Vol. 24, Issue 3,
For the kids
An inclusive East Houston playground becomes a place where children of all abilities play together.
114 Going solar While gaining in prominence, is your roof ready for solar panels?
120 The Profit Perspective Data-driven forecasting in construction.
34 Lights. Camera. Shop. How Imoon and Schweitzer created a retail shopping experience for the ages.
Every meal is a journey, every restaurant a portal to somewhere, something new. That is, unless the continual reminder from Burger King that “You rule” keeps driving you to those flame-grilled beef patties. If that’s the case, well, we shall move on anyway.
But, as we all know, the act of dining out is more than just trying to satisfy your appetite. It is—or at least it should be—an adventure, a cultural exchange served on a plate, if you will.
Indulge me here for a minute. Close your eyes. Now imagine walking into a restaurant and finding yourself transported to a Canadian wing joint in Texas. A Swedish-inspired breakfast spot in Seattle. A craft beer hangout in Dallas that reads like a global passport of flavors. These aren’t just restaurants, they’re culinary stories. Each experience weaves a narrative of distant kitchens and bold entrepreneurial spirits.
The restaurant industry is projected to grow to $1.1 trillion in 2025, with international brands seeing the U.S. as their grand stage. It is not just about expansion; it’s about connection.
Numbers don’t lie. The restaurant industry is projected to grow to $1.1 trillion in 2025, with international brands seeing the U.S. as their grand stage. It is not just about expansion; it’s about connection. Each new restaurant is a bridge between cultures, a way to experience the world without leaving your hometown.
Dining—that act of curiosity—is about pushing beyond the familiar, challenging your taste buds and embracing the unexpected. When you sit down in a new restaurant, you’re doing more than ordering a meal. You’re saying yes to discovery. Yes to a surprise. Yes to culinary creativity.
With more restaurant brands popping up everywhere around us, the international restaurant scene is exploding with possibility. From quick-service concepts to craft beer markets, these establishments represent something profound to share, explore and understand each other through food.
So, the next time you’re deciding where to eat, go for the adventure. Try something different. Choosing a meal that tells a story bigger than the one you’re used to can be very satisfying. Because when it comes right down to it, the most memorable entrees are the ones that surprise us, challenge us and connect us to something larger than ourselves.
And, yes, that means you do indeed rule.
We have always said, if we do a good job the phones will ring.
Established in 1993, Lakeview Construction, LLC is a national commercial project solution provider specializing in all phases of construction.
From concept to completion, our professional teams deliver quality construction and outstanding service, ensuring on-time schedules and cost-effective project management.
Headquartered in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin, we operate across all 50 states
DR. MARK LEE LEVINE
Professor Burns School/ Daniels College University of Denver
ADA
BRAD GASKINS Principal The McIntosh Group
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.
GINA MARIE ROMEO Chief Heart Officer & Principal Consultant, Allied RDI
KAY BARRETT
NCIDQ, CDP
Senior Vice President Cushman & Wakefield
JIM SHEUCHENKO
President Property Management Advisors LLC
CHRIS VARNEY Principal, Executive Vice President Bureau Veritas
STEPHEN HEKMAN Executive VP Kingsmen Retail Services US
KEN DEMSKE Vice President Jones Lang LaSalle
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
CLINTON “BROOKS” HERMAN Principal Facilities Project Manager, MD Anderson Cancer Center
PAM GOODWIN Goodwin Advisors, LLC Goodwin Commercial The Pam Goodwin Show
GARY RALL Vice President of Design and Development Holiday Inn Club Vacations
ROBERT RAUCH Chairman Brick Hospitality
JOE THOMAS Joseph K Thomas Sr. Consulting Senior Consultant Hospitality Engineering
LU SACHARSKI Vice President of Operations and Project Management Interserv Hospitality
ANDY BRIGGS, CHA Managing Principal A14 Capital Management
CRAIG WEBER Director of Business Prime Retail Services, US Prime 3 Retail Canada, Inc.
ROB ADKINS, LEED AP CDP Senior Project Manager Cushman & Wakefield
MEGAN HAGGERTY Founder Legacy Capital Investment
RON BIDINOST Vice President of Construction Bubbakoo’s Burritos
DAVID SHOTWELL
The Wills Group Sr. Construction Manager
RON VOLSKE Development Director Focus Brands
BOB WITKEN Senior Project Manager Fox Restaurant Concepts
AARON ANCELLO Facilities Asset Management Public Storage
DEDRICK KIRKEM Facilities Manager Alice + Olivia
BOB MEZA Senior Construction Project Manager Target
DAVID D. DILLON Principal Design Lead, Templates & Standards Chick-fil-A Corporate Support Center
JOHN COOPER Principal Executive Vice President Stormont Hospitality Group LLC
SAMUEL D. BUCKINGHAM, RS AMS CMCA President of Construction Devco Development
MARIE ANTONETTE G. WAITE Founder and CEO Finest Women in Real Estate
LAURA GROSS Retail Facilities Manager American Signature Furniture
KELLY RADFORD Vice President Facility Services CubeSmart
VAUN PODLOGAR
CEO, Owner, Founder State Permits, Inc.
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Great Wolf Resorts plans to open a location in Cornwall, Ontario, Canada, which could bring significant economic benefits to the region. The proposed development is expected to create 2,500 construction jobs and 500 permanent positions and attract more than 600,000 visitors annually.
Life House and Lark Hotels have formed Lark Hospitality, a joint venture that will manage nearly 100 independent properties across the continental US, Hawaii and Mexico. The venture, which will have close to $1 billion in assets under management, includes more than 3,000 hotel rooms and 33 restaurants and bars and aims to enhance guest experiences and operational efficiency.
Kimpton plans to open a hotel and residences in the Torre Rise skyscraper in Monterrey, Mexico, in 2026. The Kimpton Monterrey will feature guestrooms, 60 private residences, a wellness center, restaurant and event space. Torre Rise will also offer a sky deck, shopping and performance center.
Hyatt Hotels Corp. is set to open the first Me and All Hotel outside Germany, in Flims, Switzerland. The Me and All Hotel Flims will feature 73 keys, multiple dining venues, a spa and meeting spaces. The new hotel marks a significant step in Hyatt’s broader expansion plans for the brand.
Maine Course Hospitality Group, which operates almost two dozen hotels, mostly franchises in New England, is launching a hotel brand called HomeAwhile with apartment-style rooms that aims to be the start of a new chain, starting with a location in Scarborough, Maine, set to open in 2026.
Marriott International has expanded its outdoor-focused lodging by acquiring Postcard Cabins and partnering with Trailborn. Postcard Cabins, with 29 properties and over 1,200 cabins, offers nature-immersive experiences near major cities, while Trailborn focuses on bespoke hotels near national parks. Both brands will be integrated into Marriott’s system by 2025.
LVMH Group, in partnership with Anais Ventures, has made a minority investment in Les Domaines de Fontenille, a French boutique hospitality company. This move aligns with LVMH’s strategy to expand its presence in the luxury hospitality sector, complementing its existing portfolio that includes Belmond and Bulgari Hotels & Resorts.
The new Four Seasons Resort and Private Residences Deer Valley in Park City, Utah, which will be developed in partnership with Extell Development, is set to become North America’s first new luxury alpine village in more than 40 years. The resort will feature 134 guestrooms and suites, alongside 123 private residences, all with ski-in/ski-out access.
Hyatt Hotels plans to open more than 50 luxury and lifestyle hotels globally by 2026, expanding on a portfolio where 70% of rooms are within the luxury and upper upscale segments.
Municipal Grand, the first hotel from cocktail-forward lifestyle brand Midnight Auteur, is set to open in early 2025 in Savannah, Georgia. Midnight Auteur aims to offer unique, authentic experiences with a strong focus on cocktails and local engagement. The hotel will feature a lobby bar, rooftop lounge and subterranean bar, drawing inspiration from the city’s gardens and mid-century architecture.
Jack in the Box Inc. opened 44 restaurants in its fiscal 2024 and re-franchised 47 Del Taco restaurants. The chain plans to have eight Jack in the Box restaurants open in Chicago during 2025 year and will enter Florida later in the year. The company said Del Taco is nearly 80% franchised at this point.
Potbelly is looking to add at least 38 locations this year after opening 23 units in 10 states last year. The brand’s 2025 growth plans would bring its unit count to 480, the largest in the company’s history.
Wendy’s expects to reach 2,000 international restaurants by 2028. Expansion plans include adding 125 new restaurants in Latin America. In India and the Middle East, more than 150 net new restaurants were added in the past three years. By 2028 in Europe, over 150 Wendy’s restaurants should be in at least six countries.
Chef Rasheeda Purdie has opened Ramen by Ra in New York City, offering innovative bowls of ramen that combine New York flavors or American breakfast elements with traditional Japanese cuisine. Operating from a small kitchen at The Bowery Market, Purdie uses a reservation-only model to provide personalized service, a system developed during her successful pop-ups and Kickstarter-funded venture.
Reve, a fine-dining restaurant focused primarily on a tasting menu, has opened in Birmingham, Alabama after a several-month period of pop-ups to test the concept. The goal of the establishment is to be “Parisian meets kind of edgy Brooklyn, where it’s not too stuffy.”
Andrew and Jonathan Schnipper, founders of Hale and Hearty Soups, have opened Schnipper’s Quality Soups in the original Hale and Hearty space in New York City. The new eatery offers a rotating menu of eight to 12 small-batch, house-made soups daily, along with salads and sandwiches.
PF Chang’s is testing the fast-casual spinoff Pagoda Asian Grill with four units in New York, Florida and Texas. The menu features Asian flavors in bowls and wraps, and the concept has shown strong early results, with 60% of orders to-go.
Flower Child, a fast-casual brand acquired by The Cheesecake Factory in 2019 as part of its purchase of Fox Restaurant Concepts, plans to open up to seven more locations this year and eventually grow from its current 38 locations to more than 200 units.
Luckin Coffee is reportedly planning to enter the US market, with a potential first location in New York City. The Chinese chain has grown rapidly since its 2017 launch, and it’s now China’s largest coffee chain by number of locations. Luckin will stress its lower prices to compete in the crowded U.S. coffee market.
Philippines-based fast-casual chain Jollibee has started a franchise program in the US, targeting multi-unit operators to expand its presence. The company has more than 100 units in North America and aims to open 350 more in the U.S. and Canada in the next few years.
Ross Stores will open about 90 new stores this fiscal year, including 80 Ross Dress for Less locations and 10 dd’s Discounts stores. The off-price fashion retailer, which kicked off the fiscal year with 19 openings this month, has set a long-term goal of growing to 2,900 namesake stores and 700 dd’s Discount locations.
Convenience store company Rutter’s will open 14,000-square-foot sports bars at units in the Pennsylvania towns of Johnstown and Milton, featuring adult beverages, gaming terminals and made-toorder food. The bars are part of a strategic move to compete with traditional restaurants by offering entertainment alongside convenience services.
Electronics reseller PayMore is set to open 18 franchised locations this month and the company plans to grow to almost 600 locations over the next five years. The company, which began as a single shop in Long Island, has grown into a franchise attracting global attention and recently opened its first European store in Luton, England. The stores buy and sell a wide range of consumer electronics.
IKEA plans to open its first West End store on Oxford Street in London in May, following a three-year renovation of the former Topshop flagship site. The three-story store will feature sustainability aspects, the retailer’s traditional showroom experience and a Swedish deli. The project will create 150 jobs and is part of IKEA’s strategy to be closer to urban customers.
French luxury department store Printemps has opened a location in New York City’s Financial District, a neighborhood that has undergone significant revitalization. The store, located at One Wall Street, is designed to resemble a cozy apartment, featuring rooms such as a walk-in shoe closet and a bathroom-inspired beauty area.
Goodwill is enhancing its environmental stewardship by focusing on managing reverse logistics and promoting sustainability. Goodwill diverted nearly 6 billion pounds of products from landfills last year, recycling 30% and reselling 45%. The efforts help retailers reduce waste from returns and minimize their carbon footprints, while also creating partnerships for textile recycling and reuse.
Online retailer Wayfair will open a brick-and-mortar store at the site of a former Walmart in Atlanta. It will be Wayfair’s second brick-andmortar store, the first of which opened in May 2024 in the Chicago suburb of Wilmette.
Italian upscale brand Gianvito Rossi has relocated its Madison Avenue boutique to a new flagship location on the same street. The two-level store features a modern design with Cipria pink interiors, soft velvet and marble niches, reflecting the brand’s craftsmanship and luxury.
CVS is introducing a smaller store format that will focus exclusively on pharmacy services to better meet the specific pharmacy needs of each community. This year, the company plans to open about a dozen of the stores, which are about half the size of the traditional CVS layout and will eliminate the front-end retail section as part of the company’s broader strategy to realign its business model in a changing industry.
Sprouts Farmers Market plans to open 35 new stores in 2025—including its first in New York—as part of an ongoing strategy to cater to high-income shoppers seeking natural products.
Wegmans Food Markets has announced opening dates for three new stores this year, which started with the first Long Island, New York location in Lake Grove this past February. The grocer will also debut its ninth Maryland store in Rockville on June 25 and its first Connecticut store in Norwalk on July 23.
Trader Joe’s is continuing its expansion with plans to open more stores in California, Louisiana and Texas. The grocer has announced new locations in Yucaipa, Tracy and Sherman Oaks, California; New Orleans; and has plans for a third San Antonio store. Trader Joe’s opened more than 30 stores in 2024 and operates more than 500 locations in 40-plus states.
H-E-B has inaugurated a new 100,000-square-foot e-commerce fulfillment center in Houston, marking its third such facility in the city. This center is part of the grocer’s strategy to enhance its supply chain capabilities and support its growing omnichannel services, including curbside and home delivery.
Whole Foods Market is opening its first UK store in a decade on King’s Road in London, featuring a variety of exclusive products and traditional store formats. The move marks a shift in strategy by owner Amazon, which has been reducing its UK grocery presence. The new store is part of a broader expansion plan that includes locations outside London.
Kroger and Ocado plan to open automated fulfillment centers in Charlotte and Phoenix in 2026. The companies’ partnership, which began in 2018 with a goal of 20 centers, has been slower than expected but a commitment remains to leverage Ocado’s automated solutions to enhance efficiency and address the significant market opportunity in the U.S.
ALDI plans to open more than 225 stores this year, a record for the retailer, as it has announced it will also divest about 170 Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket stores back to Southeastern Grocers and C&S Wholesale Grocers in order to scale down to about 100 conversions of the banners.
Schnuck Markets is set to remodel its Seven Hills store in O’Fallon, Illinois, adding a Starbucks with outdoor seating, expanded produce and deli departments and a specialty cheese shop. The project, expected to finish by late fall, aims to enhance the shopping experience while maintaining customer service.
FreshTake Grocery has opened in Augusta, Georgia, offering a shopping experience featuring a fire pit, a food court, a smokehouse and a putting green in homage to its location in the town that is home to Augusta National Golf Club.
Asian grocery chain H Mart is opening two stores, including a location in Somerville, Massachusetts., northwest of Boston and Urbana, Illinois, near the campus of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
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International restaurants feasting on U.S. market opportunities
The U.S. restaurant market is becoming an irresistible destination for international brands, with global chains increasingly viewing American expansion as a strategic growth opportunity. From Canadian chicken wing specialists to Swedish breakfast innovators, foreign restaurateurs are betting big on the world’s most dynamic culinary marketplace.
Recent data from the National Restaurant Association projects industry growth of 4% and sales potentially exceeding $1.1 trillion in 2025. These numbers are drawing Canadian concepts like WingsUp!, a long-standing quick-service brand targeting Texas and Florida. In addition, Vancouver’s CRAFT Restaurant & Beer Market is entering Dallas in early 2026 with an ambitious concept featuring 100-plus beer taps and globally inspired cuisine.
The International Franchising Association’s economic outlook further validates this trend, forecasting a 2.5% increase in franchise locations—significantly outpacing the domestic economy’s projected 1.9% growth. Quick-service franchises are expected to generate a staggering $322 billion in economic output, signaling a golden age of international culinary cross-pollination.
Products/Services Survey
Amba Products
Harris Wattles, General Manager 790 Pickens Industrial Drive Marietta, GA 30062
(404) 350-9738
Fax: (404) 355-0166
harris@ambaproducts.com www.ambaproducts.com
Fixture Products/Materials:
Despite economic headwinds like inflation and high interest rates, the construction industry is projected to experience above-average job growth over the next decade. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, construction employment is expected to grow by 4.7% from 2023 to 2033, outpacing overall employment growth (+4.0%). This sustained expansion reflects ongoing demand for infrastructure development, energy projects, and manufacturing facilities—driven in part by federal legislation such as the Inflation Reduction Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
While construction growth lags behind industries like healthcare & social assistance (+10.4%) and professional and business services (+7.2%), it remains one of the stronger-growing sectors, ahead of industries such as manufacturing (+0.8%) and retail trade (-2.3%). Notably, the industry’s job expansion is increasingly concentrated in roles related to energy, electrification, and advanced manufacturing. The fastest-growing jobs within the construction sector include wind turbine service technicians (+56.3%) and solar photovoltaic installers (+26.4%), underscoring the shift toward renewable energy and emerging technologies.
Despite this positive outlook, potential challenges loom, including rising material costs, shifting federal funding priorities, and labor shortages exacerbated by demographic shifts and immigration policies. Nonetheless, construction remains a key driver of economic activity, with long-term employment gains reflecting the sector’s ongoing demand.
Employment Growth Projections by Industry
Others: Heated Towel Racks Markets Served: Hospitality, Other: Residential Source: Construction
The joys of failed patching
By Jon Armour
Software patching is a critical aspect of maintaining the security and functionality of business systems. However, it often comes with challenges that can disrupt operations, create bugs, and lead to glitches for users. In this article I am exploring the impact of software patching on businesses, the financial and productivity losses associated with failed patching attempts, and best practices for minimizing disruptions.
If your office applications look anything like grandma’s quilting blanket and you spend hours of downtime creating choice words for your IT guy, then these tips and observances might help you understand the patching environment and some things that can be done to improve it. Otherwise curl up under your desk with grandma’s quilt and wait out the Monday morning patching nightmare. Perhaps have a cup of coffee while waiting. Why is patching important? Software patching involves updating programs to fix
vulnerabilities, improve functionality, and enhance compatibility. It is essential for protecting systems from cyber threats and ensuring smooth operations. Yet, the process can be fraught with difficulties, especially when patches are not properly tested or implemented. Usually on a Monday morning after you’ve sat down at your computer and realized nothing works. You say to yourself, “They did it again!”
That’s right, a long weekend of applications patching by your IT security team has unintendedly shut everything down or caused programs to not work and brought down user interfaces with customers and associates. Yikes.
So, now you have operational downtime. Customers are calling, you’re making excuses and IT has no idea when systems will be back up. Software patching often necessitates systems to be taken offline to install updates and conduct necessary testing. During this period, employees may lose access to essential applications, files, and communication tools.
For businesses that rely heavily on real-time operations—such as retail, healthcare, or manufacturing—this downtime can be particularly damaging, halting production lines, delaying services, and frustrating customers.
Patches can introduce unforeseen compatibility issues, especially when the update interacts poorly with legacy systems or thirdparty software. These incompatibilities can result in bugs like application crashes, loss of data integrity, or degraded performance, which are frustrating for users and detrimental to business functions. If it were me, I’d pull my hair out if I had any. But maybe that’s why I don’t.
Employees or customers engaging with newly patched systems may encounter unexplained glitches or errors, leading to confusion and inefficiencies. In customer-facing industries, glitches can directly impact user satisfaction, resulting in complaints or even loss of clientele. It seems like a modern mantra to tell customers, “The system is down, can you call back in a little while?”
Patching one vulnerability can inadvertently introduce new ones, or even exacerbate pre-existing issues within the software. In cases where patches are insufficiently tested, which by the way is quite often, businesses may find themselves
trapped in an endless cycle of troubleshooting, diverting resources and attention away from core operations.
But the excuse of, “Hey, it’s IT, it’s complicated,” seems sufficient for smoothing these instances over. After all, most common users don’t understand the complications or processes involved.
Unplanned downtime from patching can grind workflow to a halt. Employees unable to perform their duties during these interruptions contribute to significant productivity losses. For instance, a financial firm experiencing downtime may delay transactions, potentially incurring penalties or missed opportunities worth millions. I’ve seen it first-hand as my wife idly sits at her desk waiting for the IT team to resolve weekend patching issues. It never fails, they never get it right.
Failed patching attempts often require urgent intervention by IT teams, resulting in inflated costs associated with troubleshooting, repair, and recovery efforts. This is exacerbated if external contractors or consultants need to be brought in to resolve the issues. As hackers bear down on these systems trying to find new doors in, patching becomes more frequent, hurried and seems barely able to keep ahead of the cyber threat attempts.
In severe cases, software patches can corrupt data or cause irreparable damage to systems, necessitating full restoration efforts. Costs here include not only the technical fix but also the labor hours spent rebuilding infrastructure and restoring lost data. In these situations, such as the recent Crowd Strike debacle, millions of machines went down across the world, disrupting airline services, hospitals, banks and a multitude of other operations and services.
Persistent system glitches or downtime caused by botched patches can frustrate customers, leading to lost sales and diminished loyalty. For e-commerce businesses, every hour of downtime can result in hundreds of thousands of dollars in lost revenue, as customers abandon transactions and seek alternatives. These issues can lead to lawsuits and businesses seeking damages for their lost productivity and downtime.
The impact of failed patching attempts extends beyond immediate financial costs. Reputational damage from prolonged disruptions can result in long-term customer attrition. For example, a security flaw exposed due to incomplete patching can lead to negative press coverage, affecting brand image and reducing market trust.
But make no mistake, almost all patching can cause some kind of glitch or disruption. It’s almost a surety that something will go wrong than that of a successful patch deployment. But they are a necessary “evil” so to speak. Statistics highlight the severity of these issues:
> 57% of cyberattack victims reported that applying a patch could have prevented the attack.
> 60% of data breaches in 2019 were preventable with timely patching.
> The average cost of downtime due to patching disruptions can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars for large organizations.
> The Statistics on Productivity Loss and Financial Implications are staggering and scalable in business. For instance large small and large companies experience the same damages proportionally to the number of employees lost hours and the amount of financial loss.
> Lost employee hours. Studies estimate that failed or problematic software patching can lead to an average of 4-8 hours of productivity loss per employee affected. For larger organizations with thousands of employees, this translates to tens of thousands of hours lost annually.
> Downtime costs. According to industry research, the average cost of unplanned IT downtime is $5,600 per minute, highlighting the urgency of addressing disruptions efficiently.
> Business-wide impact. A report from the Ponemon Institute reveals that organizations spend an average of $2.4 million annually to address patch-related downtime and associated losses.
Conduct Patching During Off-Peak Hours – Scheduling updates during low-traffic periods—such as late nights, weekends, or holidays—minimizes the impact on productivity. This is particularly important for businesses with round-theclock operations. For example, in industries like retail or finance, patches might be best applied after business hours to avoid interfering with customer transactions.
Align with Business Cycles – Consider the natural ebbs and flows of your business operations. For instance, avoid scheduling patches during peak seasons, quarterly financial reporting, or other critical periods when uptime is essential.
Account for Global Time Zones –One region’s off-peak hours may coincide with another’s busiest times, so careful planning ensures minimal disruption globally.
Communicate with Stakeholders –Notify all relevant teams and users ahead of scheduled patches. Clear communication ensures employees can plan their work around potential downtime and prevents unnecessary frustration.
Test in a Controlled Environment –Before deploying patches organization-wide, test them in a sandbox or staging environment. This allows IT teams to identify and address potential issues without impacting live systems. For example, simulate real-world user scenarios to ensure compatibility and functionality.
Involve a Cross-Functional Team –Collaboration between IT teams, software vendors, and end-users during the testing phase can uncover hidden issues. Input from end-users, in particular, helps identify
practical challenges that may not be apparent in controlled environments.
