Companies - Page 115

People On The Move In The Local Construction Industry

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The latest People in the News highlighting new hires, promotions, honors & recognition of the men and women in the St. Louis building community.

Myron Ury Joins G&S Architectural Products 

Myron Ury

St. Louis-based Golterman & Sabo has hired Myron Ury as Sales Representative at G&S Architectural Products, a division of Golterman & Sabo. Ury’s primary focus will be promoting Hufcor Operable Walls to the Architectural Design and Construction Community.  He will also lead the Operable Wall service work.

“Operable walls are a fast-growing segment of our business,” says Dennis Voss, director of sales for G & S Architectural Products.  “We look forward to Myron helping our customers integrate these innovative products into their projects.”

Most recently, Ury was the Hufcor Factory Sales Representative for the St Louis metro area.   Ury enjoys spending time with his two children and their spouses, and four grandchildren.  His hobbies are traveling, and camping, and volunteer work.

Golterman & Sabo, a premier provider and installer of specialty building products, began operations in 1946 under the name of Herbert Golterman Company. Today, in its third generation of family ownership, the company manufactures and distributes acoustical products, operable walls, cubicle curtains and track and a variety of other specialized products.

February 21, 2020

Poettker Construction Finance Executive Receives St. Louis Business Journal Honor 

Kim Luitjohan

Poettker Construction Company’s vice president finance, Kimberly (Kim) Luitjohan, has been named to the St. Louis Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 class of 2020. Luitjohan, along with other young business leaders in the St. Louis area, was honored for her contributions to the company and community at a special awards gala on Thursday, Feb. 13. The St. Louis Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 Awards salute young professionals making a difference in their organizations and communities. More than 600 nominations were submitted and reviewed by a panel of previous 40 Under 40 winners.

Luitjohan began her career at Poettker in 2001, where she worked in a variety of roles learning the processes of all company operations. She is a member of the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA) and graduate of Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville’s business program, the latter of which she earned while working full-time at Poettker. In 2010, at the age of 26, Kim was promoted to Vice President Finance, where she has been instrumental in managing the firms’ growth, by overseeing accounts payable, project accounting, payroll, human resources, IT, and asset management.

Luitjohan serves on the HSHS St. Joseph’s Breese Foundation Leadership Council (FLC), which has raised more than $250,000 in the past the years, as well as organizes the First United Methodist Church’s “Cookie Walk and Craft Bazaar” fundraiser, raising more than $16,000 since she founded the event in 2015.

Established in 1980, Poettker Construction is a second-generation, family-owned and veteran-owned business specializing in construction management, design/build, general contracting and self-perform services with an emphasis to exceed the client’s expectations. For more information, visit www.poettkerconstruction.com.

Cody Baumgartner Joins Wiegmann Associates as Project Manager 

Cody Baumgartner

Cody Baumgartner of the Central West End in St. Louis, MO has joined Wiegmann Associates as a project manager. Baumgartner is responsible for managing new and renovation HVAC construction projects in a range of industries. He has a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Missouri – Columbia.

Wiegmann Associates is a St. Louis-based mechanical contractor and a national leader in design/build HVAC projects. Since 1995, Wiegmann Associates has engineered and installed innovative, energy saving and cost-efficient HVAC solutions, refrigeration systems and automation controls for clients in a wide range of industries. For more information, visit www.wiegmannassoc.com or call (636) 940-1056. 

Kwame Building Group Hires Martel Hulsey as Business Developer and Diversity Monitor

Martel Hulsey

Martel Hulsey, of Olivette, MO, has joined Kwame Building Group, Inc. (KWAME) as Business Developer and Diversity Monitor. Hulsey’s responsibilities include creating business and marketing opportunities and maintaining existing client communications. As Diversity Monitor, he oversees construction sites to ensure and verify minority involvement on projects.

Hulsey holds a bachelor’s degree in Sports Business Management from Maryville University. He has four years of experience in the marketing industry. He earned a Delux Power 100 Rising Stars Award by Delux Magazine, which celebrates St. Louis’ most inspiring and influential African American professionals.  

Kwame Building Group, Inc. (KWAME) is one of the nation’s top pure construction management firms, dedicating 100 percent of its resources to project management servicesFor more information, visit www.kwamebuildinggroup.com or call (314) 862-5344.

