38 The Evolution of an Icon How Chicago’s Reid Murdoch Building honors the past while embracing the future.
A Pleasant Surprise New Utah theater becomes a cultural keystone.
IT Corner
21 Building Smarter, Renovating Faster 5 AI solutions delivering real value in construction & renovation.
General Contractor Profiles
89 More Than Just Buildings Why The Missner Group’s legacy is rooted in trust, values and long-term vision.
Commercial Construction in Healthcare
97 Diagnose. Treat. Save. Baptist Health Medical Center applies its own prescription for energy efficiency.
Multi-Housing
107 Living Elevated Braemar Living at Montebello redefines senior living in the Hudson Valley.
Campus Facilities
119 The Next Chapter Inside Fordham University’s amenityrich McShane Campus Center.
Federal Construction
139 Legacy in the Badlands
North Dakota’s largest mass timber project hits a milestone at the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library.
Residental Construction & Remodeling
147 From the Ground Up Inside our Lake Lanier build.
When Robots Meet Recipes
Wait. What? Is that a....robot? If you are anywhere near John Glenn Columbus
International Airport in Ohio, stop by the Donatos Pizza location in Concourse B. You don't have to grab a slice of pizza, but you might want to stay for a slice of the future. It was only a matter of time before robots moved from building cars to building calzones.
Listen, I am about as out of puns as you are, but this is real life folks. About the size of a shipping container, the compact location powered by Donatos’ sister company, Agápe Automation and Appetronix robotics 24/7, features mechanical arms delicately sprinkling cheese with the precision of a NASA engineer in just six minutes.
To be clear, a human still has to restock ingredients and clean up, but the heavy lifting— the dough, sauce, toppings, baking—is all robot-driven. And unlike that teenage employee who never seems to be on time, your pizza robot isn't going to “accidentally” short you on pepperoni.
Sure, it all sounds so funny, but in an industry craving workers, the strategy has real implications. Being able to eliminate waste and standardize production is nothing to laugh about (or fear). Automation can turn a chaotic kitchen into a streamlined operation, one precisely measured topping at a time.
And while pizza is a great backdrop, it's not all about pizza or fast food. Donatos Pizza's robot kitchen is a glimpse of how automation might quietly transform workflows across industries. Imagine robotic
systems handling repetitive, time-intensive tasks in construction, retail or logistics, freeing up teams to focus on what humans do best—creativity, problem-solving, building relationships. The robots are not taking over; they’re taking the drudgery off our plates.
In a time when technology is putting the fear of the Terminator with a chef's hat in us, the Donatos’ experiment is a reminder that the future of business might just look smarter, faster, less wasteful and, yes, possibly with just the right amount of pepperoni placement.
Michael J. Pallerino is the editor of Commercial Construction & Renovation. You can reach him at 678.513.2397 or via email at mikep@ccr-mag.com.
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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.
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CCR EDITORIAL BOARD
ACADEMIA
DR. MARK LEE LEVINE
Professor Burns School/ Daniels College University of Denver
ADA
BRAD GASKINS Principal The McIntosh Group
ARCHITECTS/ENGINEERS
MICHAEL MAGEE
Studio Leader Retail, Store Design Senior Associate Little
FRED MARGULIES
Director of Retail Architecture Onyx Creative
STEVEN MCKAY
Managing Principal, Global Design Leader DLR Group
STEVEN R. OLSON, AIA President CESO, Inc.
CONSULTANT
GINA MARIE ROMEO
Chief Heart Officer & Principal Consultant, Allied RDI
DEVELOPMENT/PROJECT MANAGEMENT
KAY BARRETT
NCIDQ, CDP
Senior Vice President Cushman & Wakefield
PAM GOODWIN
Goodwin Advisors, LLC Goodwin Commercial The Pam Goodwin Show
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
HEALTHCARE
CLINTON “BROOKS” HERMAN
Principal Facilities Project Manager, MD Anderson Cancer Center
HOSPITALITY
SAMUEL D. BUCKINGHAM, RS AMS CMCA President of Construction Devco Development
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
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
CRAIG WEBER Director of Business Prime Retail Services, US Prime 3 Retail Canada, Inc.
REAL ESTATE
RESTAURANTS
DAVID SHOTWELL
Construction Manager, Vital Farms
BOB WITKEN
Senior Project Manager Fox Restaurant Concepts
RETAILERS
ROB ADKINS, LEED AP CDP Senior Project Manager Cushman & Wakefield
MEGAN HAGGERTY Founder Legacy Capital Investment
MARIE ANTONETTE G. WAITE
Founder and CEO
Finest Women in Real Estate
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
LAURA GROSS
Retail Facilities Manager American Signature Furniture
KELLY RADFORD
Vice President Facility Services
CubeSmart
PERMITTING
VAUN PODLOGAR
CEO, Owner, Founder State Permits, Inc.
NO ENTRY NO HARM
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AroundtheIndustry
RETAIL
Bulgari
Bulgari, the Italian luxury jeweler and accessory house, has opened its new San Francisco flagship in the historic 1908 Hastings Building at the corner of Grant Avenue and Post Street, deepening its commitment to Union Square even as other high-end retailers exit the city’s once-bustling shopping district.
Ross Stores
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.
Rutter’s
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.
PayMore
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
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-storey 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.
Printemps
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
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.
Wayfair
Wayfair, an online furniture retailer, will open a brick-and-mortar store at the site of a former Walmart in Atlanta. It will be Wayfair’s second brick-and-mortar store, the first of which opened in May 2024 in the Chicago suburb of Wilmette.
Gianvito Rossi
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. This move is part of Rossi’s strategy to expand its distribution footprint by opening locations and enhancing its product offerings following a controlling stake acquisition by Richemont in 2023.
CVS
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.
HOSPITALITY
Zedwell Hotels
Zedwell Hotels, backed by Criterion Capital, is expanding its windowless, “sleep-focused” hotels, aiming to open eight more locations by 2026. The brand, which transforms underutilized buildings into hospitality assets, is extending its reach beyond London with upcoming sites in Manchester and Scotland—marking its first ventures outside the capital.
Trobbu Boutique Collection/Trobbu Tulum
Trobbu Boutique Collection has opened Trobbu Tulum, the region’s first all-inclusive private villa retreat, in Tulum, Mexico. The luxury property features 10 three-bedroom villas, each with an infinity pool and butler service. The all-inclusive package covers meals, snacks and themed dining nights.
Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino
The Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino has debuted in Okeechobee, Florida and features a 100-room hotel, 38,000 square feet of gaming space with 18 table games and 640 slot machines, smoke-free gaming room and VIP room. Other amenities for the new facility, owned by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, include four restaurants, a fitness center, outdoor pool, lobby bar and entertainment lounge.
Pan Pacific Hotels Group
Pan Pacific Hotels Group is expanding globally, positioning its Pan Pacific brand as “graceful luxury” to offer meaningful and affordable stays. The Singapore-based company, part of UOL Group, has invested $500 million in new hotels and renovations, with notable projects like Pan Pacific Orchard and the London flagship. The group plans to grow in Europe and the U.S. through management agreements, with several new openings scheduled in Asia.
Field & Stream Lodge
Field & Stream Lodge opened its first property, Field & Stream Bozeman in Montana, this past May. The lodge, located near major attractions such as Yellowstone National Park, offers 179 rooms and suites with modern amenities and locally inspired decor. The property features an indoor pool, outdoor hot tub, large backyard and private meeting space.
IHG Hotels & Resorts
IHG Hotels & Resorts plans to revamp 70% of Crowne Plaza Hotels
Resorts in the Americas by the end of the year with the New Modern design, which creates defined zones for collaboration, productivity and restoration, and aims to cater to the “new blended traveler.” Some U.S. hotels, such as Crowne Plaza Virginia Beach Town Center in Virginia and Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport Expo Center in Kentucky, already have adopted the new design.
Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana
Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana has opened in Bossier City as the first land-based casino in northwest Louisiana, featuring a 550-room hotel, over 1,000 slot machines, 40 table games and a sportsbook. The new facility, developed by The Cordish Cos., also includes a fitness center, resort pool, 25,000-square-foot event center and diverse dining and entertainment options.
The Vanderpump Hotel
Lisa Vanderpump, in collaboration with Caesars Entertainment, is set to launch The Vanderpump Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip by early 2026. This venture will transform The Cromwell Hotel, integrating her signature style into the 188-room property with bespoke furnishings and a revamped lobby and casino floor.
Salterra
Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, has opened on South Caicos Island, marking the brand’s first property in Turks and Caicos. The resort features 100 guestrooms and suites, a spa, six dining options and eco-friendly initiatives such as solar power and water desalination.
Ruby Hotels
Ruby Hotels has announced plans for its first property in Denmark. The German ‘lean luxury’ brand is set to convert an existing office building in the city’s Frederiksberg district into a 219-room hotel, with the opening scheduled for the first quarter of 2027. Features will include a ground floor winter garden and a rooftop terrace with views of the city.
GROCERS
ALDI
ALDI has opened its first two stores in the Las Vegas area and has plans to open 14 new stores in Florida. The grocer also plans to expand further in Arizona and Southern California—all moves that are part of a broader plan to add 800 locations nationwide by 2028, 225 of which are slated for opening this year.
Whole Foods Market
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.
Lidl
Lidl is set to open four stores on the East Coast, with three launching next week in Bethesda, Md., Hackensack, New Jersey, and New York City. The fourth store opened in Bowie, Maryland this past August. Lidl has already opened five stores this year, bringing its total to more than 185 locations from New York to Georgia.
Whole Foods
North Texas cities like Frisco and McKinney—among the fastest-growing in the country—are drawing major investments from grocery chains. Whole Foods Market is building a new Frisco store and another location opening soon in McKinney.
AroundtheIndustry
H-E-B
H-E-B broke ground on the 133,000-square-foot store, in Prosper, Texas, in April 2024. The new location is the ninth store the retailer has opened under its namesake brand in the Dallas-Fort Worth area since it first brought its flagship banner to the region—where rival supermarket operators including Kroger and Albertsons also have a sizable presence—in 2022.
RESTAURANTS
Taco Bell
Taco Bell plans to triple its international presence to 3,000 units by 2030, entering nine new countries and accelerating growth in existing markets like the UK, Spain, Australia and India. The expansion strategy includes successful U.S. tactics, such as late-night operating hours and playful campaigns, along with local cultural initiatives.
Guzman Y Gomez
Australia-based Mexican food chain Guzman y Gomez is growing in the U.S., with plans to expand to 15 units in Chicago before exploring other parts of the country. Founded in 2006, it has grown to more than 220 locations across Australia, Singapore and Japan. The menu spans breakfast, lunch and dinner, with menu items such as frystuffed burritos and chicken tenders.
Cava Group
Cava Group has opened 15 net new units this year as part of a plan to grow by as many as 68 new locations in 2025, growing with a strategic focus on healthy offerings and competitive pricing. The Mediterranean fast-casual brand is expanding in states including Florida, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Louisiana and Texas.
Pepper Lunch
Fast-casual Pepper Lunch, which has 540 units around the world, including nine in the U.S., serves a DIY teppan dining experience where customers cook their own proteins, vegetables and rice on sizzling hot plates at their tables. The chain plans to open another 24 US locations over the next year, largely through franchising and there are about 100 more in development.
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop is testing a full-service model with the Fuzzy’s Tacos and Margs in a suburb of Houston. The concept will feature table service, premium frozen cocktails and a revamped menu with dishes like Texas Brisket Tacos and Sonora Rellenos. The move is part of a brand evolution under parent Dine Brands Global to boost sales by leveraging a full bar and creating a “fast-casual plus” dining experience.
Auntie Anne’s
Auntie Anne’s will remodel 150 units this year, modernizing the concept with a new look and simplified logo to align with contemporary consumers. The remodel aims to attract millennials and Generation Z customers and appeal to today’s craving for convenience and changing snacking preferences, with dedicated mobile order pickup points and an open kitchen view.
Dos Caminos
Landry’s plans to open a Dos Caminos restaurant in Atlanta in the site previously occupied by its Oceanaire Seafood Room. This will make the sixth location for the Mexican concept.
Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut has undergone a major transformation since 2019, shifting from dine-in to a delivery and carryout model, a transition that involved closing underperforming Red Roof locations and restructuring the franchise base. The strategic pivot was driven by changing consumer preferences and the need for operational efficiency, and the company continues to innovate with value offerings and plans to prioritize a “3D” strategy: distinctive offerings, dependable value and disruptive innovation.
FAT Brands
FAT Brands aims to open 100 new restaurants in 2025, and the company’s pipeline includes approximately 1,000 signed deals across its 15 brands. One deal calls for the development of 40 more Fatburger locations in Florida over the next decade, expanding its state footprint to around 50 units. The company will also refranchise 57 Fazoli’s units and expand its manufacturing of pretzel and cookie dough products.
Keke’s Breakfast Cafe
Keke’s Breakfast Cafe is set for national expansion, with plans to grow 25% to 30% annually, under Denny’s ownership. The chain has opened nine units this year, with 11 more in the works, and it has plans to open as many as 140 additional eateries, many in partnership with existing Denny’s franchisees. In addition to breakfast classics like omelettes and pancakes, the chain has recently added cocktails and a kids’ menu.
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A Slice of the Future
Donatos opens fully robotic pizza shop
Donatos Pizza is serving up a bold slice of the future with the debut of its first fully autonomous store at John Glenn Columbus International Airport in Ohio. Tucked inside Concourse B, the compact location—about the size of a shipping container—is powered by Donatos’ sister company, Agápe Automation and Appetronix robotics.
Using robotic arms, the system can assemble and bake a pizza in just six minutes, making it a fast, convenient option for travelers on the go. Operated by HMSHost, the store is designed to run 24/7 with minimal human intervention.
While Donatos has dabbled in automation before, this is its first real step into creating a fully robotic model. Sure, the human touch still is needed for restocking and cleaning, but when it comes to crafting pizzas, the robot arms do it all, including measuring cheese and toppings with precision that eliminates food waste and cuts costs.
This Columbus airport location is just the beginning. Donatos plans to roll out two more autonomous restaurants, with an eye on nontraditional venues like office buildings, malls and travel centers. The company is even experimenting with more automation tools—think streamlining pepperoni placement.
They said it...
“The IKEA goal, to be more affordable and accessible, while making steady progress on our sustainability agenda, presents a tremendous opportunity.”
— Lena Julle, IKEA’s acting Chief Sustainability Officer, on how the brand is collaborating with the SME Climate Hub to support small businesses in reducing emissions and enhancing supply chain resilience
“The key is being able to teach those values, as they are not as prevalent in society as they were 20 years ago.”
— Harold Wallace, VP of Operations of Houchens Food Group (a franchisee for Slim Chickens) on how restaurant operators set themselves apart
“Our business model continues to perform and gain momentum as we grow membership and increase market share, even in a dynamic environment. We’re entering the second half of the year on solid footing and remain confident in our ability to deliver strong results.”
— BJ’s Wholesale Club Chairman and CEO Bob Eddy on why the retailer’s Fresh 2.0 continues to drive the business
Beyond the Bed
How hotels are redefining the guest experience
Hotels are no longer just a place to sleep—they’re a place to be. As remote work fuels new mobility and travel patterns, smaller markets are finding that guests expect big-city experiences in boutique-sized settings. From Boise to Brooklyn, today’s travelers want atmosphere, design and a sense of place.
The rise of digital nomads—40 million worldwide, including more than 18 million in the U.S.—has only accelerated this trend. Investors and developers are responding with lifestyle-focused select-service products in markets that would’ve never supported them before. That means rethinking quality beyond Class A cities: activated lobbies with co-working spaces, curated design touches, reliable Wi-Fi, and modest but thoughtful food and beverage options.
Take Marriott’s Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, which has leaned into expansive lobby gathering areas, while some landscape architects point to biophilic design as an essential ingredient—shade trees, weather-resistant outdoor furniture and poolside spaces that double as social hubs.
But it’s not all work. Hotels also are leaning into play. Tru by Hilton has built its brand around lifestyle-driven experiences, from game zones stocked with large-format table games to mural walls that celebrate local culture. The “Truly Local Wall” highlights nearby restaurants and attractions, while the 24/7 Eat. & Sip. Market offers regional fare to take home.
The numbers game
The percent of skilled trade professionals who are expected to retire by 2036, according to the National Center for Construction Education and Research. As the construction industry continues to evolve, the number is a stark example of the industry’s need for skilled trade professionals remains constant.
The percent of construction workers who “strongly agree” they have the skills needed to advance their career, while just 21% “strongly agree” their employer invests in the skills they need to advance, according to data from ADP Research’s “Today At Work.”
The percentage of injured workers who are aged 60-plus and over, according to Travelers’ “2025 Injury Impact Report.” The report shows that injured workers aged 60plus miss an average of 12 additional days compared with the construction industry average. This is almost five days more since the pandemic began.
Building Smarter, Renovating Faster
5 AI solutions delivering real value in construction & renovation
Building Smarter, Renovating Faster
5 AI solutions delivering real value in construction & renovation
By Fabien Cros
The hammers are swinging, the blueprints are unfurling, and the aroma of fresh lumber still fills the air. But in the backdrop of every modern construction site and ambitious renovation project, a quieter, yet profoundly transformative revolution is underway.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic pipe dream; it’s a tangible force poised to redefine efficiency, reduce costs and unlock unprecedented opportunities within the vast and complex world of construction and renovation.