Implement a Rollback Plan – Always prepare a contingency plan to roll back patches in case they cause significant problems. This ensures rapid recovery and minimizes downtime. Keep reliable system backups in place to restore data or configurations, if necessary.
Prioritize High-Risk Systems – Focus testing efforts on critical systems and applications that are most likely to impact business operations. For instance, patches addressing security vulnerabilities in payment systems should take precedence over updates to less critical software.
Monitor Post-Patch Performance –
After deploying patches, monitor system performance closely to identify and resolve any unexpected issues. Use tools to track metrics such as response times, error rates and user feedback to assess the patch’s effectiveness.
While software patching is indispensable for maintaining secure and efficient systems, it can cause disruptions if not managed properly. By understanding the challenges and adopting best practices, businesses can mitigate the risks and ensure smoother operations. Investing in robust patch management strategies is not just a technical necessity—it is a business imperative. So, in an effort for your IT department to not sound like a chorus of Brittany Spears “Oops! I Did it Again,” try to understand these considerations for the patching environment. At best if you can grasp the levels of fraud, cyber threats, and scheming characters lurking around every internet corner, you can sympathize with what IT professionals are up against in creating patching that protects your digital environment.
Jon Armour is a contributing author to the line of Design and Construction publications and has 35 years of combined experience across the construction, real estate, and IT Infrastructure industry. He is certified Project Management Professional (PMP), certified Construction Manager, Program Manager, and a published author of a popular Western Genre novel and writer of faith-based books. He resides in Magnolia, Texas.
RCA brings the heat to SPECS 2025 for opening night reception
The RCA Annual Meeting, held March 7-9, 2025, brought together industry leaders for a dynamic weekend of networking, education, and inspiration at The Gaylord Texan Kicking off with a Welcome Reception at Mission Plaza, the event featured keynote speakers including Robert Richman, former Culture Strategist at Zappos.com, discussing values-based leadership, and Anirban Basu of Sage Policy Group, who delivered a sharp economic outlook post-2024 elections. AI strategist Priyanka Rao demonstrated practical applications of generative AI to enhance business efficiency and innovation.
The conference also introduced RCA’s Workforce Development Youth Outreach initiative, aimed at inspiring the next generation of construction professionals. Attendees wrapped up the event with a lively Dinner & Casino Night and a sold-out Golf Tournament at Cowboys Golf Club. With engaging presentations, valuable networking opportunities, and future-focused discussions, the RCA Annual Meeting once again delivered critical insights for the industry’s continued growth and evolution.
1. Cheryl Montour, Division 9 Commercial Construction; Debbie Albergo, Division 9 Commercial Construction; David Brown, Tri North Builders
2. Amy Kelly, Jamal Goldson, Megan Williams, all of Commonwealth Building, Inc.
3. Denise Delong, Singleton Construction; Juan Washington, PMA Construction; Kamesha Washington, PMA Construction
4. Joe Feeney, Eric Rodriguez, Mike Nolte, Container Management
5. Eric Handley, RCA President, WA Randolph
6. Keynote speaker Robert Richman
1. RCA Advisory Board: Jeff Mahler, Onyx Creative; Paul Robinson, ConstructReach; John Polzer, Duane Morris LLP; Stahler McKinney, FMI; Steve Olson, CESO, Inc.; Brad Sanders, bartaco; Jason Miller, Catalyst; Randy Danielson, Opus Group
2. RCA Board: front row: Steve Bachman, RCS; Denise Delong, Singleton Construction; Tim Aubel, Rectenwald Brothers Construction; Justin Elder, Elder-Jones; Eric Handley, WA Randolph; David Martin, H.J. Martin & Son; Rick Winkel, Winkel Construction, Inc.; Back row: Hector Ray, RAYWEST DESIGNBUILD; Cheryl Montour, Division 9 Commercial, Inc.; Anthony Graves, Graves Construction; Matt Brecker, DeJager Construction, Inc.; Bard Fulton, Fortney Weygandt; Jay Dorsey, Triad Retail Construction Inc.; David Brown, Tri-North Builders; Ken Sharkey, Commercial Contractors, Inc.
3. RCA Golfing Guests
Thomas Lagos, DWI
4. Golf giveaways & prizes
5. Andrew McClung, Comanche Construction, LLC; Caden Cleveland, Comanche Construction, LLC; Chris Taylor, Hardesty & Associates
6. Kelly Sharkey, Commercial Contractors, Inc.
7. Steve Olson, Eric Handley, Randy Danielson
8. Casino Night at Cowboys Golf Club
9. DW1 sponsor table: Lath Guyer, Jennifer Hurst, Hadley Meeks, Arliss Williams
10. Jason Storey, The Home Depot
11. Travelers Haven sponsor table: Nick Ellingson, Sandi Tropio
12. Ronnie Brouillard, TEEL Construction; Andrew McClung, Comanche Construction, LLC; Patrick McClung, Comanche Construction, LLC; Caden Cleveland, Comanche Construction, LLC;
13. Jason Santiago, Elder-Jones, Arliss Williams, DWI; Lath Guyer, DW1, Ryan Lynch, Elder-Jones, Matt Huhner, Elder-Jones
14. Turner Dalmaso, Rectenwald Brothers Construction; Tim Aubel, Rectenwald Brothers Construction; Vince Retort, Rectenwald Brothers Construction; ??
15. David Martin, H.J. Martin & Son; Jeremy Eckinger, Eckinger Construction; Phil Eckinger, Eckinger Construction, Jon Meengs, DeJager Construction; Matt Brecker, DeJager Construction
16. RCA Guest attendees
17. Matthew Frank, Fortney & Weygandt; Bard Fulton; Fortney & Weygandt; Karen MacCannell, TMG; Anthony Graves, Graves Construction; Jerry DeLiberato, Bowen Architecture
As a financial advisor who has spent over two decades working with construction companies, I’ve witnessed firsthand how tax season can make or break a contractor’s year.
The complexity of our industry, combined with ever-changing tax regulations, creates a perfect storm of potential pitfalls that can cost companies dearly. With significant tax law changes looming in 2025, including the scheduled reduction of bonus depreciation to 40%, it is more crucial than ever to get your tax strategy right.
One of the most significant challenges I see construction companies face is timing their equipment investments. With the current bonus depreciation rates set to decrease annually until 2026, many of my clients are wrestling with decisions about when to purchase new equipment. I always emphasize that while tax benefits are important, they shouldn’t be the sole driver of business decisions.
dirt, cleaning up job sites, or pitching in with basic tasks, there are plenty of ways to get them involved.
Here’s what I love about this approach: not only can we get the kids paid, which becomes a tax deduction for the business, but they can start covering some of their own expenses. Instead of parents spending after-tax dollars on things like school supplies or activities, the kids can use their earned income—and that’s a win-win for everyone.
It is about making smart financial decisions every single day, from how you’re purchasing materials to how you’re managing your cash flow. Those day-to-day choices add up and can have a huge impact on your tax liability come filing time.
The key is to evaluate each potential equipment purchase based on its true business value—considering factors like project demands, maintenance costs, and long-term utilization rates. Too often, I see companies rushing to make large purchases just for tax advantages, without fully analyzing how that equipment fits into their broader business strategy and cash flow projections.
This approach can lead to unnecessary debt and underutilized assets that end up costing more than the tax savings they generate.
Throughout my career, I’ve found that construction is one of the easiest industries to get your kids involved in. It’s not just about tax benefits - it’s about building something meaningful for your family’s future. Whether it is having your kids help with shoveling
When it comes to staying on top of your finances in the construction industry, I cannot stress enough how important it is to track everything throughout the year. You can’t wait until tax time to get organized—that’s a recipe for disaster.
It is about making smart financial decisions every single day, from how
you’re purchasing materials to how you’re managing your cash flow. Those day-to-day choices add up and can have a huge impact on your tax liability come filing time.
I always tell my clients that implementing a solid budgeting process and regularly reviewing your finances isn’t just about checking boxes - it’s about spotting opportunities to reduce costs and avoid those nasty tax-time surprises that nobody wants to deal with. When you’re juggling multiple projects, managing crews, and trying to keep equipment running, the last thing you need is to be scrambling for receipts and trying to make sense of your books at the last minute.
The construction industry comes with its own unique set of challenges when it comes to taxes. As I’ve seen time and time again, success isn’t just about understanding the tax code - it’s about making smart decisions all year long. Whether it’s being strategic about your deductions, getting your kids involved in the business, or simply maintaining accurate records, every choice matters.
Remember what I always say: “It’s not just about the final numbers, but the decisions you make all year long.” By focusing on proper budgeting, avoiding those common deduction pitfalls we talked about, and taking advantage of family involvement opportunities, construction firms can maximize their tax savings and set themselves up for long-term success.
At the end of the day, that’s what we’re all working toward—building a stronger, more sustainable business that can support our families for years to come.
For construction companies seeking to implement these financial management practices, professional guidance can make the difference between struggle and success. For more information about implementing effective financial management practices in your construction business, visit www.construction.accountant CCR
Timothy Wingate Jr., EA, is founder of G+F Business & Financial Consulting LLC, a specialized accounting and financial consulting firm dedicated to serving the construction industry. As an Intuit tax council member for five years and a construction industry specialist, he provides comprehensive services including tax planning, bookkeeping, and strategic business consulting, while emphasizing contractor education and technological innovation. Based in West Palm Beach, Florida, G+F helps construction companies nationwide build sustainable financial futures through industry-specific expertise and practical solutions. For more information, visit http://www.construction.accountant/.
Since 1922 Delta® Commercial has been committed to creating durable, quality flush valves. We’ve perfected the technology year after year. Featuring our cutting-edge EZ Adjust® Technology, a simple turn of an external screw is all that is needed to set or fine tune flush volumes. You don’t have to turn off the water supply or replace internal parts – we made it that easy!
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Presented by
While construction and technical skills are your primary focus, ConstructEDU Student Insider (CEDU) is designed to supplement your education by providing content that dives into the business of the commercial construction and renovation industry. The bi-monthly newsletter covers areas such as emerging technologies, regulatory issues and other factors shaping the diverse industry’s future. CEDU also features insights and profiles from industry thought leaders on the trends and challenges affecting the marketplace.
Delivered at no charge, we not only encourage you to make CEDU a part of your educational consumption, but also to share it with your peers.
Carhartt to boost ‘Toolbelt Generation’ with Steel Apple Awards
While most clothing brands zero in on how consumers look, Carhartt is playing up what they do with its inaugural “Steel Apple” awards. A handful of educators across the country are being saluted for how they are guiding the next generation of skilled trade workers.
The Rosendin Foundation, a dedicated 501(c)(3) non-profit committed to positively impacting communities and empowering individuals, brought back its TRF Camp Build, a free summer camp designed to ignite the joy of building in middle school students. This summer, TRF Camp Build is in Sterling for the first time, taking place from July 14-18, 2025 at the Rosendin building.
Careers In Trades Week shows skilled trades will power the economy
To raise awareness for the growth of trade careers, skilled trade associations, and building trade unions, including the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA), the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART), and International Training Institute (ITI) have united to launch National Careers In Trades Week, April 7-11, 2025.
Read More HERE
iBuild Central Florida hosting trade competition, job fair
iBuild Central Florida is on a mission to change how students approach graduation. With that graduation date approaching, iBuild Central Florida plans to celebrate students and adults pursuing careers in the construction industry and giving them an opportunity to demonstrate their skills.
Read More HERE
Buy service parts and maximize fleet utilization rate.
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How Imoon and Schweitzer created a retail shopping experience for the ages
Interview by Michael J. Pallerino
At first glance, the Daily Shop by Whole Foods Market on the Upper East Side of New York City in Lenox Hill would appear to be your typical grocery store. Until you walk inside. Then, the new concept from Imoon and Schweitzer grabs you and shakes your senses. An immersive environment where lighting and design combine to create a unique customer experience, the Daily Shop promises to be a one-of-a-kind retail format.
The groundbreaking project in the food retail sector is the collaboration between Imoon—a leader in the design and production of entirely Made in Italy lighting solutions—and Schweitzer, a specialist in retail design and store construction. The Daily Shop is setting out to become a new benchmark for U.S. convenience stores in dense, metropolitan areas.
Part of the look is driven by Imoon’s customized lighting design, which feature high-definition LEDs and special optics that bring out the natural colors and quality of fresh products—a hallmark of Whole Foods Market’s offerings. The cutting-edge format plays an active role in the store’s visual communication, drawing consumers’ attention to specific products and highlighting different areas of the store.
From the fresh produce sections to aisles and checkout counters, Imoon’s advanced solutions stand out for their precision in beam angle, power and color temperature, ensuring a lighting design with excellent performance both in terms of functionality and aesthetics. An emblematic example is the fresh produce section of the Daily Shop, strategically located at the entrance of the store, where full color LEDs have been installed to ensure accurate color rendering, delivering a “wow” factor that creates a memorable first impression.
Schweitzer, with the support of its sister agency Interstore, spearheaded the development and execution of the new store’s design concept, aiming to boost sales performance through a strategic use of materials and space configuration, all while preserving the existing architectural identity. Specifically, it retained original structural elements, such as the brick walls and wooden details, which give the space an authentic and welcoming character, while enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
We sat down with Pierluigi Gusmani, Imoon’s International Sales Director, to get a peek into what makes the concept the newest entry into the world of engagement retail.
Founded in 2010, Imoon has established itself as a key global player in commercial lighting for food and fashion retail. Rooted in quality, innovation and Italian design, the brand reflects the creativity and excellence that define Italy’s global reputation. With deep expertise across diverse international markets, Imoon serves as a trusted consultant and innovation partner, designing bespoke lighting concepts that optimise both aesthetic impact and functional efficiency.
Headquartered in Milan, Imoon continues its rapid international growth, with direct operations and an extensive network
spanning the EMEA region, Africa and the Americas. With a team of experts, installations in 65-plus countries and more than 600 retail spaces completed annually, Imoon is the lighting partner of choice for leading retailers, including Whole Foods Market, Foodland Hawaii and Sobeys, remaining at the forefront of retail transformation, setting new standards in design, technology and customer experience.
Imoon targets food and non-food retailers committed to strengthening their brand identity and profitability. In an increasingly competitive landscape, lighting is no longer just about visibility—it is a strategic investment that enhances consumer engagement, operational efficiency and brand recognition. Since retailers must differentiate themselves with exclusive, immersive environments that reflect their unique positioning, Imoon delivers tailor-made lighting solutions that elevate every department’s performance. By choosing Imoon, retailers transform their stores into highly profitable and memorable shopping destinations, maximizing the return on investment in every square meter.
Imoon’s lighting design meets the demands of today’s consumers by enhancing product display appeal and store profitability. Imoon’s advanced lighting solutions directly influence purchasing behavior: with a versatile portfolio of luminaires, Imoon provides customised light beams, power levels, color temperatures and traditional or specialized LED technologies that amplify the freshness of food, the richness of textures and the authenticity of colors, adapting to each department’s needs:
> Meat Plus, Red and Fish HD highlight natural hues for an appetizing look in the butcher’s and fishmonger’s areas, respectively
> LED Extra Warm HD and Plus create a warm, inviting ambiance for bakery and patisserie
> LED full color and HD ensure vibrant, trueto-life color rendering across categories
Every solution is fully adaptable, from spotlights to linear systems, with accessories, filters and anti-glare technologies that enhance visual comfort. Even subtle details, such as matching fixtures to ceiling colors, contribute to a cohesive, immersive brand identity. By crafting bespoke lighting concepts, Imoon strengthens customer loyalty, making every shopping journey more engaging, memorable and, ultimately, more profitable.
why the store is designed the way it is?
In the Whole Foods Market Daily Shop in Manhattan, with varying ceiling heights and evolving layouts, strategic accent lighting is crucial to maintain visual harmony and enhance product appeal. Imoon’s Venere PRO and Krios Compact offer high performance and adaptability, ensuring consistent and targeted illumination across all areas. Venere PRO, with its sleek design and 360°
adjustability, provides customizable light beams and glare control, improving both aesthetics and comfort.
Meanwhile, the Krios Compact, installed in multiple configurations, delivers targeted accent lighting with high-efficiency reflectors, ensuring vibrant and accurate color rendering. These solutions are seamlessly integrated into a modular track system, enabling them to adapt to structural challenges. The tracks are installed independently of the fixtures, creating a flexible grid that allows lighting fixtures to be positioned exactly where needed.
The primary trend that inspired the design of this store is the growing consumer focus on fresh, nutritious foods. As a global leader in organic food sales, Whole Foods Market embraces this shift, prioritizing the display of fresh produce to highlight their nutritional value and natural properties.
This is especially clear in the store’s innovative Daily Shop format, designed to set a new benchmark for convenience stores across the U.S. To enhance the freshness of these products, Imoon installed Full Color LEDs in the fresh produce section, strategically located at the store’s entrance.
Imoon wants consumers to leave with a memorable, immersive experience that makes them feel truly engaged. Every aspect of the store, from the layout to the lighting, is crafted to enhance the products and create a unique emotional connection. The lighting, in particular, accentuates the sensory qualities of the products, guiding the consumer through an environment that feels both inviting and personalized. This approach not only elevates the shopping experience but also encourages repeat visits and strengthens brand loyalty.
Our master builders travel wherever our customers want to grow. Decades of cross-country construction allow us to build a Wesco in the northern Michigan snow and ensure that a Real Seafood in Florida adheres to hurricane building codes.
Moving ahead, Imoon sees great opportunities driven by ongoing research and development focused on creating more efficient, customizable lighting solutions tailored to a new Retail format in the U.S. market. A key area of focus will be dynamic lighting, which adapts to factors like time of day, season and customer preferences.
This will allow stores to offer a tailored experience that evolves throughout the day, from high-traffic areas to more relaxed, intimate settings. The goal is to combine cutting-edge technology with discreet, design-oriented lighting that enhances the environment while creating the perfect atmosphere for every moment.
Imoon considers sustainability as a key strategic advantage, integrating it into every aspect of its operations, including the optimized use of recyclable materials, local production to reduce emissions, eco-friendly packaging with reduced weight and size, and maximizing product lifetime to minimize waste and spare parts.
Furthermore, we significantly reduce energy consumption and payback periods, leveraging cutting-edge LED technology. The company’s energy-efficient solutions, including pre-anodized aluminum spotlights with up to 98% reflection, improve lighting performance by up to 20%, driving substantial energy savings.
Imoon reduces the environmental impact of the stores by using software, sensors, LEDs, advanced optics and parabolas to precisely control light distribution, with a lower energy level for irradiance in store premises. This approach lowers the energy consumption to just 7 kW/m². Additionally, we provide energy assessments, calculating total consumption, payback periods and factoring in installation and disposal costs. For example, in a 7,000m² store project, the investment was completely recovered in less than two years.
Yes, we are highly optimistic about the current landscape. Retail is undergoing
Every solution is fully adaptable, from spotlights to linear systems, with accessories, filters and anti-glare technologies that enhance visual comfort.
The elegant design of Bradley’s exclusive collection of Euro style partitions awlessly combines beauty and performance raising the standard in commercial washrooms. Two new series options, Skyline and Highrise, feature high-design materials, occupancy indicators, increased privacy, and seamless construction to provide an elevated look and welcoming spaces. Commercial Washrooms. Brought to Life.
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a radical transformation, with a strong shift toward experiential investments that focus on creating immersive, engaging environments for consumers. This shift represents a significant growth opportunity for Imoon, which leverages its expertise to drive both innovation and sustainability in this dynamic market. Our lighting design has already proven its effectiveness, driving revenue increases of up to 14% in fresh product sections compared to traditional lighting, as a clear evidence of its impact on retail performance.
trends are you seeing in other grocers or retailers?
The market is increasingly characterized by growing competitiveness and complexity, driven by the diversification of distribution formats and store design, all aimed at providing a unique consumer experience. Retailers are focusing on differentiation by offering a broad range of products and services. Imoon plays a pivotal role in this transformation, acting as a driver of change with innovative, customized lighting solutions.
What’s the secret to creating a “must visit” facility in today’s competitive landscape?
The secret to creating a “must-visit” facility lies in creating objects with light and casting light on the value of good food. Light, beyond its functional and perceptual roles, has evolved into a powerful medium that weaves together a coordinated image, the arrangement of indoor spaces and the attractiveness of products on display.
With carefully chosen color temperatures and advanced LEDs, light transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, creating a dynamic environment that not only enhances visual appeal but also elevates the emotional experience of the consumer. A striking example of this impact can be seen in every department, where strategically placed full color LEDs ensure exceptional color accuracy, generating an immediate “wow” effect, drawing customers in and creating a sense of freshness and quality.
Tell us what makes your brand so unique?
Imoon stands out for several key factors that define its uniqueness:
Customer-driven philosophy: Imoon views customer intimacy as an art, ensuring that every need is met with personalized solutions, driven by a deep understanding of client requirements.
In-house product development: From design and prototyping to final testing, this ensures full control over our products, while rigorous testing guarantees safety and compliance with both national and international regulations.
Integrated Systems Provider: Imoon offers more than just lighting solutions by providing fully integrated systems. For example, Imoon’s advanced electrified track systems seamlessly combine various technical and decorative elements, including lighting fixtures, emergency lights and acoustic speakers. This approach is especially valuable for Retailers, as it allows them to optimize their lighting design in a scalable way during the store rollout phase, ensuring maximum flexibility in managing store layouts across all areas.
Italian Technology and Design: Imoon is committed to delivering high-quality Made in Italy solutions. CCR
We
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, build-outs, 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’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.
One o f the most critical aspects to most commercial construction projects is the roof. Finding the right company is critical to building the perfect project. Our latest survey highlights some of the industry’s leading manufacturers driving innovation across retail, hospitality, healthcare, and more. See which roofing companies are helping lead the way. To see how your company can get listed, contact Publisher David Corson at davidc@ccr-mag.com .