Western Specialty Contractors Minneapolis Assistant Branch Manager David Grandbois Receives ICRI 40 Under 40 Award

David Granbois

The International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI), the only association in the concrete industry devoted solely to repair and restoration, recently announced the winners of its first 40 Under 40 Award. Western Specialty Contractors is proud to announce that Minneapolis Assistant Branch Manager David Grandbois, 31, was among the announced winners.

The prestigious award recognizes 40 individuals who exemplify dedication to the concrete repair industry. A peer nominated award, the ICRI 40 Under 40 recognizes individuals who have demonstrated their commitment to continued professional growth, high potential for continued success in leadership roles, and a strong passion for – and commitment to – the mission of ICRI.

Grandbois started his career in construction as a Civil Construction Management Engineer for Kiewit in Omaha, NE before accepting a Project Manager position with Hans Hagen Homes in Fridley, MN. He joined Western Specialty Contractors’ Minnesota Branch as a Project Manager in 2015 where he held the position for nearly five years before being promoted to Assistant Branch Manager in February 2020.

Grandbois has a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from Minnesota State University, Moorhead. He is also a certified Concrete Surface Repair Technician – Tiers 1 and 2 through ICRI and an Associate Constructor through the American Institute of Constructors. He has also achieved OSHA 30 certified training.

Family-owned and operated for more than 100 years, Western Specialty Contractors is the nation’s largest specialty contractor in masonry and concrete restoration, waterproofing and specialty roofing. For more information about Western Specialty Contractors, visit www.westernspecialtycontractors.com.

February 14, 2020

KWK Architects Hires Architectural Associate Heather Grove

Heather Grove

KWK Architects is proud to announce that it has expanded its staff with the recent hiring of Architectural Associate Heather Grove, LEED AP BD+C (Building Design + Construction), of St. Louis.

As Architectural Associate, Grove is responsible for design coordination, technical documentation and construction administration of KWK Architect’s higher education projects. She has more than 16 years of experience, having previously worked as a Project Manager for Dickinson Hussman Architects of Webster Groves, MO; as an Independent Contractor with Bozoian Group Architects of Brentwood, MO and as an Architectural Technician for Fletcher Architects of St. Louis.

Grove has an Associate of Applied Science, Architectural Technology from St. Louis Community College and a Master of Science and a Bachelor of Science in Meteorology from Saint Louis University. She is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council – Missouri Gateway Chapter.

Her community involvement includes Secretary and Joint Business Manager for non-profit organization St. Louis Osuwa Taiko, Membership and Marketing Committee volunteer for U.S. Green Building Council – Missouri Gateway Chapter, and volunteer for the U.S. Green Building Council – Missouri Gateway Chapter LEED Community Project.

In her spare time, Grove enjoys staying active and spending time outdoors, exploring area hiking trails. She also performs a style of Japanese drumming called taiko, is learning to play the shinobue, a type of bamboo flute, and enjoys photography.

Johnny S. Wang Joins Midwest BankCentre’s Legal Board of Directors

Johnny Wang

Johnny S. Wang, a partner at Stinson LLP, has been elected to the Midwest BankCentre legal board of directors.

An attorney since 2005, Wang’s legal practice focuses on employment and traditional labor issues. His experience as a litigator deepens his perspective of the opportunities and risks employers navigate to align human resources and business strategy as well as managing a unionized workforce. Wang’s clients range from startups to multinational corporations across diverse industries.

In 2013, Wang co-founded the St. Louis Asian American Chamber of Commerce (AACC), which now exceeds 250 members. He also founded and chaired the Missouri Minority Counsel Program from 2012-2016. He was Stinson’s 2016-2017 Fellow in the Leadership Council of Legal Diversity and a member of the FOCUS Leadership St. Louis Class 41.

Wang currently serves on the board for the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA) and as its alternate regional governor for the central U.S. He also serves as an officer for the board of FOCUS St. Louis and is vice president of the St. Louis County Library board of trustees.

Wang has been recognized with the St. Louis Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 Award in 2020, NAPABA’s 2019 Best under 40, the Missouri Asian-American Bar Association’s 2018 Torch Bearer Award, the Royal Vagabond Foundation’s 2018 Leadership Award, the St. Louis Diversity Job Fair’s 2014 Spirit of Diversity Award, Missouri Lawyers Weekly’s 2013 Up and Coming Lawyers designation and the St. Louis Business Journal’s 2012 Diverse Business Leaders Award.