But for many in the industry, the journey into AI feels less like a clear path and more like navigating a dense fog. The promise is immense, but the practical application, identifying the best use cases that truly create value, can be a daunting, time-consuming challenge.
Here are five pivotal use cases—all available as pre-built solutions for rapid and cost-effective deployment—that are already demonstrating significant returns for early adopters.
1 The Quoting AI Agent:
From Dozens of Hours to a 5-Minute Click
Picture this: a stack of blueprints, meticulous specifications and the ticking clock for a bid submission. Traditionally, generating an accurate quote is a labor-intensive marathon, often spanning dozens of hours for skilled professionals poring over architectural drawings and performing complex calculations. This is where the Quoting AI Agent comes in. AI-powered solutions can now automate the entire process of reading blueprints, identifying materials, quantifying labor, and performing precise cost estimations. By ingesting vast amounts of project data and learning from past successes, these AI agents can rapidly analyze new plans. What once took a team days can now be achieved in minutes with a simple click of a button.
This isn’t just about speed; it’s about unparalleled accuracy, consistency, and freeing up your most valuable human talent
to focus on client relationships and strategic growth, rather than tedious number crunching. The competitive edge gained by slashing quoting times is immeasurable.
2 Intelligent Data Management: Your Project History, Instantly Accessible
In C&R, every project is a treasure trove of invaluable data: past proposals, subcontractor agreements, material specifications, change orders, progress reports, and countless emails. This information is typically scattered across disparate IT systems, buried in individual collaborators’ laptops or filed away in physical archives, making it a monumental task to locate specific details from previous jobs.
The result? Wasted days, missed opportunities, and the frustrating reinvention of the wheel.
AI-driven data management solutions tackle this head-on by creating a centralized intelligent hub capable of ingesting, organizing, and making accessible all your historical project data, regardless of its original format or location. With advanced AI search capabilities, you no longer spend days hunting for that crucial proposal from five years ago.
Instead, you simply query the system something like “Find proposals for commercial kitchen renovations over $500,000 in the last three years” and retrieve the exact document in less than 30 seconds. This transforms your accumulated knowledge into an active, strategic asset, empowering faster decision-making and more informed future bids.
demonstrate their expertise within these new AI ecosystems will gain a significant competitive advantage. AI can help you analyze natural language queries, understand client intent and craft compelling narratives that position your firm as the go-to expert.
By proactively integrating AI into your marketing strategy, you can get ahead of your competitors and capture new leads from an entirely different and rapidly growing source.
4 Automating Accounts Payable and Receivable: The Machine Does It Better
The financial backbone of any C&R business relies on the efficient handling of invoices, payments, and cash flow. Yet Accounts
The days of simply optimizing your website for Google search to capture leads are rapidly evolving. A new frontier in client acquisition is emerging, driven by the rise of conversational AI platforms like ChatGPT.
3 Harnessing AI for NextGeneration Lead Generation
The days of simply optimizing your website for Google search to capture leads are rapidly evolving. A new frontier in client acquisition is emerging, driven by the rise of conversational AI platforms like ChatGPT. Consumers and businesses alike are increasingly turning to these AI agents to ask for recommendations: “Who are the best general contractors for a luxury home renovation in Aspen?” or “Which construction firms specialize in sustainable commercial buildings?”
This shift represents a unique and fleeting window of opportunity. While everyone will eventually adapt, those who move now to optimize their presence and
Payable (AP) and Accounts Receivable (AR) often remain manual, tedious and error-prone processes. Creating invoices, matching purchase orders and chasing outstanding payments are tasks perfectly suited for automation.
AI-powered solutions for AP/AR are exceptionally good at these precise, repetitive tasks. They can automatically extract data from invoices, verify details, flag discrepancies, schedule payments and even send automated reminders for overdue accounts. The savings generated by reducing human error, accelerating payment cycles and optimizing cash flow are substantial.
By offloading these “busywork” financial tasks to AI, your human finance team can shift their focus from transactional
processing to strategic financial planning, analysis and, most importantly, supporting your sales efforts.
5 AI for Administrative Automation: Freeing Your Team from the Mundane
The administrative burden in C&R firms is immense, often consuming a significant portion of valuable employee time. While Robotic Process Automation (RPA) offered some relief, its rule-based limitations often proved too rigid for the dynamic, often unstructured nature of construction operations.
But with the advent of Large Language Models (LLMs) and advanced AI, the possibilities for administrative automation have expanded dramatically.
Imagine AI bots handling the creation of CRM inputs after a client meeting, automatically drafting security updates for ongoing projects, checking inventory levels across multiple sites, or sending personalized reminders to clients and suppliers about upcoming deadlines or deliveries. These “boring stuff” tasks, which collectively drain countless hours from your human teams, now can be seamlessly managed by AI.
This isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about enhancing job satisfaction by allowing your employees to focus on complex problemsolving, creative solutions and direct client engagement—the aspects of their roles that truly add value and intellectual stimulation.
The future of construction and renovation isn’t just about bigger buildings or more innovative designs; it’s about smarter operations. While the initial steps into AI may seem daunting, our advice is clear: Don’t get lost in the overwhelming potential. Start with these five proven use cases.
They represent the most direct and impactful paths to leveraging AI to create substantial value, drive efficiency and give your business a significant competitive edge in an increasingly digital world. The time to build smarter is now.
Fabien Cros is the Chief Data & AI Officer and founder of SparkWise Solutions – Data &AI at Ducker Carlisle. He formerly served as Data & AI Country Lead for Manufacturing at Google France. SparkWise Solutions has developed pre-packaged AI solutions that are customizable and deployable in as little as eight weeks to help companies in the industrial sector realize the benefits of AI quickly and affordably. For more information, visit www.duckercarlisle.com/services/sparkwise-solutions or email sparkwise@duckercarlisle.com.
Meet. Connect. Network.
RCA attendees gather in Orlando for Florida event
The Retail Contractors Association (RCA) kept the momentum going with a lively networking reception at the Fast Break Hilton Hotel/Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. Branded “Continue the Conversation – Connections and Introductions,” the evening gave industry professionals the opportunity to relax over drinks and appetizers while strengthening ties across the retail and development sectors. Sponsored by Commercial Construction & Renovation, Retail Design Institute and The Home Depot Pro, the reception underscored the value of collaboration and community at the heart of RCA’s mission. For more information on RCA, visit www.retailcontractors.org
1. Jerry DeLiberato, Bowen; Alex Schum, NFP
2. John and Vicki Stallman, Lakeview Construction
3. Travis Bousquet, Atwell; Janine Buettner, ArcVision; John Nourzad, Atwell
4. Drew Romanic, Martin Architectural Group; Matthew Lee, Young Contracting; Jeff Mahler, Onyx Creative
5. Jason Storey, The Home Depot; Austin Munsch, HFA; Mike Winters, Singleton Construction
6. Jake Kaplan, NFP; Donna Coneley, Triad Retail Construction, Brian Hogan, FCP Services
8. David Corson, CCR Magazine; Rick Winkel, Winkel Construction
Delivering the Goods
Inside Richards Building Supply’s digital transformation of distribution operations
By Cyndi Brandt & Jenny Vetter
With unpredictable tariffs driving costs up and an estimated shortfall of 439,000 workers, the construction industry is operating in a state of uncertainty as stakeholders from contractors to building materials distributors brace for the economic fallout of the current administration’s trade policies.
The industry is already feeling the effects, with nearly one in four contractors experiencing a tariff-related project delay or cancellation in May, according to a survey by Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC).
While profit margin expectations improved in this past May, 87% of survey respondents received notification of tariff-related price increases for materials, putting pressure on margins in the coming months as the impact of the newly-enacted 50% steel and aluminum tariffs is fully realized.
Complexities on the delivery front
For building materials distributors, economic challenges are not the only hurdle they
face, as highly dynamic building trades put a premium on delivery performance to keep projects on schedule, costs down and customers happy.
To meet contractors’ growing expectations of precision and responsiveness, distributors need to balance agility and productivity with cost mitigation and profit targets—all while accommodating a challenging range of specialized delivery parameters, including:
> Short lead times, often less than 24 hours
> Varying unloading times and complexity of delivery
> Diverse mix of shapes and sizes of materials
> Different types of trucks (e.g., boom trucks, vans, dump trucks)
> Incomplete delivery addresses, common with new buildings or areas
These factors touch every part of the distribution journey—from planning routes before the materials leave the yard to real-time route optimization and proof of delivery (POD) once the goods are received
at the job site—impacting customer satisfaction, driver safety, and claims and dispute resolution along the way.
Manual practices fall short
Building materials distributors are quickly realizing that status quo delivery practices are incapable of generating the efficiency, cost savings, and customer experience necessary to differentiate their business in 2025, especially given today’s thin margins threatening profitability.
Richards Building Supply (RBS), a wholesale distributor of building materials with over 60 locations serving 15 states, recognized the need to eliminate time-consuming and error-prone manual processes in its supply chain, particularly around lastmile delivery, in order to heighten delivery efficiency, improve on-time performance and increase delivery volumes.
Automating delivery processes
Limited by a lack of real-time visibility into delivery operations and struggling with the
ineffectiveness of paper-based POD for preventing disputes and claims related to damaged and missing materials, RBS turned to technology to streamline its last-mile workflow.
The building materials distributor implemented the Descartes route optimization and mobile solution with the aim of reducing costly claims and ensuring consistent, ontime delivery to its growing customer base.
Optimized delivery routes amplify efficiency
By replacing traditional paper-based route planning with an automated artificial intelligence (AI)-powered route optimization solution, RBS improved on-time delivery performance while reducing costs and maximizing capacity utilization.
Real-time updates from GPS-tracked vehicles provide visibility into vehicle location and delivery status; RBS can monitor delivery times against customer expectations and notify customers of delivery progress.
It is far easier to keep customers informed during the day and, with automated
rescheduling and route adjustments, RBS can easily change orders and minimize disruptions to help contractors better manage project schedules—a bonus when weather interferes with planned work and the associated planned deliveries.
Bumping up capacity
By optimizing scheduling and delivery processes to ensure the right product is loaded onto the right truck and unloaded safely and efficiently at the job site, RBS has been able to ramp up delivery capacity. RBS can better manage customer orders for our diverse product mix in vehicles of appropriate sizes and with the necessary offloading capabilities.
Safety is job one
Driver safety is a serious priority for building supply companies delivering materials of all dimensions and weights and characterized by specialized vehicle and equipment requirements. By leveraging real-time visibility and mobile applications to guide drivers’
workflows, technology is paving the way for safe, compliant deliveries.
RBS take advantage of telematics devices and forward- and rear-facing dash cams in our vehicles, coupled with mobile devices for our drivers, to enhance driver safety. Plus, it has automated driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs) and enabled drivers to engage with safety training videos on their mobile devices.
Reducing claims and disputes
Proving that a delivery occurred as planned—while following safety procedures and ensuring no damage occurred to either the materials or the job site—is a challenge without the benefit of delivery-related photos (e.g., equipment setup, job site, product delivery location, condition of materials) for verification.
By extending technology to the field, RBS can facilitate the capture of important information (e.g., digital photos,
e-signatures) to exonerate damage claims and speed up cash flow, while reducing friction in its drivers’ workday.
In the past, RBS' rate of losses, disputes and claims was unacceptable. It didn’t have before-and-after photos of job site conditions and, if nobody was on site when it delivered the materials, there was no visual record to refer to if anything was missing once the contractor or crew arrived. By capturing images using mobile POD, RBS was able to prevent mis-deliveries, resolve disputes quickly and significantly reduce costly claims.”
The road ahead
AI and digital transformation are shaping the future of building supply logistics, dramatically improving delivery productivity and creating a differentiated end-to-end customer experience that helps grow the top and bottom line.
Notably, building materials distributors still relying on legacy systems and
paper-and-pen processes risk becoming second choice when contractors are making purchase decisions, in addition to incurring higher operational costs due to inefficiencies introduced by unnecessary repetitive tasks.
RBS believes customer engagement, underpinned by digital transformation across delivery operations and driven by improved access, seamless system integration, and real-time visibility throughout the sales order process—from quoting through deliveries and returns—is integral to growth moving forward.
Today, technology-driven customer engagement may be viewed as a value-add or competitive edge in the building supply sector, but tomorrow it will be considered standard practice for building customer loyalty and driving revenue. At RBS, it is ahead of the game. By deploying automated route planning and optimization, scheduling, and mobile solutions, it already is reaping the performance and profit rewards. CCR
Jenny Vetter is Logistics Manager at Richards Building Supply (RBS), and Cyndi Brand is, VP Fleet Solutions at Descartes.
Student Insider
Presented by
Student Insider
Dear Skills Trade Student
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.
S-5! Launches $1,500 Scholarship to Build Future Construction Leaders
A new scholarship from S-5! is helping shape the future of construction. The S-5! Scholarship will award $1,500 to a student pursuing a construction-related program at a trade school, community college or university—supporting disciplines from engineering and project management to skilled trades and solar installation. Applications are due Nov. 1, 2025.
Siplast’s RISE Center Inspires the Next Generation of Builders
Siplast is investing in the future of construction with the launch of its RISE Center in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. Designed as both a research hub and community classroom, the state-of-theart facility is sparking curiosity in the trades through hands-on demonstrations, school tours and immersive learning experiences for the next generation of builders.
Caliber 1 Construction Expands Internship Program to Year-Round Offering
Caliber 1 Construction is expanding its Building My Blueprint internship into a year-round program—giving students hands-on exposure to project management, jobsite coordination and commercial builds across the Southeast. Since 2016, more than 40 interns have gained real-world experience, with the expanded program now deepening opportunities for the industry’s future leaders.
Read More HERE
The Rosendin Foundation’s Construction Program Upskilled 91 Students
The Rosendin Foundation’s third annual TRF Camp Build gave nearly 100 students a hands-on look at construction. Over 21 days in five cities, campers in grades 7–10 learned skills from wiring and woodworking to concrete pouring and VR design—building lamps, stepping stones, dog houses and more under the guidance of industry volunteers.
Read More HERE
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The Evolution of an Icon
How Chicago’s Reid Murdoch Building honors the past while embracing the future.
By Warren Strovel
While the landmark Reid Murdoch Building in Chicago might at first appear to be virtually unchanged since its construction in 1914, the property has, in fact, undergone several transformations over the decades. Most recently, a capital improvement campaign brought the riverfront office building up to the standards of contemporary workers, introducing modern amenities while retaining the structure’s timeless architecture.
Designed by George C. Nimmons, the building is notable for its red brick façade punctuated by terra cotta flourishes and a three-story clock tower. Prominently located along the banks of the Chicago River, the structure was built to serve as the office, warehouse and manufacturing headquarters of Reid, Murdoch & Co., which was at the time one of the country’s largest wholesale grocers. In 1930, the westernmost bay was demolished to accommodate the widening of LaSalle Street resulting in the asymmetrical façade present today.
The city purchased the property in 1955. For more than 40 years, it served as a destination for Chicagoans dealing with everything from parking violations to permit applications, as it housed traffic courts and other municipal offices.
Friedman Properties acquired the eight-story, 320,000-square-foot property in 1998. Because it had been listed on the
Today, the Reid Murdoch Building is home to globally recognized companies, including Whirlpool Corporation and Encyclopedia Britannica, as well as boutique firms specializing in marketing, design, law, sports management and other fields.
National Register of Historic Places and designated a Chicago Landmark, it approached the redevelopment with a calculated, preservation-minded focus—our philosophy with all renovation projects—ultimately completing the work in 2002.
Since then, the Reid Murdoch Building has appealed to companies in search of office space that reflects character and purpose. Its authentic charm is complemented by its prime location in River North,
one of the most vibrant and sought-after mixed-use neighborhoods in the country, centrally located with access to public transit and the river.
After more than two decades, the Reid Murdoch Building was ready for its next chapter. Last year, Friedman Properties embarked on a number of improvements, including extensive upgrades to existing common area spaces as well as the creation of new amenities. The updates, which
reflect a bullish view on the downtown office market, were designed to cater to modern office needs while preserving the building’s architectural integrity. After all, century-old buildings like this simply can’t be replicated through ground-up development.
The lobby was reimagined to create an inviting and cohesive space that feels both tethered to the past and at home in the present. Improvements included deconstruction of the existing lobby, strategically exposing concrete columns and ceilings; installation of sleek terrazzo floors as well as new brickwork on the walls that mimics the look and feel of the exterior façade; and incorporation of black steel feature walls, a floating white marble security desk and a contemporary seating area that together create a welcoming atmosphere.
After more than two decades, the Reid Murdoch Building was ready for its next chapter. Last year, Friedman Properties embarked on a number of improvements, including extensive upgrades to existing common area spaces as well as the creation of new amenities.
The partially exposed ceiling gives the space an industrial-chic aesthetic while a digital wall and mural referencing the Reid Murdoch Company’s Monarch Foods logo bridge the building’s rich history with its forward-looking vision.
Get ready to work
Recognizing the rising need for flexible, move-in-ready workspaces, Friedman Properties constructed a fully furnished spec suite on the third floor, designed to offer convenience and minimize downtime for incoming tenants.
The 5,388-square-foot office includes a lounge and collaboration space, two conference rooms, three private offices, 29 flexible workstations, an expansive kitchen and a lounge. Large windows bring in abundant natural light while framing views of the Chicago River and surrounding cityscape.