Action Roofing Services
Ryan Krantz, Director of Operations 3009 NW 25th Ave
Pompano Beach, FL 33069 (954) 410-2169 (954) 410-2169
ryan.krantz@peakroofingpartners.com www.actionroofing.com
Roofing Product Type: Roofing Installer, Metal Panel Roof Systems, Built-Up Roofing Membranes (BUR), Polymer Modified Bitumen Sheet Membranes (SBS or APP), Single-Ply Membranes (PVC, TPO, EPDM), Spray Polyurethane Foam Based (SPF), Synthetic, Asphalt, Concrete, Shakes/Shingles, Tiles, Coatings Markets Served: Retail, Multi Family
APV Engineered Coatings
Ernie Porco, Product Application Engnineer 1390 Firestone Parkway Akron, OH 44301 (330) 773-8911
eporco@apvcoatings.com www.apvcoatings.com
Roofing Product Type: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Federal Government, Multi-Family, Cannabis, Craft Brewery Markets Served: N/A
Blue Hammer Roofing
Matt Spanton, PresidentCommercial & Strategic Growth 8330 Lyndon B Johnson Freeway Building B Suite 604 Dallas, TX 75243 (469) 972-0230 mspanton@raftrx.com www.bluehammerroofing.com
Roofing Product Type: Roofing Installer, Metal Panel Roof Systems, Built-Up Roofing Membranes (BUR), Polymer Modified Bitumen Sheet Membranes (SBS or APP), Single-Ply Membranes (PVC, TPO, EPDM), Synthetic, Asphalt, Shakes/Shingles, Eco-Green Roofing Systems, Tile, Snow Guards, Coatings, Solar Panels Markets Served: Multi Family, Residential
Brava
Grace Gathright, Communications Director 276 Fifth Ave, Suite 704 New York, NY 10016 (646) 722-8146
brava@upspringpr.com www.bravarooftile.com
Roofing Product Type: Synthetic, Eco-Green Roofing Systems Markets Served: N/A
Seth Rappaport, Senior Product Marketing Manager 20 Moores Road Malvern, PA 19355
seth.rappaport@saint-gobain.com www.certainteed.com
Roofing Product Type: Built-Up Roofing Membranes (BUR), Synthetic, Asphalt, Shakes/Shingles, Eco-Green Roofing Systems, Coatings, Solar Panels, Polymer Modified Sheet Membranes (SBS and APP)
Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Multi-Family
Chicago Clamp Company
Kevin Barry, Sales and Operations Manager 2350 South 27th Ave Broadview, IL 60155 (708) 343-8311
kevin.barry@chicagoclampcompany.com www.ChicagoClampCompany.com
Roofing Product Type: Roofing Contractor/Maintenance, Roof Curbs
Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Federal Government, Cannabis, Craft Brewery
CompanyCam
Brian Deighton, Director of Inside Sales
300 Canopy St, #200 Lincoln, NE 68508 insidesales@companycam.com
Elevate Commercial Roofing Systems
www.companycam.com/industries/roofing
Roofing Product Type: Software
Markets Served: Retail, Shopping Malls, Federal, Government, Multi Family, Residential, Any On-Site Service
DaVinci Roofscapes
Crisanta White, PR Representative 13890 W. 101st Street Lenexa, KS 66215 (800) 328-4624
cwhite@planitagency.com
www.davinciroofscapes.com
Roofing Product Type: Synthetic, Shakes/Shingles
Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Multi Family, Residential
Duro-Last
Melissa Hubbell, Marketing Communications Manager
525 Morley Drive Saginaw, MI 48601 (800) 248-0280
melissa.hubbell@holcim.com www.duro-last.com
Roofing Product Type: Single-Ply Membranes (PVC, TPO, EPDM), Coatings
Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Federal, Government, Multi Family, Craft Brewery
Emma Schilling, Sr. Brand Manager, Elevate 26 Century Blvd, Suite 205 Nashville, TN 37214 emma.schilling@holcim.com www.holcimelevate.com
Roofing Product Type: Metal Panel Roof Systems, Built-Up Roofing Membranes (BUR), Polymer Modified Bitumen Sheet Membranes (SBS or APP), Single-Ply Membranes (PVC, TPO, EPDM), Eco-Green Roofing Systems, Polyiso Insulation, Roof Edge Metal, Roof Pavers, Roofing System Accessories
Markets Served: Cold Storeage, Data Centers, Education, Federal Government, Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing, Restaurtants, Retail
Kim Scochin, Manager, Commercial Marketing 1 Campus Dr Parsippany, NJ 07054 kim.scochin@gaf.com www.gaf.com
Roofing Product Type: Built-Up Roofing Membranes (BUR), Polymer Modified Bitumen Sheet Membranes (SBS or APP), SinglePly Membranes (PVC, TPO, EPDM), Shakes/Shingles, Eco-Green Roofing Systems|Coatings
Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Federal Government, Multi-Family
East Coast
Lightning Equipment
Christina Torres, Executive Assistant 187 Commercial Blvd Torrington, CT 06790 (860) 379-9072
Fax: (860) 379-2046
christina@ecle.biz www.ecle.biz
Roofing Product Type: Snow Guards, Lightning Equipment Markets Served: All Markets
Humbled Roofing
Matt Spanton, PresidentCommercial & Strategic Growth 2151 Eatonton Road, Building A Suite A Madison, GA 30650 (706) 436-1577
mspanton@raftrx.com www.raftrxroofing.com
Roofing Product Type: N/A
Markets Served: Multi Family, Residential
MFM Building
Products Corp.
David Delcoma, Operations Manager
525 Orange St. Coshocton, OH 43812 (740) 622-2645
Fax: (740) 622-6161
ddelcoma@mfmbp.com www.mfmbp.com
Roofing Product Type: Underlayments
Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Federal Government, Multi-Family
Mills Siding and Roofing
Matt Spanton, PresidentCommercial & Strategic Growth 101 W Big Beaver Rd Suite 1400 Troy, MI 48084 (248) 453-2056
mspanton@raftrx.com www.millssidingandroofing.com
Roofing Product Type: Roofing Installer, Metal Panel Roof Systems, Built-Up Roofing Membranes (BUR), Polymer Modified Bitumen Sheet
Membranes (SBS or APP), Single-Ply Membranes (PVC, TPO, EPDM), Synthetic, Asphalt, Shakes/Shingles, Eco-Green Roofing Systems, Tiles, Coatings, Solar Panels
Markets Served: Multi Family, Residential
MuleHide
Tanya Walker, Marketing Coordinator 1195 Prince Hall Drive Beloit, WI 53511 (800) 786-1492
marketing@mulehide.com
www.mulehide.com
Roofing Product Type: Polymer Modified Bitumen Sheet
Membranes (SBS or APP), Single-Ply Membranes (PVC, TPO, EPDM), Spray Polyurethane Foam Based (SPF), Coatings, Maintenance and Repair Products, Edge Metal, Adhesives and Sealants, Accessories Markets Served: N/A
NGI North Georgia Insulation
JR McWhorter, President 3142 Old dalton Road Rome, GA 30165 (770) 747-2887
ngainsulation@gmail.com
Roofing Product Type: Commercial & Residential Rooofing Insulation Markets Served: All Markets
Rob Heselbarth, Director of communications 1005 Tonne Road Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 (800) 722-2523
rob.heselbarth@carlisleccm.com www.pac-clad.com
Roofing Product Type: Metal Panel Roof Systems
Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Federal, Government, Multi Family, Cannabis, Craft Brewery, Residential
Perimeter Roofing
Matt Spanton, PresidentCommercial & Strategic Growth 3075 Breckenridge Blvd, Suite 470 Duluth, GA 30099 (678) 679-2268
mspanton@raftrx.com www.raftrxroofing.com
Roofing Product Type: Roofing Installer, Metal Panel Roof Systems, Built-Up Roofing Membranes (BUR), Polymer Modified Bitumen Sheet
Membranes (SBS or APP), Single-Ply Membranes (PVC, TPO, EPDM), Synthetic, Asphalt, Shakes/Shingles, Eco-Green Roofing Systems, Tiles, Snow Guards, Coatings, Solar Panels
Markets Served: Multi Family, Residential
Progressive Materials
Klaus Schlimm, Marketing Director
540 Central Court
New Albany, IN 47150 (812) 944-7803
Fax: (812) 944-7804
klaus@pmsilicone.com www.pmsilicone.com
Roofing Product Type: Coatings
Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Federal Government,Multi-Family, Cannabis, Craft Brewery
RAFTRx
Chris Doyle, CMO
3075 Breckinridge Blvd, 470 Duluth, GA 30096 (678) 752-4886
cdoyle@raftrx.com www.raftrxroofing.com
Roofing Product Type: Roofing Installer, Built-Up Roofing Membranes (BUR), Polymer Modified Bitumen Sheet Membranes (SBS or APP), Asphalt, Shakes/Shingles
Markets Served: Retail, Shopping Malls, Multi Family, Residential, Insurance
Readyslate
Morgan Cathey, Sales Director - Roofing 2720 Gregory Street Suite 200 Savannah, GA 31404 (866) 339-2038
readyslate@cupapizarras.com www.cupapizarras.com/usa/readyslate
Roofing Product Type: Slate Roofing
Markets Served: Retail, Healthcare, Federal Government, Other: Residential
Regal Roofing
Matt Spanton, PresidentCommercial & Strategic Growth 1250 S Shelby St. Louisville, KY 40203 (502) 673-1911
mspanton@raftrx.com www.regrs.com
Rk Roofing Company
Jaroslaw
Jaworski President 3N671 West Ave Bensenville, IL 60106 (773) 447-2704
rkroofing1@yahoo.com www.rk-roofing.com
Roofing Product Type: Roofing Contractor/Maintenance, BuiltUp Roofing Membranes (BUR), Polymer Modified Bitumen Sheet Membranes (SBS or APP), Single-Ply Membranes (PVC, TPO, EPDM)
Markets Served: All Markets
Roofing Product Type: Roofing Installer, Metal Panel Roof Systems, Built-Up Roofing Membranes (BUR), Polymer Modified Bitumen Sheet Membranes (SBS or APP), Single-Ply Membranes (PVC, TPO, EPDM), Synthetic, Asphalt, Shakes/Shingles, Eco-Green Roofing Systems, Tiles, Snow Guards, Coatings, Solar Panels
Markets Served: Multi Family, Residential
Rocky Mountain
Snow Guards
Kathy Ziprik, PR Representative 4231 S. Natches Ct. Englewood, CO 80110 (877) 414-7606
ziprikpr@gmail.com www.rockymountainsnowguards.com
Roofing Product Type: Snow Guards
Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Federal Government, Multi-Family, Cannabis, Craft Brewery
Jessica Haddock, Marketing Director 12730 Black Forest Rd. Colorado Springs, CO 80908 (888) 825-3432
Fax: (719) 495-0045
info@s-5.com www.S-5.com
Roofing Product Type: Snow Guard, Solar attachments, Utility Attachments and Snow Guards
Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Federal, Government, Multi Family, Cannabis, Craft Brewery, Residential
Sherwin Williams
Enterprise Roofing Solutions
Marisol Masferrer, National Sales Manager 101 Prospect Ave Cleveland, OH 44115 (216) 287-8624 (216) 287-8624
marisol.masferrer@sherwin.com www.Uniflexroof.com
Roofing Product Type: Coatings Markets Served: N/A
Monica Wynn Director, External Communications 14911 Quorum Dr, 600 Dallas, TX 75254 monica.wynn@siplast.com www.Siplast.com
Roofing Product Type: Roofing Contractor/Maintenance, Built-Up Roofing Membranes (BUR)|Polymer Modified Bitumen Sheet Membranes (SBS or APP), Single-Ply Membranes (PVC, TPO, EPDM), Asphalt, Concrete, Eco-Green Roofing Systems, Coatings Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Federal Government, Multi-Family
The BILCO Company
Steve Weyel, Director of Sales & Marketing
370 James Street Suite 201 New Haven, CT 06513 (203) 672-8657
Fax: (203) 672-8657
trenner@mercurymc.us www.bilco.com
Roofing Product Type: Smoke Vents, Safety Products, Roof Hatches
Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Shopping Malls, Federal Government, Multi-Family
Tecta America
Cat Engelby, Marketing Manager 9450 W. Bryn Mawr Avenue Suite 500
Rosemont, IL 60018 (507) 242-4330 x1319 (507) 479-0023
cengelby@tectaamerica.com www.tectaamerica.com
Roofing Product Type: Roofing Contractor/Maintenance, Metal Panel Roof Systems, Built-Up Roofing Membranes (BUR)|Polymer Modified Bitumen Sheet Membranes (SBS or APP), Single-Ply Membranes (PVC, TPO, EPDM), Spray Polyurethane Foam Based (SPF), Synthetic, Asphalt/Concrete, Shakes/Shingles, Eco-Green Roofing Systems, Tiles, Snow Guards, Coatings, Roof Curbs, Solar Panels, Other: Safety Installations
Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Federal Government, Multi-Family, Cannabis, Craft Brewerys
Vermont Slate Company
Morgan Cathey, Sales Director - Roofing 2720 Gregory Street Suite 200 Savannah, GA 31404 (866) 339-2038
info@vermontslateco.com www.vermontslateco.com/roofing-slates
Roofing Product Type: Slate Roofing
Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Federal Government, Multi-Family, Residential, Religious Establishments Westlake Royal Building Products
Crisanta White, PR Representative 2801 Post Oak Suite 600 Houston, TX 77056 (800) 658-8004
cwhite@planitagency.com www.westlakeroyalroofing.com
Roofing Product Type: Polymer Modified Bitumen Sheet
Membranes (SBS or APP), Synthetic, Asphalt, Concrete, Shakes/ Shingles, Tiles, Snow Guards
Markets Served: Retail, Hospitality, Healthcare, Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Multi Family, Residential
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Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Architect and Engineer: Interplan LLC
Designer: Earls Kitchen + Bar
Contractor: ResCon Group
Earls Kitchen + Bar, Las Olas is a beautifully designed restaurant that combines ambiance and architecture. Spanning two levels, the space offers two vibrant bars, each thoughtfully placed to enhance the experience. The coastal-modern dining room, coupled with two open-air patios, creates a dynamic and inviting environment. The restaurant effortlessly connects to the lively energy of Las Olas Boulevard, situated in the heart of Fort Lauderdale. This project presented unique opportunities, particularly in creatively working within the constraints of an existing two-story structure. The team also navigated a complex permitting process, which ultimately contributed to the project’s success.
Mason, Ohio
Designer: Wah Yee Associates
Contractor: Fortney & Weygandt Inc.
Every pre-existing space put to a new use comes with its own challenges. With a detail-oriented client like Nordstrom Rack, the space was able to overcome specification challenges and deliver a successful tenant build-out utilizing brand knowledge. The project transformed an existing structure into a modern, high-end retail space with minimal environmental impact. This Nordstrom Rack location stands out for its attention to customer experience and operational functionality. The interior layout was meticulously crafted to maximize space efficiency while maintaining an inviting, openconcept shopping environment.
Aurora Ohio
Designer: The Arcus Group Contractor: Fortney & Weygandt Inc.
Good Nature Therapy is an innovative medical facility serving the Northeast Ohio community. Blending traditional therapies with outdoor sensory-rich play opportunities, it takes a unique approach to Speech-Language pathology and Occupational Therapy in its work with children. The building is nestled among a unique planned landscape and natural surroundings. The building incorporates the outdoors offering a seamless transition from the outdoor therapy space to the interior therapy rooms. The interior has warm natural finishes, a variety of tactile surfaces and ample natural lighting throughout.
Brunswick, Ohio
Designer: Architectural Group International Contractor: Fortney & Weygandt Inc.
The construction showcases an innovative approach to modern dining spaces, blending sustainability, craftsmanship and efficiency. The project features a highly efficient build process that minimizes impact while maximizing durability and aesthetic appeal. The exterior seamlessly blends with the community’s architectural character while maintaining the brand’s signature welcoming and contemporary design. What truly sets it apart is its meticulous attention to detail and the integration of higher-end finishes typically found in upscale dining establishments.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Designer: BRR Architecture Contractor: D&R
BRR Philadelphia’s new office exemplifies thoughtful workplace design by fostering collaboration, creativity and future growth. Prioritizing accessibility, the location was chosen to support teammates who commute by bike or public transit. The design transforms a previously dark, divided 1960’s space into a bright, modern environment with custom elements that reflect BRR’s brand identity. A reception area features a decorative slat wall, while a metal and wood feature wall with BRR’s logo filters natural light and provides privacy to workspaces. Also included are stunning views of the Ben Franklin Bridge.
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Designer: Fisher Architecture, LLC
Contractor: Gillis Gilkerson
The Cambria Hotel in Rehoboth Beach represents a seamless blend of modern luxury and coastal charm. This four-story destination was brought to life through the collaborative efforts of Fisher Architecture, engineers and consultants, ensuring a design that enhances both guest experience and operational efficiency. Featuring an outdoor pool, heated indoor pool, hot tub spa, and state-of-the-art fitness center, the hotel elevates Rehoboth’s hospitality landscape. Now a premier getaway for vacationers, the Cambria Hotel sets a new standard for upscale coastal retreats.
Rising Fawn, Georgia
Designer: Flick Mars
Contractor: New South Construction
Cloudland at McLemore Resort Lookout Mountain spans 203,000 square feet, seamlessly blending luxury with nature. The soaring lobby, framed by castle-style doors, exposed timber beams, and stone columns, opens to breathtaking views through floor-to-ceiling windows. A rich palette of wood, ebony-stained millwork and hand-forged metal accents complement the sculptural reception desk inlaid with black stone. Cozy seating, bespoke woodworking, and a grand staircase leading to The Great Room enhance the mountaintop’s drama. Distinct dining venues feature Scottish-inspired craftsmanship, botanical motifs, and serene poolside lounges. Thoughtful textures and custom lighting create an ambiance designed to inspire, rejuvenate and connect.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Designer: GF (Architecture); Land Design Inc. (Civil/LA); Onyx Interiors (Interior Design); Darden Engineering (Structural); CM Engineering (MEP)
Contractor: Carocon Inc.
Evoke Living at Eastland Yards offers a unique blend of vibrant community life and the serene escape you desire in a 55-plus apartment community. This Crosland Southeast project exemplifies seamless collaboration, delivering high-quality, affordable housing while overcoming master planning and rezoning challenges. Early contractor involvement ensured smooth coordination with regulatory agencies, keeping the project on track despite tight funding deadlines. Its success highlights strategic planning, problem-solving and execution.
Refined
Graceful
Anderson, South Carolina
Designer: Kyle Woudstra – KW Designs
Contractor: Precision Services
Beginning with a vision from the owner, design firm and contractor, the Fairfield Inn is a truly groundbreaking initiative that has achieved quality, on time schedules and overall meeting the goals of all involved with this project in a way that is both inspiring and transformative. It has grown into a symbol of what is possible when creativity meets purpose. What sets this project apart is its unwavering commitment to excellence and its ability to innovate with transformation of suites that is better suited for the guests staying in them. In conclusion, the Fairfield Inn stands as a model of what can be achieved with vision, teamwork and persistence.
Long Island City, Queens, New York
Designer: Gensler
Contractor: Suffolk
The reimagining of a 216,000-square-foot, seven-story building features 72,000 square feet of Class A lab space in New York’s life science hub, Long Island City, Queens. The $54-plus million project was previously a manufacturing building, with parachute manufacturing being one of the major manufacturers, thus creating the namesake “Hatch Labs.” The second and third floors are full spec labs with two separate suites to give each tenant their own space. To increase the quality of life for future users, the first floor was converted into a lobby, offices and amenity spaces, featuring a café, meeting rooms, lounge space, fireplace, and more.
Brooklyn, New York
Designer: RKTB Architects
Contractor: Rubin Development and Construction
The innovative mixed-income multifamily residence features dramatically cantilevered upper stories that spread out beyond the narrow site and over the rooftops of neighboring buildings, capturing views of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and Manhattan skyline. The buildable floor area was maximized by capitalizing on the air rights of adjacent buildings, resulting in 52 senior, affordable and marketrate apartments plus shared amenities. Wraparound floor-to-ceiling windows animate the corner and further enhance visibility, capturing panoramic city views—an essential component for including affordable and senior rental units in the development.
Hackensack, New Jersey
Designer: MVMK Architecture
Contractor: Sharp Management
Developed by The Hampshire Companies, Russo Development and Riverbank Management, Ora is downtown Hackensack’s newest residential offering. Each apartment suits the needs of today’s residents, featuring 10-foot ceilings, oversized windows, in-home washer and dryer, luxury plank flooring and private terraces in select homes. Beyond their apartments, residents can enjoy a curated collection of amenities, including a rooftop club room with a wet bar and billiards, leading out to a terrace with fire pits, lounge seating and views of the New York City skyline. First-floor outdoor courtyards offer a serene escape with grills and dining areas.
Phoenix, Arizona
Designer: LoFT Architecture + Design
Contractor: Kitchell
The two building The Battery project included Building 1 as a six-story, Texas wrap style building with a rooftop amenity deck, including pool/spa/fitness center and ramada with stunning views of downtown Phoenix. Building 2 is a five-story, semi-recessed Podium style that also includes a pool and amenity deck at the podium deck. The most exciting part of the project was the PreFab delivery method, which utilized panelized wall framing systems to off-site all interior and exterior walls resulting in time and budget savings on-site.
West Chester, Pennsylvania
Designer: Fisher Architecture
Contractor: GGA Construction
West Chester Seafood Kitchen exemplifies innovative restaurant design through a seamless blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. This project was a true collaborative effort, with Fisher Architecture’s Interior Design Team working closely alongside engineers, contractors, and consultants to bring the vision to life. From optimizing kitchen workflow to crafting an inviting dining atmosphere, every detail was carefully considered to enhance both operations and guest experience. The result is a dynamic, highquality space that reflects the client’s brand while setting a new standard for seafood dining.
Sarasota, Florida
Designer: Master Plan Team; OLIN; Kimley-Horn
Contractor: Willis Smith Construction
Phase One has been designed to make Marie Selby Botanical Gardens the first net-positive energy botanical compound in the world, generating more energy than it consumes. The three buildings make up the Phase One complex, including The Morganroth Family Living Energy Access Facility (LEAF), which houses a garden-to plate restaurant, gift shop, vertical gardens, parking and a nearly 50,000-square-foot solar panel array. A key component of the LEAF is the new restaurant, The Green Orchid, the world’s first net-positive energy restaurants utilizing solar power throughout the facility.
Jean Goldstein Welcome Center at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Sarasota, FL.
Chicago, Illinois
Designer: Faherty and Chipman Design Architecture
Contractor: ACME Builders
Faherty’s Armitage Avenue Chicago store is a model of adaptive reuse, blending historic preservation with modern retail functionality. Originally a wood-framed 1890’s cottage, the space underwent multiple commercial conversions that prioritized accessibility, circulation and brand-driven design. Key improvements included exterior upgrades like security gates and an ADA-compliant entry ramp, while the interior was reconfigured with custom communicating stairs, an accessible restroom and fitting rooms. The biggest challenge was transforming an approved single-story retail space into a functional two-level mercantile experience.
New York, New York
Designer: Laura Gonzalez
Contractor: SignWav elite (signage)
French luxury retailer Printemps has brought its vision to One Wall Street. The Laura Gonzalez designed, 55,000-square-foot-store in New York’s Financial District features nine custom curated exterior signs that were fabricated and installed to meet Landmarks Preservation Commission’s requirements for aged brass and to harmonize with existing Art Deco historical brass. The second floor features three uniquely integrated signs exhibiting Printemps’ iconic “P-heart” and “Printemps” logos.
Denver, Colorado
Designer: Group 7 / Knitwell Group
Contractor: Scheiner Commercial Group Inc.
More than just a retail space, the 2,526-square-foot Haven Well Within is a sanctuary designed for the modern woman. As the first brick-and-mortar location for Knitwell Group’s new concept, the store redefines shopping by blending comfort, wellness and luxury into a seamless experience. Launched post-pandemic, the construction was meticulously executed to create a warm, inviting and spa-like atmosphere, featuring thoughtful materials, soft lighting and an open, tranquil layout. The project stands as a testament to innovative retail design, setting the stage for future locations of this groundbreaking concept.
Los Angeles, California
Designer: Cartier
Contractor: Valerio Architects Inc. (AOR); Subcontractors: Premier Interior Development
Cartier’s recently opened first West Coast airport boutique sits within the Tom Bradley International Terminal at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The boutique is part of a series of luxury stores debuting through DFS Group Limited’s partnership and terminal retail experience update. Blending Cartier’s timeless heritage with a refined shopping experience, the boutique invites travelers to seamlessly engage and explore. Valerio helped support the Brand’s design while working within the parameters of airport process and regulation.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Designer: Walter P. Moore
Subcontractor: Comcast Spectacor SCI
Three near 35-foot LED digital boards will be located at the northeast and northwest corners of Wells Fargo Center and the south façade. The total square footage of digital screening is 10,500-plus square feet. In addition to the LED screen real estate, the arena also will add customizable strut lighting by Jones Sign on all four corners of the building. Totaling nearly 1,000 feet of lighting, the system can illuminate a solid color (Flyers, orange, 76ers, blue) or play one minute video loops (American flag waving). The phase also includes three heated entry canopies and exterior upgrades to coincide with major parking and entry improvements.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Designer: Judy Robinson, AIA, Continuum Architecture and Design Contractor: Freedom Enterprises; Subcontractors: R.P. Rex Heating & Cooling (HVAC)
The groundbreaking, eco-conscious multi-use development is the first LEED for Homes Platinum Certified Multi-Family Low-Rise Complex in Philadelphia history. The three-story complex blends historic preservation with sustainability, featuring recycled materials, a green roof rainwater system, solar energy panels, EV charging stations and an HVAC system featuring low air-leakage of preinsulated ductwork fabricated from the Kingspan KoolDuct® System. The project has an energy efficiency goal of minimizing air leakage to between 1% and 5%, reducing HVAC electrical consumption by an estimated 25%-30% and enhancing indoor air quality.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Designer: BCA Studios
Contractor: Executive Custom Construction
The Ford Amphitheater offers stunning views of Pikes Peak, fondly known as “America’s Mountain.” The 8,000-seat outdoor venue is beautifully framed by the U.S. Air Force Academy stadium to the left, and the striking, iconic Air Force chapel to the right, creating an unforgettable setting for any event. The stage cover boasts a sleek Berridge Double-Lock Zee-Lock, 24-gauge standing seam metal roof, equipped with the S-5! ColorGard® snow retention system, including the S-5-UTM clamps and the SnoClipTM II. The venue is finished in a striking Matte Black color to match the roof, the roof seamlessly complements the venue’s modern aesthetic.
