuously evaluate their business objectives and company culture.

What advice can you share?

If you see room for improvement, share your thoughts and ideas. There truly is nothing more frustrating than going through the motions of a task because someone else fears change.

What's the best piece of advice you have ever received?

Making an effort takes no talent at all.

What's the single best thing every woman can do to make

sure they continue to get a seat at the table?

Speak up time and time again until you are heard. Be confident in your worth and how you present your knowledge.

What's the biggest item on your to-do list?

Building and supporting my team at Evergreen Construction Company to give everyone involved a sense of worth and accomplishment is a top priority. I love to collaborate on new ideas on how a process can be adjusted to better meet the needs of a business. CCR

There are endless opportunities in all aspects of construction moving into 2023. In recent years, this statement is as relevant to women as it is to men.

A Few Basic Qualifiers:

 Employers that pay by W2

 Businesses with under 100 employees for the 2020 credit and under 500 employees for the 2021 credit (schedule a call to understand the differences and how the 2020 100 employee range can be maximized over that number)

 For-Profit AND Non-Profit companies/organizations

 2 - 500 Employees (we currently don't count ownership and immediate family employee status due to gray area in guidelines and we don't want you penalized for it)

 Newly established businesses (from February 15, 2020 forward) can claim the ERTC for 2021 Q3 and Q4, if they haven't had gross receipts over $1,000,000 in the calendar year. (schedule a call for clarification)

How Our process Works:

 Contact us so we can talk to you about your company, activity, and how Covid hindered your business. This should only take about 15 minutes.

 If you have the qualifications needed we will request the proper documents from you to start your file and calculations

(941’s, Employee Payroll reports, and Gross Revenue Receipts)

 We get back to you in 2-3 days with a claim amount

 We send you a client agreement that lays out fees and services

 Certify all paperwork, submit to IRS for acceptance, Treasury checks are mailed to you

 Not a Loan  Use Money how you want  Treasury check comes directly to you  Can also have taken a PPP1, PPP2 loan

Commercial Construction Data

Following is a brief report on new commercial construction projects. The information is presented as a service of Commercial Construction Data , a product of Commercial Construction & Renovation . For more information, visit www.cdcnews.com.

SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES

Call 678.765.6550: Call anytime. If no one answers, leave a detailed message and be sure to include your name, phone number and/or email address so we can contact you if we have any questions.

Or write: Commercial Construction & Renovation P.O. Box 3908 Suwanee, GA 30024

Moving?: Please let us know eight weeks in advance to make sure you do not have interruption in service. Remember to include both your old and new contact information.

Duplicate Issues?: If you are receiving multiple copies of Commercial Construction & Renovation, please let us know. And please include information from both mailing labels.

A subscription to Commercial Construction & Renovation is your subscription to better-design, better-built and better-maintained facilities.

Please contact us for all your subscription needs. We’re here to help! How To Reach Us Regarding Your Subscription

Visit us online: 24 hours a day at www.ccr-mag.com. All the information you need to take care of your subscription account is right here. Subscription Questions?: Please email corpcirc@ccr-mag.com.

Would you like information on Commercial Construction & Renovation People? Yes No

Please check here if you would like to receive the Commercial Construction & Renovation email newsletter. Yes No

1. Please indicate your organization’s primary business: (choose one only)

(A) Retailer (U) Craft Brewery/Distributor

(N) Hospitality (Hotel, Motel, Resort, Cruise Line etc., and Hospitality Management Company)

(C) Restaurant

(O) Architecture Firm

(G) Design Firm

(P) Engineering Firm

(H) Contractor/Builder/ Construction

(I) Developer

(Q) Management Company

(K) Financial/Purchasing Firm

(R) Shopping Center Owner

(S) Healthcare Facility

(T) Government

(L) Manufacturer/Supplier

(Z) Other (please specify)

2. Please indicate your primary job function: (choose one only)

(01) Corporate Management (Owners, Partners, President, Chairman, Principal, CEO, CFO, COO, etc.)

To receive FREE product information from the individual companies featured in this issue, circle the number below that corresponds to the product number. Valid through May 31, 2023.

(02) Senior Management (Executive, Vice President, Director, etc.)