Friedman Properties also elevated the finishes in common areas, including corridors, restrooms and elevator cabs. These enhancements collectively refreshed the
BUILDING YOUR BRAND
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.
building’s interiors, blending contemporary updates with a reverence for its past. The standout transformation, however, was the introduction of amenities aimed at improving the workday for all building occupants.
Located on the fourth floor, the 5,600-square-foot amenity suite features multiple seating configurations to accommodate individuals or small groups. An expansive café features a marble island, refrigeration and warming drawers for larger events, and complimentary coffee service. Two conference rooms, reservable via an online portal, feature the latest video conferencing technology.
An adjacent fitness center is outfitted with modern equipment such as streaming-enabled cardio machines, Peloton bikes and a selection of free weights. Complementing the workout facilities are locker
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rooms with showers and towel service— also a perk for bike commuters—plus the added benefit of on-site personal training for those seeking individualized fitness support.
The design palette includes a mix of wood, marble tile and a variety of textiles to foster a warm and comfortable atmosphere. Original artifacts are on display and a mural by artist Kate Lewis depicts a stylized version of the Chicago skyline as seen from the river. With a focus on community-building and wellness, these additions advance the property’s modernization without compromising the architectural charm that makes it stand out in the market.
Today, the Reid Murdoch Building is home to globally recognized companies, including Whirlpool Corporation and Encyclopedia Britannica, as well as boutique firms specializing in marketing, design, law, sports management and other fields. An international confectionary company is in the midst of its own renovations after recently expanding its lease to 30,000 square feet.
Despite exaggerated headlines about the office market’s demise, the future of irreplaceable properties like the Reid Murdoch Building remains bright. A new permanent theatrical experience called “Theater of the
Mind” will open later this year in a portion of the building’s first-floor retail space. The experiential installation, co-created by Talking Heads frontman David Byrne, is expected to draw approximately 100,000 visitors in its first year.
It is this deep appreciation for the beauty and utility of historic buildings— and the thoughtful restoration they inspire—that has allowed the Reid Murdoch Building to remain a fixture along the downtown Chicago riverfront for over a century. And with ongoing stewardship, it will serve as a model of preservation for centuries to come. CCR
Warren Strovel is Executive VP of Operations at Friedman Properties, which owns and operates more than 50 mixed-use properties encompassing over 5 million square feet in Chicago.
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.
IT’S THAT SIMPLE
We’re a company with a fresh approach. We are highly skilled and passionate design and construction experts brought together and bonded by mutual trust and respect.
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Professional Design and Project Management Services for the Retail, Restaurant, Hospitality, Entertainment and the Commercial Markets.
Better. Faster. Smarter
Survey Reveals Top Project Management & Software Solutions
From precon to closeout, this year’s Project Management, Services/Construction Software survey profiles the project management partners helping general contractors deliver on schedule and on budget. See which firms are driving coordination, cost control, scheduling and field execution across retail, hospitality, healthcare, and more. If you want your company included next time, contact Publisher David Corson at davidc@ccr-mag.com.
3MG, PSC
Manuel Ray, Principal 1649 Ponce de Leon Ave.
De Diego Ward San Juan, PR 00926 (787) 979-9982 (787) 979-9973
Project Management Services: Architecture/Engineering Services, Due Diligence, Planned Capital Programs, Importing of Architectural Millwork & Store Fixtures and Elements Used Both Decorative and Function, Software Features: N/A, Business Size: Small/Medium Platform: On-line, On Premise, Mobile
Intended Users: Architects, Design Firms, Construction Management Firms, Engineering Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors
Open API: No, Pricing Model: N/A
Andrews GTM
Steve Puhl, Director of Business Development 10235 Philipp Parkway Streetsboro, OH 44241 (216) 973-3245 • (216) 973-3245
spuhl@andrewsgtm.com www.andrewsgtm.com
Project Management Services: Rollout Programs, Warehousing and Logistics, Software Features: N/A, Business Size: Large, Small/Medium, Platform: On-line
Intended Users: Construction Management Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors
Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Online reporting tools help you track inventory and monitor deliveries of your construction materials in real time.
archSCAN, LLC
Vivica Williams, President 7172 Columbia Gateway Dr, Ste C Columbia, MD 21046 (410) 553-6383 • (443) 710-5700 archscan@archscan.com www.archscan.com
Project Management Services: Document Management, Digitization, and Indexing Services, Software Features: Document Storage, Service Management, Document Management, Space Management, and Complicance Management Software
Business Size: Small/Medium, Platform: On-line, On Premise, Mobile Intended Users: Architects, Design Firms, Construction Management Firms, Engineering Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors, Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Subscription Based, Per User, Amount of Data
Software Features: Architects, Engineers, General Contractors, Subcontractors, Public Sector, Business Size: Large Enterprise, Small/Medium Enterprise, Platform: On-Line, On Premise, Mobile Intended Users: Architects, Design Firms, Construction Management Firms, Engineering Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors
Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Subscription based, Per User
BrandPoint Services
Tim Dehncke, EVP, Sales & Marketing 820 Adams, Ste., 130 Audubon, PA 19403 (316) 210-3656
Project Management Services: New Construction/Renovations, Site Surveys, Rollout Programs, Planned Capital Programs, Due Diligence, Facility Maintenance, Software Features: Budget/Schedule Tracking|Project Management|Other: N/A
Business Size: Large Enterprise, Small/Medium Enterprise Platform: On-Line, Intended Users: Property Owners/Brands
Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Per Project
BuildRite
Chris Varney, Managing Partner 7250 Dallas Pkwy, #400 Plano, TX 75024 (214) 851-1741 • (602) 708-8613
chris.varney@buildritecpm.com
www.buildritecpm.com
Project Management Services: Due Diligence, New Construction/ Renovations, Planned Capital Programs, Rollout programs
Software Features: Project Management, Business Size: Small/Medium Platform: On-line, Intended Users: Construction Management Firms, Property Owners/Brands, Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Per User
Bureau Veritas
6021 University Blvd., Suite 200 Ellicott City, MD 21043 (800) 733-0660
bvnammarketing@bureauveritas.com www.bvna.com
Project Management Services: New Construction/Renovations, Site Surveys, Rollout Programs, Planned Capital Programs, Architecture/Engineering Services, Due Diligence, Facility Maintenance, Surety/CPA Services, Software Features: Accounting|Bidding|Budget/ Schedule Tracking|Document Storage|Estimating|Logistics|Service Management|Project Management, Business Size: Large Enterprise Platform: On-Line, Mobile, Intended Users: Property Owners/Brands Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Subscription based, Per User
CADSERVICESPT
Carlos Silva, Rua Domingos da Silva Reis, 9 Lisboa, Lisboa 2615675 carlos.h.silva@netcabo.pt www.renders-and-drafting.squarespace.com
Tracking, Document Storage, Estimating, Logistics, Service Management, Project Management, Business Size: Large Platform: On-line, On Premise, Mobile Intended Users: Construction Management Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Per Project
Chain Store Maintenance an MCS Company
John Catanese, Sr. Vice President
81 Union Street
Attleboro, MA 02703 (800) 888-1675
CSMsales@ChainStore.com www.ChainStore.com
Project Management Services: Facility Maintenance, New Construction/Renovations, Planned Capital Programs
Software Features: Accounting, AI, Bidding, Budget/Schedule Tracking, Project Management, Business Size: Large, Small/Medium Platform: On-line|Mobile, Intended Users: Construction Management Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors, Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Per Project
City Estimating LLC
Karson Blake, Estimating Services 775 Windemere Oak Way Lilburn, GA 30047 (206) 8146660 • (206) 814-6660
blakekarsonce@gmail.com www.cityestimating.com
Project Management Services: Architecture/Engineering Services, Facility Maintenance, New Construction/Renovations, Estimating and Takeoff services, Software Features: Bidding, Estimating, Service Management, Project Management, Business Size: Large Platform: On-line, Intended Users: Architects, Construction Management Firms, Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Per Project
CivilGEO, Inc.
Chris Maeder, Engineering Director 708 Heartland Trail, 3rd Floor Madison, WI 53717 (800) 488-4110 (608) 729-5100 (608) 729-5101 info@civilgeo.com www.civilgeo.com
Project Management Services: Architecture/Engineering Services, SaaS, Software Features: AI, Flood Modeling, Stormwater Modeling, Hydrological Modeling, Business Size: Small/Medium Platform: On Premise, Intended Users: Design Firms, Construction Management Firms, Engineering Firms, Property Owners/Brands Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Subscription Based, Per User
Coast2Coast Survey Corp.
Tim West, Director 7704 Basswood Drive Chattanooga, TN 37416 (423) 710-4714
twest@coast2coast.net www.coast2coast.net
Project Management Services: Site Surveys, Due Diligence, Laser Scanning, 3D Modeling, MEP Reports, ADA Surveys
Software Features: N/A, Business Size: Small/Medium Enterprise Platform: N/A, Intended Users: Architects, Design Firms, Construction Management Firms, Engineering Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors
Software Features: Estimating, Business Size: Large Platform: Mobile, Intended Users: Architects, Design Firms, Construction Management Firms, Engineering Firms, General Contractors, Specialty Contractors, Open API: No, Pricing Model: Other
Connect Source
Consulting Group, LLC.
Gina Marie Romeo, Founder & Principal Consultant 3 Pheasant Run Forked River, NJ 08731 (609) 661-9636 • Cell: (609) 661-9636
gina@connectscg.com • www.connectscg.com
Project Management Services: New Construction/Renovations, Site Surveys, Rollout Programs, Planned Capital Programs, Architecture/Engineering Services, Due Diligence, Other: Specializing in Management Consulting - one source with trees to keys services, outsourced business development/sales training, Connect and Source industry experts for various national retail and restaurant chains
Construction Software Features: N/A Business Size: Small-Medium Platform: N/A Intended Users: Architects, Design Firms, Construction Management Firms, Engineering Firms, General Contractors Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors, Other: Retailers Open API: N/A Pricing Models: N/A
Construction Market Consultants
Bobby Darnell, Managing Principal 3651 Peachtree Pkwy., Suite E-275 Suwanee, GA 30024 (770) 887-4941
www.cmconl.com • info@cmconl.com
Project Mgmt. Services: N/A
Construction Software Features: CRM
Business Size: Small-Medium Platform: On-Line
Intended Users: Architects, Design Firms, Construction Management Firms, Engineering Firms, General Contractors, Specialty Contractors, Building Products, Open API: Yes Pricing Model: Subscription based, Per User
CSI Estimation, LLC
Bryan Willmer 1833 78th St. Brooklyn, NY 11214 (718) 717-2769
Project Management Services: New Construction/Renovations, Site Services, Software Features: eGate provides the European construction market with a scalable, IoT-based, independently validated and industry-driven digital solution.
Business Size: Small/Medium, Platform: On-line
Intended Users: Construction Management Firms, Construction Companies & Developers General contractors, Real Estate Developers / Property Investors, Subcontractors (concrete works, HVAC, interior finishing) ConstructionIindustrySservice Providers Equipment & Tool Rental (Boels Concrete Suppliers & Laboratories Dust and Air Auality Management Service Providers Measurement and Quality Assurance Services, Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Subscription Based, Per Project, Amount of Data
Eno Enterprises
Ralph Buckles, Chief Estimator 741 Reinholds Rd Denver, PA 17517 (717) 278-1143
Project Management Services: Other: Estimating and Scheduling (Includes Lump Sump Bids, Change Orders and Claims)
Construction Software Features: Other: Quality control
Business Size: Small-Medium Platform: On-Line, Mobile Intended Users: Construction Management Firms, Engineering Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors
Open API: Yes Pricing Models: Subscription Based
EVOLVE MEP
Adam Heon, VP of Product P.O. box 160 Hebron, CT 06248 adam.heon@evolvemep.com www.evolvemep.com
Project Management Services: N/A, Software Features: Design & Prefabrication for MEP Contractors, Business Size: Small/Medium Platform: On-line, On Premise, Intended Users: Specialty Contractors
Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Subscription Based
FCP Services
Brian Hogan, National Business Development 3185 Terminal Drive
Eagan, MN 55121 (517) 528-8990
bhogan@fcpservices.com
www.fcpservices.com
Project Management Services: Facility Maintenance, New Construction/Renovations, Planned Capital Programs, Rollout Programs, Painting, General Contracting, Software Features: N/A
Business Size: Small/Medium, Platform: N/A
Intended Users: Architects, Design Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Open API: N/A, Pricing Model: N/A
Field Services Unlimited
Ashley Teut, Business Development Manager 1355 S. Colorado Blvd, Building C Denver, CO 80222 (402) 980-1872
ateut@fsusurveyor.com www.fsusurveyor.com
Foresight
Dr. Atif, Ansar
Executive Chairman & Co-Founder 101 New Cavendish Street 1st Floor South London, UK W1W 6XH +44 020 4586 8935
info@foresight.works www.foresight.works
Project Management Services: Predictive Project Delivery Platform, enabling confident delivery of on-time projects across their expanding portfolio by giving teams foresight to prevent delays.
Software Features: AI, Budget/Schedule Tracking, Estimating, Project Management, Business Size: Small/Medium Platform: On-line, On Premise, Intended Users: Construction Management Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Data Centers, Open API: No, Pricing Model: Per Project
Foundation Software
Project Management Services: Architecture/Engineering Services, Due Diligence, Facility Maintenance, New Construction/Renovations, Planned Capital Programs, Rollout programs, Site Services, Other: ADA Compliance, Drone Surveys, 3D Surveys, 2D Architectural As-Builts , Software Features: N/A
Business Size: N/A, Platform: N/A, Intended Users: N/A, Open API: N/A, Pricing Model: N/A
Fleetio
Jarred Riegle, Fleet Solutions Specialist 1900 2nd Ave North, Suite 300 Birmingham, AL 35203 (205) 498-9290
Business Size: Large, Small/Medium, Platform: On-line, Mobile Intended Users: Construction Management Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors
Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Subscription Based
Flexecution
Nick Harbaugh, VP International 16601 Blanco Road, Suite 112 San Antonio, TX 78232 (888)611-3539 • (858)752-1168
nickh@flexecutioninc.com www.flexecutioninc.com
Project Mgmt Services: New Construction/Renovations|Site Surveys|Rollout Programs|Planned Capital Programs|Other: Installations
Construction Software Features: Project Management
Business Size: Small/Medium Enterprise Platform: Mobile Intended Users: Construction Management Firms Open API: No
Business Size: Large, Small/Medium, Platform: On-line, Mobile Intended Users: Architects, Design Firms, Construction Management Firms, Engineering Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors, Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Subscription Based, Per User, Per Project
FLEXECUTE YOUR NEXT PROJECT!
Your Partner for In-Store Installation and Project Management.
Flexecution’s dedicated professionals work with you to optimize in-store solutions. We are committed to total customer satisfaction, managing everything from complete store buildouts and fixture installations to merchandising, signage, and vinyl graphics. Our team is ready to help bring your project to life.
To learn more about how we can FLEXECUTE your next project, scan the QR Code.
FLEX FORE ST. JUDE 2025
Hilton Head Island, SC | November 7-8, 2025
Experience the premier Flex Fore St. Jude Gala and Golf event. Join us in supports St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and its life-saving mission. Elevate your company's profile and align with a globally recognized cause.
To learn more about how you can get involved, visit www,stjude.org/flexfore or scan the QR Code.
THE RETAIL NOMAD IS HITTING THE ROAD!
The Retail Nomad, Nick Harbaugh, is embarking on a 12-month Great American USA Tour. He'll be traveling across the country to explore your store! Sharing content about the best of retail from bustling malls to unique boutiques. He’s looking for compelling stories and retailers to feature.
WANT TO BE FEATURED? Scan the QR code to connect with Nick. Whether you have a story to tell or a store to show off, he wants to hear from you and get your store in the spotlight.
Guarantee Estimation LLC
Scott Travis, Outsource Estimating 4908 Bell Ridge 106 Milton, FL 32571 (850) 499-6861
Project Management Services: Construction site logistics, time slot management, truck dispatch optimization in concrete, ready-mix, aggregates and construction materials.
Software Features: Logistics|Project Management
Business Size: Large, Platform: On-line, On Premise Intended Users: Construction Management Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors
Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Subscription Based, Per truck or based on volumes.
JLL
3344 Peachtree Rd., NE Atlanta, GA 30326 (818) 620-2974
www.us.jll.com/en/deliver-projects
Project Mgmt. Services: New Construction/Renovations, Site Surveys, Rollout Programs, Planned Capital Programs, Architecture/Engineering Services, Due Diligence, Construction Software Features: Budget/Scheduling Tracking, Document Storage, Project Management,
Business Size: Large Enterprise, Small-Medium, Platform: On-Line, On Premise, Mobile, Intended Users: Construction Management Firms, General Contractors
Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Subscription Based
HIGH QUALITY DELIVERABLES WITHIN 2MM
QUICK SPEED TO DELIVERY 10 DAYS OR LESS
FSU works with retailers, architects, restaurants, financial services, gas convenience, and commercial property owners nationwide. We work with everyone from development to construction managers, store planners to designers, and facilities to asset managers. WE HAVE YOU COVERED!