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Designer: Little Diversified Architectural Consulting
Contractor: Rodgers Builders Inc.
The $110 million vertical expansion to Cape Fear Valley Health System’s flagship hospital adds 100 beds to its capacity, meeting the growing demand for ICU and patient rooms. As part of the health system’s long-term master plan, the expansion adds two stories on top of the existing Valley Pavilion section of the medical center and includes the addition of two rooftop helipads. By implementing a vertical expansion along with prefabricated elements, the design team lowered the building’s carbon footprint, eliminating the need for additional land use while allowing the existing building to stay operational and minimally disrupted during construction.
Dallas, Texas
Designer: MaoArch Architecture + B. Russo Designs
Contractor: Kingsmen Projects US
The Ylang 23 flagship store at The Shops of Highland Park exemplifies masterful craftsmanship, innovation and collaboration. Kingsmen Projects US played an integral role in bringing this vision to life, providing expert millwork, custom fixtures and jewelry displays that enhance the store’s luxurious and immersive shopping experience. Every detail—from the creamy bouclé seating and central pink marble—showcase to the 110-inch red travertine table. The project not only honors Ylang 23’s rich heritage, but also adheres to a high standard for retail design through its seamless blend of elegance, functionality, and storytelling throughout the space.
Boston, Massachusetts
Designer: Elkus Manfredi Architects
Contractor: Suffolk Construction
The $700 million Lyrik Back Bay represents cutting-edge urban construction that had to overcome the logistical challenges of spanning eight lanes of the Massachusetts turnpike and two rail lines. The area now features a 20-story office tower, a luxury hotel, retail spaces and a public plaza. To deliver exceptional weather resistance and the highest level of protection, the formed-metal plate panels on the structures were finished with a two-coat PPG CORAFLON® powder coating system. The project combines highperformance materials and modern construction methods to deliver aesthetic appeal and long-lasting protection.
Daytona Beach, Florida
Designer: ikon.5
Subcontractors: Pulp Studio, West Tampa Glass
Achieving a rainbow effect in architectural glass often is a challenge because the process can be temperamental. The appearance of the effect is highly sensitive to factors like lighting and viewing angles. Typically, most dichroic glass is vacuumed directly onto the surface. But, in this case, Pulp Studio laminated the dichroic layer between two pieces of glass. The method not only provided more design flexibility, but also required precise control of the temperature, bell curve and PSI during the lamination process.
Biscayne View
Miami, Florida
463 units
Cruz Development Corporation
Cruz Companies, a 100% Black-owned, third-generation enterprise, is a leader in construction and real estate development with three core areas of expertise.
The John B. Cruz Construction Company Founded in 1948 is highly regarded for new construction and adaptive reuse projects at all scales.
Cruz Development Corporation is an award-winning producer of affordable, mixed-income, and marketrate housing and mixed-use communities.
Cruz Management Company, Inc., provides quality multifamily management and relocation services for thousands of units across the Eastern Seaboard.
Brooklyn, New York
Designer: Studio Libeskind
Contractor: Lettire Construction
The Atrium at Sumner is an affordable senior housing development constructed on underutilized land on NYCHA’s Sumner Houses campus as part of the NextGeneration NYCHA (New York City Housing Authority) initiative. The 11-story, 132,418-square-foot building includes 190 apartments and an 8,309-square-foot ground level community facility. The building’s bold design integrates angles that maximize sunlight exposure in winter while providing shade in summer. The EIFS system, StoTherm® ci with 4” EPS insulation, was a cost-effective, high-performance cladding solution, meeting contemporary building and energy codes.
Waco, Texas
Designer: HKS Architects Inc. – Dallas
Contractor: Beck Group – Dallas
The Waco Family Medicine expansion transformed the medical facility’s design through innovative material solutions. Initially conceptualized with a continuous wood plank exterior, the project faced budget constraints that prompted creative problem-solving. To deliver a natural wood aesthetic at a fraction of the cost, over 15,000 square feet of StoCast Wood, a prefabricated resin-cast product, was installed on the building’s exterior over StoTherm® ci, an energy-efficient, continuous insulation system that includes an air and water-resistive barrier. StoColor® Wood Stain in Alder was applied to complete the natural wood appearance, with a soft matte finish.
Fargo, North Dakota
Designer: T.L. Stroh Architects
Contractor: Olaf Anderson & Son Construction Co. Inc.
Bell Bank decided to consolidate its operations into a state-of-the-art headquarters in downtown Fargo. The chosen building, then a 12-story concrete structure, had been vacated for years, but held historical significance. The project involved adding a new top floor to the existing structure and a new building built beside it with an 85-foot atrium to connect everything. The original 150,000-square-foot building, with changes, now reaches 237,000 square feet. StoVentec® Glass Rainscreen® System provided a stunning glass cladding and also re-clad and insulated the old structure. Gray and white polished and matte glass panels seamlessly blend the original structure with the new addition.
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
Contractor: Suncoast Restoration and Painting
The 82-unit, 12-story Four Seasons Condos underwent a comprehensive renovation to address decades of coastal environmental damage. Corrosive salt air and water had compromised its original waterproofing, creating critical moisture intrusion issues. The renovation centered on Sto Crack Defense, which had previously proven effective in treated areas. The contractor applied Sto® RFP (Reinforced Fiber Polymer) with Sto 4.5-ounce Fiberglass Mesh, creating a seamless, high-performance envelope. StoColor® Acryl Plus was applied as a topcoat. The renovation helped restore the building’s smooth aesthetic and provide long-term protection against environmental challenges.
Princeton, New Jersey
Designer: Joshua Zinder Architecture + Design (JZA+D)
Contractor: ML7 Construction + Design
On a transition property between Princeton’s Central Business District and a residential neighborhood, the project reimagines the site of a single-story steel frame industrial building once occupied by the Nelson Glass & Aluminum Company, redeveloping it as mixeduse missing-middle multifamily housing. The reinvention converts the existing workshop into retail space, while adding three stories of mixed-income apartments above. Fully accessible, Nelson Glass House is sustainably designed and incorporates energy and waterefficient appliances and fixtures, continuous building insulation, bicycle storage and a small parking lot with permeable pavers.
Scarsdale, New York
Designer: Landau | Zinder Architecture
Contractor: Cow Bay Contracting
The redesign transformed an almost barn-like sanctuary into a modern, highly flexible space. The project also included a refresh of the building exterior with zinc and fiber cement panels, to harmonize aesthetically with the adjacent school building. The solution included demolishing and rebuilding the entire east, west and south-facing walls, leaving the roof structure and supports in place. The broadly curved wall at the front of the sanctuary features 12 vertical windows—symbolically representing the Twelve Tribes of Israel. The stepped concrete floor was leveled to enhance accessibility, with moveable seats added for flexible reconfiguration.
Bronx, New York
Designer: RKTB Architects
Contractor: GC: Technico Construction Services; CM/client: NYC School Construction Authority
Utilizing a steel structure with concrete insulated panels for efficiency, durability and energy performance, the addition to Public School 87 in the Bronx’s Wakefield neighborhood represents a significant expansion and modernization for a K–5 elementary school. With a new multi-purpose gymnasium—itself larger in floor area than the existing school—plus a cafeteria and classrooms designed to accommodate students with disabilities, the addition features a varied façade of brick veneer that harmonizes with the surrounding architecture. The project meets or surprasses the city’s Green Schools Guide’s LEED Gold requirements.
New York, New York
Designer: Alexander Zilberman Architecture
Contractor: T.C. Browne & Co.
For its Wall Street flagship location, Aesop reimagined the lobby arcade of an early-20th-Century former office building. Celebrating the bygone era’s grandeur, the design integrates Aesop’s preferred millwork solutions and amenities with arresting details like Fior de Pesco marble, brass accents and an imported antique chandelier. Adapting the space required insertion of a rear wall to enclose the retail venue and separate it from the elevator lobby used by building residents, with a new column bay reflecting the three major column bays on each side to enhance the architectural rhythm and redefine the volume’s perimeter.
Lower Gwynedd Township, Pennsylvania
Designer: Alexander Zilberman Architecture
Contractor: Trinity Construction Services
Clad in intricate Roman brickwork and rich limestone, the freestanding specialty center is topped by a champagne-hued metal roof. The classic masonry façade features lintels and zipper-stone patterns, as the inside offers bright, well-appointed spaces finished in marble, bronze, metal mesh and wood. The two main floors are connected by a floating grand stair set within a glass-enclosed atrium above a tranquility garden. A multi-brand exhibition and sales area activates the second floor, while lounge areas, bars and a café offer refreshments for customers. A large mezzanine level accommodates offices serving as Precision’s headquarters.
Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
Designer: GF
Contractor: J. Musselman Construction
The MUSC Primary Care and Concierge Medicine building exemplifies excellence in adaptive reuse, transforming a 6,500-square-foot shell into a state-of-the-art outpatient clinic for MUSC. The design seamlessly integrates efficiency with patient comfort, optimizing workflow while elevating the care experience. By tailoring distinct spaces for Primary Care and Concierge Medicine, the highly functional, modern facility helps to enhance the experience for both the provider’s operations and patient well-being.
Bronx, New York
Designer: GF | Interior Designer – Michaelis; Boyd Lighting Designer – OneLux; Landscape Designer – Tier II
Contractor: Prestige Construction
138 Bruckner exemplifies excellence in urban revitalization, transforming a challenging brownfield site into a thriving mixed-use development in the South Bronx. The innovative design overcame complex site conditions—including a high groundwater table, low-bearing soil and flood zone regulations—through strategic engineering solutions. The 12-story building maximizes its transitoriented location, offering 448 thoughtfully designed apartments and a suite of amenities that promote community, wellness and sustainability. 138 Bruckner Blvd has been recognized as a Top 10 significant development by the Bronx Borough President.
Wesley Chapel, Florida
Designer: api (+)
Contractor: Diaz Fritz Group
The Wesley Chapel location is the restaurant’s brand’s first ground-up Chicken Guy culinary concept by the celebrity chef. The nearly 1,500-square-foot quick-serve concept will be complete with a dual drive thru and indoor dining area on 1.45 acres. Co-founded in 2018 with Planet Hollywood founder Robert Earl, the chain’s menu primarily focuses on chicken tenders and Guy’s “Big Bite” chicken sandwiches.
San José, California
Designer: DevCon (design-builder), Office of Charles F. Bloszies (designer)
Contractor: DevCon Construction
The new interim supportive housing complex, owned by the City of San José and operated by LifeMoves, is the third center built on Bloszies’s Step(1) modular concept. Part of a plan to add 1,000 interim housing units by the end of 2025, the community encompasses 204 units, including 24 family-flex units. The campus approach allows for dense yet comfortable shelter suffused with innovative and shared amenities, including elevators, laundry rooms, flex office space, privacy booths for confidential telehealth appointments and job interviews, a storefront for free everyday essentials, as well as flex classrooms and community rooms.
Lakewood Ranch, Florida
Designer: api (+)
Contractor: The Starling Group
Chamberlin’s Natural Foods Ranch’s healthy grocery experience for the Lakewood Ranch community anchors a new retail center. The 10,000-square-foot store features an open, airy design with natural wood finishes, translucent nature-inspired patterns and bold graphic statements guiding customers through each department. The brand’s ethos, “Rooted in Goodness,” is thoughtfully woven throughout—from the fresh produce displays to the integrated dining area—creating a seamless, elevated experience that reflects the brand’s core values and enhances the local community.
Lakewood Ranch, Florida
Designer: api (+)
Contractor: The Starling Group
CASTO’s Center Point at Waterside is the retail portion of a dynamic 50-acre mixed-use development. Anchored by tenants like Chamberlin’s Natural Foods, Owens Fish Camp and Ruth’s Chris Steak House, the center blends dining, shopping and healthconscious offerings tailored to the community’s lifestyle. CASTO fosters an upscale, engaging environment that resonates with the area’s health and wellness ethos, while providing residents with new dining, grocery, and service experiences. The design supports a vibrant, openair, community-focused environment, enhancing both functionality and connectivity within the Waterside district.
Location: Detroit, Michigan
Designer: Quinn Evans (architect), Buro Happold (multidisciplinary)
Contractor: The Christman Co. and Brinker
Ford Motor Company’s vision was to create a new centerpiece for the future of mobility, 21st-Century work environments, and to support Corktown and southwest Detroit neighborhoods. The adaptive reuse of the 640,000-square-foot Michigan Central Station acts as the centerpiece of the 30-acre Michigan Central district, totaling more than 1.2 million square feet of office, community and retail space. The station attracts local and global participation, spurring economic development and jobs, and organizing investment in new technologies.
Opelika, Alabama
Designer: Barrett Architecture Studio; Pursuit Engineering; lifeSTYLED WORK+SHOP Interiors
Contractor: Stone Martin Commercial LLC
After a devastating fire in July 2024 rendered its 8th Street Historic Opelika location unsafe, Stone Martin Builders’ new headquarters in Opelika’s Historic District embodies resilience and community commitment. The 20,000-square-foot building was completely demolished in the interior. The headquarters now includes 51 offices, one flex office, an executive conference room, three additional conference rooms, large lobby, four new ADA compliant restrooms, a state-of-the-art 2,500-square-foot training room, 11 4-foot x 8-foot skylights for natural light, six large rear windows, a canopy at one entrance, wood accent walls and complete landscaping.
Maryland Heights, Missouri
Designer: Oculus Inc.
Contractor: Paric
The project transformed three floors of a 1970s-era mixed-use space located at Westport Plaza into a modern 37,000-squarefoot, Class A collaborative workplace for Rawlings Sporting Goods. Building system modifications to enhance the health and well-being of employees and surrounding tenants included upgrading air circulation systems, introducing modern cooling systems and energy-efficient LED lighting, replacing electrical panelboards with UL-approved panels with a 40-year shelf life, and reworking plumbing to include unisex bathrooms and a mother’s room. The project helps strengthen the area’s revitalization plans.
Maryland Heights, Missouri
Designer: Oculus Inc.
Contractor: Paric
Centrally located in the Gold Tower at Westport Plaza in Maryland Heights, the 14,000-square-foot, two-story experiential retail store for Rawlings Sporting Goods is a uniquely crafted customer destination location that transcends merchandise sales. Known for its legacy of creating authentic, high-quality baseball and softball gameday essentials, it is an experiential destination that includes interactive elements like the Glove Vault, a virtual batting cage with advanced sound insulation and acoustic treatments and the Custom Shop, where customers can design their own baseball and softball gloves with expert guidance.
Brooklyn, New York
Designer: TYLin Group (Lightweight Structures Group)
Contractor: Two Trees Management Co.
The PVC mesh fabric 2,560-square-foot Brooklyn-based structure was collaboratively designed between Birdair and all members of the project team. The scope of work included the fabrication and installation of the supporting steel columns painted in a beautiful turquoise-like blue, the stainless-steel cable net system, the PVC mesh fabric and clamping hardware. Of the 122 fabric panels based on the unique cable net design, five different geometric sizes made up the entire design. The public square features seasonal outdoor entertainment and a stunning view of the East River.
Doral, Florida
Designer: Birdair
Contractor: Kaufman Lynn Construction
The Doral Central Park project team worked hand-in-hand with Birdair’s design and technical experts, ensuring that every detail was thoughtfully considered to create this 10,600-square-foot structure, which is not only beautiful, but also highly functional. Together, Birdair and the team crafted a PTFE tensile membrane amphitheater structure that blends innovation, craftsmanship and artistry, making it a standout feature of the park. The amphitheater is a key element of the multi-phase $168 million park project, which is open for community and large-scale events.
Baltimore, Maryland
Designers: Birdair; Gensler; Whiting-Turner Construction
Contractor: Whiting-Turner Construction
The project team’s collaboration and expertise were critical to the success of the 21,000-square-foot headquarters. Birdair coordinated with the Under Armour team to ensure the iconic branding and design elements aligned seamlessly with the structural system. The entire façade project was completed ahead of schedule. Despite challenges like strong wind conditions and the complexity of the site and structure, Birdair’s focus on design-build excellence and meticulous execution resulted in an architectural feature that redefines Under Armour’s corporate aesthetic and functional appeal.
New York, New York
Designer: G4 Group and Chipman Design Architecture
Contractor: JRM Construction Management
HOKA Midtown exemplifies innovative problem-solving under a fasttracked timeline. With a compressed technical development phase following an extended design period, the team navigated corporate deadlines while accommodating ongoing refinements. A critical challenge was eliminating the need for a new front entry vestibule, which was met with a strategic solution that included a frameless glass storefront and door system in the cellar. The flagship features HOKA’s expansive line of products, giving visitors easy access to the brand’s latest footwear, apparel technology and design.
Chicago, Illinois
Designer: Chipman Design Architecture
Contractor: Kern Construction
Alliant Credit’s O’Hare location is a study in expert navigation of complex regulatory environments. Situated within a United Airlinesowned building on airport property, the project required adherence to Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) regulations, adding layers of approval and coordination. Every material and finish underwent rigorous submissions, extending the timeline and demanding meticulous attention to compliance. Despite the challenges, the design successfully balanced Alliant Credit’s operational needs with United’s property standards.
Los Gatos, California
Designer: Peet’s Coffee and Chipman Design Architecture
Contractor: Hilbers Inc.
Peet’s Coffee’s remodel program debut showcases the seamless translation of conceptual design into a refined, buildable prototype. With only an initial design package as a guide, the project required meticulous material selection to align with the brand’s identity while ensuring commercial feasibility. Chipman Design Architecture collaborated closely with Peet’s and key vendors to refine the prototype, incorporating warm wood tones, hex mosaic tile, brass inlays, and a plaster-look wall covering to modernize the space while preserving its handcrafted aesthetic.
Phoenix, Arizona
Designer: PHX Architecture and Creative Design in Lighting (CDL)
The reimagined The Arizona Biltmore revives the best of its past and creates new delights for today’s hospitality community, including a full lighting update with Acclaim Lighting products. The update highlights the historic resort’s key features and amenities. For almost a century, The Arizona Biltmore has stood as an Arizona landmark, representing one of the world’s most recognized resorts for its Frank Lloyd Wright architectural style, intuitive hospitality and storied history, all topped off with a generous splash of old Hollywood glamour.
Dallas, Texas
Designer: HPA Design Group
The Oaks Apartments shows how affordable housing can embrace sustainability without compromising quality or accessibility. Located in the Dallas’ historic Oak Cliff neighborhood, the 260-unit senior living community was designed with both environmental responsibility and resident well-being in mind. A key factor is its partnership project with water conversation leader Niagara, which helped maximize water efficiency and optimize operational costs. The Oaks serves as a model for how affordable housing developments nationwide can leverage sustainable solutions to keep operational costs low while improving residents’ quality of life.
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Designer: PEI Architects
Contractor: Toddglen Construction
The 56-story mixed-use residential tower presents its large, distinctive balconies of precast concrete and glass with an intermittent upturned edge generating an abstract pattern on the north and south façades. The elegant podium below extends from its grand porte-cochere, sloped garden and block-wide lobby to an amenity suite at the seventh-floor setback with extensive lounge space, two media and gaming theaters, a fitness studio, and outdoor seating areas with fireplaces, barbecues and cabanas. The program rises to the sprawling rooftop sky lounge, with another outdoor terrace, lounge area and a spa, and resort-inspired settings around three pools.
New York New York
Designer: PEI Architects
Contractor: Vanguard
The expansion of China Institute’s growing Chinese language program, and renowned art gallery exhibitions and lecture series provides a memorable and adaptable place for learning about Chinese language, art, literature, cuisine and history. The Institute’s space includes an exhibition gallery, a library, classrooms and offices on the 2nd floor. A 16-foot height multi-use space for exhibitions, lectures and banquets and a demonstration kitchen—housing the first culinary school for haute Chinese cuisine in the United States — is located at ground level.
Bronx, New York
Designer: CetraRuddy
Contractor: LRC Construction
Located in the Mott Haven neighborhood, Maven is a new 27-story apartment building featuring distinctive bold massing and a sculpted, faceted presence that maximizes sunlight and views for all 200 apartments. Residents also have access to nearly 21,000 square feet of state-of-the-art amenity spaces, including a fitness center, lushly planted outdoor lounge areas, co-working spaces, game room and roof terrace with seating and grilling stations. One of its most unique calling cards is its immersive onsite art program, including a 115-foot-long ground-floor exhibition wall featuring commissioned works by celebrated international and local artists.
Vienna, Virginia
Designer: Architect of the Capitol, Washington, D.C.
Contractor: Ritz Construction, Frederick, Maryland
Located minutes from the Capital Beltway, Wolf Trap in Vienna, Virginia is home to the Filene Center. Since 1971, the Center has hosted nearly 4,000 performances to the enjoyment of millions of fans. Since 1981, The Barns has hosted more than 3,000 performances. The project involved selective demolition and replacement of more th an 400,000 square feet of wood siding, building envelope improvements, window replacement, etc. This included using TYPAR® Commercial Wrap to replace two layers of 30# felt, which comprised the building envelope for many decades prior.
St Louis, Missouri
Designer: Lawrence Group/Perkins Eastman
Contractor: Clayco
The Washington University School of Medicine’s new Gary C. Werths Building at Siteman Cancer Center realizes a bold vision for patientcentered care. The cutting edge, 659,000-square-foot facility offers comprehensive outpatient cancer care informed by hospitality best practices, blending state-of-the-art technology with robust amenities to support each patient’s healing journey. The building includes five floors of clinic space, as well as three stories of parking integrated directly into the facility and an elevated, enclosed pedestrian link which connects the building to the rest of the medical campus.
Boston, Massachusetts
Designer: STA Design
Contractor: Hirsch Construction Corp.
Long’s Jewelers Patek Philippe Showroom, which sits in the heart of Boston’s luxury shopping district. on Newbury Street is a landmark of luxury retail construction, combining meticulous craftsmanship with an inviting and refined aesthetic. Hirsch Construction Corp. expertly delivered this 7,673-square-foot space, featuring high-end stone and wood finishes, dedicated spaces for Patek Philippe timepieces, private client suites, and a rooftop terrace. The project was designed to provide an unparalleled shopping experience.
Houston, Texas
Designer: Lochte Architectural Group
Contractor: Hirsch Construction Corp.
The renovation of the Louis Vuitton Women’s Store at the Galleria in Houston showcases excellence in luxury retail construction, seamlessly blending sophistication, craftsmanship and innovation. The space, which showcases ready-to-wear, shoes, accessories, watches and jewelry—was transformed with precision, ensuring that every detail met Louis Vuitton’s high standards. The team executed the project efficiently, delivering a stunning retail environment that enhances the customer experience and reinforces the brand’s identity.
Troy, Michigan
Designer: TPG Architecture LLP
Contractor: Hirsch Construction Corp.
The Prada – Somerset Collection store marks an exciting milestone as the brand’s first Michigan location, bringing its iconic luxury and craftsmanship to Troy’s Somerset Collection Mall. The stunning new retail space embodies Prada’s signature aesthetic, seamlessly blending timeless design with modern elegance. Defined by a brightly lit exterior, the new boutique is surrounded by illuminated triangular shapes that echo the brand’s classic green logo. Shoppers are greeted by large framed windows at the store’s entrance, creating an introduction for the 4,250-square-foot space.