Wang earned his bachelor’s degree in political science and philosophy at the University of Missouri-Columbia. He graduated from Washington University’s School of Law in 2005.

February 7, 2020

Grant Bergman joins Wiegmann Associates as Project Engineer 

Grant Bergman

Grant Bergman of Wildwood, MO has joined Wiegmann Associates as a project engineer. Bergman has a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Missouri in Columbia. He is working towards his Engineer in Training Certification and will ultimately be responsible for designing and engineering heating, cooling and ventilation systems for various Wiegmann Associates projects.

Wiegmann Associates is a St. Louis-based mechanical contractor and a national leader in design/build HVAC projects. Since 1995, Wiegmann Associates has engineered and installed innovative, energy saving and cost-efficient HVAC solutions, refrigeration systems and automation controls for clients in a wide range of industries. For more information, visit www.wiegmannassoc.com or call (636) 940-1056.

Tim Brimer Joins Murphy Data Center Services

Tim Brimer

Tim Brimer has joined Murphy Data Center Services as data center services account manager. The announcement was made by Eric Gottschlich, director, Murphy DCS.

Since 2017, Brimer has served as data center manager for CBRE/Thomson Reuters and, from 2014-2017, held the same position for the facility for Thomson Reuters. From 2012 to 2014, he served as a critical systems engineer/critical facilities manager for Ascent Corporation L.L. C. Prior to that, he served as a project manager/information systems for BJC Healthcare. He began his career as a system technician /communication technician for Southwestern Bell.

Brimer holds an associate’s degree in electronic engineering from ITT Technical Institute. He also has completed numerous technical and management training courses and holds a BICSI (Building Industry Consulting Service International) Technician Level III certification. He also is ITIL-certified in fundamentals.

Murphy DCS is a turn-key data center services solution, providing strategic integration of all facility infrastructure components, from consulting, design and construction to operation and maintenance. For more information, visit www.murphynet.com.

Quentin Gossen Joins Murphy Company

Quentin Gossen

Quentin Gossen has joined Murphy Company as service account manager. The announcement was made by Ryan Kramer, service sales manager for the mechanical contracting and engineering firm.

Gossen has more than 25 years’ experience in the mechanical industry within government, healthcare and higher education markets. Most recently, he he worked on several major chiller service projects.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering technology from Central Missouri State University and has completed advanced training in HVAC control systems, account management and sales.

Founded in 1907, Murphy Company is one of the nation’s top mechanical contracting firms delivering innovative solutions to the commercial, industrial and institutional markets. For more information, visit www.murphynet.com.

S. M. Wilson Promotes Josh Weber to Project Manager

Josh Weber

S. M. Wilson & Co. has promoted Josh Weber to Project Manager. As Project Manager, he will be responsible for leadership and coordination for all aspects of the project(s) and is accountable for the project’s success, as well as the success of the project stakeholders.

Weber joined S. M. Wilson in 2017 working on Tallgrass Creek Residential Building 1.4 and 1.5. Weber then transitioned to a lead role in managing a new client for S. M. Wilson, Dry Goods, which is a high-end retail brand owned by long-time client, Von Maur.

Weber’s commitment to the success of his projects, attention to detail, strong communication skills and client-focused approach has elevated him to his new position. Weber is OSHA 30 Hour Construction Safety and Health for Construction Industry certified and earned his B.S. in Construction Management from Southeast Missouri State University.

S. M. Wilson is a full-service construction management, design/build and general contracting firm with headquarters in St. Louis. For nearly 100 years, S. M. Wilson has provided a complete range of services and has become one of the leading general construction and construction management firms in the St. Louis area. The employee-owned company is dedicated to going above and beyond expectations for their clients by putting people first. For more information, visit www.smwilson.com.

KAI Hires Respected Industry Leader Brad Simmons, FAIA as New Managing Partner

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KAI Enterprises proudly announces the hiring of Brad Simmons, FAIA, to the new position of Managing Partner. Simmons is a recognized and respected leader in the industry with more than 35 years of regional, national and global experience.