• 3D Surveys and BIM
• 2D Architectural As-Builts
• Due Diligence and Permit Research
• Facility Assessments, Audits, and Asset Surveys
• ADA Compliance
• Drone Surveys
The experience your project deserves
FSU works with retailers, architects, restaurant concepts, financial services, companies and facilities, and asset managers of every size across North America.
JobPlanner Construction
Software
DeWayne Adamson, CEO & President 3015 Airways Blvd Memphis, TN 38131 (888) 357-5935
Project Management Services: Graphics & Construction Barriers
Software Features: N/A, Business Size: Small/Medium Platform: On-line, Intended Users: Architects, Design Firms, Construction Management Firms, General Contractors, Specialty Contractors
Open API: N/A, Pricing Model: Per Project
Kingsmen Projects US, Inc.
Stephen Hekman, Executive Vice President 7157 Colleyville Boulevard, 101 Colleyville, TX 76034-6240 (619) 719-8950 • (619) 719-8950 stephen@kingsmen-usa.com www.kingsmen-usa.com
Project Management Services: Architecture/Engineering Services, Due Diligence, New Construction/Renovations, Rollout programs
Software Features: N/A, Business Size: Small/Medium Platform: On Premise, Intended Users: Architects, Design Firms, Construction Management Firms, Engineering Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors Open API: N/A, Pricing Model: N/A
KYRO
Hari Vasudevan, Founder and CEO 9720 Coit Road, Suite 220-345 Plano, TX 75025 (817) 683-6169
hari@kyro.ai www.kyro.ai
Project Management Services: Architecture/Engineering Services, Facility Maintenance, New Construction/Renovations, Site Services, Surety Services, Dashboards, Work in pProgress and Job Costing and Overhead Analysis, Software Features: AI, Budget/ Schedule Tracking, Document Storage, Service Management, Project Management, Timesheets, Communication, Document Markup, Forms, Photo Upload, Safety, Business Size: We have a combination of both SMB and Enterprise, Platform: On-line, Mobile Intended Users: Construction Management Firms, Engineering Firms, General Contractors, Specialty Contractors, Electric Utilities, Vegetation, Storm Management industries, Open API: Yes Pricing Model: Subscription Based, Per User
Laser Facility
Management LLC
Joe Fairley, Vice President 3111 Fortune Way, Suite B8 Wellington, FL 33414 (561) 235-7444 • (518) 813-2006 joseph@laserfacility.com www.LaserFacility.com
Project Management Services: Facility Maintenance|Planned Capital Programs|Rollout programs|Other: Refresh, Remodel, Flooring, and CapEx, Software Features: Accounting, Bidding, Budget/Schedule Tracking, Document Storage, Estimating, Service Management, Project Management, Business Size: Small/Medium Platform: On-line, Intended Users: Construction Management Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors
Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Per Project
MuleHide
Jenny Emann, Marketing Manager 1195 Prince Hall Drive Beloit, WI 53511 (800) 786-1492 • (888) 218-7838
Project Management Services: First, Fully-Integrated Construction Scheduling & Field Coordination Software Software Features: Budget/Schedule Tracking, Project Management Business Size: Small/Medium, Platform: On-line, Mobile Intended Users: Construction Management Firms, General Contractors Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Subscription Based
OxBlue
Tracy Douglas, VP of Marketing 1777 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW Atlanta, GA 30319 (855) 580-0361
tdouglas@oxblue.com www.oxblue.com
Project Management Services: Construction Time-Lapse Software Features: N/A, Business Size: N/A Platform: N/A, Intended Users: N/A, Open API: N/A Pricing Model: N/A
Permit.com
Vaun Podlogar, President 319 Elaines Ct. Dodgeville, WI 53533 (608) 999-9998 x011
www.permit.com • vaun@permit.com
Project Management Services: Permit Management, Due Diligence, Submittals, Site investigations, Plan Approvals
Construction Software Features: Permit Tracking and License Management, Platform: On-Line
Intended Users: Architects, Design Firms, Construction Management Firms, Engineering Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors, Sign Companies and Facility Maintenance Companies, Open API: N/A, Pricing Model: N/A
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Poma Retail Development Inc.
Tony Poma, President 727 Silver Spur Suite 202 Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274 (310) 833-7662
www.pomaretail.com • tonyp@pomaretail.com
Project Mgmt. Services: New Construction/Renovations, Site Surveys, Architecture/Engineering Services, Due Diligence, Facility Maintenance, Fixture Roll Outs and Shop in Shops
Construction Software Features: Bidding, Budget/Scheduling Tracking, Estimating, Logistics, Service Management, Project Management, Business Size: Small-Medium, Platform: N/A, Intended Users: N/A, Open API: N/A, Pricing Model: N/A
Project Management Consortium (PMC)
Chris Love, President 7728 Henefer Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90045 (347) 392-1188
Project Mgmt. Services: New Construction/Renovations, Site Surveys, Planned Capital Programs, Architecture/Engineering Services, Due Diligence, Facility Maintenance, Construction Software Features: Bidding, Budget/Scheduling Tracking, Estimating, Project Management
Business Size: Small-Medium, Platform: On-Line, Mobile
Intended Users: Architects, Target User, Open API: Yes
Pricing Model: Per Project, Best Fit for Client
CIRCLE NO. 27
Projectmates:
Built for Owners. Designed for Success.
Marcus Bliss, Vice President 2435 N Central Exp, #640 Richardson, TX 75080 (214) 217-4100 info@systemates.com www.projectmates.com
Project Management Services: N/A, Software Features: Budget/ Schedule Tracking, Document Storage, Project Management, Risk Management, Business Size: Small/Medium, Platform: On-line, Mobile Intended Users: Property Owners, Brands, Open API: Yes Pricing Model: Subscription Based
RLB (Rider Levett Bucknall)
Johnnie Sheppard, Associate Principal 4343 East Camelback Road Phoenix, AZ 85018 (336) 926-2550 • (336) 926-2550 johnnie.sheppard@us.rlb.com www.RLB.com
Project Management Services: Architecture/Engineering Services, New Construction/Renovations, Software Features: Estimating Business Size: Small/Medium, Platform: On Premise, Mobile Intended Users: Architects, Design Firms, Construction Management Firms, Engineering Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Open API: No, Pricing Model: Per Project
Simpat Tech
Ashish Patel, CEO 3800 N Lamar Blvd, #200 Austin, TX 78756 info@simpat.tech www.simpat.tech
Project Management Services: Due Diligence, New Construction/Renovations, Planned Capital Programs, Rollout programs
Project Management Services: Due Diligence, New Construction/ Renovations, Planned Capital Programs, Rollout Programs, Site Services Software Features: N/A, Business Size: Small/Medium, About 400 in North America- 4,000 globally, Platform: On-line, On Premise, Mobile, Intended Users: Property Owners/Brands Open API: N/A, Pricing Model: Per Project
Safe Site Check In LLC
David Ward, CEO 4216 N Mississippi, Suite 401 Portland, OR 97217 (503) 217-4209 • (503) 217-4209 david.ward@safesitecheckin.com www.safesitecheckin.com
Project Management Services: N/A, Software Features: Service Management, Project Management, Business Size: Small/Medium Platform: On-line, Mobile, Intended Users: Construction Management Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors, Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Per Project
Software Features: Accounting, AI, Budget/Schedule Tracking, Document Storage, Estimating, Logistics, Service Management, Project Management, Business Size: Large, Small/Medium Platform: On-line, Intended Users: Architects, Construction Management Firms, Engineering Firms, General Contractors, Specialty Contractors, Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Per User, Per Project
Tenzing One
Kyle Zegan, Business Development Manager 1815 S Meyers Rd, #1070 Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181 (815) 605-7205 • (813) 482-6026 kzegan@tenzingone.com www.TenzingOne.com
Project Management Services: New Construction/Renovations, Planned Capital Programs, Rollout Programs, Site Services, On-Demand/ as Needed Expert Advisory Services for through Project Sherpa
Software Features: Budget/Schedule Tracking, Document Storage, Project Management, Process Management
Business Size: Small/Medium, Platform: On-line, Mobile Intended Users: Architects, Construction Management Firms, Property Owners/Brands, Capital Project Owners, Open API: Yes Pricing Model: Subscription Based
The Contractor Consultants
Matt DiBara, CEO & Co Founder 611 N Brand Blvd, #1300 Glendale, CA 91203 (949) 533-3973 • (949) 533-3973
Intended Users: Construction Management Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors, Small-toMid-Sized Construction Firms, HR & Operations Leaders, Residential Builders, Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Subscription Based
The Townson Company
Kevin Townson, President
7157 Colleyville Blvd, Suite 101 Colleyville, TX 76034 (817) 903-2834
kevin@townsoncompany.com
www.townsoncompany.com
Project Management Services: New Construction/Renovations, Site Surveys, Rollout Programs
Construction Software Features: Budget/Schedule Tracking, Document Storage, Project Management Business Size: Small/Medium Enterprise Platform: On-Line, On Premise, Mobile Intended Users: Architects, Design Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors Open API: No Pricing Model: Per Project
Track3D
Saneesh Veetil, Product Marketing Manager
691 S Milpitas Blvd, Suite 217 Milpitas, CA 95035 (844) 422-8861
Info@track3d.ai
www.track3d.ai
Project Management Services: Site Services, Construction Monitoring, Field Management, Software Features: AI, Budget/ Schedule Tracking, Project Management, Reality Capture, Construction Progress Monitoring, Business Size: Large Platform: On-line, Mobile, Intended Users: Architects, Construction Management Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands, Specialty Contractors, Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Subscription Based
True Value Estimating
Will Jackson, Business Development Manager 123 Main St, Apt 4B, Queens, NY Brooklyn, NY 11375 (929) 654-7164 • (929) 654-7164 (929) 654-7164
Project Management Services: Other, Software Features: Estimating, Service Management, Project Management, Business Size: Large, Platform: On-line, Intended Users: Engineering Firms, Open API: Yes, Pricing Model: Per Project
Trunk Tools
Sarah Buchner, CEO PO Box 683
New York, NY 10038 (650) 471-9687
sarah@trunk.tools • trunktools.com
Project Management Services: Other: Software
Construction Software Features: Accounting, AI, Budget/Schedule Tracking, Other: Incentive Management
Business Size: Other: Startup Platform: On-Line Intended Users: Construction Management Firms, General Contractors, Property Owners/Brands Open API: Yes Pricing Model: Subscription based, Per User
Vectorworks, Inc.
Jason Pletcher, CEO 8621 Robert Fulton Drive, Suite 200
Columbia MD 21046 (410) 290-5114
sales@vectorworks.net
www.vectorworks.net
Project Management Services: Design Software
Software Features: N/A, Business Size: N/A, Platform: N/A
Intended Users: Architects, Design Firms, Open API: N/A
Pricing Model: Subscription Based
Viking Pure Solutions
Daniel Lawson, President of Business Affairs 4400 Eastport Park Way
Port Orange, FL 32127 (386) 428-9800
info@vikingpure.com
www.vikingpure.com
Project Management Services: Facility Maintenance
Software Features: N/A, Business Size: Small/Medium
Platform: On Premise, Intended Users: Property Owners/Brands Open API: No, Pricing Model: Subscription Based
VisiSpecs by Chalkline
Seamus McGrady, COO 400 Congress St., Suite 15012
Portland, ME 04112 (207) 221-7732
info@chalklineinc.com
www.chalklineinc.com
Project Management Services: N/A
Software Features: Document Storage, Project Management, Construction specification Software based in Microsoft Word with Autodesk Revit Integration, Business Size: Small/Medium
Platform: On-line, On Premise, Intended Users: Architects, Design Firms, Construction Management Firms, Engineering Firms, Property Owners/Brands, Open API: No, Pricing Model: Subscription Based
YellowBird
Lucas Kill, Client Solutions Director 2355 E Camelback Rd., Suite 325
Intended Users: Construction Management Firms, General Contractors, Specialty Contractors, Open API: Yes
Pricing Model: Per Project
PAVEMENT MANAGEMENT
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At BuildRite, our accurate site condition data empowers you to execute the right repairs at the right time We oversee your entire project to ensure outcomes are controlled and quality is guaranteed. Our team of expert construction project management specialists o ers local expertise on a national scale, serving clients like you across various sectors and project types, from small commercial facilities to large distribution centers.
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A Pleasant Surprise
New Utah theater becomes a cultural keystone
By Thomas Renner
In every important community living benchmark, Pleasant Grove, Utah lives up to its name. It offers a low crime rate, quality schools and is known for its abundance of year-round outdoor activities. Whether it’s discovering nature on 33 trails that cover 273 miles or the 104-year-old Strawberry Days, a summer rite of passage that includes a rodeo, carnival and parade, Pleasant Grove is an American jewel.
Photography courtesy of Guillaume
Cody Hale, Founder and Managing Director of The Ruth and Nathan Hale at dōTERRA, walks through the expansive lobby of the new theater in Pleasant Grove, Utah.
In January, Pleasant Grove welcomed another brilliant piece to its cultural landscape. The Ruth and Nathan Hale Theater at dōTERRA includes two theaters with seating for 1,074 guests and spans a whopping 77,950 square feet. The $65 million facility replaces the 7,000 square-foot Hale Center Theater in nearby Orem, which opened in 1990 and had a seating capacity of 305.
Workers completed the project in just two years—one that features the latest advancements in theater technology. The structure includes a club lounge and ballroom that can accommodate up to 200 guests, an education wing tailored to arts instruction with eight private studios, and a spacious lobby in which patrons can mingle prior to the show.
“At the theater in Orem, if you arrived before the doors opened you waited in your car in the parking lot,’’ says Project Manager for The Ruth, Troy Anderson.
In the close-knit Pleasant Grove community, architects devised one other
The Ruth and Nathan Hale Theater at dōTERRA includes two theaters with seating for 1,074 guests and spans a whopping 77,950 square feet.
important element that was essential to the plan of the building owners and would appeal to patrons. It was critical to develop the same intimate feel of the Hale Center Theater Orem (HCTO), but within a dramatically expanded footprint.
“Achieving that same intimate vibe was the most important goal in realizing the owners’ vision,’’ says Todd Kelsey, architect for Method Studio, which designed the facility.
“The smaller theater was carefully designed to match HCTO in seat count, row height and proximity to stage, with thoughtful tweaks to improve patron access and overall comfort. For the larger main stage, a similar approach was taken on a grander scale.”
For all the theatrical accoutrements that make The Ruth a state-of-the-art theater, establishing a tight bond with audiences guided every design decision.
Peeking Inside
The centerpiece of The Ruth is the 670seat Scott and Karen Smith Grand Theater. Named for local and long-time benefactors of Utah arts, the 10,000 square feet theater includes modern engineering and sound, innovative staging and brilliant lighting. The Shalleck Collaborative spearheaded the design of the stages and theater features.
“With increased seating capacity, every square inch was meticulously evaluated by
The project includes three smoke vents and a roof hatch from BILCO, the manufacturer of specialty access products.
Architecture Engineering Interior Design
the design team and owner, using advanced computer-aided design tools and visualization software to ensure the experience remained personal and immersive despite the larger footprint,’’ Kelsey says.
The 300-seat Lindsay Legacy Theater is designed to mimic the original venue and to create an even stronger connection with patrons. “When you walk into the Smith Grand Theater, it doesn’t feel like a 670-seat theater,’’ Anderson says. “That’s the first comment I always get from people when we take them in. It really doesn’t feel like a space where we can fit that many people in it. Especially in the smaller theater, I feel like we achieved our goal of creating a small, intimate setting. When you’re sitting in the front row, you feel close to the performance.”
The effect on residents of Pleasant Grove and nearby communities is similarly consequential. Theater, perhaps like no other cultural institution, engages a broad cross-section of people that escapes other entertainment arenas.
The new theaters include a bevy of stage area upgrades, including full stage traps with trap automation, tension wire grids, a modified fly system and multiple catwalks for rigging, lighting and sound systems. The advanced capability at The Ruth expands the range of shows that can be performed. The previous facility was simply too small and lacked the technical capacity to offer some shows that required more sophisticated equipment.
“We always found a way to make it work in our stages,’’ Anderson says. “With Ragtime, our debut show, it had a cast size and show size that we could not accommodate due to its sheer size. It absolutely does allow us to do more shows, because of the design of our stages. We still can employ that unique creativity that we’ve always used in Orem, but our new stages are larger and more capable than anything we’ve had before.”
The Ruth Academy was also central to the concept of the new facility. The 6,000 square feet education wing includes space for youth and adult classes, home school programs, camps and private instruction.
The theater opened in January 2025 after a little more than two years of construction.
The motorized smoke vents assist firefighters by removing smoke, heat and gasses from a burning building.
While the previous building also offered educational programs, the facility was located a short distance away. The Ruth brings its vast range of services into one facility.
Ruth and Nathan Hale developed the idea for the original theater. Their youngest son, Cody; his wife, Linda; and grandson, Cody Swenson, are part of the theater’s current executive team and have expanded upon the family vision to bring cultural enrichment to the region.
Lickety-Split Construction
The new theater checks all the important boxes for community engagement and architectural detail, but perhaps the most surprising achievement was the remarkable alacrity with which the project came to completion.
Layton Construction, the general contractor for the project, and its subcontractors completed the project in just two years. Some conceptual designs were developed in the spring of 2022, and work started in November 2022.
“We were designing as we were building,’’ Anderson says. “The architects, the construction firm, we got the A team
from both of those companies and people who knew what they were doing. By all estimates, this project should have taken two and a half years. We did it in two, just breakneck speed. We had an amazing team that was not only extremely talented, but they were all extremely excited to be a part of this project and help it through.”