Orlando, Florida
Designer: Pulte Homes
Contractor: JK2 Construction
The scope of the Del Webb Oasis Clubhouse project involved the design and construction of a more than 12,000-square-foot clubhouse featuring a fitness center, movement studio, arts and craft room, and multiple lounges. The construction strategy focused on creating a space that naturally facilitates social interactions while accommodating the varied interests of its residents. Del Webb Oasis is a 55-plus gated community offering sophisticated living near Walt Disney World Resort, including outdoor amenities like sports courts, a fishing dock, community gardens and walking paths.
Texas City, Texas
Designer: Pfluger Architects
Contractor: Bartlett Cocke General Contractors
Thanks to a small-town partnership, an old church gym was transformed into a state-of-the-art STEM center. The space incorporates the colors of the district’s two high schools, creating a shared home for district-wide innovation. Preserved concrete floors, exposed beams, and industrial-style “Y” light fixtures establish an authentic workshop environment, with tools and equipment prominently displayed to encourage hands-on learning. Roll-up garage doors lead to an outdoor patio, expanding capacity, accommodating larger equipment, and inviting students to explore beyond the old gym’s walls.
Scottsdale, Arizona
Designer: DTJ Design
Contractor: Haydon
Desert Mountain Club’s original clubhouse was reimagined from a double-wide trailer to an indoor/outdoor dining destination. By blending architectural excellence with cultural sensitivity, the design honors its history while delivering a world-class member experience, offering a model of innovation, cultural heritage and modern luxury. Defined by floating roof forms, expansive glass walls and locally sourced Hualapai-Chocolate stone, the design fosters a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. Expansive covered terraces, multiple courtyards, and native landscaping enhance both aesthetics and functionality.
Bellevue, Washington
Designer: B2 Design Co
Contractor: Rampart Construction
The rebranding and amenities renovation plan focused on creating a differentiated living experience, placing high emphasis on what is going to bring residents the most value. Sophistication was incorporated into the apartment’s building amenities spaces, including an upgraded building exterior, lobby, leasing office, corridors, club room, outdoor lounge and gym. The renovation also incorporated a new enclosed conference space for remote work residents. The design adds contemporary furniture and fixtures, lighting, eclectic lounge seating, and refreshed architectural elements like millwork, stone and ceiling enhancements.
Tampa, Florida
Designer: api(+)
Contractor: Venture Construction Company
The 13,000-square-foot Fleming’s Prime Wine & Steakhouse space blends modern luxury with the relaxed ambiance of California, where the restaurant brand was born. The interior, which can seat 350 guests, features 16-foot floor-to-ceiling glass windows, an open floor plan, several private dining rooms and vaulted ceilings that create a serene, airy atmosphere. A dramatic porte-cochère extends Fleming’s above and beyond hospitality from entry to departure. The bold exterior reflects the sophistication of the culinary experience within.
Newport, Kentucky
Designer: Luminaut: Interior Design; Platte Architecture + Design/ Sansalone Architecture Studio: AOR
Contractor: Schumacher Dugan Construction, LLC
The goal was to create an aesthetic that embodies the warm, comforting feeling of sipping great bourbon. Upon arriving, guests are pulled in by the glowing copper ceiling, illuminated by the custom logo light fixture above the bar, which is centered in the room and wrapped in vertical white oak slats. Intimate seating vignettes, relaxed furnishings and soft lighting balance the industrial style of the original space. A variety of acoustical solutions—including custom upholstered banquettes and other soft seating, copper acoustic drapery, loose rugs under lounge seating—were applied between the ceiling beams to match the ceiling paint.
New York, New York
Designer: //3877
Contractor: Guth DeConzo Consulting Engineers; Keltic Woodwork and Construction Management
Crave Sushi’s design integrates a bold, oceanic-inspired aesthetic with functional, guest-centric spatial planning. The design balances brand continuity with innovation thanks to a palette of blues, coppers, deep greens and warm woods. Playful netting details, reflective finishes and a captivating deep-sea-inspired restroom design immerse guests in the nautical theme. Beyond aesthetics, the space strategically utilizes the existing kitchen and bar, ensuring a seamless workflow while maintaining an independent ambiance. Additionally, a designated space for an ADA accessible ramp and acoustic panels keep the small space at a comfortable noise level.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Designer: //3877
Contractor: Continental Contractors, Inc.
The design blends New Orleans’ rich culture with a contemporary and inviting aesthetic. It starts in the lobby with a deep green and jewel-toned palette, whimsical wallpaper and curated art installations that evoke a sense of place and storytelling. The interior also includes the new Seventeen Feet dining space, and a cozy library nook, complete with a locally sourced fireplace mantle. Guestrooms take cues from the Garden District, featuring rich green hues, eclectic art and layered textures that create a deeply personal and restful retreat, while locally sourced furnishings offer a gallery wall of local artists’ work.
Frisco, Texas
Designer: B2 Design Co
Contractor: Austin Commercial
The new build Hall Park Hotel eloquently blending a mix of art and lifestyle, the boutique hotel is part of a uniquely developed office park that spans more than 162 acres. Hall Park features 224 guest rooms, including The Reserve Suites, which offers 60 highly designed suites that are ideal for long-term stay. The Suites also feature a kitchenette and balconies overlooking Kaleidoscope Park. The hotel also offers a chef-driven restaurant, 20,000 square feet of versatile indoor and outdoor event space, an outdoor pool with a bar, manicured gardens, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a terrace with expansive views.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Designer: Colkitt Architecture
Contractor: Schimenti Construction
Puma’s second North American flagship store is a cutting-edge, three-floor retail experience on Las Vegas Boulevard. Spanning 25,000-plus square feet, the building offers an elevated shopping environment featuring exclusive Las Vegas-branded gear, a secret showroom, a virtual reality arcade, professional F1 simulators and a custom LED Puma Cat logo displayed on a 40-foot curtain wall. The space redefines retail by merging Puma’s iconic brand with innovative design and immersive customer experiences. The build demanded precision and adaptability, especially on the bustling Las Vegas Strip, where pedestrian control and safety were paramount.
Montecito, California
Designer: James Perse
Contractor: Schimenti Construction
Founded by the designer of the same name, James Perse is synonymous with minimalist architecture, casual living and West Coast culture. The completion of the project was a team effort—a testament to the effective communication and collaborative efforts between the design team, architect, client and contractor, creating a sophisticated, yet relaxed retail environment that truly reflects the brand’s philosophy of low-maintenance high fashion, high-quality basics, sophisticated ready-to-wear collections, and accessories for both men and women.
New York, New York
Designer: Jeffrey Taylor Architects
Contractor: Schimenti Construction
H&M newest flagship store in Times Square showcases its innovative 2.0 store concept. Totaling 45,000 square feet, the redesigned space focuses on elevated aesthetics and immersive customer experiences. The design highlights premium materials and state-of-the-art features, including fluted concrete panels, seamless terrazzo flooring, custom-built wood fitting rooms, and a signature glass wall with a multi-story ambient light display surrounding the main escalator and spanning the entire height of the space from the first to the third floor. Other features include LED walls in the escalator atrium and interactive fitting rooms.
Farmingville, New York
Designer: Chick-fil-A
Contractor: Schimenti Construction
The ground-up build of the 4,774-square-foot Chick-fil-A introduced updated layouts and finishes, with seating for 60 indoors and 24 on an outdoor patio. The site also features two drive-thru lanes, a canopy-covered order point and meal delivery areas, all framed within a steel structure and finished with brick masonry. Despite the challenges with utility coordination, including working with power, water and gas companies, the schedule to meet critical milestones. Notably, Schimenti managed several tasks, including storm drainage, landscaping, and sidewalk repairs, ensuring the project could move forward swiftly.
20% of Hudson Yards is #SchimentiBuilt
East Rutherford, New Jersey (American Dream Mall)
Designer: BAPE
Contractor: Schimenti Construction
The renowned Japanese streetwear brand’s latest global retail concept at the American Dream Mall showcases BAPE’s signature blend of bold design and cutting-edge retail experiences. Designed by Studio Lourdes with coordination led by Pirie Group, the 3,994-square-foot store delivers an elevated shopping environment with a prefabricated millwork storefront, LED-integrated glass display cases, and glass sneaker walls with floating shelves. A standout element is the Cooledge lightbox ceiling, which spans the center and rear of the sales areas, creating a sleek, illuminated aesthetic.
Lawrence, Massachusetts
Designer: The Architectural Team (Owner: WinnCompanies)
Contractor: Keith Construction, Inc.
The project included the transformation of the oldest mill building in Lawrence into the state’s first all-electric, mixed-income multifamily property. Inclusive of 86 apartments plus amenity spaces, the project addresses affordable housing shortages and climate change, while preserving the nearly 200-year-old building’s historic characteristics and prioritizing sustainability and decarbonization. Key design solutions include an airtight, ultra-efficient building envelope with substantial insulation, high-performance historic replica windows, high-efficiency heat pumps and other electric systems, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by some 33%.
Leland, North Carolina
Designer: Bowen
Contractor: Citadel Contractors
Emergortho Orthopedic Urgent Care is a state-of-the-art 55,570-square-foot medical office building in Leland, North Carolina that serves all of Brunswick County. The three-story facility is the first dedicated outpatient orthopedic surgery center in the county, providing local residents with a complete range of orthopedic care in a single comprehensive location. The facility is a walk-in service dedicated exclusively to orthopedic injuries or conditions that need to be diagnosed and treated right away, but are not severe enough to warrant emergency room care.
Hanover, Massachusetts
Designer: Bowen
Contractor: Rycon Construction
Located 20 miles southeast of Boston in the affluent South Shore community, fhe former Hanover Mall has been reimagined as Hanover Crossing. The shopping center features a collection of restaurants, anchors, a cinema and outlots in a surrounded community of green space. The 600,000-square-foot project includes the renovation of existing tenants and buildings, and new construction. The area’s largest employers include Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, Talbots, South Shore Health System, Eastern Bank and Jordan Hospital.
Beachwood, Ohio
Designer: Bowen
Contractor: Marous Bros. Construction
Part of the Park East Masterplan, the Park East Apartments included the conversion of a former skilled nursing facility into luxury apartments. The 128,000-square-foot facility includes 150 units in a mix of studio and one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments. The design goal was to create “2.0 Living.” The interior was a complete gut-renovation—everything that wasn’t concrete block structure was demolished. The design team created more than 40 unique floor plans for the new units.
Canton, Ohio
Designer: Bowen
Contractor: Vendrick Construction
The addition came after the Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) outgrew its existing office spaces at main bus facility in Canton, Ohio. The new 14,000-square-foot addition off the north side of its existing bus garage is centered around the idea of community and engagement. SARTA’s expansion is more than just a new building; it’s a symbol of the agency’s dedication to providing essential transportation services to its community in the form of both fixed route and curb-to-curb, also known as the Proline.
Olmsted Township, Ohio
Designer: Bowen
Contractor: Ozanne Construction
The project re-imagines an original structure on the Vitamix campus—a midcentury cabin built from a kit, known as the new Vitamix Museum and Event Center. Through selective demolition and addition, the charm of the original structure was kept while creating a vibrant new facility with 2,600 square feet of event space, a new lobby, a central/receive area, mechanical areas, expanded restrooms and a 3,500-square-foot museum. As part of the renovation, the old, failing drop ceiling was removed, exposing the beautiful original wood trusses. The refreshed ceiling, along with new ductwork, helps to complement the rustic cabin walls.
Brooklyn, New York
Designer: Bonetti Kozerski Architecture
The Refinery at Domino is a historic architectural innovation, transforming a 19th-Century manufacturing facility into an unparalleled masterpiece with state-of-the-art office amenities. The design included public spaces, including lobbies, office spaces, rooftop event space and building amenity space. The building, which served as the Domino Sugar refinery for 140 years, includes a brick façade on the exterior and a steel structure inside. Approximately 2,000 square feet of Bendheim’s channel glass on the first-floor lobby helps tie the two elements together, creating a sleek, contemporary steel-and-glass interior interplaying between old and new.
Cam Ranh Peninsula, Vietnam
Designer: Ho Thieu Tri
Axi Plaza, a striking multipurpose convention centre with a design inspired by the country’s ubiquitous coracle boat, overlooks Long Beach on Vietnam’s scenic Cam Ranh peninsula. Its host of remarkable facilities include a vast state-of-the-art conference hall, a 360-degree rooftop venue, a stunning outdoor beachfront event space, and about 10,000sqm dedicated to shopping and dining outlets. The largest multipurpose convention centre in the region, Axi Plaza is breaking new ground in Cam Ranh, which was once renowned as southeast Asia’s greatest deepwater harbor and is now rising as an upscale alternative to nearby Nha Trang.
Anaheim, California
Designer: AO (Ruba Awad-Moran)
Contractor: Shawmut
Parkside Market seamlessly blends mid-century Modern and Googie influences into a contemporary, immersive experience. The jewelbox food hall celebrates Southern California’s architectural legacy while elevating the guest experience through dynamic form, color and thoughtful spatial integration. Featuring sleek, angled roof lines and a Mondrian-inspired curtain wall, the open-air patios and transparent façades blur the lines between indoors and out, while the grand staircase, a central design feature, transforms movement into an experience, drawing guests to explore multiple levels—an uncommon yet expertly balanced feature in this setting.
Columbia, Missouri
Designer: Tricarico Architecture and Design
Contractor: Clark Contractors
The Good Day Farm 3,500-square-foot prototype was designed to fulfill the client’s aesthetic vision and operational requirements. The 20-foot-tall gable with decorative wood fins provides a unique curb appeal while the full height glass brings natural light to the interior. The exterior gable transitions to a vaulted ceiling in the dispensary, conveying an upscale modern industrial feel in the sales area, while the drive-thru window enables patients and customers to be served quickly and efficiently. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, the dispensary strategically sits in the middle of the state.
Apopka, Florida
Designer: CPH Consulting LLC
Contractor: RLH
Designed with lifestyle and the planet in mind, Avian Pointe’s green practices, community solar panels and geothermal HVAC system help significantly reduce carbon emissions. Offering convenient, low maintenance living, the Avian community offers best-in-class amenities and spacious, modern floor plans. Located in Apopka, this Central Florida outdoor destination provices access to Wekiwa Springs, Lake Apopka’s North Shore, and more.
Sacramento, California
Designer: Architect: Page & Turnbull (Owner: Mercy Housing)
Contractor: MidState Construction
The transformation and rehabilitation of Sacramento’s historic Capitol Park Hotel, originally two early 20th Century hotels, is now a 134-studio apartment building that helps serve individuals transitioning out of homelessness in downtown Sacramento. The modern residence also provides essential support services and amenities, such as laundry facilities to help people regain their footing, and incorporates extensive improvements to the building’s accessibility. Additional enhancements encompass crucial seismic upgrades, interior remodeling, and the preservation of the building’s historic facades, awning and original lobby mosaic tile floor.
Chicago, Illinois
Designer: Chicago Public Schools
Contractor: Blackhawk HVAC
In 2023, air conditioning units at the Roberto Clemente Community Academy for more than 700 students failed during an August heat wave. Blackhawk HVAC installed two 750-ton air conditioning chillers at the eight-story structure in a 10-hour project. In a highly unusual installation, workers cut through the roof and removed concrete to establish room for a BILCO roof hatch. The customized hatch measures 9-feet, 8-inches x 18-feet, 3-inches. The large hatches are commonly used for the removal and installation of large and heavy equipment that is used in heating and air conditioning. They also are frequently used to install oversized radiology equipment and other devices in medical buildings.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Designer: Childrey Robinson Associates
Contractor: Cummings Construction
Due to the ingredients and elements required in the process, the NoDa Brewing project illustrates the danger involved in beermaking and mitigating fire risk. The NoDa Brewing 13,260-squarefoot project includes eight smoke vents from BILCO, which were integrated into the standing-seam roof. The smoke vents are designed to protect the property against loss and assist firefighters in the event of a blaze. The name of the brewery comes directly from its original location in Charlotte’s artsy “NoDa,” or North Davidson, district.
The construction projects reshaping our city are more complex and sophisticated than ever. To rise to the challenge, our tech-savvy teams leverage data and cutting-edge solutions to build safely and efficiently. We’re honored to be America’s Contractor and proud to be Boston’s most innovative builder.
Goose Creek, South Carolina
Designer: KW Designs LLC
Contractor: Weatherford Construction Group
The Zeb Metals project was a series of four buildings that work together as a type of assembly line for recycling aluminum, including a 32,150-square-foot foundry and furnace building with two larger furnaces. A buyer and trader of non-ferrous scrap, Zeb Metals has the capabilities to process scrap by shredding, shearing, screening and sorting materials. The project meets the company’s goal to ensure that all products and services rendered by the company are of the required quality and comply or exceed the customer’s requirements.
Roswell, Georgia
Designer: Circular/Bruno Architectural
Contractor: American Commercial Builders
The 8,000-square-foot BMW Motorrad of Roswell dealership—which offers service, repairs and maintenance; parts and accessories; and financing in the greater North Fulton area outside of Atlanta—was transformed from a Hispanic grocery store that was in poor shape.
Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina
Designer: KW Designs LLC
Contractor: Carolina Construction of Charleston
The renovation of the vacant space into the Crush Yard includes a new bar, restaurant and interior pickle ball courts. The 37,011-square-foot space also includes a new independent structure for a mezzanine inside the space. The Crush Yard eatertainment complex is part of a franchise that is helping revolutionize the space for food, drinks and the growing trend of pickleball.
Roxbury, Massachusetts
Designer: Michael Washington Architects
Contractor: John B. Cruz Construction Company
In Boston’s historically redlined Roxbury neighborhood, the 55-unit mixed-income, mixed-use community activates a longunderutilized corner site in a prominent location. The result of substantial community feedback gathered over years by the affordable housing developer Cruz Companies, the apartments offer an unusual affordability mix with income-restricted apartments. The unit mix includes studio-through three-bedroom units, reflecting a strong community desire for housing that is accessible and appropriate for families. The building also holds the Cruz Companies corporate headquarters.
Teaneck, New Jersey
Designer: HotelStudio; Kimmerle Newman Architects
Contractor: Alfred Sanzari Enterprises
The capital improvement project transformed the Glenpointe Marriott’s 39,317-square-foot meeting and event space, seamlessly integrating natural elements inspired by the nearby Palisades Interstate Park with a sleek, contemporary design. The 350-room project included the replacement of carpeting, wall coverings, paint and furniture throughout the first and second-floor pre-function spaces, boardrooms and meeting rooms as well as the 1,200-person capacity ballroom.
Pasadena, California
Designer: Onyx Architects
The historic Ganahl Lumber retailer, located on historic Route 66 in Pasadena, California, was transformed from a former GM dealership. The adaptive reuse project included navigating complex codes and historical preservation standards into a reimagined functional and visually appealing site. Key to the transformation was 60 Solatube SolaMaster 330 DS-O Tubular Daylighting Devices (TDDs), which made colors appear richer and more natural. Additionally, the TDDs’ cylindrical shapes seamlessly integrated with other building systems, including HVAC, electric lighting, fire sprinklers and signage, creating a cohesive open-ceiling design.
Franklin Square, New York
Designer: CREATE Architecture Planning & Design, pllc
Contractor: JATO Builders
Franklin Plaza, the first retail development of Wilbur Breslin, had not been renovated since the 1980s. The transformation involved a complete exterior renovation, including the new Holiday Farms supermarket. Considered the predominant neighborhood strip center in its market, the newly renovated center’s tenants also include Baskin Robbins, Greek Xpress, New Generation Karate, Olivetto Pizzeria, Memory Nail Spa, Insight Hair Salon and Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy.
Old Bridge, New Jersey
Designer: CREATE Architecture Planning & Design
Contractor: A & E Construction
Situated in a major retail hub surrounded by one million square feet of retail space, the renovation came on the heels of the pandemic. The project was a direct result of maximum impact and minimum disruption using the structure and bones of what was there to provide something new and vibrant to the community. The complete exterior renovation helped blend functionality with modern aesthetics and revitalized the center to being a destination that both tenants and shoppers enjoy.
Boston, Massachusetts
Designer: Group One Partners; JCJ Architecture
Contractor: Continental Contractors
The reimagined guestroom design was completed in line with Hilton brand standards, notably installing SPC (Kingdom collection) flooring and paying attention to acoustical protocols. An epicenter of discovery in the heart of Boston’s resilient past and innovative present, the Pennyweight Hotel Boston offers an urban oasis that melds timeless authenticity with a contemporary spirit. Guests are privy to stylish guest rooms, modern amenities, eclectic artful communal spaces and a signature restaurant and bar concept.
McKinney, Texas
Designer: MRP Design Group
Contractor: 20Twenty Construction
The goal was to develop Birdcall’s vision of a digital self-ordering, full-service bar, drive-thru/pickup window and seating for 74 guests—all within approximately 2,600 square feet. Every inch of the redesigned kitchen was meticulously optimized for efficiency and space savings. By incorporating a dedicated external cooler, freezer and workroom, the a cutting-edge, highly efficient prototype meets all these requirements and includes unique features such as garage doors leading to covered patio seating and a dedicated outdoor play area for children.
Waltham, Massachusetts
Designer: TRIA Design
Contractor: Commodore Builders
Located in Waltham, Massachusetts, 103 CityPoint is a cuttingedge facility blending lab, cGMP manufacturing and office space. The LEED Silver project integrates Kingspan Light + Air’s UniQuad ® translucent wall system to deliver glare-free daylight to office and lab areas, improving lighting quality and reducing energy use. PentaClad™ translucent cladding complements the UniQuad ® system in the more industrial sections, unifying the building’s aesthetic. The modern look of the translucent wall systems during daytime hours is accentuated by the integrated LED lighting, creating playful, eye-catching displays that blend the two facades and reflect the innovative spirit of the interior.
Vernon Hills, Illinois
Designer: Aria Group
Contractor: International Contractors Inc.
The Vernon Hills Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille marks the restaurant group’s third location in the Chicago area. The restaurant offers space for 350 guests and features four private dining rooms, a covered patio and Perry’s Bar 79, named after the year the restaurant was founded. Details of glass, a breadth of textures and the sophisticated lighting create an air of modern elegance and comfort. The brand started in 1979 when the Perry family opened its first restaurant: a modest meat market in Houston called Perry’s Butcher Shop and Deli.
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Designer: Ideis Design Architecture & C Design Studios
Contractor: Biscan Construction
Not your typical LaQuinta Inn & Suites, everything about the hotel is custom. From the exterior design, finishes and signage, to the interior design and custom furniture, fixtures and equipment package, the Chattanooga, Tennessee hotel gives off a boutique vibe in the heart of the hip Southside historic District, which is known for its flourishing restaurants, small businesses, galleries, entertainment and nightlife.
Houston, Texas
Designer: Hector Lopez
Contractor: 9 Division Inc.
Not just a venue, La Fontaine Select is known as an experience. The designer and contractor joined forces to help give the old shopping center a more renovated, modern look.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Designer: Open Studio Architecture
The Atomic Golf new build marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of golf entertainment, with more than 99,000 square feet of animated fun. Embracing the essence of the game, the venue seamlessly integrates golf with culinary delights, vibrant beverages, and an engaging atmosphere across four different floors. Included are 103 golf bays and putting canopies equipped with HVAC units to ensure temperature control, six full-service bars. Also, the Astrocade, located on the main level and spanning all four floors, features the most LEDs in the building, two large screens on the second and fourth floors, and tickers on three columns across two levels.
An inclusive East Houston playground becomes a place where children of all abilities play together
By Raleigh Sullivan
There is a growing emphasis on creating equitable spaces—environments that are accessible to all and versatile enough to be used frequently. The more people who can engage with these spaces, the better, especially when they serve multiple functions, such as outdoor learning environments.