Building a winning brand A

little while back, the local University of Denver Alumni Association (DU ATL) in Atlanta—or as they are known locally, the “Peachtree Pios”—held a get together for alums and our professional indoor lacrosse team, the Georgia Swarm of the National Lacrosse League (NLL).

Because of the 2020 shutdown, it had been a few years since DU ATL alumns were able to gather.

The Swarm, who were 0-7 and wracked with injuries going into the game we attended, had lost many close games. But it is the NLL, and things can turn around quickly.

Such was the case in this game, as the Swarm pounded the Albany FireWolves 22-4 to earn their first win of the 2023 season.

Sure, they could have packed it in and given up on the season, but since winning the NLL Championship in 2017, that is not in their DNA. They understand you have to play one game at a time and never, ever quit.

They went on a little bit of a run, winning three out of four games since the Peachtree Pios attended. At this writing, the playoffs are within reach. Nobody wants to play a team that has momentum or a chip on their shoulders, especially one that had started 0-7.

After the game, we were invited to the locker room area and were given the honor to meet former Lax Pio Zach Miller, who had the game winning assist in the 2015 campaign to beat the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the semi-final that went into overtime. The assist and the win sent the Pios to the Championship Game versus perennial powerhouse favorites, The Maryland Terrapins.

DU beat the Terps soundly, winning the 2015 National Championship and bringing the NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Trophy to Denver for the first time.

Zach, still dressed in his uniform, shook hands, signed autographs and talked about all the aspects of DU life, education and what it means to be a DU Pioneer athlete. For me, a DU Lax alumni, there is a special bond with my fellow Pios—past, present and future. There is a lot of pride for the Crimson & Gold brand.

Zach understands what us older alumns went through to bring the program back in the day, helping set the tone for today’ premier

program. He told me thank you for giving my all back then so that 35 years later, his team could win a championship ring.

To be honest, it was one of the greatest things anyone has ever said to me. I, along with my fellow alums, are proud to be a part of what is now one of the top D-I men’s lacrosse programs in the country, especially with future Hall of Fame Coach Bill Tierney leading the way. Coach will be retiring after this season after 42 years and seven national titles. His last one was in 2015, coaching the greatest DU Pios team in school history.

I am keeping my fingers crossed for the 2023 team to earn a spot in the May 2023 D-1 NCAA tourney and, hopefully, bring another trophy back to campus. What a way that would be to send Coach Tierney off to retirement.

As we finish up Q1 and head into the rest of the year, do your best, stay positive, smile, have fun, and most of all, keep the faith. And, of course, “Go Pios.”

I am keeping my fingers crossed for the 2023 team to earn a spot in the May 2023 D-1 NCAA tourney and, hopefully, bring another trophy back to campus.

Stop Smash and Grab

Retrofit Security Glazing

DefenseLite® is a clear security shield that integrates forced entry protection seamlessly with existing doors, windows, and storefronts, providing an invisible layer designed to protect retail businesses from impending harm, vandalism, and theft.

• Unbreakable polycarbonate overglaze

250 times stronger than glass

• Proprietary high-optic, UV-coated surface protection

• Framing available in a variety of standard and custom finishes

• Anti-graffiti protection available

• A cost-effective, easy-to-install solution

DefenseLite® is a patented, retrofit glazing system designed for advanced forced entry protection. Manufactured by Impact Security, this proven technology provides a cost-effective solution, installed by authorized dealers located throughout North America. To learn more, visit www.defenselite.com

2023 Annual Conference

RCA’s 2023 Annual Conference will be held at the Gaylord Texan, March 17-19, 2023, prior to SPECS 2023. The conference is open to employees of RCA member companies, retailers, landlords, architects, and our sponsors and benefit providers. There is no charge to attend. The full agenda and registration is available at retailcontractors.org/annual-conference. We will accept onsite registrations.

Friday, March 17, 2023

Welcome Reception

Saturday, March 18, 2023

Conference Sessions

Casino Night & Dinner

Sunday, March 19, 2023

Golf Tournament

We have developed a lineup of speakers and sessions to ensure that everyone can take away information or inspiration that will help them in their job.

John O’Leary will present

“The Power of One: How One Attitude, One Action and One Person Can Change the World.”

