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Historic Commercial Renovation Projects: What to Consider

Sep 13, 2022

Few things are more stressful than navigating a historic commercial renovation project with an unprofessional contractor at the helm. Compared to new construction, these renovation projects offer lower overall construction costs. The process takes more labor to complete, but construction and demolition costs are reduced. Using green building materials and LEED certification guidelines, historical commercial renovations can drastically decrease the property's environmental impact.


However, renovating commercial buildings is not without its challenges. To navigate these challenges and mitigate risk, there are some best practices to keep in mind as you plan for and execute historic commercial renovation projects.


Consider the Community


The use of and need for commercial and office spaces has shifted, and property owners are looking for ways to draw back tenants. Historical buildings have also been sitting unused for months, leading to disrepair. Commercial renovation can bring these buildings up to code while breathing new life into the surrounding areas.

Choose the Right Partners


You'll need to partner with a team of professionals to avoid snags along the way. Set up a network – attorneys, engineers, contractors, and more – before work begins. Take time to vet your options because they'll be your team for every phase of the renovation project. They're also experts in their fields and have the expertise to avoid legal or municipal disputes.


Pick the Right Property


Not all historic buildings are good candidates for renovation, so it's essential to have a team of professionals perform a thorough assessment of the building's structural integrity. This is a wise investment, and knowing the complete condition of the building will guide the project. Additionally, not all neighborhoods are the right community to host an adaptive reuse building.


Leave a Margin for Error


With historic commercial renovation projects, contractors never know what to expect when demolition begins, and problem areas are exposed. There could also be delays with plan reviews or permitting issues. Ensure you leave room in the budget and the schedule to account for these delays.


Document Everything


If you're interested in LEED certification or tax credits related to historic renovations, you'll need to keep a meticulous record of invoices, plans, and blueprints. Requiring documentation and organizing it as work continues is crucial for having these records in order. This is also an intelligent accounting move to help keep budget disputes at bay.

Go With the Professionals


For developers and building owners who have decided that newer isn't better, renovating historic buildings can be a sustainable, cost-efficient way to create a fresh, new space for a changing community. Working with a team of commercial contractors with decades of experience is key to making these projects successful.


How Can We Help?


While not all construction companies are willing to tackle commercial renovations, we are happy to take on the challenge. We walk you through the process, answer your questions, and make professional recommendations. 


Not sure where to start? We can also act as construction consultants to assess the scope of work. Whether you need to increase security for your building or are trying to find the best new space for your business, we can help. Even if you aren't sure what you need, our consultative approach will bring you clarity and confidence.


You've likely heard renovation horror stories and know what you don't want your experience to be. Turning to Wright Building Systems will give you the renovation story of your dreams. Our entire team strives to foster partnerships with subcontractors and clients based on high quality and trust. 


With WBS, you get the total package that helps you confidently move forward. Working with the WBS team is like a breath of fresh air in a world of overpriced services and poor customer care. Contact us today to get started!

Tips for Office Renovations

10 Apr, 2024
How long has it been since you refreshed your office space? Choosing to rebuild entirely or renovate what you already have is a critical decision, and while rebuilding can yield excellent results, renovations may be more cost-effective and timely. We've helped business owners across the St. Louis region renovate their spaces and improve productivity. Let's discuss some tips that will help propel your office renovations and give your team the space they deserve. Assessing Your Needs and Setting Goals Before diving into the renovation process, it is essential to step back and evaluate your current workspace. Identify pain points, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement. Are there bottlenecks in workflow? Is the layout conducive to collaboration and productivity? By pinpointing these issues, you can establish clear renovation objectives and desired outcomes. Business owners should consider budget constraints and timelines to ensure the team has realistic expectations from the outset. Envisioning Your Ideal Workspace With goals in mind, it's time to unleash your creativity and envision the future of your workspace. Draw inspiration from various sources such as design magazines, websites, and competitor spaces. Engage with your employees to understand their preferences and needs. What elements would enhance their work experience? Creating a mood board or vision board can crystallize your ideas and visualize the desired aesthetic and functionality. Finding the Right Contractor Choosing the right contractor is a pivotal step in the renovation process—research and vet potential candidates with experience in commercial office renovations. Ask for referrals and view past projects to assess quality and reliability. Obtain multiple quotes and compare services, timelines, and pricing to make an informed decision. Remember, communication is key—select a contractor who listens to your vision and collaborates effectively. Collaborating with Your Contractor Once you've chosen a contractor, establish open lines of communication and set clear expectations. Communicate your vision, goals, and budget constraints. Collaborate on establishing a timeline and project milestones to track progress effectively. Throughout the renovation, maintain regular communication to promptly address any concerns or changes. A collaborative partnership between you and your contractor is essential for a successful outcome.