City officials in Pleasant Grove did their part as well and helped bring the project to a swift completion. “They opened their arms and welcomed us in so many ways,’’ Anderson says. “Through the entire construction process, they were heavily involved with all of it. Pleasant Grove was on board the whole way. And the residents of Pleasant Grove have been equally as warm and open to us coming in. They love having something like this in their neighborhood.”
Smoke Vent Protection
Fire safety plays an important role in any theater construction project. Workers installed three automatic smoke vents from The BILCO Company for The Ruth. Smoke vents assist firefighting efforts and promote safe building evacuation by removing smoke, heat and
toxic fumes from a burning building.
The BILCO smoke vents, which measure 6 feet x 8 feet, 6.5 inches, are motorized and equipped with push button stations for fast opening. Cannon Sales, BILCO’s manufacturers representative in Utah, procured the vents for Alder’s Building Specialties.
“Code prescribes the required total area, and we are tasked with coordinating the most efficient layout and overall approach to meet the life safety needs,’’ says Kelsey, whose team with Method included Jessica Batty and Joe Smith. “There are several options that meet the code requirements of smoke venting in these scenarios, but BILCO also provided an opportunity for enhanced operability and safety for the smoke vents.”
While acoustical smoke vents—which are designed to limit noise intrusion—are often specified for theater construction projects, The Ruth is largely isolated from unwelcome exterior noise.
“We have utilized acoustical vents on other projects to mitigate noise from flight paths, light rail and transit, and adjacent sound sources, but the site conditions for
The facility includes two theaters that include the latest in stage technology but retain the intimacy that is important to patrons of the arts.
this project allowed us to comfortably select non-acoustical smoke vents,’’ Kelsey says. “This afforded some cost savings to the project with some of the other upgraded features that were a priority for the selection of smoke vents.”
Community Asset
The economic benefits of The Ruth will be far-reaching. According to an article in Utah Business, The Ruth will have an economic impact of over $714 million from 20232030. Hotels, restaurants and retail stores
Project at a Glance
What: The Ruth and Nathan Hale Theater at dōTERRA in Pleasant Grove, Utah.
Details: The $65 million project includes two theaters with 1,074 seats and spans 77,950 square feet. The building also features a club lounge and ballroom, an education wing with private studios, and a spacious lobby. It opened in January 2025.
Why: The theater replaces the Hale Center Theater Orem, which opened in 1990 and had seating for 305 patrons.
Fire protection: The BILCO Company manufactured three smoke vents for the theater, which assist firefighting efforts by removing smoke, heat and toxic fumes from a burning building.
Did you know? The new theater offers approximately 70,000 more square feet than the previous facility.
will all benefit from having the theater in the community.
The effect on residents of Pleasant Grove and nearby communities is similarly consequential. Theater, perhaps like no other cultural institution, engages a broad cross-section of people that escapes other entertainment arenas. In an era where communities are seeking paths that eradicate divisiveness and create harmony, The Ruth shines like a beacon of hope.
Sydney Dameron, The Ruth’s Director of Public Relations & Strategic Partnerships and sometime performer, has seen what theater does for people, both within our organization and outside. “This building is brick and mortar and all those things that are necessary to do what we do. To be able to provide the power of theater to more of the community—from our academy and our youth that are learning how to do this and be confident, to our musicians, technicians and artists—we’re really grateful to the community, the city and all of our contractors.”
The Ruth wouldn’t have happened without the huge village that has made this dream a reality. CCR
Thomas Renner writes on building, construction and other trade industry topics for publications throughout the United States.
Cody Hale is the son of Ruth and Nathan Hale, who founded a theater in nearby Orem in 1990.
Flame-Proofing the Future
Is your roof ready for today’s fire risks?
By Ryan Van Wert
Amajor fire event can be one of the greatest threats to your operational security, with the potential to massively disrupt your business and endanger the lives of workers. One area commercial facility owners and managers may be overlooking: their roofs.
Commercial and industrial fires can be catastrophic events that cost millions of dollars, cause operational downtime, and even result in loss of life. Warehouses, manufacturing facilities, data centers, schools, hospitals, restaurants and more all face significant risk from major fire events, and mitigating that threat should be a priority for building owners and operators.
Consider these statistics from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):
*From 2017–2021, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated annual average of 36,784 fires at industrial or manufacturing properties. The annual losses from these fires included 22 deaths, 211 injuries, and $1.5 billion in direct property damage. (Fire in Industrial or Manufacturing Properties, Sept. 3, 2023)
*Fire departments responded to an estimated annual average of 1,508 structure fires at warehouse properties in the U.S. from 2018 to 2022. These fires caused an average of three civilian deaths, 19 civilian injuries, and $323 million in direct property damage. (Warehouse Structure Fires Report, Feb. 1, 2025)
With these facts in mind, it is worth exploring one often overlooked area of the building envelope that can contribute significantly to—or prevent—the spread of flames in a fire: the roof.
Here, we will examine common causes of rooftop fires, different roofing materials from the perspective of fire safety, as well as how to make the right choice for your facility.
Common Sources of Rooftop Fires
Facility fires can originate from various sources, but commercial roofs are an increasingly concerning area of risk. Today’s commercial rooftops are platforms for many types of equipment, operations, and electrical infrastructure, all of which have the potential to start or fuel a fire.
In addition, external sources are an ongoing threat that building operators likely have little to no control over preventing possible fire sources (See sidebar, “5 Fire Sources to Keep on Your Radar”).
While interior building fires may pose a more immediate threat to occupants, a rooftop fire comes with its own unique threats. For example, because commercial roofs typically lack fire detection mechanisms, rooftop fires may go unnoticed until they have already spread significantly.
classify roof systems based on their performance under fire conditions originating outside the building.
These tests are specified by the International Building Code (IBC), which most jurisdictions throughout the country have adopted. The standards include three primary fire tests, including:
> Intermittent Flame test – This test evaluates the resistance of the roof covering when exposed to intermittent fire conditions. It is required if the roof is installed on a combustible deck.
> Spread of Flame Test – This test simulates burning embers landing on the roof. This test is required for both combustible and noncombustible deck types.
> Burning Brand – Used to determine a roof’s ability to resist ignition, fire spread and burn-through by placing wood on the
This delay in detection can increase the severity of the fire. Additionally, rooftops are not equipped with automatic sprinkler systems, allowing flames to grow unchecked. Wind can further accelerate the spread of fire across the roof’s surface, often more rapidly than an interior fire.
Once underway, rooftop fires pose serious challenges for emergency responders, as firefighters must access the roof by climbing the structure, increasing both difficulty and danger. In severe cases, the rapid spread of flames can compromise structural integrity, potentially leading to collapse.
For all of these reasons, fire performance should be a primary consideration for building owners when selecting their roof systems.
Evaluating the Fire Performance of Your Roof
The ASTM E108 or UL 790 test methods are widely accepted in the United States to
surface of the roof covering. This test is required if it is to be used on a combustible deck.
Depending on the material’s performance, it is then classified into one of three types according to the ASTM E108 or UL 790 test standards:
Class A is the highest fire-resistance rating, and is often an architectural requirement for buildings that may be more at risk for fires or by local building codes in areas prone to high wildfire risk. Class A Tests are applicable to roof coverings that are expected to be effective against severe fire exposure, afford a high degree of fire protection to the roof deck, do not slip from position and are not expected to present a flying brand hazard.
Class B designates a roof that withstands moderate exposure to fire and resists flame spread of 8 feet or less.
Class B tests are applicable to roof coverings that are expected to be effective against moderate fire exposure, afford a moderate degree of fire protection to the roof deck, do not slip from position and are not expected to present a flying brand hazard.
Class C designates a material that resists flame spread of 13 feet or less, and offers limited protection against fire. Class C Tests are applicable to roof coverings that are effective against light fire exposure, afford a light degree of fire protection to the roof deck, do not slip from position and are not expected to present a flying brand hazard.
Real-World Performance
While it is understandable to assume that a Class A fire rating represents the highest level of protection available, this inference does not tell the whole story.
The roof system as tested for flame resistance includes several different materials that make up the roof, such as membrane, insulation, fasteners and other potential components. The overall results are dependent on how those materials perform when assembled just as they would be on a roof.
And even with a Class A rating, there is no requirement that the system not burn, only that it burns slowly enough to limit flame spread within a desired distance during the duration of the test.
Consider that single-ply roof membranes are commonly used within commercial roof systems and made from thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). But different single-ply membrane types on their own may contribute to flame spread more than others.
For example, independent testing has shown that TPO membranes can contribute to significant flame spread on the roof, increasing the risks and consequences related to a rooftop fire.
And according to the NFPA 701 vertical burn test, one TPO specimen, approximately 5 inches wide x 48 inches tall, exhibited melting and dripping behavior while burning more than 38 minutes before fully consuming the fuel contained within the sample itself.
Comparatively, high-performance roof membranes that have demonstrated self-extinguishing properties can minimize
flame spread and roof fire severity, contributing to overall operational security and safety. A roof membrane has the ability to either contribute to or halt the spread of flame in the event of a real fire.
While some materials can enhance or limit a roof’s ability to support ignition and flame spread, the proper design, construction and installation are equally important to minimizing risk. By working with
5 Fire Sources to Keep on Your Radar
1. Exhaust
systems
Within commercial and industrial facilities, exhaust units are one area of risk. These exhaust systems rely on duct materials that penetrate the roof system, and operational failure has the potential to lead to a fire. Additionally, these systems sometimes expel contaminants onto the roof—commercial kitchen exhaust, for example, may contain animal fats or greases, which can increase the risk of spread in the event of a fire.
2. Electrical systems
A commercial roof is home to many operations that depend on electricity. From
HVAC units to rooftop solar panels, the likelihood of a rooftop fire increases with any electrical breakdown—including arc faults, ground faults and short circuits— that can occur across these systems.
3. Weather events
Sometimes Mother Nature strikes without warning, and severe weather events have the potential to not just damage your roof, but lead to a fire. Lightning during a thunderstorm is just one example. Wildfires are another concern in at-risk areas of the country; even if a building is not in immediate danger from wildfire spread, wafting embers may land on the rooftop and cause damage.
reputable suppliers and contractors when considering a new roof system for a facility, building owners can gain peace of mind that they’re making the best decisions for their buildings.
Seek professionals who understand how to design for and mitigate fire risks and have experience working with high-performance roof systems. Installations should also include in-process inspections to identify any potential errors, specifically those that may contribute to increased fire risk.
Fire performance often goes overlooked as a primary risk associated with commercial roof systems, and Class A-rated systems may provide a false sense of security when it comes to real-world performance. For building owners and operators, due diligence is key when selecting and specifying roof systems.
Choosing the right roof membrane and system design can make a significant difference in keeping the facility, its assets and its occupants safe. CCR
4. Maintenance and repair
Rooftop systems require routine maintenance that can sometimes introduce fire risk. Arc welding, for example, may introduce molten metal and sparks. Errant smoking and discarded cigarette butts may pose additional risks. Additionally, in new construction applications, many other trades perform work on adjacent surfaces and systems as the roof is installed.
5. Debris buildup
While not a source of ignition on its own, excessive debris buildup, like dead leaves on a rooftop, can become fuel for a burgeoning rooftop fire.
Ryan Van Wert is the Technical Services Manager for FiberTite Roof Systems at Seaman Corporation. He has been in the commercial roofing industry since 2017, following a career in structural design. He holds a Master of Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, from Norwich University and a bachelor’s degree in Construction Management. Since 2006, Ryan has accumulated extensive experience in the construction industry, including building inspections, mold inspections, and energy audits, bringing a broad range of technical expertise to his role.
Strength in the Storm
Why wind-resistant siding is essential in today’s climate
By Daniel Franklin
The increased frequency and intensity of hurricanes and tropical storms in the U.S. over recent decades has resulted in stronger winds, heavier rainfall, and massive storm surges that can leave homes devastated. Siding is torn off. Windows are shattered. Doors are blown in. A standing structure can be destroyed in a matter of minutes.
For homeowners in coastal regions, these circumstances are far from uncommon. They’re unfortunately becoming the new normal. The southernmost states are not the only victims, either. For example, Hurricane Helene struck far inland in the mountainous region of Asheville, North Carolina, in September 2024, causing widespread flooding and devastation.
In areas prone to hurricanes and high winds, the criteria for choosing cladding must go beyond aesthetics, making product selection a critical decision for homeowners that are seeking to protect their property from destructive weather. Traditional siding options may fail under extreme weather and winds, leading to costly damage that compromises the safety of the structure.
When strong winds strike, a home’s exterior takes the brunt of the impact and siding is the first line of defense. Choosing a wind-resistant siding solution is critical for residential and commercial siding, particularly in hurricane-prone regions.
A Strong Case for Composite Siding
One material that has proven its value in high-wind areas is composite siding. Unlike traditional siding materials, composite siding is impervious to water absorption and showcases impressive wind resistance qualities. It also protects against rot and insect damage, eliminating concerns of peeling, flaking, rotting, or cracking.
Industry leading composite siding products meet or exceed building code requirements in hurricane-prone states like Florida and Texas. These codes provide rigorous testing for wind loads, impact resistance, moisture management and overall structural performance. When selecting siding, it is important to determine what code criteria the material meets.
DBPR (Florida Building Code) #FL22980 - Florida Building Code (FBC) from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation: The FBC is based on national model codes, primarily the International
Building Code, but includes Florida-specific amendments to address unique environmental challenges such as high winds, wind-borne debris, elevated flood risk, and the effects of heat and humidity.
Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) #EC-107: TDI requirements are similar to Miami-Dade County and Florida Building Code standards, which were updated following Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita for areas along the Texas Gulf Coast. These codes reflect the larger standards of the International Building Code and International Residential Code.
Proof in Punta Gorda
Like many towns across the state of Florida, Punta Gorda has been the scene of significant destruction over the years from numerous tropical storms and hurricanes. During severe weather in December 2021, the vinyl siding was torn off the Boudreau family home.
When it came time to rebuild, the Boudreaus sought to install a more durable
product than the vinyl siding. They used the opportunity to replace the home’s entire exterior with a more robust product that could better withstand future weather damage. After considering fiber cement siding, the homeowners ultimately selected composite siding due to its strength and inherent wind resistance qualities.
Fast forward to October 2022 and Hurricane Ian made landfall in southern Florida. Neighboring homes to the Boudreau’s property that were also in the storm’s path experienced significant damage to the siding, gutters, roofing materials, and more. But the newly installed composite siding on the Boudreau residence withstood Hurricane Ian
and the severe weather that came with it, including heavy rain and winds that peaked at 155 miles per hour.
“After Hurricane Ian, neighbors were even more impressed by the product,” homeowner Bob Boudreau recalled. “At first, it generated attention because of its appearance. Now it has demonstrated durability and performance under the harshest weather conditions. The product speaks for itself, and our home is the proof.”
What Makes It Different?
Industry-leading composite sidings that are manufactured via an extrusion process— such as advanced composite siding—
possess superior dimensional strength compared to traditional siding materials. That, coupled with innovative designs, create a tight, stable connection between each plank.
Installed, the siding system provides exceptional resistance to wind and extreme weather. It is much different than traditional vinyl siding. In fact, some leading composites, like Everlast, are created from a specific compound of ingredients designed to make them some of the highest performing products on the market.
Beyond the system’s design that promises sturdiness on the wall, advanced composite siding is made from a unique composition of inorganic materials, polymer resins and acrylic colorants.
This creates a dense material that is significantly more rigid and durable than vinyl, fiber cement, or engineered wood siding. Its formula also offers exceptional durability against the elements, effectively resisting moisture, rot, warping and corrosion. This, in turn, ensures the structure remains intact should it face an extreme weather event.
Weathering the Storm
The home is the most prized asset for most Americans. As extreme weather events become more frequent and intense—especially in coastal and hurricane-prone regions— the importance of choosing resilient building materials cannot be overstated.
Homeowners now have more exterior cladding options when it comes to protecting against extreme weather.
Composite siding is one alternative that is leading the pack, providing more than just curb appeal and delivering proven performance where it matters most. Backed by rigorous testing and built to meet demanding codes and standards, it is engineered to withstand extreme wind events and other severe weather conditions.
When protecting your home is a top priority, durable siding designed for performance and longevity is the smart choice. CCR
Daniel Franklin is Senior Product Manager at Chelsea Building Products, manufacturer of Everlast® Advanced Composite Siding with almost 20 years of experience in the Building Products industry. Based in Oakmont, Pennsylvania, Chelsea Building Products has been designing and extruding PVC and composite profiles for the building materials market used in windows, doors, shutters, mouldings and Everlast® Advanced Composite Siding.
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GENERAL CONTRACTOR PROFILES
More Than Just Buildings
Why The Missner Group’s legacy is rooted in trust, values and long-term vision
More Than Just Buildings
Why The Missner Group’s legacy is rooted in trust, values and long-term vision
For The Missner Group, building has never been just about bricks and steel. For 80 years, it has been about trust, partnership and the kind of long-term thinking that turns projects into legacies. Founded in 1945 as a family-run construction company, the firm has grown into a fully integrated real estate platform—expanding into development, acquisitions, construction and asset management—without ever losing sight of its roots.