Simmons had worked collaboratively with KAI on joint projects for the past 20 years through his former employer, Jacobs, and predecessor company, Sverdrup. “He is a distinguished and exciting addition to the design-build firm,” said KAI Enterprises CEO Michael Kennedy, Jr.

“We didn’t want to settle for just anyone in this new position,” said Kennedy. “We needed a proven closer, a person who could be a catalyst to recruit top talent across our multiple disciplines, promote business growth and drive culture and practice development. Brad is that person.”

As Managing Partner, Simmons will collaborate daily with Kennedy, KAI Enterprises President Darren L. James, FAIA and the leadership team on market positioning, industry partnerships, major project pursuits, managing new clients, hiring key employees and strategic business direction.

In addition, Simmons will provide oversight to the company’s professional services portfolio and directly lead the Architecture & Engineering business as President of KAI Design. Simmons will divide his time between KAI’s offices in St. Louis, Dallas-Fort Worth and Atlanta.

 “After a nearly three-decade journey growing a significant global buildings business at Jacobs, it was time for a pause,” Simmons said. “I took a six-month ‘life sabbatical’ to reflect and determine what a next career chapter might look like. KAI presented a unique opportunity to get back to my roots, work hands-on with community projects, and serve as a catalyst to drive this already successful business enterprise to new growth plateaus. I knew the KAI culture and values, had a productive history with the leadership and was impressed with Michael’s vision for the next evolution of KAI. It was a perfect storm for me—and a great alignment of chemistry and mutual respect.”

Simmons joined Sverdrup in 1990 where he worked as a Project Manager, Principal and Vice President. In 1999, Jacobs acquired Sverdrup and he served in a wide range of senior leadership roles at the regional, national and global level, including General Manager for Jacobs’ Americas Buildings & Infrastructure business and as a member of the Building, Infrastructure & Advance Facilities global management leadership team.

Simmons took an early retirement from Jacobs in May 2019, where he held the title of Global Vice President – Built Environment. As the senior executive leader, he was responsible for growth and strategy, industry thought leadership, executive project sponsorship with key client accounts, senior customer relationships and attracting and developing top organization talent. Jacobs’ Built Environment business provided a full range of planning, design and construction services to a diverse mix of public and private sector clients around the globe.

A licensed architect, Simmons earned a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Design from Texas A&M University in 1984 and has been a member of the Texas A&M College of Architecture Advisory Board for nearly two decades. He is a 1998 graduate of Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government Senior Executives in State and Local Government program. Texas A&M University’s College of Architecture recognized Simmons’ professional contributions by bestowing him with the Outstanding Alumni Award in 2007.

Simmons was elected to the prestigious AIA College of Fellows in 2000, becoming one of the youngest architects honored in the organization’s over 150-year history. From 2000-2003, he served on the National Board of Directors for the American Institute of Architects and served as National Chair of the AIA’s 2005 National Convention in Las Vegas. In 2006, his peers at the American Institute of Architects of Missouri honored him with the AIA Missouri Distinguished Service Award for a career of leadership and commitment to the profession. He was also Jacobs’ Executive/CEO representative to the AIA’s Large Firm Roundtable for the past several years.

Simmons has been an active community leader, having served four terms (1991-99) on the City of Shrewsbury’s Board of Alderman. Additionally, he served on the Board of Directors of the Missouri Municipal League from 1994 to 1999. He is a 1995 graduate of Leadership St. Louis and was named one of the Jaycees Ten Outstanding Young St. Louisans that same year. In 1996, he was named by the St. Louis Business Journal as one of the “40 Under 40.” In 1999, he graduated from the Leadership Missouri program. He also served from 1994 until 2001 on the Board of Directors for Scenic Missouri and is a past member of both the FOCUS St. Louis Board and the Epworth (Children’s) Board.

Simmons is married to Dr. Michelle Simmons, an educator with the Kirkwood School District, and has three grown children, Sidney, Sloane and Tyler. An avid boater, Simmons spends as much time as possible at his family’s vacation home on Table Rock Lake.

KAI Enterprises is a national design and build firm providing delivery-oriented building solutions with a diverse portfolio of experience, in-house multi-discipline professionals, and expertise in both design and construction delivery. To learn more about KAI, visit www.kai-db.com.