Houston’s Galena Park Independent School District, a district of more than 21,000 students, many of whom are economically disadvantaged, wanted to provide a space for children of all abilities to play together. A goal to create not just an “accessible” or “adaptable” playground but to design a truly inclusive space resulted in a 24,000-square-foot playground at Williamson Elementary School.
Designed by Pfluger Architects, the universally designed, sensory-rich environment welcomes children of all abilities and features handicap-accessible play equipment that ensures everyone can participate in the imaginative, playful experience. This project goes beyond minimum accessibility standards to create play experiences accommodating the widest possible array of physical and cognitive abilities, including rubber surfaces for wheelchairs and walkers, and an array of objects and activities that stimulate creativity and help children develop problem-solving skills through play. This project addresses a significant gap, as the district previously lacked a play space that fully supported their special education program and fostered meaningful interaction among all students.
The equipment, like the glide with space for wheelchairs, a companion seat, and room for other children to join in, encourages shared play and interaction. Sensory elements are thoughtfully integrated, such as control joints in the sidewalk for tactile feedback when using wheelchairs or scooters, along with rollers on the slides and a musical section that invite exploration and interaction.
The playground’s materials and features were chosen with accessibility, durability, and student engagement in mind:
> Poured-in-place rubberized surface
– This makes it easy for kids in wheelchairs or with mobility aids to get around, while also being soft and safe for everyone.
> Turf for the hill – Turf adds a fun and tactile element but also dries quickly, making the hill usable even after wet weather. It’s become a favorite spot for students to roll down and play.
> Glider – This glider includes an accessible ramp and space for wheelchairs, as well as steps and grab rails so other students can join, making it inclusive and interactive.
> Slide with rollers – Rollers on the slide provide a sensory experience, adding another layer of engagement for students.
> Control joints in sidewalks – These were included to give tactile feedback for kids using wheelchairs or scooters, creating a more interactive path.
> Musical section – This area invites kids to explore and play while encouraging sensory learning.
One unique aspect is the musical section, where students can sit or lie on the nearby hill and act as an audience, creating a playful performance space. The accessible sidewalk surrounding the playground also serves as a track where students can safely race and play.
The design also incorporates the school’s colors, with the rubber surface changing around equipment to mark “fall zones,” helping teachers quickly identify areas that may need extra attention.
The district, staff and community came together with Pfluger to determine what was most important for this playground. With a focus on thoughtful design, testing ideas, and adjusting based on feedback, the team balanced creativity with practicality. The guiding principles of inclusivity, variety, nature and community shaped every step of the process, resulting in a playground that feels like it truly belongs to the community.
The community envisioned an inclusive playground as a natural space connecting children to the local ecosystem, offering cognitive benefits, supporting health and well-being, and providing just the right level of challenge.
The team found ways to stretch the budget–like using the natural shade of existing trees instead of adding expensive structures and carefully choosing equipment that was both inclusive and affordable. Working with Allplay, the equipment manufacturer, Pfluger focused on carefully choosing equipment, finding options that give students a wide range of play experiences without going over budget.
The community envisioned an inclusive playground as a natural space connecting children to the local ecosystem, offering cognitive benefits, supporting health and well-being, and providing just the right level of challenge. The location on the side of the school was chosen to complement an existing adjacent playground, allowing the two spaces to work together. The new playground is also accessible through a separate gate, making it available to the community and other schools (with approval) without requiring access through the main campus.
By combining elements and integrating sensory features, the playground creates a space that is safe, accessible, and welcoming for all abilities.
Thoughtful consideration was paid to the layout of the entire site as well as prioritizing safety and supervision, placing the tunnel under the hill in a way that allows teachers to keep an eye on the kids as they play. The rubber surface changes color around equipment to mark “fall zones,” making it easier for teachers to quickly spot areas that may need extra attention.
A key requirement for this project was ensuring the entire playground was wheelchair accessible, not just certain paths. Rubber flooring was installed throughout the playground and grading was carefully managed to ensure slopes are within acceptable limits, allowing students to freely explore the whole space. For example, the ramp up to the slide was designed with a 1:20 slope ratio which eliminated the need for guardrails or large landing pads, keeping the space looking open and playful while still meeting accessibility standards.
As the district’s first inclusive playground, this project addressed a significant need for a space where children of all abilities can play and learn together. The concept and execution were fairly simple, but the impact has been profound. For kids, the playground feels magical–transforming a simple design into something extraordinary through thoughtful planning.
The playground has created a space where students of all abilities can come together, fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging. By encouraging play and interaction, it helps build social skills and connections that are key to their growth. The design also supports students’ physical and sensory development, offering opportunities for movement, exploration and hands-on engagement. These experiences help students build confidence, develop motor skills, and engage with their surroundings in meaningful ways.
It is not only about where things go but how kids will interact with them.
Children see the world in ways adults don’t–they turn simple spaces into places of imagination and wonder, often using things in unexpected ways. It’s a reminder the smallest details can have the biggest impact.
We believe that environments shape experiences, and for children, those experiences are foundational. Every design choice, no matter how small, is made with the intention to find thoughtful solutions that not only bring the client’s vision to life but also grow alongside the evolving needs of their community.
Galena Park ISD is focused on making their schools more inclusive and adaptable, planning improvements at existing sites and creating spaces that support physical, mental, and instructional diversity, opening the door for every student to feel more connected and supported.
The district’s new inclusive playground serves as a space for students to grow, challenge themselves, and build important skills in an environment that feels welcoming and fun. CCR
Raleigh Sullivan, AIA, is Managing Principal of Pfluger Architects’ Houston office, where he manages educational design projects and works with schools across South Texas to create meaningful human experiences.
While gaining in prominence, is your roof ready for solar panels?
By Tanner Duer
The installation of rooftop solar panels is accelerating across commercial properties. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), there were more than 50 gigawatts of U.S. rooftop solar systems installed in 2024 on 5 million homes and commercial buildings.
It’s easy to see why. Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels can help commercial property owners seize significant benefits, including:
> Cost savings from reduced energy bills
> Energy independence from a renewable and reliable source of energy
> Carbon footprint reduction via elimination of greenhouse gas emissions associated with conventional methods of energy production
> Enhanced property value
> Attractiveness to sustainability-conscious tenants
Given these benefits, the investment in a PV system may seem like an easy decision. Simply install the panels, and watch the benefits roll in.
The reality is more complicated. It is critical that your roof system itself is ready for the installation and long-term operation of your solar panels, including the operational risks and maintenance needs that come with them. Here, we will explore these considerations, and how the right strategies and roof system design can help commercial owners and facility managers get the most from this valuable investment.
An investment in rooftop PV panels involves the work required to install and maintain them throughout the course of their life cycle—and that means a significant influx of traffic on your roof.
With technicians walking across your roof, wielding heavy tools as well as the components and materials related to the PV system, it’s important to have confidence in the integrity of your roof system. This means both its current condition (more on this later)
and the roof membrane’s ability to withstand common causes of wear and puncture.
The errant dropping of a tool, for example, has the potential to cause real damage to a roof membrane that does not demonstrate excellent puncture resistance. Moving and installing the PV panels and racking also lead to greater potential for damage.
Then there’s the matter of how the panels will be secured to your roof. There are two primary mounting methods for PV systems:
> Ballasted racking, which relies on heavy concrete blocks to anchor the system onto the roof. These are simple to install and can avoid penetrations through the roof system and into the roof deck.
> Mounting anchors, which are fastened through the roof system and into the roof deck, then welded to seal against the roof membrane, creating a strong and direct attachment to the roof.
Each method presents trade-offs. Ballasted systems can allow for movement of PV system components during severe weather events with high wind. In addition, these systems can damage the roof membrane as sand, resulting from the degradation of concrete ballast, and other debris accumulate beneath the mounting system. This debris increases the risk of abrasion due to years of minor movement caused by wind and building vibrations.
Such movement may also stress electrical connections, increasing the likelihood of electrical failure that could result in an arc, introducing a fire risk. Ballasted systems also involve larger surface area contact at the roof surface when compared to mounting anchors, which may have greater potential to trap debris and other organic matter, such as leaves, near the panels themselves, presenting increased consequences to any potential fire event.
Finally, ballasted systems come with an additional weight load that your roof must be able to withstand.
Mounting anchors eliminate these considerations but involve penetrating the roofing membrane, which introduces potential leak points. With this in mind, anchors should be outfitted with skirts that can be welded to the roofing membrane to ensure
a permanent, watertight seal. Additionally, precise planning is required for placement of these anchors in accordance with the design of the PV system, which could involve hundreds of mounting anchors.
Before moving forward with a PV system, it’s important to conduct a roof assessment to determine if the roof membrane and components are capable of performing for the lifetime of the PV system. The assessment should also evaluate the roof’s structural integrity to ensure weight-bearing capacity. If it is found that the roof membrane should be replaced, then this should be addressed prior to installation.
Indeed, evaluating the lifespan of your roof system is one of the most important considerations to be made when planning for the investment in rooftop PV. The Department of Energy estimates the operational lifespan of a PV module is about 30–35 years—and for some even longer than that, according to its “End-of-Life Management for Solar Photovoltaics” report.
Therefore, it’s important that your choice of roof system demonstrates an equal or higher anticipated lifespan. And different roof systems deliver different life expectancies. For example, a recent report from a leading asset management consulting firm Mantis Innovation found that TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) single-ply roof membranes—one of the most frequently used materials in commercial roofing—are rated with a service life of only 20 years.
On the other hand, PVC and EPDM roof membranes were found to perform comparably. In contrast, a KEE-based roof membrane was determined to have a service life exceeding 40 years, roughly two times the life of the other membranes that were evaluated.
A critically important consideration to be made when installing rooftop PV panels is the added fire risk. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Research
Foundation, “With these systems, the likelihood of a rooftop fire significantly increases since electrical breakdown—leading to arc faults, ground faults, and short circuits— can occur anywhere across the system. Any electrical fault can be accompanied by ensuing fire.”
Further, in 2023, Clean Energy Associates (CEA) performed more than 600 safety audits of rooftop PV installations and found that 97% of the systems had safety concerns related to ignition hazards.
Good installation practices and maintenance can help mitigate these risks. The DOE’s Better Buildings® program notes that reputable solar installers will design their systems in accordance with recognized fire codes that identify best practices for rooftop PV systems. Many installers also will share designs with local fire departments to ensure the fire department is aware of the PV system and is involved in the approval process. These can be found in the “Frequently Asked Questions: Commercial Rooftop Solar” at the U.S. Department of Energy.
But for commercial property owners and operators, further due diligence should be performed to ensure the roof system is best designed to mitigate the added fire risks associated with solar panels. For example, the use of gypsum coverboards can
help mitigate the spread of fire in the event of membrane ignition.
In addition, they improve overall system durability from increased point loads associated with PV racking and foot traffic resulting from increased maintenance and inspections, making them doubly beneficial for solar panel installation.
Further, it’s worth evaluating the fire performance of your roof membrane. Certain single-ply membrane types are more likely to contribute to flame spread than others— for example, testing has shown that TPO membranes can contribute to significant flame spread, increasing the risks and consequences related to rooftop fire.
Comparatively, there are some roof membranes that have self-extinguishing properties and can help to further reduce flame spread and severity of a roof fire, contributing to overall operational security and safety.
An investment in a rooftop PV system can help commercial property owners and facility managers reel in significant operational and economic benefits. But to make the most of it, your roof must be up to the task of supporting such critical infrastructure. High-performance roof systems can make all the difference in protecting both your investment and operational security. CCR
By Kurt Sultzman
Forecasting is at the heart of all construction industry companies. All parties, including architects, designers, estimators, subcontractors and general contractors, should be concerned about the state of the economy and their company’s cash flow. Each participant in a construction project shares the goals of preventing the unexpected, driving results of the deliverables to their customers and creating profitable outcomes for their company.
Many factors, economically and situationally, require attention to produce accurate forecasting and budgets. Accurate forecasting doesn’t happen overnight–it requires added attention to economic and situational factors to get the numbers right. A budget is a baseline concept in construction. The budget is a moving cost target that an owner agrees to as the project evolves. A budget is only accurate to the level that contractors and owners understand a project’s scope.
The quality of communication can affect the full understanding of a project’s scope, and therefore its budget. Accurate forecasting is reliant on the professionalism of project managers and partnering financial professionals to present costs, schedules, change orders and billings. That means timely entry of data by project managers and accounting is paramount to a reliable forecast.
Recognizing the fluid nature of project budgets, relying on updates and historical information to produce a current forecast is critical. Past experience with job completion time should help guide scheduling decisions.
General condition costs can eat away at profitability if schedules are not met. Utilizing job experience enables project managers to predict performance outcomes.
Additionally, historical data allows an assessment of scope to see shortfalls in estimates by subcontractors that need to be addressed at the time of estimating or assessing future change orders. One common mistake construction business owners make is not taking into account schedule delays (which are inevitable) that drive general condition expenditures.
Additionally, many contractors don’t effectively identify scope creep—those items not reflected on the original estimate—that would warrant a change order. If these items are not identified soon enough, project deadlines are not met, and those costs typically cannot be recovered.
Historical indicators can be mined from accounting systems and job tracking software to provide a reference point comparing actual costs versus predictive budgets. With accurate data tracking, dashboards can be produced by financial
professionals to make meaningful information more accessible.
As with all historical data, it is a benchmark to be placed alongside newly awarded projects. There will always be unique elements of construction jobs associated with labor, location, weather and jurisdiction that should also be considered in future forecasting. One KPI that provides significant value to contractors is “last billed dates by job.”
each project aspect makes it easier to stay up-to-date on scope changes.
Most contractors are familiar with the Work in Progress Report (WIP). This report explains the percentage of a project completed as it relates to budget costs incurred. It allows contractors to understand if their billings are over or under-billed against the job’s contract. Historical billings show what backlog is left of the
Predicting the pipeline of work is critical for a construction business owner, which requires proper estimates. Project start dates and the likeliness of closing are the barometers of future work.
If invoices aren’t sent in a timely manner, liquidity can be significantly impacted. This KPI helps project managers avoid lapses that can cause cash flow concerns and should be monitored closely. A cost code budgeting system is also recommended. Tracking actual versus budgeted cost of
project value that should be included in the forecast.
It is important to ensure all change orders are included in this figure. It is equally important to know if the field progress is keeping pace with the on paper progress reported in billings.
In concept, this means projects have no hidden costs. Operational managers play a critical role in providing data points and reviewing this aspect of forecasting to ensure data integrity. Data is most meaningful if it is current. A fractional CFO can work with the operational team to create cash flow forecasts and project progress reports. This allows better reaction to shortfalls and scope changes.
Predicting the pipeline of work is critical for a construction business owner, which requires proper estimates. Project start dates and the likeliness of closing are the barometers of future work: estimate data collected for forecasting needs to include projected start times, finish dates and percentage chance of completion.
Models can be created by financial professionals/fractional CFOs with construction field knowledge to establish the current backlog of a construction company along with active jobs to produce a forecast of billables. As in all forecasting, the size, type and duration of projects drives the reliability of the model. Each construction company has its own experience that nuances the forecasting process, but the more estimates
a company produces, the more standardized the predictability of dollar volume becomes.
A broad market perspective is critical to success
Rising rents, material costs and interest rates are all impacting the construction industry today. Economic pressure makes budgeting accuracy even more crucial. The uncertain economic landscape plays a vital role in every aspect of construction. In estimating, the economy directly influences which sector a company should prioritize. In a broad sense, the construction industry is broken into segments: government, industrial, commercial and residential.
Within these broad segments, there are myriad of sub-segments, such as remodel or new construction. In a predictive way, the
number of jobs available in the market per construction segment affects a construction company’s close rate of estimates. These economic considerations should be incorporated into the predictive model that a financial professional creates.
Construction companies need to keep a pulse on the economic climate–positive or negative–to stay relevant and keep the company afloat. The size of projects available and hiring decisions by subcontractors are driven by estimated wins. Project owners will often direct their timing and funding based on fears and optimism.
Funding costs will drive whether commercial or residential projects make more sense. Property owners will decide whether a remodel or new construction is more economical. National and local municipalities
direct funding to areas of concern, which might include healthcare, infrastructure, repair catch-up or public service offerings. The flexibility to shift to new segments may determine the pricing strategy and marketing energies of a company.
At the end of the day, it’s all about people. Leadership means giving the tools for success to the most valuable resource—the team. The construction industry needs timely information constantly. Having the best project manager and financial people driving results creates a clear path to success.
It is critical for leaders of companies to stay current on both broad market forces and internal project baselines to produce the most accurate estimates, forecasts and budgets. CCR
Kurt Sultzman is a Fractional CFO with Ascent CFO Solutions. Over his 20-year career, he has served companies in the roles of CFO, controller, general manager and entrepreneur in the construction and medical industries. His experience is diverse, but his passion is universal: supporting great business people in achieving their goals and dreams. As a CFO, Sultzman has participated in the success of companies during times of transition, including openings, restructures and mergers. In the course of regular business operations, he has facilitated improvements in organizations through integrated production controls and accounting systems. His experience spans the medical, home care, medical device, construction and education industries.
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CCCT with Fred Malik, Managing Director, Fortified, A IBHS Program
David Corson, CCR Publisher/Editor, spoke with Fred Malik, Managing Director of FORTIFIED, an IBHS program that goes beyond standard building codes to enhance home and commercial building resilience against severe weather like high winds, hail, hurricanes, and tornadoes. FORTIFIED offers voluntary construction and re-roofing standards to provide stronger protection than even the strictest local codes.
CCCT with Sarah Eynon, Senior Director with MGAC David Corson, CCR Publisher/Editor, spoke with Sarah Eynon, Senior Director at MGAC, a global boutique consultancy dedicated to representing clients’ best interests. MGAC combines experience, creativity, integrity, and commitment to deliver personalized service with the resources of a global firm.
An interview podcast that talks to guests that will have business titles in design, construction, facilities, real estate, procurement, development, etc. in retail, restaurants, hospitality, healthcare, federal, multi-family, shopping center owners, developers, cannabis, mixed-use along with the A/E/C sectors plus vendor service suppliers & mfcs who’s products and services are specified, recommend and purchased by enduser brands to build and maintain their facilities in the Commercial Construction Building industry.
To be a guest or sponsor, reach out to David Corson your host at davidc@ccr-mag.com.
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CCCT with Kit Dickinson, Industry Executive from ADP
David Corson, CCR Publisher/Editor, sat down with Kit Dickinson, Industry Executive with ADP that designs better ways to work through cutting-edge products, premium services and exceptional experiences that enable people to reach their full potential. HR, Talent, Time Management, Benefits and Payroll. Informed by data and designed for people.
CCCT with Neil Peterson, CEO from LED Lighting Supply
David Corson, CCR Publisher/Editor, sat down with Neil Peterson, CEO from LED Lighting Supply, to record a CCCT episode, who uses 15+ years of lighting, pole and fan experience to recommend the perfect solution for your needs at the best value. Based in Nashua, NH, they have been your trusted and reliable lighting, pole and fan partner for commercial, industrial, and sports projects since 2008.
How the Venue at Thunder Valley blends history, modernism
By Thomas Renner
Many American communities wrestle with blending the rich history of the region with modern architectural design and components. But the struggle in Lincoln, California is particularly challenging. The Maidu and Miwok Indians thrived in California’s fertile central valley for centuries and both groups comprise what is now called the United Auburn Indian Community.
The Venue is a state-of-the-art facility with cutting-edge sound and video systems, multi-level spaces with (various?) amenities, and multiple concession and circulation spaces.
The community is based on the Auburn Rancheria and represents the indigenous population of the Auburn area with a history tied to the local landscape. Coupled with its deep Native American history is Lincoln’s growth and importance in the state’s railroad industry. The town was established in the mid-19th Century when the California Central Railroad extended its tracks into the area. The installation of the rail line brought new settlers, goods and opportunities, transforming the town from a quiet area into a bustling hub.
The convergence of history and architectural modernism became permanently rooted in Lincoln when the Thunder Valley Casino Resort opened in 2003. The resort is owned by the UAIC, and the group added to the complex with the construction of a $100 million indoor concert and entertainment venue. The
“The United Auburn Indian Community is proud to have the ability to continue to position Thunder Valley as Northern California’s premier entertainment destination. The Venue is the future of entertainment at Thunder Valley.”
— Gene Whitehouse, Chairman, UAIC
Venue at Thunder Valley is a recently opened state-of-the-art entertainment building, which includes 4,500 seats and spans 150,000 square feet.
Architects at OTJ faced the complex challenge of designing an entertainment venue that included modern features while embracing the history of its First Nations
client. A nearby rail line delivered frequent noise that also needed remediation. After two years of construction, The Venue opened with a concert by The Eagles. The new facility replaced an outdoor amphitheater that opened in 2011.
John Bow, Thunder Valley’s Entertainment Director says the venue had run
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its course. “It was time for us to get a new building, climate controlled.’’
Gary Martinez, Senior Principal at OTJ, says the firm wanted to be sensitive to what their history had been and how they got to this point. “They had this nice resort, but they didn’t have an indoor venue. We were able to get some of the icons of the past and patterns that were used in the dwellings of their original tribe. Some of those patterns, in a subtle way, we were able to bring to the interior. We were able to connect their legacy with a 21st-Century performing arts center.”
Prior to the opening of The Venue, concerts and shows were held outdoors, regardless of the weather. More than 300 shows, ranging from nationally known artists to comedians, tribute bands and festivals, performed at the 5,000-seat facility. The new facility offers cutting edge sound and video systems, multi-level spaces and amenities and multiple concession and circulation spaces. Schuler Shook collaborated with OTJ in designing the theater.
One of the most popular elements of the former outdoor stage were bars
positioned along the edges of the seating area, allowing guests to see and hear the show while placing their drink orders. That feature was incorporated into the new building, with six bars on three different seating levels that allow views of the stage so that guests don’t miss a minute of the show.
Balconies wrap around the sidewalls and embrace the stage, and exceptional sightlines add a strong sense of intimacy to the patron experience. Accessible seating is located at the front of every auditorium level.
A large lift at the front of the stage allows workers to move production equipment into the auditorium, and storage under the stage holds nearly 700 portable chairs that enable the flat floor zone to be reconfigured or cleared for specific events. The rigging and lighting systems are simple and flexible, including the ability for decorative LED features in the auditorium to be controlled by the show console.
Martinez says architects also carefully plotted the size and shape of the building and accounted for ample parking while also connecting The Venue with the casino. “We checked it a number of times to make sure we weren’t taking too many parking spaces away. We wanted to make it an easy walk and we were able to do that. There’s a direct connection from the casino to The Venue, and we made sure guests were protected with the environment that is there.”
Martinez remembers the moment when he realized his team would need to address noise issues within the surrounding community. The OTJ team took in a comedy performance at the amphitheater when the show was interrupted by a passing train.
“There’s a major train line about 400 or 500 yards away,’’ Martinez says. “We could hear it coming as it was crossing a street. Horns were blowing, and the comic just went crazy. I turned to my colleague and said we’re going to have to do something about that. It wasn’t a huge piece of land, so we had to be conscious of how we addressed that.”
The OTJ team specified six acoustical smoke vents to help mitigate exterior noise. The motorized smoke vents, manufactured
by BILCO, measure 5 feet x 10 feet and carry industry-high OITC-46 and STC-50 sounds ratings. The OITC figure is the preferred rating when addressing sound insulation from exterior noise, as it rates the transmission of sound between outdoor and indoor spaces.
Martinez says architects designed a layered system to minimize noise intrusion. “We have some elements on the roof, other elements on the walls and around the doors. What we look for are elements that we’ve had success with in the past and fit well into the entire infrastructure. Whether it’s storms or planes or ambulances, you don’t want them going by and interrupting the show that’s going on.”