It’s estimated that 70% of the workforce is not engaged. John dramatically “wakes people up” to realize their role and responsibility are significant. He helps organizations build a positive atmosphere to increase creativity and productivity. Attendees will learn how to reignite an environment built on shared goals, values, and focus. John will outline unconventional communication methods to dramatically (and positively) impact relationships.

In 1987, John O’Leary was a curious nine-year-old boy. Playing with fire and gasoline, John created a massive explosion in his home and was burned on 100% of his body. He was given less than a 1% chance to live. Today, John is the author of the #1 National Bestselling books ON FIRE and IN AWE. John’s genuine, collaborative approach to partnering allowed him to understand early that clients’ biggest pain point in the wake of the fallout from the pandemic is team “burnout.”

We will have a limited number of John’s book, ON FIRE, available.

Anirban Basu will present “Show Me the Money (Supply)”. Regardless of whether he’s talking about a bull or bear market, Anirban’s fast paced presentation, full of data, will surely give you something to laugh about. He will supply in-depth analysis of the major factors shaping economic outcomes, including central bank policymaking, worker attitudes, business confidence, and geopolitics. He will forecast the year to come, highlighting the major risks that economic stakeholders will likely encounter.

Anirban is Chairman & CEO of Sage Policy Group, Inc., an economic and policy consulting firm headquartered in Baltimore, MD with an office in Orlando, FL. The firm provides strategic analytical services to energy suppliers, law firms, medical systems, government agencies, and real estate developers among others.

Who needs to learn more about improving their customer service skills? Everyone! Charles Marshall will discuss his popular session: “SERVE Method™: Creating Success with Extraordinary Customer Service.” Charles examines common business

Thank

blunders and questionable customer-service practices that prevent companies from growing. In an often hilarious but always insightful examination of businesses of all sizes, Charles takes a look at what makes good customer service work, and what makes bad customer service disastrous. Good customer service never happens accidentally. It is imperative to create a corporate culture that is serious about putting the customer first. Delivering the goods and creating brand loyalty is a priority.

Charles is the founder and president of M Power Resources, a company dedicated to providing growth resources for business and individuals. He has over 20 years of full-time experience as a motivational speaker and comedian. He is the author of several books including The Seven Powers of Success and I’m Not Crazy But I Might Be A Carrier. He also has produced and performed two full-length comedy videos, Fully Animated and I’m Just Sayin’ !

The conference will feature interactive roundtable discussions, and opportunities to network at a welcome reception, casino night event, and golf tournament.

RCA’s mission is to promote professionalism and integrity in retail construction through industry leadership in education, information exchange, and jobsite safety.

John O’Leary

Anirban Basu

Charles Marshall

Save the Dates: RCA Regional Events

RCA’s membership committee is hosting a series of regional networking events for RCA members, sponsors, benefit providers, and other supporters. Some events are planned to coincide with other industry programs being held in major markets. When possible, a tour or other unique activity is held prior to the networking.

There is no fee to attend these events, but we ask that you register to confirm your spot.

May 10 - New York City, NY

June 6 - Atlanta, GA

July 20 - Milwaukee, WI

August 28 - Orlando, FL

September 26 - Detroit, MI

November 1 - Los Angeles, CA

November TBD - Phoenix, AZ

Note: Dates subject to change based on host/venue availability.

Watch your inbox for more information. Registration coming soon!

President’s Message

Ray Catlin, President, Threecore, LLC

ADVISORY BOARD

Mike Clancy - FMI

Randy DanielsonOpus Development Company, LLC

Jason Kraus - Kohl’s

Jeffrey D. Mahler, AIAOnyx Creative

Jason Miller - JCPenney Company

John Polzer - Duane Morris

Steven R. Olson, AIA - CESO, Inc.

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

LEGISLATIVE/REGULATORY

Andy Bohon legislative@retailcontractors.org

MEMBER BENEFITS

David Martin memberbenefits@retailcontractors.org

Ray Catlin

As I look over the past two years and my time as President of the RCA, I think of the great things we have been able to accomplish and ways we have been able to move the organization and our industry forward. We have made great progress in what we are doing, and this organization is headed in a great direction. As I look across our industry, we have all faced the same headwinds: pricing and material volatility and the lack of qualified manpower and labor. These headwinds and challenges require a different approach than in the past. I want to take some time and talk about the labor challenges in our industry.