Now in its third generation of leadership, The Missner Group is celebrating eight decades of shaping skylines, strengthening communities and delivering value with integrity. From industrial parks and office campuses to mixed-use developments, it has built more than buildings.
It has built relationships—earning the confidence of clients, partners and communities who know the Missner name stands for accountability and follow-through.
That kind of reputation comes from a culture defined by open communication, collaboration and an unwavering commitment to doing the right thing. From a family business that treats every client like a partner and every project like a promise. And from a team dedicated not just to meeting expectations, but to creating spaces that endure—physically and emotionally.
A recent project, the Apex 400 Apartments. The Missner Group completed the ground-up construction of Apex 400, a Mixed-Use residential building located in the heart of Glen Ellyn.
David Julian, Executive VP of Business Development shares his perspective on what it means to be a trusted general contractor in today’s marketplace, how family values still shape their work and where the next chapter of this remarkable story is headed.
Give us a snapshot of your brand.
The Missner Group is a family-founded, relationship driven real estate firm that is celebrating its 80th year in business. What started as a construction company has grown into a fully integrated platform covering development, acquisitions, construction and asset management.
At the core, we’re driven by values: trust, partnership and long-term thinking. We don’t just develop buildings, we build relationships that last. That’s our brand. Clients know us as a firm that delivers with integrity, communicates openly, and follows through.
What type of clients and markets are you targeting?
We’re targeting users and investors in the industrial, healthcare, office, and retail sectors, with a strong emphasis on tenant-focused development and institutional-level ownership strategies.
Geographically, we’re focused on Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Ohio, with expansion into Tennessee and the broader Midwest corridor through I-65. Our clients range from local businesses and healthcare groups to national REITs and private equity funds. We perform the best in the Industrial Sector.
How does your work cater to today’s end-users?
End-users today demand flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability. We deliver with build-to-suit developments, redevelopment of aging assets, and turnkey construction solutions that allow users to scale, streamline logistics, and attract talent. We design with both functionality and future adaptability in mind—whether it’s clear heights in industrial, or wellness and energy performance in medical and office environments.
How is your construction strategy based?
Our construction strategy is based on collaboration, speed-to-market, and cost control. We integrate early with our development and design teams, offering clients a seamless pre-construction and construction process.
As a third-party GC with in-house development and ownership experience, we build like owners—always focused on durability, quality and ROI.
Because we’re both developers and builders, our construction team brings an owner’s lens to every job. We value engineers early, align with client expectations and run lean. There’s no “hand-off” between teams. It’s all integrated. And that cohesion fosters partnerships not just transactions. Our subs and vendors know that as well. We treat them like long-term partners, not just line items.
What are some of today’s biggest challenges?
The industry is navigating rising construction costs, prolonged entitlement processes, interest rate uncertainty, and labor shortages. The Missner Group counters these challenges with deep market knowledge, longstanding municipal relationships, and a strong subcontractor network that helps keep timelines and budgets intact.
What are the biggest challenges in construction or renovating a project?
With renovations, the biggest hurdles are often unknown conditions, outdated
The Beam Team is a fullservice construction company with licenses in 48 states America’s most trusted brands rely on us for remodels, new store builds, PIPs, and tenant improvements
infrastructure, and live tenant coordination. On the construction side, it’s aligning lead times with rising material costs and evolving client expectations. We mitigate these risks through detailed upfront due diligence, real-time market tracking and proactive communication.
With new construction, the big hurdle is balancing speed-to-market with quality and cost control. For renovation, it’s managing the unknowns, from legacy infrastructure to active tenants. That’s where experience matters. We approach every renovation with a discovery mindset and a partner mentality. We don’t just build; we solve. And that mindset earns us trust.
How
are you working to promote sustainability?
Sustainability is embedded in how we build and operate. From energy-efficient mechanical systems to adaptive reuse of existing buildings, we promote green practices that lower operating costs and reduce environmental impact. We’re also exploring LEED-aligned designs, solar-ready roofs and EV infrastructure across our developments.
What do you see as some of the biggest challenges in construction, moving ahead?
Labor availability and material volatility remain top issues. Additionally, municipalities are becoming more demanding with zoning and compliance, especially around ESG initiatives. We see technology adoption and workforce development as essential to navigating these challenges long-term.
Are you optimistic about what you see in your building and construction sectors?
We’re cautiously optimistic. Industrial demand remains strong, especially for infill locations. Medical and specialized offices are seeing thoughtful growth and there’s real opportunity in repositioning older assets. Construction remains competitive but full of opportunities for firms who can manage risk and adapt quickly.
A few years ago, we were all moving 1,000 mph and deals were happening as fast as you could do them. The bad news is that we are no longer moving that fast. That
pace wasn’t sustainable for anyone. The good news is that we are still moving 100 mph and deals are getting done. This pace has been great and companies are able to take advantage of it.
What trends are you seeing?
> Infill industrial demand near population centers
> Smaller, scalable footprints in healthcare and logistics
> Creative redevelopments of outdated office and retail
> Growing emphasis on relationship-based contracting, clients want trusted teams, not just low bids
> Early-stage engagement. Clients want a partner who can carry a project from concept to occupancy. That’s where we thrive.
Where is your business headed?
We’re focused on expanding our development pipeline, strengthening our third-party construction business, and growing our geographic reach throughout the Midwest and Southeast. Long-term, we’re building a scalable platform that integrates real estate development, construction, and asset ownership to serve tenants and investors alike.
Our growth is intentional. We’re focused on the right partners, the right projects, and the right markets. Our future is rooted in the same values that built our past: relationship first thinking, integrity in execution and a long-term ownership mindset.
Tell us what makes your brand unique.
What sets us apart is our owner’s perspective across every service line. Whether we’re building a ground-up development or managing an asset, we think like investors. Our in-house integration of development, acquisitions, construction, and asset management means we move faster, reduce friction and maximize value.
We’re not just contractors. We’re not just developers. We’re a firm that thinks like an owner, builds like a partner, and manages like stewards. That integrated approach, paired with a deep commitment to relationships, sets us apart. Clients tell us, “You feel like part of our team.” That’s the goal every time.
Is there a story you can share about a client/job/etc., that shows how you engage with
the industry?
We recently completed a build-to-suit for a leading logistics tenant that needed to consolidate three warehouses into one facility near O’Hare. We handled land acquisition, municipal approvals, and construction within 11 months—during some of the most volatile times in the market.
By engaging early with the tenant and involving our brokerage and development teams from day one, we delivered ahead of schedule and below budget—earning repeat business and a long-term lease.
Describe a typical day.
Every day is different, but it’s always people focused. I might start with a development team call, then tour a jobsite, meet with brokers, sit down with city officials, or walk through a capex strategy with our asset team.
My job is to connect dots, build relationships, and keep momentum moving. I’m in the business of solving and serving. A builder of relationships and trusted partners.
What
was the best advice you ever received?
“Real estate is a people business. Treat relationships like they’re your most valuable asset.” That mindset shaped how we lead teams, work with clients, and approach every transaction.
When you treat people as partners and not just clients, vendors or municipalities, you build something bigger than a building. You build loyalty. That’s where the real value is.
What’s the best thing a client ever said to you? What was the job and why?
A client once said, “You didn’t just build us a building—you solved a problem we didn’t know how to fix.” That was on a medical facility where zoning, parking and design limitations had stalled progress for years.
Our team found a creative solution by assembling parcels and managing entitlements under a PUD process. It was a win for the client, the city and the neighborhood.
Baptist Health Medical Center applies its own prescription for energy efficiency
Alan Hope, Owner and CEO, Powers of Arkansas
Diagnose. Treat. Save.
Baptist Health Medical Center applies its own prescription for energy efficiency
By Joseph Kuhl, Ph.D.
Healthcare facilities require a substantial amount of energy to operate. In fact, the average hospital consumes approximately 250% more energy than a comparably sized commercial building, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. As hospitals face increasing financial pressure to boost revenue while cutting costs, many are turning to energy-reduction initiatives as a strategic remedy. At the heart of those efforts often is the HVAC system, which accounts for roughly one-sixth of a hospital’s total energy consumption.
That was the case at Baptist Health Medical Center–Little Rock, Arkansas’s largest private, not-for-profit hospital. The century-old facility initially sought to replace its aging wooden cooling tower, which supported the hospital’s HVAC system. However, the project soon evolved into something much more ambitious: a comprehensive mechanical system overhaul designed to significantly reduce energy consumption.
While the broader energy initiative successfully delivered both energy savings and operational improvements, it was the new cooling towers—ironically, the original catalyst for the project—that emerged as a surprisingly large contributor to the hospital’s ongoing power savings.
Operating with efficiency
“Originally, the owners wanted to go with an engineered plastic cooling tower because they liked the fact that it was corrosion-proof, required far less upkeep, and came with a 20-year warranty,” says David Buie, an Account Manager in Controls Sales at Powers, who helped kick off the project.
Based in North Little Rock, Arkansas, Powers is an HVAC, controls, and service company that partnered with the hospital to upgrade its cooling towers. But as the project progressed, hospital leadership decided to broaden its scope to include a comprehensive review and optimization of the entire mechanical system.
To guide the expanded initiative, the hospital brought in an independent energy-efficiency engineering firm, which required competitive bidding for the new cooling towers. The final decision came down to two material options: high-density polyethylene (HDPE) engineered plastic and stainless steel. “Once the engineering
company saw the energy that could be saved by utilizing the HDPE towers, there was really no looking back,” Buie says.
A healthier bottom line
Engineered plastic cooling towers were first pioneered by Delta Cooling Towers in the 1970s, and many of those original units remain in operation today. The energy savings delivered by these towers can be attributed to three key features: a modular design, multiple highly efficient motors and fans, and the use of variable-frequency drives (VFDs).
“Because of the way Delta’s towers are essentially separate cells that work together, the hospital can stage them down when they’re not all needed,” says Jared Hendrickson, Controls & Equipment Lead at Powers. “This can amount to huge savings on energy.”
Baptist Health Medical Center selected Delta’s TM Series, which consisted of 20 individual cells providing a total cooling capacity
of 7,000 tons. The modular design allows for precise load management, and each unit is equipped with smaller 60-inch fans which significantly reduce energy consumption. Each cell contains two fans, all powered by VFDs that automatically reduce motor output when full fan speed isn’t required.
“When you operate the fan motors at 80% speed or less, you’re saving about 50% on power,” Hendrickson says. “So, when you’re talking about that much savings spread across 40 motors, the energy reduction is extensive.”
In addition to the superior turndown capabilities of the HDPE cooling towers, these units also feature much smaller motors—15 horsepower (hp) compared to 150 hp in the stainless-steel alternative—further contributing to long-term savings.
Saving energy and improving operations
In addition to reducing energy consumption, Baptist Health Medical Center also has
significantly lowered maintenance costs. One key reason is the construction of the HDPE cooling towers, which feature a onepiece molded casing. The design eliminates joints and seams—common failure points in traditional towers that often lead to leaks and ongoing repair needs.
The towers also are equipped with direct-drive fans, eliminating the need for gearboxes that require frequent maintenance and routine oil checks.
Additionally, while all cooling tower systems require chemical treatments to control algae, pathogens, and sediment buildup—all of which can hinder performance—the HDPE towers are immune to the corrosive effects of these chemicals. “The chemical treatment is going to eat away at a metal tower, even a stainless tower, over time,” Hendrickson says.
Installation time offers another advantage for contractors. HDPE systems can often be installed in just a day or two, compared to the multiple days, or even weeks, required for towers made from other materials. “There are
Joseph
only two pieces held together by eight bolts,” Hendrickson says. “Compare that to a thousand bolts and a thousand metal components on other towers. There’s also no gasketing and caulking of panels before assembly. It’s a very simple installation process.”
A clean bill of (energy) health
Energy-efficiency measures don’t just reduce consumption, they can improve overall operations through optimized HVAC performance and smarter energy management. At Baptist Health Medical Center, the new cooling towers, installed at ground level, have also contributed to a quieter, more controlled medical environment.
Hospitals face unique challenges when it comes to energy use. Compliance with regulations like ASHRAE Standard 170—which governs temperature, humidity and air exchange rates—places constant pressure on facility executives, energy managers and engineers to find sustainable, high-performance solutions.
In addition, Delta’s antimicrobial cooling towers support compliance with ANSI/ ASHRAE Standard 188, Legionellosis: Risk Management for Building Water Systems, which outlines risk mitigation standards for both new construction and renovations. These towers are constructed using antimicrobial resin that is fully compounded into the structural casing, while the fill media and drift eliminators are made from antimicrobial PVC.
The embedded wide-spectrum additives act at the cellular level to continuously disrupt and inhibit the growth of microorganisms and biofilm within the tower. Independent efficacy testing was conducted by Special Pathogens Laboratory, The Legionella Experts®
Through careful selection of its cooling tower system and strategic mechanical upgrades, Baptist Health’s flagship facility achieved measurable, long-term power savings without compromising compliance or patient care.
Kuhl, Ph.D. is Lead Engineer at Delta Cooling Towers.
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Being a retail superintendent requires a market segments. While all construc tion superintendents have responsibilities for schedule, produc tivity, safety, and quality on the projec t site, the challenges and constraints of the retail environment mean that a special training focus is needed. Superintendents must learn how to think like a retailer and a contrac tor throughout these projec ts
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Living Elevated
Braemar Living at Montebello redefines senior living in the Hudson Valley
Living Elevated
By Peter Wilk
Photography courtesy of Aram Boghosian Photography
Braemar Living at Montebello redefines senior living in the Hudson Valley
Anew chapter in senior living has opened in the heart of New York’s Lower Hudson Valley. Braemar Living at Montebello, a $54 million luxury assisted living residence, brings resort-style amenities and compassionate care together on six acres in the picturesque village of Montebello.
Developed by FilBen Group in partnership with RSF Partners, and brought to life with M&T Bank, JF Nolan & Associates, McAlpine Contracting and H2M Architects + Engineers, the four-story, 133,675-square-foot residence is designed to feel like home—elevated. The 200-resident community features 133 fully furnished apartments with private bathrooms, kitchenettes and the latest safety and monitoring systems, plus a dedicated unit for dementia and memory care.
But Braemar is more than a place to live—it’s a place to thrive. Residents can enjoy restaurant-style dining, a cozy coffee shop, a pub, art studio, fitness and wellness centers, game rooms, library, beauty salon and outdoor activity spaces. Healthcare support is seamlessly woven in through a partnership between the in-house Wellness Department and a licensed home care agency, ensuring that services match the lifestyle. By blending healthcare, hospitality and thoughtful design, Braemar Living at Montebello sets a new standard for assisted living in Rockland County—and beyond.
FilBen Group’s Managing Director Richard Filaski says the property already has attracted interest from numerous senior residents and families from Rockland County, Lower Hudson Valley, the greater New York area, New Jersey and as far as Massachusetts and North Carolina. Braemar offers a very comfortable, active lifestyle and luxurious amenities, and will address the severe shortage of high quality senior housing in the region.”
Braemar is a brand of FilBen-owned and operated senior living communities. The first property, the Braemar at Medford
The Victorian-style architecture of buildings in the surrounding area provided the design inspiration for the Braemar’s façade.
in Medford, New York, opened its doors in 2008. The Braemar at Wallkill in Middletown, New York, the second property to open under the brand, welcomed its first residents in 2015. The Montebello community is the third Braemar-branded residence. FilBen has plans to build its fourth property, a 152-bed assisted living community, in Carmel, New York.
“M&T is proud to support the development of Braemar at Montebello and bring this facility to our community,” says Kristina Hendrickson, Senior Relationship Manager, Healthcare, M&T Bank. “These complex projects are possible thanks to the diligence, effort, and partnership of the teams involved. I’d like to thank FilBen Group, RSF Partners, my colleagues at M&T Bank and all those who contributed for their dedication to making Braemar a reality.”
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FilBen Group’s Director of Sales, Danielle DiBenedetto says 20 residents had moved in as of the day of the official opening and we receive dozens of inquiries daily. Many families tour the property every day and enthusiastically praise the quality of the design and amenities, especially in comparison to other senior communities in the region.
While most of the inquiries come from the local area, the interest is national and some of the new residents relocated from as far as South Carolina and Massachusetts.
“The building, amenities and apartments are beautiful,” says Niles Greenhut, a retired teacher and one of the first residents to move to the Montebello community. “Just as important, the staff is exceedingly pleasant, kind and well trained—a very important aspect of a senior residence to me. My daughter and son-in-law assisted me in the search for
a senior community and felt that Braemar was by far the most comfortable and quality option in the region.”
Architecture and interior spaces support active, community living
The Braemar site is long and sloped, which created both design opportunities and challenges. “The building footprint is elongated to match the site’s configuration,” says Mark McKee, AIA, H2M Senior Architect. “This has allowed us to incorporate large areas of glazing that draw natural light into all of the interiors and offer stunning views of the surrounding areas.”
H2M also designed the Braemar Wallkill property and is currently working with FilBen on the design of the Carmel development.
JF Nolan’s President John Nolan says the property slopes from a high point at the
south toward a lower point at the north, and the linear building plan has been placed perpendicular to the line of the slope. The building plan has a central section and two symmetrical wings.
A porte-cochère and circular vehicular drop off are centered in the south façade on the main level, on grade with the main parking lot to the south and a staff parking lot and service entrance to the east. Active outdoor resident areas are located at both the north and south building facades, while hiking paths span the grounds.