Lawson Mechanical Contractors installed the smoke vents while working for the project’s general contractor, McCarthy Building Companies. “We’ve done quite a few projects with a performing arts center, and we’ve done a lot of historic buildings and places that were built in the early 20th century,’’ Martinez says. “We have been
> The Venue at Thunder Valley is a recently opened entertainment facility with seating capacity for 4,500 in Lincoln, California. It is part of the Thunder Valley Casino Resort, which opened in 2003 and is owned by the United Auburn Indian Community.
> The 150,000-square-foot indoor concert and entertainment building opened after two years of construction and cost $100 million. It replaced an outdoor amphitheater in which performances were held regardless of weather.
> Architects faced the challenge of minimizing noise intrusion from a nearby rail line. Railroads have been integral to Lincoln’s landscape for more than 160 years.
> The project includes six acoustical smoke vents from BILCO, which have industry-high OITC and STC sound ratings.
very happy with the performance of the BILCO smoke vents. We’ve never had issues with them. We can’t make it a single-bid situation but there are not many manufacturers that make acoustical smoke vents for projects like this.”
Smoke vents play an important role in saving lives and reducing property damage in the event of a fire. BILCO vents spring open upon the melting of a fusible link, allowing smoke, heat and gas to escape and decreasing the possibility of smoke inhalation to building occupants.
The Venue at Thunder Valley adds to the growing appeal of Lincoln, which has seen its population soar. In 1980, a little more than 4,000 people called the Sacramento suburb home, and by 2000 the population swelled to slightly more than 11,000. Now, however, Lincoln is one of the fastest-growing communities in the United States. Census statistics now peg Lincoln’s population at more than 52,000 residents.
The Venue at Thunder Valley certainly adds a much-needed entertainment space. After The Eagles opened the facility, guests enjoyed sold-out shows by Bruno Mars and Santana. Jerry Seinfeld, Mariah Carey and Cher are among the marquee names who have performed at The Venue, which also has hosted boxing matches, comedians and magic shows.
The facility successfully navigated the inherent challenges in honoring the past, accepting the present and planning for the future. It’s a tightrope that can only be walked with teamwork and vision, and The Venue demonstrates the possibilities when stakeholders work together.
“The United Auburn Indian Community is proud to have the ability to continue to position Thunder Valley as Northern California’s premier entertainment destination,’’ says Gene Whitehouse, Chairman of UAIC. “The Venue is the future of entertainment at Thunder Valley, and we look forward to attracting big-name performers year-round.”
Thomas Renner writes on building, construction and other trade industry topics for publications throughout the United States.
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Federal and local agencies fund complex
$300 million NYC ADA upgrade
By Peter Wilk
The 14th Street Subway Station stretches along West 14th Street between Sixth and Seventh Avenues.
The station serves the F and M trains running north and south along Sixth Avenue, the L train along 14 Street, and the 1, 2 and 3 lines running north and south along Seventh Avenue. The three stations have a total of five platforms.
Thanks to the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA), the major milestone of having 90% of New York City’s subway stations fully accessible and ADA compliant by 2045 is on track. Project manager MTA Construction and Development (MTA C&D), design-build contractor Citnalta-Forte, JV and designers Urbahn Architects and Gannett Fleming completed an accessibility upgrade and renovation of the 14th Street Sixth Avenue subway station complex in Manhattan.
The $300 million funding for this ADA upgrade and redevelopment megaproject included $247 million in federal funds. “The new MTA is completing accessibility projects five times faster than ever before,” says MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber.
Cover photo:
MTA Construction and Development, design-build contractor Citnalta-Forte, Joint Venture and designers Urbahn Architects and Gannett Fleming completed a $300 million accessibility upgrade and other renovations at the 14th Street Sixth Avenue subway station complex in Manhattan.
Left to right: Naik Group Senior Project Manager Mekh Gurung; accessibility advocates Debra Greif and Christopher Greif; Permanent Citizens Advisory Committee to the MTA Executive Director Lisa Daglian; MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber; MTA Chief Accessibility Officer Quemuel Arroyo; New York City Transit President Demetrius Crichlow; Federal Transit Administration Regional Administrator Michael Culotta; Urbahn Architects Project Manager and Senior Associate Lawrence Gutterman, AIA, DBIA; MTA C&D Vice President Matthew D. Zettwoch; MTA C&D Assoc. Vice President and Program Director Edmund C. Gbanite, R.A.; Citnalta Construction President Michael Gargiulo; Gannett Fleming TranSystems Deputy Design Manager Amr Aly, PE, LEED AP; Forte Construction President Larry Pappas; and Naik Group Lead Resident Engineer Souheil Ragheb.
Photo by Peter Wilk/Wilk Marketing Communications
The accessibility upgrades coupled with critical state of good repair work and station environment improvements have transformed 14 Street into a welcoming transit hub for all New Yorkers. The main goal behind this $300 million project was to provide full ADA accessibility to the transit complex used by more than 130,000 passengers every day. The station now fully is accessible, receiving necessary technological, lighting, infrastructure and circulation improvements.
The 14th Street Complex is one of numerous projects Citnalta-Forte has completed for the MTA throughout its 50year history. For Urbahn, the project is part of its ongoing ADA accessibility redesign assignment from the MTA. To date, the firm has designed accessibility upgrades at 16 subway stations in recent years.
“The MTA contracted the project in the design-build method, a process in which a client retains an entire team of contractor, architect, and engineers to deliver both the design and construction under one contract,” says Lawrence Gutterman, AIA, DBIA, Urbahn’s Project Manager and Senior Associate. “This method streamlines and accelerates the work, provides one point of responsibility, and improves collaboration. The design-build process allowed us to deliver the 14th Street station upgrades on time and on budget, a significant achievement considering the project’s size and complexity.”
Joe Tulumello, AIA, Gannett Fleming’s Executive Director, Buildings and Places, says that design-build is a powerful tool for delivering exceptional projects. “It allows us to achieve elevated design standards, while meeting client needs for speed.”
Within the Gannett Fleming/Urbahn joint venture, Urbahn was the architectural lead partner and the architect for the Sixth Avenue portion of the project, while Gannett Fleming was the architect for the Seventh Avenue portion and the structural engineer for the Sixth Avenue portion, as well as the elevator consultant and infrastructure and controls designer.
The design-build contract holder and builder was Citnalta-Forte, a joint venture of Citnalta Construction and Forte Construction. Other team members included project management consultant Naik Group, MEP engineer A. G. Consultant Engineering, structural engineer for the Seventh Avenue portion Dewberry Engineers, communications and fire alarms engineer Geri Goldman Engineering, lighting designer Domingo Gonzalez Associates, and historic restoration consultant Jablonski Building Conservation.
In addition to Barranco and Gutterman, Urbahn’s design team included Project Architect Michael Sheedy, AIA, Design Quality Assurance Manager and Senior Associate Nandini Sengupta, Associate AIA and Designer Tom Barcik. “Early in the project’s design phase, the team surveyed all the un-
derground utilities and structures to evaluate existing conditions, necessary upgrades and best locations for the new elevators and stairs,” Sheedy says.
The designers and builders installed nine new elevators as well as 25 new and 39 renovated stairways. In addition to the necessary relocation of a multitude of utility lines, the team had to reconfigure and expand mezzanine levels to create access to the new elevators.
The team addressed numerous logistical and engineering. In addition to the required relocation of a multitude of utility lines, the builders had to reconfigure and expand both the upper and lower mezzanine levels on the Sixth Avenue side in order to create access to the new elevators.
They also had to take into account that the southbound and northbound platforms for the F and M lines on the Sixth Avenue side are separated by PATH train tracks and a platform that is operated by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which necessitated the installation of dedicated elevators for each of the subway platforms in this section.
The logistics was the most challenging aspect of the project, as the Citnalta team had to complete the work without disrupting the commute of 130,000 daily passengers. Technical challenges included the complex task of excavating the bedrock to the depth of up to 40 feet to install the new elevators next to a busy street and underground utilities.
“In addition, due to the sections of the complex being over 100 years old, some of the pre-existing conditions and locations of older infrastructure installations were not discovered until the renovation was already under way,” says Citnalta’s Project Executive Michael Murphy. “Despite these challenges, we still met the project’s completion schedule and budget.“
A new ADA ramp on the pathway between the Sixth Avenue and Seventh Avenue sides was installed to address issues with the preexisting ramp that made it too steep for proper wheelchair access. The new ramp runs approximately half the length of the pathway and was designed at a shallower angle for easier wheelchair use. The contractors phased the ramp redevelopment work to ensure safe access and egress for the occupants of the large back-of-house operation in this station complex.
The complex’s large back-of-house operation services almost all of the subway stations in Manhattan. The complex’s upgrades required reconfiguration of these offices and storage rooms, including several areas built early in the project to allow subsequent relocation of the rooms displaced to accommodate the new elevators and elevator machine rooms. The Urbahn team interviewed the back-of-house employees to ascertain their day-to-day needs and ensure that their work would continue uninterrupted.
Other upgrades and repairs included platform surfaces, wayfinding signage and tiled walls in the pathway and within the platform areas. The platforms received new concrete topping slabs to align them seamlessly with elevator landings and train entrances. The platforms now feature new tactile warning strips and indicate ADA boarding zones located directly in front of the trains’ doors. FC
SEPTEMBER 16 - 17, 2025
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Why the diverse, versatile North Carolina GC’s national reputation keeps growing
Keith Esquerré Principal PEC, Perrier Esquerre Contractors
In an industry where reputation is built project by project, Perrier Esquerre Contractors (PEC) has established itself as a standout commercial construction firm. Thanks to its unwavering commitment to foundational values, the company, founded in 2014 by Brett Perrier and Keith Esquerré, continues to grow its reputation.
With a combined portfolio exceeding $750 million in completed projects in 2014, Perrier and Esquerré joined forces, envisioning a company that distinguished itself with a deliberate approach to business. When they united, they weren’t simply looking to build structures; they were determined to build a company rooted in principles that often get overlooked in the rush to completion: honesty, integrity and meticulous attention to detail.
We sat down with co-founder Brett Perrier to get his insights on Perrier Esquerre’s journey, philosophy and vision for the future of commercial construction.
Give us a snapshot of your brand.
A leading voice in the commercial contracting industry, Perrier Esquerré Contractors, LLC (PEC) puts people first always and prioritizes relationships above all else. Founded in New Orleans and led by Brett Perrier and Keith Esquerré, PEC was built on an ethical foundation where safety, scheduling, high-quality work and budget efficiency could be equitably provided to clients.
The work has paid off.
With more than 127 projects with repeat clients, 28 industry awards, and climbing— all garnered within a span of 10 years— PEC’s footprint continues to grow across the Greater New Orleans area. When it comes to high-quality commercial construction, it’s impossible to overvalue continuous communication and transparent collaboration.
What type of clients and markets are you targeting?
The main focus of work is centered within the privately owned, commercial construction sector. Our primary project types include retail, high-end restaurants, private practice
medical clinics, healthcare clinics, nursing homes, financial institutions, light industrial buildings, veterinary clinics, multifamily and multi-use buildings. The vast majority of our projects are structured as either negotiated, design-build or design-assist contracts.
How does your work cater to today’s end-users?
We are a customer service-based commercial general contractor. Today’s end-users are focused on a high level of sophisticated communication and transparency in every phase of the construction process and are not just looking for the cheapest solution but the one with the longest-term viability for success. From the napkin conceptual design phase of the project all the way through substantial completion, we focus on consistently communicating and collaborating with our clients.
Whether it’s unexpected challenges we encounter on the project, longer than expected lead times on materials that will need to be procured for the project, or even the good news—like when we are ahead of schedule—we communicate early and often to connect transparently.
How is your construction strategy based?
PEC is an industry leader in offering the highest quality services and materials at the best fair market price, while always providing an impeccable collaborative experience and unmatched customer service. Through the utilization of skilled trade members, direct purchasing of materials, and an unyielding commitment to safety, PEC is able to complete projects with a proficiency that is tough to rival.
Repeat clients know it is best practice to begin collaboration early so PEC can identify cost drivers and collaborate directly with design team partners on value engineering ideas and possibilities to help keep projects on schedule and within budget.
What are some of today’s biggest challenges?
Overall, I would say the biggest challenge today is adjusting to the shifting costs of materials. Before 2020, we never really needed to monitor the weekly or monthly commodity markets at the rate that we have needed to monitor them since then. The volatility in the overall cost of goods was a huge challenge
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to become accustomed to, but unfortunately, this has become our new norm.
We are also seeing some additional pricing increases coming in 2025 for some of our most utilized materials which are composed of timber, steel, aluminum, metal, and plastics. There also is a big challenge in monitoring these commodity prices all while keeping our pricing commitments to our clients.
We stay in front of this challenge by constantly communicating with clients, letting them know each time we hear from the market on increases, and setting deadlines on when selections need to be made to avoid these shifting costs.
The biggest challenge in renovations is always the unknown of the existing conditions. Most unknowns aren’t encountered until we actually remove the concrete or sheetrock, remove an existing wall, or expose a wall envelope. So preliminary demo permits can help us assess these unknowns early to allow for a great likelihood of being able to build to the design.
When opportunities arise in our design-build and design-assist projects, we always think about sustainability in the context of the overall program of the project as well as the specific materials we tend to lean toward. During our Value Engineering exercises with our clients, we consistently explore how we reuse elements of the existing building as opposed to just demolishing and installing new.
Being a GC whose main market is a dense, historic area like the greater New Orleans area, the preservation of old buildings in and of themselves lend to our sustainability initiatives. Some of the larger projects in our history have also required us to refurbish or restore the existing pieces and materials of these old historic buildings, which has been a great source of pride for our team.
What do you see as some of the biggest challenges in construction, moving ahead?
The industry as a whole has accelerated. From the pace at which designers produce drawings to construction timelines,
the need to start putting buildings into commerce faster due to shifting costs is becoming remarkable. We are proud to have fully adapted to these challenges, but to continue the pace, as an industry we need to increase our document control measures, produce estimates quicker, and line up our crews and procure materials to execute as fast as the client needs the project turned over.
This is a challenge because as all project team partners accelerate projects - designers, owners, and contractors - the margin of error decreases and needs to be managed. At PEC, we have proprietary tools in place to help manage this process to help reduce the potential for errors in any facet of the project.
Are you optimistic about what you see in your building and construction sectors?
We are very optimistic in our regional market. We are continuously seeing clients eager to progress projects forward. The state of Louisiana is currently housing the largest ongoing construction project in the
world, a chemical plant project located in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana.
Large data centers and car production facilities are also starting construction work throughout the state, so we anticipate that we will see more and more complimentary projects in our market that will get greenlit in order to support the needs of the state’s overall economic momentum. Plant workers and data engineers all need to eat, sleep and play, we will build the restaurants, retail, apartment buildings and hotels that serve those needs.
The biggest trend I am seeing is the use of cloud-based document control management and project management software programs, like Procore. At PEC, we have been using it for approximately six years, and it seems to have become the norm for every client we talk to today.
They may not use Procore, but each client has their own type of document control/ project management software they use that assists in the successful collaboration in the project, and this has been a tremendous
Describe a typical day.
We have three main departments: Operations, Field Operations and Pre-Construction. I am the Director of Pre-Construction, so a typical day for me is finding work. All joking aside, we are constantly budgeting new projects for clients, finding viable value engineering or cost-saving ideas and options, building new relationships with subcontractors and trade partners, and finalizing contracts with clients so our operations team can get to work in the office and the field. These three departments are always working toward operational harmony to keep the company moving, growing, and making our clients smile.
What was the best advice you ever received?
“Even if you are desperate for work and the market is low, know and understand your worth and never take a project at 0% fee or below costs”
What’s the best thing a client ever said to you?
I have to state first, we are not a disaster-relief contractor. But knowing we live in an area prone to natural disasters in the form of hurricanes, it is only inevitable that we will be called to help out when the time comes.
In 2021, Hurricane IDA hit Louisiana, and we had several projects in progress when this one hit. While servicing those clients, there were several of our other clients who needed sudden disaster recovery support as well. As a customer service-based business, we were called to help. We dropped what we were doing, and helped all our clients with their immediate needs, working long hours, and truthfully, not earning much profit due to our sense of responsibility to help our clients.
After all the dust settled, one of my favorite clients called me just to say, “thank you.” It was something so simple, but so impactful to me, as we really went out on a limb for all our clients to get their business back in commerce as fast as possible after the disaster. But that one client who called just to say a simple “thank you” meant the world to me and reinforced that we are conducting our business the way I always wanted to—putting our clients and human safety first.
game changer in the effectiveness of project communication and process clarity.
Currently, we are very happy with the stability we have built at PEC in just 10 years since our launch. We started with only two employees and in our first year we made $1 million in revenue. This year, we have approximately 30 employees and our revenues are approximately $30 million. We like this steady, organic growth and look forward to continuing on this growth trajectory.
We are currently in the process of moving our current office headquarters to a much larger, more centralized office in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana. This will allow us to help better service our projects, our clients and our trade partners around the region. Our plan is to keep our steady, organic growth pace and, eventually deliver projects all along the Gulf Coast.
We do feel like we are not like other typical contractors. This is best exemplified in some of our core values: Smile, People First, Agile Thinkers, Operational Harmony, Smooth Operators and PX4 (Proper Planning Prevents Problems). We feel these core values alone separate us from our competition as every member of our team buys into each core value and it shows from our client feedback on the projects we complete.
Is there a story you can share about a client or job that really shows off your work and ability to engage with the industry?
We are involved with several great industry mentorship organizations. The ACE Mentorship program is a nationally non-profit organization that educates high school students on all aspects of the ACE (Architecture, Contractor, Engineer) industry.
Additionally, we also enjoy being great advocates of the workforce development program, NOTEP. NOTEP partners with the Louisiana Department of Education to offer students academic credit, in addition to earning industry-approved credentials. As advocates, we will conduct site visits with young professionals in this trade school program.
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Interview by Michael J. Pallerino
Evolving is everything. If you want to get to the heart of Chopped Leaf’s recent brand refresh, you can start there.
Featuring an updated interior design, new logo and signage, the fast-casual chain, with more than 188 restaurants in Canada and the U.S., is taking its game to the next level.
The new look, which was unveiled at its original restaurant location in Kelowna, B.C., is part of its 15th anniversary celebration. The refresh was driven by the brand’s mission to change the perception of greens from health food to comfort food, which means making greens craveable. The new look will be rolled out through 2025, complementing its expansion efforts across North America and internationally. Right now, it expects to open more than 25 locations. Along with a complete new set of marketing and branding materials, Chopped Leaf is updating its interior design. The new look will be more welcoming and approachable, featuring things like local “hello” signage, vibrant greens and warm wood tones, and a lower counter that
showcases fresh, quality choppings, and allows customers and team members to better engage and interact.
We sat down with Design & Construction Manager Lisa Paquette to get an inside peek at the Chopped Leaf brand and the changes that are helping shape the brand.
Chopped Leaf is a fast-casual restaurant chain with more than 118 locations across Canada and in the United States. As the home of comfort greens, Chopped Leaf’s menu offers fresh and craveable salads, wraps and bowls that are served fresh and quick for a better-for-you experience. We want you to feel good after you eat!
Chopped Leaf consumers are people that view food as fuel, and live a healthy, active lifestyle. Our guests are looking for fresh, nutritious, flavourful foods that are also delicious and fulfilling. They are hungry for healthier options and don’t want to sacrifice eating well when they’re busy or on the go.
Our restaurants are designed to be welcoming and approachable with local “hello (town)” signage, vibrant greens and warm
wood tones, and a lower counter that showcases our fresh, quality choppings, allowing customers and team members to engage and interact. Seeing the fresh product on display also inspires customers who want to customize and design their own meals, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Our friendly, comfortable dining rooms provide a warm atmosphere to enjoy your meal, or you can take your order to go, making it a flexible option. We feel the restaurant design makes the customers’ experience as transparent as possible, accommodating
special needs, dietary restrictions and highlighting fresh products and clean eating.
Walk us through how and why the restaurants are designed the way they are?
The Chopped Leaf menu is available for eat-in, takeout, delivery and catering, so our restaurants are designed to support a great experience for our guests and our staff, no matter which option they choose. With this in mind, our restaurants are thoughtfully designed to maximize efficiency, requiring just 1,200 square feet or less.
What are some of the trends happening on the architecture side of the design business (for restaurants)?
With architectural drawings and floor plans, especially when incorporating new elements, it’s important to ensure that the space is functional for both staff and customers. It’s a balance between design aspirations, operational needs and budget constraints.
Give us a rundown of your market’s layout
Chopped Leaf opened its first restaurant
in Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada in 1984. Fifteen years later, we have grown and expanded to more than 118 locations across Canada and in the US. The majority of restaurants in the chain are located in Western Canada (British Columbia and Alberta) with new growth focused in Ontario, Manitoba,
Saskatchewan and Nova Scotia. There is one location in Seattle. Our first choice for new locations are in suburban communities, typically in in-line plazas, industrial areas (which attract lunch-time consumers), and locations on school campuses or near high schools and post-secondary schools.
Consumers are looking for an accessible place to get a quick meal that is healthier, fresher and greener. They want nutritious and flavourful options that not only taste great but make you feel physically and mentally energized.
What’s the biggest issue today related to the construction side of the business?
Weather can be a challenge when you’re working in colder climates, causing delays with construction. Shipping and handling is also getting more expensive, so moving materials across the country can be a challenge. We’re also seeing a real estate crunch right across the industry, making it difficult to find good sites.
Talk about sustainability. What are you doing?
All of our ingredients come in fresh and raw, and are chopped in house, minimizing waste. Our packaging—bowls, bags, catering and sandwich containers—are made from 100% recyclable material. Our feature chandeliers are also made from recycled material.
In today’s complicated landscape, what type of opportunities do you see moving ahead?
As a chain grows and evolves, there is an opportunity to create efficiencies and standardization, while still maintaining a local touch (eg., “Hello (town)” signage), which is important to customers and franchisees. There can be economies of scale—mostly for millwork, so we’ve looked at modular versions of our booths, banquettes and servery. Relationships also are incredibly important. We’ve built some long-standing
relationships with contractors and equipment companies who have been around since the brand starte, and we know we can always rely on them.
Are you optimistic about what you are seeing out there?
People are eating healthier and are increasingly looking for clean eating, vegan and vegetarian options, so we feel Chopped Leaf is very well positioned in the marketplace. We continue to evolve with our restaurant designs and our menus to stay fresh and current.
As part of our 15th anniversary in 2024, we revitalized Chopped Leaf’s interior design, logo and signage. And in 2025, the new look will extend to all marketing assets and collateral, packaging, uniforms, merchandise and more.
Trends that we are seeing include smaller footprints to accommodate for increases in takeout. However, on the flip side, customers who do want to dine in want comfortable seating like our booths and accessible USB outlets. For solo diners, we’ve also incorpo-
rated higher bar seating at the front window when possible. Finally, new technology is helping to ensure that online and in-store experiences are consistent.
What’s the secret to creating a “must visit” restaurant environment in today’s competitive landscape?
It’s critical for any restaurant brand to evolve and stay fresh. Over 15 years, we’ve done this while keeping true to our roots and maintaining the essence that makes Chopped Leaf unique and beloved by our guests, and a rewarding franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs.
With our recent rebrand, we’ve ensured that Chopped Leaf’s brand attributes of fresh quality choppings, irresistible signature dressings, menu variety, fruit infused Chopped Water and the ‘Feel Good After You Eat’ tagline are showcased throughout the new design. Feedback from customers, staff and franchisees has been extremely positive.
What’s today’s consumer looking for in a restaurant?
Consumers are looking for an accessible place to get a quick meal that is healthier, fresher and greener. They want nutritious and flavourful options that not only taste great but make you feel physically and mentally energized. Our customers are seeking satisfying meals that keep them full, fuel their day, and offer great quality and value.
Tell us what makes your brand so unique?