This past winter, I spent time with other industry executives, and I was shocked to learn that the suicide rate in our industry is sky rocketing. Too often, this is overlooked. I don’t know what is more alarming, the rate of suicide in our industry or the fact that it is overlooked. Personally, I have been on a journey over the past several years related to my own purpose and what kept coming back to me was the thousands of workers in our industry that rely on us day in and day out. Specifically, I am talking about the craftsman and workers on our projects physically doing the work. Unfortunately, it is a career that has lost respect throughout our industry and the conditions upon which they work wouldn’t fly in other industries.

The men and woman that build our projects are subjected to the weather conditions every day; whether it be 20° degrees and windy in the winter or 105° in the summer. Their standard restroom facilities are not what we would approve of at our corporate offices. Their breakroom is looking for shade alongside the building they are constructing and sitting on a bucket or on the ground. We expect them to show up on Saturdays to make up lost time due to weather or to pick up time on the project schedule while the rest of us are at home with our families, going to sporting events with our children, or simply taking time to recharge our batteries. At some point, we must change the narrative surrounding a career in the field as a craftsman and bring honor back to the trades. If we are going to combat the decreasing work force, this point is now.

So, my challenge to each company in the RCA and every construction company out there: let’s work together and start changing that narrative. Let’s start bringing honor back to the trades. Let’s find a way to improve the restroom facilities on projects. Let’s take time to walk projects and get to know those that are building them. Know their names, their kids’ names, why they got in the industry and ask them, what can we do to make their career choice more desirable and respected? Let’s find ways to create a space for them to sit down and enjoy their lunch without having to sit in the dirt. Let’s show them that we care, that we value them. It is my firm belief that if we can do that, we will change the narrative. We will decrease the rate of suicide in our industry, and we will increase the number of individuals who pick construction as their career. It will take all of us, working collaboratively together, to face the headwinds in front of us and solve the problems we face. It starts now and it starts with the action of each of us.

Thank you!

MEMBERSHIP Denise Doczy-Delong Hunter Weekes membership@retailcontractors.org

RECRUITMENT Jay Dorsey recruitment@retailcontractors.org

OFFICERS President Ray Catlin Threecore LLC

Vice President

Eric Handley William A. Randolph, Inc.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

2025 Timothy Aubel Rectenwald Brothers Construction, Inc

2023 Steve Bachman Retail Construction Services, Inc.

2025 Eric Berg Gray

2024 David Brown Tri-North Builders

2025 Ray Catlin Threecore LLC

2024 Jay Dorsey Triad Retail Construction

2025 Denise Doczy-Delong Singleton Construction, LLC

PAST PRESIDENTS

David Weekes 1990-1992

W. L. Winkel 1993

Robert D. Benda 1994

John S. Elder 1995

Ronald M. Martinez 1996

Jack E. Sims 1997

Michael H. Ratner 1998

Barry Shames 1999

Win Johnson 2000

Dean Olivieri 2001

Thomas Eckinger 2002

SAFETY Eric Berg safety@retailcontractors.org

SCHOLARSHIP Justin Elder scholarship@retailcontractors.org

SPONSORSHIP Justin Elder sponsorship@retailcontractors.org

TRAINING Eric Berg training@retailcontractors.org

Secretary/Treasurer

Justin Elder Elder-Jones, Inc.

Immediate Past President

Steve Bachman Retail Construction Services, Inc.

2023 Justin Elder Elder-Jones, Inc.

2025 Eric Handley

William A. Randolph, Inc.

2024 David Martin H.J. Martin & Son, Inc.

2024 Mike Sullivan Sullivan Construction Company

2024 Hunter Weekes Weekes Construction, Inc.

2023 Rick Winkel Winkel Construction, Inc.

2023 Andy Bohon Westwood Contractors

James Healy 2003

Robert D. Benda 2004-2006

K. Eugene Colley 2006-2008

Matthew Schimenti 2008-2012

Art Rectenwald 2012-2014

Mike Wolff 2014-2016

Robert Moore 2016-2017

Brad Bogart 2017-2018

Rick Winkel 2018-2019

Steve Bachman 2019-2021

The solution isn’t finding new sources of potential employees, rather uncovering the reasons why they leave, and correcting those issues.