 

Western Specialty Contractors Receives Building Enclosure Award

Western Specialty Contractors – St. Louis Roofing Branch proudly announced that it has received a 2019 Outstanding Building Enclosure Project award for its waterproofing work on the new East End Parking Facility at Washington University in St. Louis.

Representatives from the St. Louis Roofing Branch accepted the award on Dec. 5, 2019 from the Building Enclosure Council (BEC) – St. Louis Chapter.

Western’s crew applied a Carlisle Coatings & Waterproofing (CCW) system to approx. 120,000 square feet of vertical foundations and the roof of the new underground parking garage, which features 790 parking spaces, electric charging stations and a projected lifespan of more than 100 years. Western also applied a hot horizontal waterproofing system to tunnel and plaza roofs that connect the new parking garage to new neighboring buildings, which totaled roughly 180,000 square feet. An additional 20,000 square feet of waterproofing was applied to the under slab “blind” system.

Thom Belgeri, Senior Department Manager at Western Specialty Contractors, says the team is proud to have been recognized for its work on this massive two-year project.

“What made this such an outstanding project to our team was the harmonizing of all the entities involved with the planning, scheduling and installing of the hundreds of square feet of waterproofing,” said Belgeri. “We were honored to have worked on this project for the university.”

The general contractor on the project was McCarthy Building Companies. Luna & Associates served as the local representative for Carlisle Coatings & Waterproofing.

Family-owned and operated for more than 100 years, Western Specialty Contractors is the nation’s largest specialty contractor in masonry and concrete restoration, waterproofing and specialty roofing. For more information about Western Specialty Contractors, visit www.westernspecialtycontractors.com.

 

Restoration and Renovation of Seven Gables Inn Completed

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Hotel and new restaurant, Seven, to officially open March 11

Seven Gables Inn, often referred to as a European oasis in the heart of Clayton, will have its official dedication March 11 after an 18-month extensive $9.5 million renovation by Restoration St. Louis. Clayton Mayor Michelle Harris will officiate at the ribbon-cutting ceremony that begins at 4 p.m., at 26 N. Meramec Ave.

Amy and Amrit Gill, owners of Restoration St. Louis, have restored the inn to its previous glory that features 32 guest rooms and suites that blend Old World charm with modern luxury. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the property dates back to 1926. With its gabled European roofs and outdoor courtyard, decorative timbering, massive chimney and slender windows, the Tudor Revival-style property is surrounded by modern high-rises and is located within the walkable Clayton city business center. Innkeeper Hospitality Services, LLC, a division of Restoration St. Louis, is managing the property.

“The Seven Gables Inn has provided a quirky charm and European ambiance in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the Clayton business district for more than 90 years,” said Amy Gill, co-founder of Restoration St. Louis, “and we wanted to ensure that this oasis-like treasure remains for decades more. Where else can you experience Europe without the jet lag?”

The Gills purchased the hotel 18 months ago and immediately renovated the property’s street-level restaurant, formerly known as Molly Darcy’s Pub. Operating as the Restaurant at Seven Gables Inn, the restaurant remained open throughout the hotel’s renovation. To coincide with the completed renovation of the hotel, the in-house American bistro has been rechristened SEVEN and even features a “Lost Legends” menu that pays homage to dishes from famous St. Louis restaurants that are now closed.

The thoughtfully-crafted menu, under the direction of Food and Beverage Senior Vice President Michael Russell, includes some of the former restaurant’s favorites, including the award-winning Tenderloin Sandwich, Chicken Pot Pie and Fish ‘n Chips. Patrons may also eat on the outside covered porch or in the beautifully encapsulated outdoor courtyard. A full-service complimentary breakfast is available daily for all overnight guests. Breakfast is also available to the public (for purchase) seven days a week.

Renovations to the inn itself include luxury amenities and hardwood floors in the 20 king rooms, seven double queen rooms and five suites, artwork by local artist Fern Taylor, and a new $1 million HVAC heating and cooling system that replaced the former window units. The former reception area has been transformed into a sitting area overlooking the European Garden and a new front desk welcome area. Several hidden stairways connecting to rooms or leading to dead ends were uncovered during renovations; these were filled in to create wider hallway access in each wing.

In-room amenities include TVs inside the bathroom mirrors, Toto Washlets (only the third hotel in the country to have them in every room and suite), half-timbering trim, vintage telephones, Serta Perfect sleeper beds and large Tudor windows. The inn is also pet friendly.