Our mission is to change the perception of greens from health food to comfort food, and that means making greens craveable. Chopped Leaf delivers comforting, quality, fulfilling and flavourful greens for everyone. Your “choppings” are elevated to a whole new level with our handcrafted, irresistible signature dressing blends, only available at Chopped Leaf.
Also unique to Chopped Leaf is our signature “Chopped Water” which is infused with raw fruits and vegetables, adding the perfect amount of natural flavour to your beverage. CK
Describe a typical day.
There really is no typical day. Every day is dynamic, fast-paced and requires balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders – from franchisees to contractors and suppliers. Communication is key — ensuring that construction stays on schedule and that any issues are addressed before they become major roadblocks.
A large part of my role involves coordinating with franchisees, particularly during the critical final days before a new restaurant opens. This is the most high-pressure stage, where all teams must come together to meet deadlines. The store must pass building and health inspections, receive final deliveries and complete training before officially opening to customers.
The final three to four days involve ordering food, setting up the store, and ensuring all operational elements are ready to go. It’s a balancing act between construction finishing and franchisees preparing to launch their business.
During turnover periods, every minute counts. It’s important to problem-solve to keep things on schedule and ensure smooth transitions.
Right now, our focus is on modernizations—updating existing stores to align with Chopped Leaf’s refreshed brand image. These updates range from installing new signage and a fresh coat of paint to adding signature elements like the “Feel Good After You Eat” wall.
Unlike new builds, modernizations come with unique challenges. Many of these restaurants are still operating, so the goal is to complete renovations with minimal disruption. This often means working in the early mornings or late evenings when the restaurant is closed. Managing timelines efficiently is critical.
Having been with Chopped Leaf since 2017, I’ve gained valuable insights from my own experiences and from others in the industry. One of the best pieces of advice I ever received came from my parents, who owned a party rental company. They taught me that no matter how well you plan, unexpected challenges will arise—what matters most is how you adapt. Staying flexible and solution-oriented is key in construction, where tight deadlines and last-minute changes are the norm.
Our goal is always to create a space that reflects Chopped Leaf’s brand and makes customers feel welcome, and franchisees proud. Nothing is more rewarding than hearing them say: “I love this new look; it looks great.” That’s when all the hard work—coordinating, problem-solving and ensuring every detail is just right—pays off.
How Morgante Wilson Architects blends tradition and innovation to redefine modern living
It starts with the process. When clients engage with Morgante Wilson Architects, they engage with a team committed to transforming a vision into a reality that transcends expectations. Working with the words of contemporary to classic designs and everything in between, Morgante Wilson not only designs homes, it creates lifestyles.
Led by the husband and wife team of Elissa Morgante and Fred Wilson, the award-winning Morgante Wilson Architects firm not only designs homes for its clients’ dreams, but also are able to ease their anxiety during the process.
We sat down with Fred to get his insights on his firm, his team and where the firm is heading into 2025.
Tell us a little about yourself. What is your industry story?
I started the firm 38 years ago, and my wife, Elissa Morgante, came into the firm seven years later. I’m a little more formal like Edwin Lutyens. Elissa is a little more organic like
You have to make sure you’re efficiently hitting the finish line in order to attract new business and get referrals. There is a speed and a sort of diligence that I think our world has developed that is necessary to remain competitive.
Alvar Aalto. Coming at a project from two very different angles creates an interesting hybrid of the two. It’s a cool dynamic. I’m lucky to be able to work with my best friend every day and wouldn’t be where I am without her.
Give us a snapshot on your company?
Morgante Wilson Architects (MWA), Ltd. is an architecture, interior design and urban planning firm specializing in residential
and commercial design, as well as LEED certification. MWA has designed innumerable projects throughout Chicago, the Midwest and the country and received AIA Chicago’s prestigious “Young Architect Award,” AIA Special Recognition Award for Interiors, as well as awards for several historic rehabilitation projects.
What trends are you seeing in the residential construction market today? How are they shaping the industry?
After being forced to stay at home for months during COVID, people are more in tune with how they live in their homes. As a result, they are spending more money on their spaces and celebrating them in ways they haven’t necessarily done before. For example, while the open floor plan is still popular, more and more people are requesting cozier, more intimate private areas like libraries and dens.
Most of our clients have an interest in sustainability. Many want us to source products locally to reduce their overall carbon footprint.
Are trends like sustainable and energy-efficient homes influencing building decisions today?
Most of our clients have an interest in sustainability. Many want us to source products locally to reduce their overall carbon footprint. In addition, people are more knowledgeable about passive heating and cooling, so we’re laying out more new homes to take advantage of solar angles and wind directions. While some green solutions cost more than traditional systems, the 30% energy efficiency home improvement credit often makes green solutions cost about the same as less efficient ones.
What are the biggest challenges you’re facing in the building trade today?
We have some great new projects on the horizon, but two of them may be on hold
because of the tariffs. The prices of wood and steel are going up by as much as 25%.
How do you see the role of technology evolving in the residential construction sector?
We want to be as efficient as possible, so we’re using technology to track our project hours, which helps keep us on budget, and we’re using AI for all our meeting minutes, which saves time. Our drawings now have QR codes, so when you’re out at a job site, you
can just scan a QR code and pull them up on your iPad. We’re also seeing more subs looking at drawings on their iPads and so forth.
How do you stay ahead of the curve when it comes to new building materials and techniques? It’s a challenge, but we have about two lunches and learn with our vendors and partners per month, which helps us to stay up to speed on the most relevant new technologies.
What advice would you give to homeowners looking to embark on a new construction or renovation project?
I’d tell them to not get caught in the trap of needing to see every possible option, whether they are looking for kitchen countertops or wood flooring, because there’s so much out there now. Having more options can be good, but it can also feel overwhelming; it’s a double-edged sword. While it’s important to do your research,
Describe a typical day. Every job is different, and every client is unique, so every day is different. I’m in the field about half the time and in meetings the other half. I’m a big night owl, so I draw and design from about 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. It’s my quiet time, so I can really focus.
What’s the biggest item on your to-do list?
This May, I’ll become a grandfather for the first time.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
Changing people’s lives. I’m a people person. I love getting to know what their lives are and what motivates them. What can I provide that changes their lives? We did a whole room for a client’s Grateful Dead memorabilia. I bought the ticket stub for the first show he attended in 1977 on Ebay and had it framed as
don’t go overboard. I feel that, in general, your first instinct is the best instinct.
Can you share a story about the uniqueness of the project you have worked on?
What made it stand out?
This is a classic home designed by David Adler, which we first renovated years ago for a prior owner. After the house was later sold, the new owners commissioned us to do more work on the project, so we had a double dip. The biggest change we made is to the back of the home. Formerly a servants’ area, we transformed it into a great room with a functional kitchen, family area and mud room.
What do you believe is the future of residential construction?
You have to make sure you’re efficiently hitting the finish line in order to attract new business and get referrals. There is a speed and a sort of diligence that I think our world has developed that is necessary to remain competitive.
a gift for the client. That meant a lot to him. The greatest joy is when you feel like you’ve hit a homerun with a client and really changed a client’s life.
What was the best advice you ever received?
Don’t cut corners, especially when you’re first getting started as an architect. You need to be diligent and put the work in to learn how to build, detail and understand what you’re creating. When I was a young architect, you might draw a foundation detail 200 times, so you knew it like the back of your hand. Now you can just copy and paste the same detail.
What’s the best thing a client ever said to you?
You have created the best memories I’ve ever had in my life, and I didn’t expect I’d feel this way at the end of the process.
By Pam Durkin
One of the most popular objectives in residential bathroom design today is creating a spa-like environment similar to those found in five-star hotels. The “The Future of Bathroom Design” report by the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s (NKBA) explains the importance of creating bathrooms using the materials and design elements of today’s spa environments.
In addition, a recent posting—”Evolution of Bathroom Spaces,” by the Virginia-based AV Architects and Builders—summarized this interior design concept as being a “balance between aesthetics and utility.”
Generally, a spa-inspired bathroom is a setting that evokes feelings of calm, inspiration, luxury and indulgence, containing elements found in several of the most common themes and eras. For example, spa-inspired bathrooms often have characteristics of modern style, such as clean lines and a highly sophisticated appearance. Spa-like spaces are commonly simplistic or open, creating an environment free of clutter and distractions that are typically associated with minimalism.
Here, we’ll explore some spa-like bathroom designs and ideas to spark your inspiration for your next bathroom project.
Vanities largely serve as the central hub and focal point of the bathroom, so selecting the ideal bathroom vanity for your space is key for both functional and aesthetic reasons. In terms of functionality, some vanities feature a single sink, while others are equipped with two. A modern vanity may also include premium soft-close drawer glides, electrical outlets, and USB ports.
Vanities often are available with storage options that provide space for toiletries, grooming tools, makeup, and more. Having ample storage also will help to minimize clutter, as needed for maintaining a sleek, relaxing, spa-like atmosphere.
Choosing a wall-mounted or “floating” vanity, like those in the James Martin Vanities’ Marcello collection, creates a clean, spa-like look that can make the bathroom appear larger. This trend also applies to bathroom
storage components such as shelves, cabinets, and accessories, including lighting fixtures, mirrors, and soap dispensers.
A well-designed bathroom vanity will help to declutter the shelves and countertops and introduce many materials. For example, vanities with a wood-grain finish can add feelings of warmth and charm to the environment. Vanities today provide opportunities for adding metallic accents with bases and hardware. The countertop options for the vanity include those with the elegance and sophistication of stone, marble, or quartz.
A walk-in shower with an open-plan design, luxury amenities and comfortable accessories is a must for a spa-like bathroom design. Choose glass doors, walls and partitions to foster an open and airy feeling, and select showerheads with hydrotherapeutic settings that promote relaxation and rejuvenation.
It also is important to consider the safety of your bathroom design, so here are a few things to consider including in your plans:
Handrails and grab bars – Permanently installed rails and grab bars are useful in slippery environments and increasingly stylish when made with nickel, chrome, gold, bronze or other metallic finishes.
In-shower seating – Some of the common seating options found in showers include space-saving corner seats or integrated, bench-style seats. Walk-in showers with “curbless” entryways: This design creates a streamlined look with clear sight lines and enhanced safety.
Freestanding bathtubs – Demand is increasing for bathrooms with luxurious freestanding and clawfoot bathtubs. Some of the most popular types today include pedestal-based tubs composed of glossy acrylic or deep, wooden, Japanese-inspired “Ofuro” tubs.
Soft uses of lighting – Inviting natural daylight from windows or skylights can make a bathroom feel airy and welcoming. Patterned or tinted glass are both options for use in windows with possible privacy concerns. For nighttime, using gentle, indirect lighting helps to create a relaxing, spa-like mood. Position ambient lights above or beneath cabinets or mirrors, and have them equipped with dimmer switches.
Natural materials – Evoke the warm and soothing beauty of nature by incorporating natural materials into your design. Here are some top materials to consider:
Marble – Used for thousands of years, marble never goes out of style. Often found in high-end luxury resorts and hotels, marble is a great option for countertops, and marble tiles are often used for walls and floors. Resistant to scratches, moisture, and UV light, marble and other all-natural stones are incredibly durable. Stone, with a smooth texture like marble, often has a tranquil feel,
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and the unique patterns of natural stone add character to your space.
Quartz – Quartz countertops are made by combining natural quartz with resins, polymers, and pigments to create a durable, engineered surface. Quartz tile is sometimes used in shower walls as an alternative to porcelain or ceramic tile and is also a popular option for countertops.
Wood – Available in a variety of textures and tones, wood is an attractive natural addition to any bathroom. Consider adding wood to your space in creative ways, such as a wooden stool or bathtub tray for placing candles, books and other accessories.
Don’t overlook alternative natural wood materials such as bamboo or wicker for towel bins, waste baskets, and tissue holders.
Natural and Eco-Friendly Elements
Eco-friendly features are frequently integrated into bathroom designs, including water-saving, low-flow toilets and showerheads, as well as energy-efficient LED lighting. Welcome additions to any space, such as live plants and flowers in large ceramic or stone planters, are an excellent way of leveling up your spa-inspired bathroom. Because a spa-like atmosphere should appeal to all the senses, adding some fragrances to the space helps to promote calm and relaxed feelings. Chooses materials that naturally emit pleasant aromas over time, such as certain types of wood or plants, or incorporates design systems that discreetly diffuse scent through technology.
Modern technological innovations are redefining bathroom luxury, blending style with comfort and convenience.
Heated flooring – Modern technology has brought spa-like heated flooring into the comfort of your home, creating a touch of everyday luxury. These advanced systems are available in two styles: electric radiant heat for a quick, cost-effective upgrade,
and water-based hydronic heating, which offers a more energy-efficient option when powered by natural gas. Both provide gentle warmth beneath your feet, perfect for ceramic, porcelain or natural stone tiles.
Smart Mirrors – Smart mirrors bring both elegance and innovation to modern bathroom design. These advanced LED mirrors not only reduce energy use but also provide shadow-free illumination—perfect for tasks like makeup application or grooming. Many feature anti-fog technology, ensuring a clear reflection even after a steamy shower, while backlit designs cast a soft, ambient glow around the mirror’s edges for a spa-like atmosphere.
Touchless faucets – Activated with just the wave of your hand, touchless faucets can conserve water and promote a more hygienic space by minimizing the spread of germs. Designed for effortless maintenance, the sensor is simply deactivated prior to cleaning.
Spa-like bathroom design – With creativity and inspiration, any bathroom can be transitioned into a comfortable oasis with a truly spa-like atmosphere. By thoughtfully selecting natural materials, incorporating elegant fixtures and soothing lighting, and embracing eco-friendly features, you can create a bathroom that not only serves as a functional space, but also as a sanctuary of relaxation.
B1.
eginning our lake lot build last Summer was an adventure. Now, we’re in the final sprint to enjoy the fruits of our labor. Crossing the finish line means completing the final phases of construction, ensuring quality, and preparing the home for occupancy. Here’s what we learned on the job site—an essential “to-do” list to get you there:
Painting & Wallpaper: Apply final coats and touch-ups. Inspect for consistent coverage, smooth edges, and clean finishes.
Flooring: Install hardwood, tile, or carpet. Ensure smooth transitions between materials and apply protective coatings.
Trim & Millwork: Install baseboards, crown molding, door casings, and window trim. Caulk gaps, apply paint or stain, and ensure tight, clean joints.
Cabinetry & Built-Ins: Install cabinets, closets, and shelving. Confirm alignment, smooth operation, and finish quality.
Lighting Fixtures: Install and test all lighting—chandeliers, sconces, recessed lights—ensuring proper function and compatibility. Plumbing Fixtures: Set up sinks, toilets, showers, and water heaters. Test for leaks, water pressure, drainage, and temperature control. HVAC Systems: Confirm heating, cooling, and ventilation systems are operational. Test thermostats, inspect ductwork, and replace filters. Appliances: Install kitchen appliances and laundry units. Test connections and functionality for smooth operation.
3. Complete Exterior Work
Landscaping: Install grass, trees, shrubs, flowers, and apply mulch or edging for curb appeal. Inspect irrigation systems for leaks and coverage.
Driveways & Walkways: Pour concrete or install pavers, ensuring proper drainage and structural integrity. Inspect for cracks or unevenness.
Decks & Patios: Finish framing, decking, railings, and steps. Apply protective coatings and inspect for stability and quality.
Exterior Paint & Siding: Apply final coats to siding and trim. Inspect for drips, uneven coverage, and areas requiring touch-ups.
4. Final Inspections & Permits
Municipal Inspections: Complete and obtain all necessary approvals for plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and structural systems.
Certificate of Occupancy (CO): Secure final approval confirming code compliance and readiness for occupancy.
5. Punch List Walkthrough
Create Punch List: Walk through the project, noting any areas needing correction or improvement.
Address Issues: Complete all adjustments, touch-ups, and repairs to the client’s satisfaction.
6. Cleaning & Preparation
Deep Cleaning: Thoroughly clean floors, windows, fixtures, and surfaces. Remove labels, packaging, and protective coverings.
Debris Removal: Dispose of leftover materials, tools, and hazardous waste properly.
7. Handover & Documentation
Final Walkthrough: Provide a guided tour of the completed home, demonstrating systems and features.
Provide Documentation: Share warranties, maintenance guides, operation manuals, and emergency contact information.
8. Follow-Up & Maintenance (Optional)
Warranty Services: Offer support for issues that may arise post-move-in. Maintenance Plans: Recommend schedules for HVAC systems, plumbing, landscaping, and exterior upkeep.
Building our lake lot has been an incredible experience, and we can’t wait for the next one where we can proudly say again: “We Built That.”
And as always, remember: Measure twice, cut once.
By Amber Gaige
For decades, the trades industry has been largely dominated by men. However, a significant shift is happening as more women step into leadership roles, working as electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians and owning and operating successful businesses in these fields.
This transformation isn’t just about representation—it’s about creating positive change in an industry grappling with workforce shortages and outdated business models.
As a third-generation entrepreneur and founder of Far Beyond Marketing, I’ve had the privilege of working with trade businesses for years. I’ve seen how women in the trades excel in traditionally male-dominated roles while bringing fresh perspectives and reshaping the industry. Whether they are second-generation business owners taking over family operations or new entrepreneurs carving out space for themselves, women are proving that they belong—and that their presence is vital for the trades’ continued growth.
The trades industry faces an aging workforce and labor shortages threatening its future. As experienced professionals retire, fewer younger workers enter the industry to replace them. Women are stepping in to fill this gap, not only as skilled tradespeople but also as leaders who can attract, train and retain new talent.
In recent years, the presence of women in skilled trades has seen notable growth, though they continue to be underrepresented. In 2021, the number of women working in trades occupations reached just over 314,000, marking the highest level ever recorded. This represents an increase of almost one-third (32.1%) over the previous five years (IWPR).
Women’s biggest strength in the trades is their ability to improve communication. Many trade businesses face challenges in
customer relationships and operations. Women excel in these areas by creating stronger organizational structures and customer service strategies that keep businesses thriving. They emphasize collaboration, problem-solving and sustainable practices that position their businesses for long-term success.
Many of today’s leading women in the trades are second-generation business owners. They grew up in the industry, watching their fathers and grandfathers build companies from the ground up. Now, they’re stepping into leadership roles, modernizing these businesses and ensuring their legacy continues.
These women offer a unique perspective. While they respect the craftsmanship that built these businesses, they also recognize the need for innovation. They’re introducing digital tools, streamlining operations, and enhancing marketing and branding—all crucial areas for growth.
I’ve worked with countless trade businesses that expanded significantly once the next generation—often daughters and granddaughters—implemented new strategies. These women understand that success requires more than technical skills; it involves running an innovative, adaptable business.
One of the most exciting developments is how women complement their male counterparts’ strengths. While the physical demands of trade work have traditionally drawn in men, running a successful business requires more than technical expertise. Men often bring hands-on experience and physical endurance, while women frequently serve as the strategic backbone of these businesses. They’re optimizing operations, implementing systems and ensuring financial stability. Women also bring communication and leadership skills that improve client relationships, employee retention and workplace culture.
Women’s contributions to the trades extend beyond business operations. They inspire the next generation of workers and
prove that these careers aren’t just for men. When young girls see women thriving as electricians, plumbers and HVAC technicians, they view these professions as viable options for themselves.
Efforts to increase female participation in the trades include initiatives like the Million Women in Construction, announced in October 2022, which aims to double the number of women in construction over the next decade (U.S. Department of Commerce).
Additionally, women leaders bring new ideas that help businesses remain competitive. From improving customer service to adopting new technology and sustainability practices, they drive progress that benefits the entire industry.
For the trades to continue thriving, businesses must actively work to attract and support more women. This involves rethinking hiring practices, offering mentorship opportunities and fostering inclusive environments.
Whether they are second-generation business owners taking over family operations or new entrepreneurs carving out space for themselves, women are proving that they belong.
Some key strategies include:
> Mentorship and Training Programs –Experienced tradespeople can mentor women entering the field, providing the skills and support needed for success.
> Showcasing Diversity – Businesses can highlight female employees in their marketing efforts to demonstrate inclusivity.
> Flexible Work Policies – Offering flexibility can make the trades more accessible to women, balancing career and family responsibilities.
> Leadership Development – Companies should encourage women to pursue leadership roles and provide resources to help them grow.
The rise of women in the trades isn’t about replacing men—it’s about collaboration. By embracing diverse leadership, businesses can create a stronger future with innovation and growth at the forefront.
As someone who has spent years helping trade companies scale, the best businesses recognize the importance of diversity. Women in the trades aren’t just making history—they’re shaping the industry’s future. It’s time to embrace this change and build a thriving, inclusive sector where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. CCR
Amber Gaige is a third-generation entrepreneur and founder of Far Beyond Marketing, an agency focused on helping trade businesses grow through effective marketing strategies. As a Certified StoryBrand Guide, she specializes in helping businesses communicate their value. With years of experience alongside electricians, plumbers and HVAC professionals, she is a passionate advocate for women in the trades and the power of diverse leadership.
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As we forge deeper into 2025, one thing is crystal clear: maintaining a strong online presence is no longer optional; it's essential for any business striving to capture market share. And at the forefront of that digital landscape is YouTube.
With more than 119 million active channels, YouTube remains a powerhouse for brand visibility, engagement and revenue generation. Its influence stretches across all industries, including the competitive fields of Commercial Construction & Renovation
Subscriber Insights:
> Most channels have fewer than 1,000 subscribers.
> Majority of active channels fall between 1,000 to 10,000 subscribers.
> 960,000 channels have at least 50,000 subscribers—representing about 0.84% of all channels. (our magazine has 56,000-plus subscribers, and keeps on growing every month.)
> Channels with more than 100,000 subscribers are in the top 1% of creators.
> Reaching 1 million subscribers places a channel among YouTube’s top-tier creators.
Key Statistics:
> Over 119 million YouTube channels worldwide
> Approximately 96.5% of channels have fewer than 10,000 subscribers
> Only 0.33% exceed 1 million subscribers
> Roughly 321,100 channels (or 0.28%) have at least 100,000 subscribers
> Between 0.5% to 1% of channels (255,000 to 510,000 channels) have surpassed 50,000 subscribers
For creators posting consistently, an average channel typically lands between 1,000 to 10,000 subscribers. Growth depends heavily on regular content, quality and audience engagement.
1. Expansive audience reach — YouTube boasts 2.53 billion monthly active users, making it the second most visited social media platform globally. This audience provides unmatched access to potential clients and collaborators.
2. Enhanced Consumer Engagement — Nearly 47% of users engage with brands weekly, while 32% interact daily. This type of engagement builds lasting relationships and loyalty.
3. Influence on Purchasing Decisions — Approximately 87% of viewers report making a purchase after seeing a brand on YouTube. This influence underscores the platform’s marketing power.
4. High Return on Investment (ROI) — An impressive 93% of marketers report positive ROI from YouTube marketing—proof of its efficiency in driving tangible results.
5. Global Expansion Opportunities — Innovations like Linguana, an AI-driven platform for high-quality translations, allow creators to broaden their reach and diversify revenue streams.
As we progress through 2025, if your company isn’t leveraging YouTube, it’s time to jump in as a complement to your digital strategy. The digital world is vast, dynamic and rich with opportunities for those willing to seize them.
If you’re feeling hesitant, confront that fear directly. Just like any successful construction project, it starts with planning, action, and continuous improvement. You’ll make mistakes, but those are just stepping stones.
As I often say in my daily YouTube videos: Consistency is key. Show up every day, gather data, review progress and keep refining. Just like evaluating a completed construction or renovation project, the process requires dedication and passion. And most importantly, have fun—because passion and enjoyment are the real fuel behind success.
As we move past Q2 and dive into the second half of the year, here’s to good health, prosperity and safe travels. This truly is an extraordinary time to be alive, with technology advancing at warp speed and reshaping our lives and work in real-time.
Enjoy the ride, stay consistent and, as always, Keep the Faith.
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