The Victorian-style architecture of buildings in the surrounding area provided the design inspiration for the Braemar’s façade. Horizontal beveled siding in a neutral palette has been combined with stone veneers at the main level facing the outdoor patios and on the upper levels above the entrance.
Columns with stone veneer bases support the pitched roof of the porte-cochère. Windows are in a traditional double-hung style. The roof features pitched mansard sections on the perimeter and reverse gables with decorative trim to invoke a Victorian aesthetic.
A total of 133 residential units—66 private, one-person studio units of approximately 400-square feet each, 14 one-bedroom units with open concept living rooms and 53 two-bedroom semi-private “Friendship” units, both approximately 600-square
feet each, are located throughout the community’s four levels.
Of these, 12 private and 10 Friendship units are located on the lower level in the memory care section. The private units are studios with kitchenettes and private baths. The Friendship units have two bedrooms that share a kitchenette and bathroom. All kitchenettes and bathrooms are barrier-free and include roll-in showers.
FilBen’s in-house designer and Manager of Development, Jessica Cotellese, was responsible for the interior design and
By blending healthcare, hospitality and thoughtful design, Braemar Living at Montebello sets a new standard for assisted living in Rockland County—and beyond.
aesthetic of the facility. “The interior design inspiration came from the environment, including the water and proximity to the Hudson River and lush greenery of the various local state parks,” Cotellese says.
The intent was to create a visual landscape connecting all the elements—the environment, community and the residents. The wall finishes and flooring in the common areas include wood-look LVT flooring, commercial grade carpeting, wallcovering, and a palette of nature-inspired colors. There are accents of ceramic tile and wood paneling layered with organic and geometric fabric patterns, which evoke comforts of a well-appointed private home.
The building features shared public spaces on the main, second and third levels. The visitor entrance on the main level leads from the south parking lot into a two-story, 22-foot high cathedral-ceilinged atrium with
Photography courtesy of Braemar Living at Montebello
a stone and wood reception desk, a tiled fireplace, and comfortable seating.
Behind the desk, a feature wall in a curved wood pattern displays the Braemar logo. Beyond the reception area, a grand staircase extends to the second level. The majority of the spaces in the central section and east wing of the main level are dedicated as resident common areas.
Along the south façade, a pub and game room offers lounge seating, game tables, a fireplace, televisions, and direct access to a billiard room. The pub opens onto the south terrace, where residents can enjoy outdoor seating surrounded by colorful
planting beds; stroll along walking paths; and even play a game of giant chess.
Additional shared social spaces include a café, business lounge, general store, arts and crafts room, family lounge with an adjacent children’s room, beauty salon, and coffee shop. A private dining room also is available for celebrations and private dinners. The well-equipped fitness center is adjacent to the wellness center, which features a waiting area, exam room, medication room, staff offices and a records storage room.
On the second level, common areas include a parlor that opens onto an
outdoor terrace and shares a doublesided fireplace with the adjacent library. A cinema/theater and a chapel complete the public spaces.
A portion of the lower terrace level houses the 32-bed memory care unit. This level offers views to the natural landscape down the slope and beyond the property, with full exposure to natural light that permeates the interior. The level contains a dining and activity room centered in the building footprint and is wrapped with glass. The exterior terrace offers comfortable lounge and dining furniture.
Peter Wilk is founder and President of Wilk Marketing Communications, a boutique PR and marketing communications agency serving the AEC industry and operating nationally and internationally. Wilk has been frequently published and quoted in national and foreign media, including The New York Times, WBBR Bloomberg Radio, New York Real Estate Journal and Warsaw Business Journal.
Photography courtesy of Braemar Living at Montebello
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The Next Chapter
Inside Fordham University’s amenity-rich McShane Campus Center
By Ed Stand & Carolina Madrigal
Located atop the historic Rose Hill campus in the Bronx, the new McShane Campus Center at Fordham University stands as a vibrant symbol of the university’s enduring commitment to student life, well-being, and tradition.
Designed by global architecture, design and planning firm HLW, the 170,000-square-foot facility unifies three previously disconnected buildings into a singular student hub, creating a bold new heart for campus life.
As universities nationwide face increasing pressure to attract and retain students, the demand for engaging, inclusive environments has never been greater. Research shows that students who feel a strong sense of community are more likely to stay enrolled and graduate. With that in mind, Fordham saw an opportunity to reimagine and expand one of its most central spaces to better support its evolving student body.
Campus FACILITIES
The result is a thoughtful transformation of the original McGinley Student Center, the Rose Hill Gymnasium (originally designed by HLW decades prior), and the Lombardi Center—now seamlessly connected by a dramatic double-height arcade addition known as The Gallery.
A New Front Door to Campus Life
At the heart of the reimagined facility is the new, all-glass entryway, which leads into The Gallery, an architectural spine that runs
the length of the complex. Acting as the main thoroughfare, this light-filled connector facilitates circulation throughout the building, transforming a previously desolate alleyway into an enclosed space that connects resident and commuter students, faculty, and staff with one another and to the culture and legacy of the institution.
To create a more open and welcoming feel, access to natural daylight also was an important feature of the architecture, with several design strategies incorporated to account for sightlines to the outdoors
The new façade draws inspiration from the university’s Collegiate Gothic style, reflecting the design of surrounding historic buildings on Fordham’s campus, such as the Duane Library.
through the diversity of programming. The McGinley Center’s original barrel vault ceilings are visible from the new addition, bringing additional natural daylighting into the interiors of both.
The Arcade roof windows provide filtered daylighting and highlight the west façade of the historic Rose Hill Gymnasium, while the 20-foot-wide Gallery offers open sightlines to the sky and back to the McGinley Center. During the day, the glazed stair tower is well lit; at night, it’s fitted with LED lighting, which allows for color changes depending on the programming or events.
Amenities that Enrich the Student Experience
Recognizing that today’s students need more than academic resources alone, HLW designed the McShane Campus Center to
Campus FACILITIES
support the whole student—academically, socially, physically, and emotionally. Each amenity space underwent a drastic update from the original McGinley Center, undergoing an impressive transformation that now enhances flexibility, inclusivity and encourages connection. The transformation included the following amenity-driven moves.
The lower level houses a 20,000-square-foot fitness center, which doubles the size of the previous gym. Students now have access to an expanded selection of cardiovascular and weight-training equipment, a large free-weight zone and three multipurpose studios for yoga, dance and group fitness classes.
The 60-year-old restrooms were updated, and the new layout prioritizes openness and flow, allowing users to move easily between fitness areas and accommodating both group workouts and individual training.
Just above, the 9,500-square-foot Student Lounge on the ground floor acts as a social anchor. In the previous space, student club rooms were a dozen 8x8 windowless rooms in the cellar of the McGinley Center. Now, the Student Lounge is five times the size and features a variety of hard and soft seating arrangements in multiple clusters.
From single seats facing the south façade and the lush greenery of the Rose Hill campus, to farmer tables with high stool seating, the lounge offers a range of options. The seating variety in the space supports both informal gatherings and areas for quiet relaxation.
New additions to the space include enclosed study rooms, game tables, a pantry, conference rooms, a wellness room, and a large projection screen for hosting movie nights, game-day watch parties or student-led events.
The newly designed Marketplace dining hall offers nine food stations that cater to a diverse range of dietary needs and preferences. Students can choose from halal, vegan, and allergen-friendly options or enjoy a more interactive culinary experience at the Chef’s Table, where cultural dishes and cooking demonstrations bring students together through food.
The new center also supports spiritual life. The second floor includes offices for Campus Ministry, while the third floor features a newly renovated timber chapel. With its warm, wood-clad interior, the chapel serves as both a quiet place for reflection and a venue for gatherings and ceremonies.
Designed to be welcoming and accessible for all, these spaces support a wide range of student needs, helping to build a stronger sense of community among Fordham’s diverse student population.
Campus FACILITIES
Designed by global architecture, design and planning firm HLW, the 170,000-square-foot facility unifies three previously disconnected buildings into a singular student hub.
Bridging Past and Future
A defining feature of the project is its careful attention to Fordham’s rich architectural history. The new façade draws inspiration from the university’s Collegiate Gothic style, reflecting the design of surrounding historic buildings on Fordham’s campus, such as the Duane Library.
Traditional materials, including limestone, metal and Fordham Gneiss, one of New York City’s native metamorphic rocks, ground the building in a sense of place and history, while clean, modern lines bring a renewed sense of energy.
The architectural design was reviewed and approved by the New York State Historic Preservation Office to ensure compatibility and sensitivity to the site’s historic context. As part of this process, the south façade of the McGinley Center and the west façade of the Rose Hill Gym were carefully cleaned, restored and integrated into the new design. These preserved elements now serve as visual reminders of the university’s evolution and continuity.
Beyond the built environment, HLW’s experiential graphic design studio, brandx, played a central role in crafting a visual identity that connects students to the university’s history and urban context. Guided by the school’s motto, “New York is my campus. Fordham is my school,” brandx infused the campus center with storytelling moments.
This was achieved through the strategic use of university colors and “Easter Eggs” that celebrate the university and its home of New York City, including cityscape murals by Chanel Dehond, 1930s-era football posters, framed mid-century varsity sweaters, and neon lighting accents.
Other notable implementations include bespoke illustrations on vending machines,
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Campus FACILITIES
eight educational plaques that share details of what used to be the separate exterior facades of the Campus Center and Rose Hill Gym, and extensive use of Fordham’s Maroon for various signage elements.
Another highlight is a laser-cut wooden seal integrated in the Campus Center’s banquet hall, symbolizing the fusion of tradition and modernity in this rejuvenated space.
A Model for the Modern Campus
The McShane Campus Center is more than just a collection of updated spaces. It represents a comprehensive vision for what student life can be when design, history, and well-being are given equal weight. HLW’s design transforms an underutilized area into a central hub that is active, inviting, and deeply rooted in Fordham’s mission.
By emphasizing connection, flexibility, and storytelling, the project creates a sense of place that resonates with both past and future generations of students. By utilizing centralized amenities that address a wide range of student needs, the center fosters a sense of belonging, strengthens community ties and honors legacy while embracing change and innovation.
Ed Stand, LEED BD+C, AIA, is a Principal at HLW and the firm’s Director of Delivery. He brings more than 25 years of experience in offering clear direction and daily support to project members, consultants and vendors. He works together with Managing Partner Bennet Dunkley on HLW’s higher education sector work.
Carolina Madrigal, SEGD, is a Senior Associate and Creative Director at HLW’s brand experience studio, brandx. Her experience includes developing comprehensive signage and wayfinding systems for notable clients such as Aspen, Morgan Stanley, Fordham University, Eisai, Subway Miami, Google and Grosvenor.
On the Cutting Edge
Johnson College unveils exposed element building for enhanced learning
By Kristen Warholic
When Johnson College cut the ribbon on Ideal Saldi Hall in April 2024, it wasn’t just unveiling a new 19,000-squarefoot facility—it was showcasing a vision for how design can fuel learning. The industrial, modern building houses classrooms, program labs, student-facing services like enrollment and financial aid, administration offices, and even a state-of-the-art conference room. Its exposed interior elements turn the building itself into a teaching tool, blending function and form in a way that mirrors the college’s hands-on approach.
Campus FACILITIES
That same philosophy carried into the smallest details. Even the four restrooms were designed with both aesthetics and durability in mind, featuring Scranton Products’ Hiny Hiders partitions. Chosen for their sleek appearance and long-lasting performance, the partitions offered an economical solution that reduced maintenance while maintaining a polished look.
But Ideal Saldi Hall is more than a new academic space—it’s also a story of community connection. Just 10 miles away, Scranton Products has long been a destination for Johnson College graduates. Involving local companies that actively hire its students was a priority for the college, ensuring the new facility not only supports education but also reflects the very partnerships that make Johnson’s mission possible.
“We’re a Technical College focused on getting our students ready for industry,” says Roger Orlandini, Associate VP of Facilities and Campus Projects at Johnson College. “Scranton Products falls right into the line of work we train our students for, and we’re always willing to work with local companies to help them get the staff they need.”
Learning in real time
The project involved getting students and their instructors out of the classroom to observe construction so they could understand the building in the context of their chosen career paths and get a glimpse of the dayto-day work they may soon be doing.
Construction was led by L.R. Costanzo, whose staff frequently spoke with the students and demonstrated various facets of the construction process, allowing them to gain a deeper understanding of career opportunities within the industry.
“Our general contractor partnered with us to help teach and train students while the build was going on,” Orlandini says. “Welding students watched the welding of the building’s steel frame. The architecture and design students compared the blueprints with how the actual construction was
progressing. We left the building elements exposed because we teach skills for building trades and technology. It's an important opportunity for our students to see how things come together in a new build.”
Even the restrooms at Ideal Saldi Hall were designed with learning in mind. Rather than covering up the infrastructure behind finished walls, certain areas were intentionally left exposed to serve as ongoing teaching tools for students. In one section, a glass viewing panel allows students and
visitors to observe the inner workings of the building, including insulated water lines, the furnace, ventilation systems and clearly labeled electrical lines.
“We labeled some of the building and restroom elements to highlight how things go together,” says Stephen Peterson, Project Engineer at L.R. Costanzo. “Classes can walk through the building and trace how everything connects. Training the students as the building was going up was pretty neat.”
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Campus FACILITIES
Design that teaches
By revealing what’s typically hidden, the space invites students to think critically about building systems, energy efficiency, and best practices in construction and maintenance. It turns a routine space into a mini-lab where students can see theory in action, reinforcing their classroom learning in an everyday setting. It’s a small detail that highlights how every square foot of the building was designed to support student growth.
The non-standard design led to a few construction challenges that were expertly addressed by L.R. Costanzo and the subcontractor who handled the restroom installation, Scandale Associated Builders & Engineers.
Due to the building’s exposed structure, the skin and the insulation layer are situated outside the structure itself and a narrow steel girt stands between the interior and flat wall. When installing the Hiny Hiders
restroom partitions, the contractors had to navigate around the exposed structure to access the exterior of the wall.
“The physical installation was difficult because the new metal building has exposed steel girts within its structure,” says Brian Brister, Project Manager at Scandale Associated Builders & Engineers.
Unlike a uniform flush wall, these metal girts created gaps between the wall and Hiny Hiders partitions. To address this issue, additional panel pieces were ordered and custom-cut to fill these gaps, creating a polished and private appearance.
Additional challenges included maintaining the budget during the COVID-19 pandemic and following a tight schedule that was based on the academic calendar. As costs for materials and labor fluctuated unpredictably, the team had to remain agile by reassessing expenses, sourcing alternatives, and making strategic decisions to
stay within scope without compromising quality or safety.
'Innovation at Work'
Coordinating construction crews, material deliveries and inspections within the narrow window required a high level of collaboration, communication and contingency planning from everyone involved. Despite these pressures, the team delivered a finished building that exceeded expectations, even in the small details, such as the restrooms.
“The restrooms look very flashy and new,” Brister says. “It stands out as very well done because of the exposed elements and custom details to fit the partitions. It matches the industrial look of the building.”
Ideal Saldi Hall is a centerpiece of Johnson College’s ambitious five-year capital campaign, “Innovation at Work,” which focuses on expanding the College’s facilities, programs, and long-term impact. As one of four major components of this transformative campaign, the newly constructed building now serves as the official gateway to the College’s main campus.
It is named in honor of Ideal T. Saldi, a proud member of the Johnson College Class of 1949, whose generous $1 million contribution alongside his wife, Frances, represents the largest alumni gift in the College’s history. Their donation will have a profound and lasting impact, helping to shape the future of hands-on education and student success at Johnson College for generations to come.
The building was constructed on the former site of Richmond Hall, which was once part of the historic William H. Richmond estate. That land was originally gifted to College founder Orlando S. Johnson to help fulfill his bold vision: to create a practical, career-focused trade school for both women and men.
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Kristen Warholic leads product development and marketing at Scranton Products, where she focuses
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CCR Publisher/Editor David Corson sat down with Louis Gutierrez, Director of AI at Constant Contact, to discuss how the company is helping small businesses thrive with powerful digital marketing tools. From driving sales and growing customer bases to engaging audiences and building lasting connections, Constant Contact delivers the technology and expertise to simplify marketing and generate real results.
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CCCT sat down with Brian Cross, VP of Sales & Marketing for Rocky Mountain Snow Guards, one of only four U.S. manufacturers designing snow retention systems for every type of roof—and the only company focused exclusively on snow retention. Backed by 30 years of roofing expertise, the Denver-based team delivers engineered and tested products built to handle the heaviest snow loads, from the rugged Rocky Guard series to the legendary half-round ST series and fence-style systems for single-ply and shingle roofs.
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CCCT with Will Stern, Founder/CEO from Cardiff
CCR Publisher/Editor David Corson speaks with Will Stern, Founder and CEO of Cardiff, to discuss how the company is helping contractors and construction businesses grow stronger from the ground up. As projects expand, so do financial needs—from hiring more personnel to investing in new equipment for larger contracts. Cardiff specializes in providing the funding that keeps a company’s financial foundation just as solid as the projects it builds, ensuring growth stays on track.