The crown jewel of the renovation, however, is the skywalk that now connects the north and south sides of the hotel, a first for the property. The European-style garden courtyard is filled with Boston ivy winding along the stucco walls. A large tree, decorated with lanterns and warm bistro lights, shades the brick patio floor. Plush lounge chairs and patio tables are available for patrons as well. The 3,500-square-foot flexible banquet space includes Gable 1 and Gable II, as well as the extensively refurbished Hawthorn room, which features a European-style metal ceiling and wood walls.

The property’s original architects, Captain Gunther Meier and Norman Comfort of Meier and Comfort, Inc., were attracted to the attributes of Tudor English design from their time spent in Europe in the military. Comfort also admired author Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, “The House of Seven Gables,” hence the inn’s moniker. The building originally contained 27 apartments, four offices and four storefronts. Once completed, the two located their office at the property and continued designing Tudor-style residential areas throughout St. Louis, including Fair Oak Estates, Picardy Lane in Ladue and York Village in Brentwood, to name a few. Today, the once dominant structure of the pitched-roof inn has given way to Clayton’s high-rise buildings and, yet, still maintains its oasis charm.

Home to St. Louis County government, Clayton features a collection of boutiques, galleries, unique restaurants, bars and coffee shops. The sprawling Shaw Park is located just blocks from Seven Gables. A wide range of annual events attract thousands of visitors, including the Saint Louis Art Fair, Taste of Clayton food festival, Gallery Nights, Parties in the Park and a seasonal farmers market.

Restoration St. Louis, led by Amrit and Amy Gill, has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in the revitalization of architecturally significant buildings, neighborhoods and communities throughout the country. The organization initiates real estate development programs and partnerships with both city-based and minority-owned businesses. Innkeeper Hospitality Services, a division of Restoration St. Louis, also manages The Hotel Blackhawk and The Current-Iowa, the No. 1 and No. 2 hotels in Davenport, as well as Hotel Saint Louis. The Gills serve on the Marriott Ownership Advisory Board for the Autograph Collection Hotels. The aforementioned hotels are all members of Marriott’s Autograph Collection.

Poettker Construction Finance Executive Receives St. Louis Business Journal Honor

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Poettker Construction Company’s vice president finance, Kimberly (Kim) Luitjohan, has been named to the St. Louis Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 class of 2020. Luitjohan, along with other young business leaders in the St. Louis area, was honored for her contributions to the company and community at a special awards gala on Thursday, Feb. 13.

“We are very proud of Kim for receiving this award,” said Keith Poettker, president of Poettker Construction. “She truly exemplifies the kind of dedicated professionalism and strong community relationship culture that we value at Poettker, and I am honored to call her family.”

The St. Louis Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 Awards salute young professionals making a difference in their organizations and communities. More than 600 nominations were submitted and reviewed by a panel of previous 40 Under 40 winners who helped the Business Journal choose members of the new class, who appeared in the February 14 print edition of the St. Louis Business Journal.

Luitjohan began her career at Poettker in 2001, where she worked in a variety of roles learning the processes of all company operations. She is a member of the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA) and graduate of Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville’s business program, the latter of which she earned while working full-time at Poettker. In 2010, at the age of 26, Kim was promoted to Vice President Finance, where she has been instrumental in managing the firms’ growth, by overseeing accounts payable, project accounting, payroll, human resources, IT, and asset management.

Under Luitjohan’s direction as Vice President Finance, revenue for the company has increased by more than 600 percent. She has also been instrumental in the company’s philanthropic pursuits, giving back to the community through fundraising and educational efforts.  Luitjohan serves on the HSHS St. Joseph’s Breese Foundation Leadership Council (FLC), which has raised more than $250,000 in the past the years, as well as organizes the First United Methodist Church’s “Cookie Walk and Craft Bazaar” fundraiser, raising more than $16,000 since she founded the event in 2015.

Established in 1980, Poettker Construction is a second-generation, family-owned and veteran-owned business specializing in construction management, design/build, general contracting and self-perform services with an emphasis to exceed the client’s expectations. For more information, visit www.poettkerconstruction.com.