Commercial Roofing Project Tips

07 Mar, 2024
While unseen to the average patron, a commercial building's roof is a critical and complex infrastructure that must be tended to regularly. Precision, planning, and attention to detail are paramount for city commercial roofing projects. Whether you're working on a contemporary skyscraper or a historic landmark, the challenges and requirements can vary significantly. This blog explores some valuable tips to ensure the success of your next commercial roofing project. Thorough Assessment and Planning Before embarking on any roofing project, a comprehensive assessment of the roof's current condition is crucial. Identify structural issues, drainage problems, and insulation needs to form the foundation of your project plan. A detailed plan that outlines the scope of work, timeline, budget, and required resources is essential for streamlining operations and minimizing disruptions. Choose the Right Materials Selecting the appropriate roofing materials is a critical decision that directly impacts the durability and longevity of the structure. Consider weather conditions, building design, and energy efficiency when selecting materials. In metropolitan areas, where pollution and urban environmental factors can pose additional challenges, opting for materials with enhanced resistance can prolong the roof's lifespan. Compliance with Building Codes and Regulations Navigating the maze of building codes, zoning regulations, and safety standards is non-negotiable for any commercial roofing project. Ensure your team obtains all necessary permits and approvals before commencing work to avoid delays and legal complications. Compliance safeguards your project and enhances your reputation as a responsible contractor.

Historic Building Preservation: Do's and Don'ts

16 Feb, 2024
As stewards of our architectural heritage, commercial construction companies specializing in historic building preservation play a vital role in ensuring that these treasures of the past continue to enrich our communities for generations to come. However, navigating the complexities of historic preservation requires a delicate balance between honoring the past and meeting the present needs. Here are five essential "Do's" and "Don'ts" for historic building projects to guide you on this journey.  The Do's Research and Understand the Building's History Every historic building has a story to tell, and understanding its history is paramount to successful preservation. Before embarking on any project, take the time to research the building's architectural style, original materials, and historical significance. By uncovering the building's past, you gain invaluable insights that will inform your preservation efforts and ensure that your work respects its unique heritage. Engage with Preservation Experts Historic preservation is a multidisciplinary endeavor that requires expertise in architecture, history, conservation, and construction. Collaborate with preservation architects, historians, and consultants specializing in historic buildings. Their knowledge and experience will help you navigate preservation regulations, address technical challenges, and make informed decisions that balance preservation goals with modern requirements. Document and Preserve Original Features Historic buildings are repositories of craftsmanship and architectural detail, each element bearing witness to the past. When undertaking a preservation project, prioritize documenting and preserving original features and materials. Whether it's intricate woodwork, ornate plaster moldings, or handcrafted masonry, these historic elements contribute to the building's character, and the team should conserve them whenever possible. Adapt with Sensitivity While historic buildings provide a link to the past, they must also meet the needs of contemporary users. When making updates or additions to a historic structure, approach the design process with sensitivity and respect for the original fabric. Seek inspiration from the building's historic character and use materials, colors, and techniques harmonizing with its architectural style. By blending the old with the new, you can create spaces that honor the past while serving the needs of the present. Regular Maintenance and Monitoring Preservation is an ongoing process that requires proactive care and attention. Implement a regular maintenance schedule to monitor the condition of the building and address any issues before they escalate. Regular inspections, cleaning, and repair work can help prevent deterioration and prolong the lifespan of historic materials. Investing in proactive maintenance safeguards the building's integrity and demonstrates your commitment to its long-term preservation.
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