RCA Membership

RCA members must meet and maintain a series of qualifications and are approved by the Board of Directors for membership. They have been in the retail construction business as general contractors for at least five years; agree to comply with the Association’s Code of Ethics and Bylaws; are properly insured and bonded; are licensed in the states in which they do business; and have submitted letters of recommendation.

Join A Committee

Committees are the lifeblood of our organization and a great way to get involved and make a difference. Scan the QR code to volunteer.

Sponsorship and Member Benefits

> Establish and maintain sponsorships per budgeted goals

> Seek out new sponsors, ensuring a diverse sponsor base

> Maintain relationship with current sponsors

> Leverage the buying power of the membership to establish partnerships with companies that can provide rebates or discounts for members

Membership Recruitment & Retention

> Mission is to recruit, review and retain members

> Actively seek new members at SPECS, Center Build, CCRP Events, and job walks with competitors and at client vendor summits. Conduct regular outreach to potential GC candidates

> Work with current board members and Advisory Board members to solicit GCs for membership

> Review membership application on an annual basis to make sure it’s accurate and up to date

> Make recommendations for requirement changes and process improvements

> Onboard new members; maintain regular communications with them in their first few years of membership

> Plan and produce regional networking events, with a focus on collaboration and networking amongst members and the retailer community

Workforce Development

> Find programs that RCA can partner with that help to place people in the retail construction industry; this can include veteran/military job fairs, college career fairs, other associations, partnerships with trade schools, scholarships, women in construction, etc.

This committee also oversees the scholarship program:

> Create a strategy for what scholarships are meant to do/the implementation of the program

> Increase scholarship funding from the membership base

> Increase the impact of the scholarships we give (both for the students and the RCA)

Professional Development

> Plan webinars/roundtable discussions on timely topics (at least quarterly)

> Plan RCA panels at industry conferences (e.g., SPECS, CenterBuild)

> Assist the Vice President in developing content and securing speakers for the annual conference

>

Construction Training

> Oversee continued successful implementation of the Superintendent Training Program

> Identify other training needs of our membership and explore next steps, e.g., Project Manager Training, recertification, refresher courses, etc.

> Find ways to promote certified members

This committee also oversees the safety program:

> Review RCA’s safety materials once a year and update as needed

> Educate membership about safety issues that need attention (e.g., regulation updates)

Legislative/Regulatory

> Identify issues that are relevant to our industry and determine how members and the organization can make their voices heard

RCA Job Bank

RCA’s job bank is a member—and industry—benefit. It can be viewed at retailgcs.mcjobboard.net. RCA members can post openings at no charge (members must be logged in to add a position). Anyone can view the open positions, which are searchable by keyword, location, and position type. Job seekers can also post resumes to be viewed by potential employers.

Election Results

Thank you to everyone who participated in our general election. The following members were elected to the RCA Board of Directors for the 2023–2026 term, which will begin after our Annual Conference in March.

Steve Bachman, Founder & Chairman, Retail Construction Services

Andy Bohon, Senior Vice President & CFO, Westwood Contractors, Inc.

Anthony Graves, President, Graves Construction Rick Winkel, CEO, Winkel Construction, Inc.

At RCA’s November 2022 Board meeting, the following officers were elected for the 2023-2024 term.

> President: Eric Handley, Chief Operations Officer, WM. A. Randolph Inc.

> Vice President: Justin Elder, President, Elder-Jones, Inc.

> Secretary/Treasurer: Andy Bohon, Senior Vice President & CFO, Westwood Contractors, Inc.

Milestone Memberships

Congratulations to our members celebrating milestone membership anniversaries! We appreciate your ongoing support of the RCA!

25 Years

EDC

Lakeview Construction, Inc. Retail Construction Services, Inc.

15 Years

Bogart Construction, Inc. DLP Construction Company, Inc. Warwick Construction, Inc.

10 Years

Buildrite Construction Corp.

Fortney & Weygandt, Inc.

JA Carpentry, Inc.

National Building Contractors

Triad Retail Construction

5 Years

Encore Construction, Inc.

Frontier Building Corp.

Immel Construction