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ALSO COVERING LOCAL, STATE & REGIONAL PROJECTS AND FACILITIES
Legacy in the Badlands
North Dakota’s largest mass timber project hits a milestone at the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library
Legacy in the Badlands
North Dakota’s largest mass timber project hits a milestone at the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library
One year after breaking ground in the rugged North Dakota Badlands, the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library (TRPL) has completed the first phase of construction—marking a major milestone in one of the most ambitious civic mass timber projects in the U.S.
Located just outside the town of Medora, the future library is designed to reflect the 26th President’s enduring relationship with the landscape that shaped his conservation ethos. With the museum’s dramatic roof now in place and the full timber superstructure erected, the project moves into its next phase, as both its architecture—and its message—come into focus.
At 93,000 square feet, the TRPL is the largest mass timber structure in North Dakota and one of the largest civic timber projects in the country. Approximately 1,800 cubic meters of engineered wood—including cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glue-laminated timber (glulam)—are being used to form everything from interior structural walls to long-span beams that support the building’s sweeping, curved roof.
A Roof That Follows the Land
The roof, designed to echo the rolling topography of the Badlands, does more than make a visual statement. Its undulating form is central to the architectural narrative— blending the structure into its surroundings while demanding a high degree of precision from engineering and construction teams. Steel reinforcements, hidden within glulam, preserve the natural timber aesthetic without compromising structural performance.
Custom glulam connections, developed specifically for the project, allowed for a seamless blend of form and function. To
follow the land’s undulating contours, we designed the roof with multi-axis curvature and used spline geometry for layout, techniques rarely seen at this scale.
This project is a testament to what visionary design combined with advanced mass timber engineering can create. The complexity of this roof pushed the boundaries of what’s possible with mass timber. The curved form required glulam beams arranged in a triangular pattern with intricate bi-angular connections.
Mercer Mass Timber used parametric modeling to meet the geometry, embedding uniquely shaped concealed steel hangers
Located just outside the town of Medora, the future library is designed to reflect the 26th President’s enduring relationship with the landscape that shaped his conservation ethos.
at beam ends. Structurally, it’s a complex hybrid system, but visually, it reads as seamless timber.
Timber That Performs, Design That Endures
Mass timber brings significant benefits beyond its beauty. As a modern construction solution, it meets the structural and environmental demands of public buildings at scale. MMT’s contribution extended well beyond product delivery—collaborating closely with design and construction partners to engineer prefabricated components that align with the building’s complex geometries and performance targets.
The project exemplifies how MMT is advancing the future of sustainable construction with renewable, low-carbon materials that combine technical excellence with architectural ambition.
Climate-Conscious Construction
Compared to traditional building materials like concrete and steel, mass timber can reduce carbon emissions by 25–40% over its lifecycle. For the TRPL, this translates to a carbon benefit of approximately 3,031 metric tons of CO2—the equivalent of removing 640 gas-powered cars from the road for a year.
Prefabricated and lightweight, mass timber streamlines construction timelines and minimizes site disruption, while also delivering exceptional fire resistance, seismic performance, and long-term durability. Due to the site’s remote location in the Badlands, sequencing and logistics were critical, MMT shipped components in tightly coordinated bundles to reduce crane time and environmental disturbance.
The library is pursuing both LEED Platinum and Living Building Challenge certifications, with net-zero goals across energy, water, waste, and emissions. Mercer’s mass timber solutions are a foundational part of meeting those benchmarks—literally and figuratively.
Biophilic Design Meets
Lasting Legacy
Roosevelt’s conservation legacy is deeply embedded in the building’s purpose—and its materiality. Mass timber plays a central role in creating an interior that fosters human comfort and connection to nature. Exposed wood surfaces provide natural warmth and a calming, biophilic atmosphere, supporting the library’s role as both a civic and cultural space.
Mercer Mass Timber worked with Magnusson Klemencic Associates, the engineer of record, to engineer fire- and seismic-resilient assemblies that still allowed for the building to leave timber exposed, so the structural choices directly enabled biophilic outcomes. The building is a rare case where performance and beauty go hand-in-hand.
The commitment to timber continues in Phase Two, which began June 1, 2025, and includes the construction of outdoor
Mass timber brings significant benefits beyond its beauty. As a modern construction solution, it meets the structural and environmental demands of public buildings at scale.
timber canopies integrated with photovoltaic panels. These features will support the project’s renewable energy goals, while further showcasing mass timber’s versatility across interior and exterior applications.
With Phase One now complete, the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library is not just progressing toward its July 4, 2026 public opening—it’s already emerging as a
model for how architecture can marry technical innovation, climate-conscious design, and cultural narrative.
By placing mass timber at the heart of its design and construction strategy, the TRPL is demonstrating how modern materials can elevate civic architecture— shaping not only a building, but the future of sustainable design.
From the Ground Up
Inside our Lake Lanier build
From the Ground Up
Inside our Lake Lanier build
By David Corson
Kristen and I have lived in North Georgia since 1992. Over the years, we moved through Tucker, Lawrenceville, Sugar Hill and Suwanee. But in 2020, we set our sights on something different—something slower, simpler. We wanted a home on Lake Lanier, tailored just for us as empty nesters, with space for friends and family to visit.
We found the lot and bought it that September. Then came the nudge. In late 2023, the HOA reminded us that if we didn’t start building, we’d be fined.
With that, the clock started ticking.
The Permit Gauntlet
What followed was a permitting process that stretched four and a half months—January through Memorial Day weekend 2024. It wasn’t just about waiting. It was a crash course in residential red tape.
We had to relocate our septic system, change our address based on the driveway’s location, and work with multiple departments—Environmental Health, Water and Sewer, Engineering, and the Building Department—all through the county’s online portal.
We hired a licensed engineering firm to create drawings and site plans (LGP, HLP,
tertiary and septic), a licensed architect for our house plans, and a licensed landscape architect to satisfy the HOA. The costs added up quickly and the process reinforced one critical point: use local professionals. They know the codes, the inspectors and the trades.
The county says septic takes two weeks to approve and the building permit another 20 days if all paperwork is in order. For us, it took four and a half months. There’s definitely room for better collaboration between departments. With smarter technology, it doesn’t need to take that long.
“You’re not just managing a build— you’re managing momentum.”
Financing and Protection
While working through permitting, we also finalized the construction loan and lined up
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our project insurance. That meant deciphering plenty of legalese. Understanding our liability and coverage was essential—because when you’re your own GC, you’re responsible for everything.
When the Land Speaks
In June 2024, we finally broke ground and started grading. That’s when the land revealed its truth. We’d mowed the grass for years and knew it sloped—but we didn’t realize how much until the trees came down. Our original plan included a basement, but our grader told us it would require 400 truckloads of dirt just to build up the pad. The result? A house that sat too high and a dangerously steep driveway. We called an audible.
We removed the basement from the design, shifted the master bedroom to the front, and reworked the driveway layout. It cost us a month, but it was the right call.
Weathering the Storm Summer rains delayed us again. And just as framing started in September, Hurricane Helene ripped through the Southeast. It brought wind, rain, and flooding—and blew down the entire front wall of the house we had just started framing.
Thankfully, no damage to the foundation. We rebuilt quickly.
But the challenges didn’t stop. A neighbor’s gutter runoff was flowing directly onto our lot. Working with the neighbor, county engineers, and the HOA, we installed a new storm drain in the front yard, tied it to the existing drain, and added a four-foot concrete riser to redirect the
water. It also helped flatten the yard. A winwin for everyone.
Walking the Job, Every Day
We were hands-on every day. Permits included inspections, but we also brought in a third-party inspector to give us peace of mind.
One surprise: before drywall, we had to flood-test every shower and tub pan—even though they’d be torn out later due to dust and debris. Code is code.
“To put a basement in, we would’ve needed 400 truckloads of dirt. That’s when we knew: it was time to change the plans.”
Another lesson: insulation matters. It’s not just about staying warm—it impacts your utility bills for decades. We opted for traditional insulation over foam, factoring in performance, compatibility and our roofing.
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The House Takes Shape
When the drywall went up, the house came alive.
We tackled trim, shelving, cabinetry, tile, doors, lighting—you name it. We sequenced carefully, installing flooring last and covering it immediately. Hardware waited until after painting.
Outside, we juggled the concrete driveway, brick aprons (HOA-required), porch finishes and an outdoor fireplace and chimney in the patio area.
“The drywall goes up—and suddenly, the house has a heartbeat.”
The Final Stretch
Those last few months were packed: 27 doors, custom trim and crown molding, HVAC covers, plumbing fixtures, shower doors and appliances.
Despite overlapping trades and inevitable touch-ups, everything came together. Our painter came back after move-in for the final coat, knowing things always get dinged during the transition.
It was a year-plus of inspections, change orders, weather delays, and unexpected decisions. But also a year of learning, collaborating and doing it our way.
“We opened the front doors, walked through and knew we’d built something special and lasting.”
A Foundation for the Future
We didn’t just save money. We didn’t just oversee details. We lived the build— from septic lines to crown molding. As empty nesters, this home means more than just space. It reflects years of experience, patience and shared vision.
Would we do it again? Heck yeah.
We’ll never forget the experience, the growth—or the view. And we can proudly say: “We Built That.”
Measure twice. Cut once too.
Milestones at a Glance
January–May 2024
Permitting hurdles, address changes, septic design redraws and waiting for approvals.
June–July 2024
Land clearing, grading, basement scrapped, house plans revised.
August–September 2024
Site work completed, framing begins, Hurricane Helene knocks down the front of house frame. Concrete footings, retaining wall & slab poured with all pre-electrical, mechanical and plumbing products installed for inspection before pour.
Fall 2024
Framing, all rough interior MEP, house wrap, roof, windows, Hardie Board siding. House is finally dry.
Winter 2024–Spring 2025
Insulation, HVAC ducts, trim, surface materials, cabinetry, paint, garage doors—all leading to major interior inspection for framing, mechanical, electrical and plumbing.
Spring–June 16, 2025
Interior finish-out, concrete driveway poured, brick aprons installed, chimney built, irrigation, landscape, fencing. Utilities flipped to permanent. Passed final inspection with only two corrections. Certificate of Occupancy received.
Post Move-In Actions: Unpack, discard boxes, update addresses, finalize HOA landscape review and reclaim construction deposit. Meet the neighbors. Start enjoying lake life.
The Secret Life of Strong Lawns
From play zones to pathways, discover how to keep green where it counts
By Valerie Smith
During outdoor gatherings, protecting your lawn against the wear and tear of heavy foot traffic is a must. The influx of activities like backyard barbecues or gatherings around fire pits can stress out certain areas of the lawn.
With quality products and the attention to detail you would expect from painting experts, we’ll make your home look like a model home with the perfect color palettes, stains, and textures for all of your home’s surfaces.
Some ways to protect your lawn and help it recover include using a fortifying fertilizer, laying out temporary walkways, evenly distributing seating, removing debris, repairing damaged areas with grass plugs or seeds, applying a recovery fertilizer and maintaining regular watering and lawn care.
Pre-Celebration Lawn Protection
1 Make Your Lawn More Resilient to Stress
To prepare your lawn for heavy foot traffic, enhance its health with nutrients and water. Using fertilizers, which enriches the soil with potassium, amino acids and carbon, can bolster plant and root strength.
By implementing these protective measures before and recovery strategies after your event, you can enjoy your celebrations without worrying about long-term damage to your lawn.
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This nutrient blend optimizes soil health and microbial activity, making your lawn more resilient to stress.
2 Lay Down Temporary Walkways
Consider laying down temporary walkways using stepping stones, mats or temporary grass protection mesh in areas that will see the most foot traffic.
This minimizes soil compaction and protects the grass underneath. Opt for durable, weather-resistant
mats like rubber or woven polypropylene. These materials can withstand heavy use and various weather conditions.
3 Distribute Foot-Traffic Evenly
Strategically arrange seating and entertainment areas to distribute foot traffic evenly across your lawn. Use existing pathways and encourage guests to use them to minimize wear on any single area. Divide your lawn into distinct zones for different activities, such as a dining
area, a games zone and a lounging spot. This not only organizes space but also disperses foot traffic.
Arrange seating in circular patterns around focal points like fire pits, outdoor screens or garden features. Circles encourage more contained movement and social interaction within each zone.
Position entertainment areas near existing walkways or patios, encouraging guests to use these harder surfaces for movement.
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on enhancing functionality, aesthetics, and property value through proper construction and attention to outdoor design. Our approach combines practical groundwork with thoughtful details, ensuring each project complements the natural surroundings while supporting long-term performance.
Post-Celebration Lawn Recovery
After the festivities have concluded, your lawn might need some TLC to bounce back. Here are some recovery tips:
1 Apply a Recovery Fertilizer
To help your lawn recover heavy foot traffic and wear-and-tear, feed it micronutrients like iron, manganese and sulfur to help it bounce back into shape.
Using fertilizers such as Lawnifi
Recover from the Lawnifi Summer Fertilizer Box, which delivers micronutrients with a combination of the nitrogen and carbon
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Your Local North Georgia Experts
We proudly serve the homeowners of Pickens, Gilmer, Cherokee, Fulton, and Forsyth counties. With deep roots in the community, we understand the needs of Northern Georgia homes and the styles that make them special.
Family Values at Our Core
As a family-oriented business, we believe in building relationships based on trust, honesty, and integrity. We treat every project as if it were for our own home, ensuring a personalized and respectful experience for every client.
needed to grow a healthy lawn during stressful conditions gives lawns the nutrients needed to fight through seasonal and environmental stress.
2 Cleanup & Remove Debris
Begin with a thorough cleanup, removing any debris, trash or decorations that could smother the grass and inhibit growth.
3 Use Grass Plugs & Seed to Repair Damaged Spots
Inspect your lawn for damaged areas. If you
notice signs of compaction or wear, aerate these spots to improve air, nutrient and water absorption. Fill in any bare or damaged spots with grass plugs or seed if necessary to encourage new growth.
4 Rehydrate
Your lawn might be dehydrated, especially after a day of festivities under the sun. Water deeply and early in the morning to replenish moisture and help the grass recover. But don’t overwater—your lawn should only need about 1 inch of water per week including rainfall.
5 Resume Regular Maintenance
Return to your regular lawn care routine, adjusting as needed based on the lawn’s condition post-event. This includes mowing, watering, and fertilizing to support healthy growth.
How do I protect my lawn during parties and events? – Answered By implementing these protective measures before and recovery strategies after your event, you can enjoy your celebrations without worrying about long-term damage to your lawn.
Valerie Smith is a Content Strategist with Sod Solutions, which runs Sod University, a resource for lawn and garden enthusiasts that includes educational content, interactive tools and expert insights on all things lawn care. For information, visit sodsolutions.com/sod-university.
Commercial Construction Data
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Draft. Develop. Repeat. Lessons from Sports for Construction
You don’t win championships on game day. You win them in the off-season. In sports—and in construction—it’s easy to focus on the scoreboard. The win. The deal. The deadline. The ribbon cutting. But anyone who’s ever built something great knows: that moment of glory is just the visible tip of the iceberg. The real work happens long before the lights turn on.
Championship teams—from the gridiron to the court to the diamond—aren’t just good at what they do. They’re good at how they prepare. It’s the scouting. The coaching. The systems. The discipline. The culture. Look at the teams hoisting trophies lately: the Kansas City Chiefs, the UGA Bulldogs, the Denver Nuggets.
They’re not one-hit wonders. They’re programs. And programs are built.
That same mindset applies to the commercial construction industry. You don’t get to opening day by accident. The best builders aren’t just tracking project deadlines—they’re building long-term continuity. They’re playing the long game.
In sports, great general managers don’t just chase stars. They build pipelines. They find the right fits. They invest in training. They mentor their young talent and put the right people in the right roles. They don’t just roll the dice; they build a roster for the future with action: Draft. Develop. Repeat.
In construction, we should be doing the same. Who’s your bench strength? Are you developing your next superintendents and project managers? Are your jobsite leads empowered with the right playbook? Because in this industry, one project ends and the next one starts fast. You can’t afford to rebuild every season.
Every great team has a playbook. Not just a list of Xs and Os— but a shared system of how to operate. In construction, that’s your standard operating procedure. Your safety protocols. Your digital tools. Your quality standards. Your “this is how we build” ethos.
And just like in sports, adaptability is key. Halftime adjustments can save a season. In construction, mid-project pivots are the name of the game. Supply delays. Labor shortages. Weather shifts. Client requests. How you respond matters more than how you plan.
Too many teams—and too many construction firms—treat the off-season wins as quiet periods like downtime. But the best is to use the “off-season” to get better. They review film. They upgrade tools. They install new systems. They work on culture.
Construction has an off-season too—preconstruction. Permitting. Procurement. If you treat those phases as prep time, you’ll come into the build stronger, faster and more aligned. The best construction leaders are like the best coaches: They don’t just build projects; they construct programs.
In the end, the final score, your legacy, whether it’s football or facilities, we all want the same thing: to be part of something that lasts. Something people remember. A structure that stands. A program that wins year after year.
So, as you look at your schedule, your teams, your process— ask yourself: are we playing the long game?
Are we drafting smart? Coaching hard? Reviewing films? Are we building something that will last beyond the next win?
Because in this business, just like in sports, you only get better when you treat the off-season like it matters as much as game day.
Here’s to building teams, programs and projects that win for the long haul. Get ready for Q4 to finish strong and with momentum while having fun, positive thoughts and getting things done. Keep the Faith too.
DC
FROM FROSTED GLASS TO FABULOUS FUNCTIONALITY
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