Kinetic Bulk Warehouse Construction Growth Marks Decade, SIOR Leaders Say

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By KERRY SMITH, EDITOR, ST. LOUIS CONSTRUCTION NEWS AND REVIEW MAGAZINE

The bulk distribution warehousing corridor from Wentzville to Edwardsville has experienced a decade of record-setting construction and leasing, according to Matt Hrubes, vice president of leasing and development at Duke Realty.

Hrubes’ message reached nearly 1,000 commercial real estate brokers and regional leaders in attendance Feb. 18 at the 36th annual Metro Market Forecast, hosted by the Society of Industrial and Office Realtors St. Louis Chapter.

“In the past 10 years, more than 24 million square feet has been built at a $1 billion value,” Hrubes said, citing major investment in Edwardsville’s Gateway Commerce Center and Lakeview Commerce Center, Fenton Logistics Park, St. Peters’ Premier 370 Business Park, Hazelwood’s Aviator Business Park, Hazelwood Logistic Center and elsewhere. “And from 2010-2019, $2.58 billion in St. Louis industrial investment came from non-St. Louis-based investors,” he added.

St. Louis’ top five industrial building owners in 2010 were Duke Realty, MEPT, Prologis, First Industrial Realty and JBM. Ten years later, the Top 5 are Duke Realty, Exeter Property Group, NorthPoint Development, Panattoni and JPMorgan Chase.

In 2010, the top industrial occupiers in St. Louis were OHL, Unilever, P&G, Centric Group and Spectrum Brands. Ten years hence in 2020, they are World Wide Technology, Amazon, GEODIS, P&G, General Motors and Spectrum Brands.

Hrubes pointed to Gateway Commerce Center as a classic example of this growth. “In 10 years, Gateway Commerce Center construction nearly doubled from 15 buildings to 26,” said Hrubes. “It’s nearly built out with only 200 acres (out of 2,300) left.”

Regarding economic health, Hrubes said, St. Louis’ unemployment stats have vastly improved  over the past decade. In January 2010, he noted, St. Louis had a 10.4 percent unemployment rate. In December 2019, that rate was only 3.2 percent.

Following Tuesday’s morning forecast event, BARBERMURPHY Principal Steve Zuber, SIOR St. Louis vice president, said the Illinois portion of the St. Louis MSA is uniquely positioned to take advantage of today’s real estate adage, “labor, labor, labor” – a catch phrase that has  overtaken the industry’s long-used “location, location, location” expression.

“For years, Illinois’ bordering states – Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky and Wisconsin – have been outperforming Illinois with lower unemployment rates,” said Zuber. “Ours has been somewhat higher than most. That’s actually a good thing now, though…because now in Illinois, we have the ready workforce to fill these positions while our neighboring states are maxed out.”

Education First FCU Celebrates Ribbon Cutting

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Rosedale branch reopens its doors with a new design

NewGround, a St. Louis-based innovative architecture, design, and project management firm, recently celebrated the ribbon cutting for Education First Federal Credit Union’s (FCU) newly renovated branch in Beaumont, Texas on February 13.

Originally designed and constructed over 20 years ago to replicate the credit union’s Lamar University branch design, the remodeled 8,500 square foot freestanding branch now incorporates the branded elements of Education First FCU’s headquarters and Laurel Street branch.

With a new exterior entrance and doors, the building features painted brick to match the headquarters building across the street. Updated interior elements include a new cash bar that replaces the traditional teller line, a new hospitality bar, and all new office furniture. All HVAC and lighting systems were also upgraded.

NewGround provided architecture, engineering, construction management, environmental graphics, and digital signage services for this Rosedale branch renovation.

Steve Clark, Regional Vice President of Business Development at NewGround, attended the ribbon cutting ceremony alongside numerous Education First FCU board members, management, and staff.

“We are proud to partner with Education First FCU on the remodel of their Rosedale branch in Beaumont, and we can’t wait to see how this transformation helps them master the power of their space,” said Kevin Blair, President and CEO at NewGround.

NewGround is the industry thought-leader in strategy, innovative design, and project management, and has been for over 100 years. For more information, visit NewGround at www.newground.com.

Pinnacle Contracting, Inc. Completes $2 Million Renovation for Napleton Automotive Group

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Pinnacle Contracting, Inc. has completed a $2 million renovation project for the Napleton Automotive Group at its Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Mid Rivers dealership at 4951 Veterans Memorial Parkway in St. Peters, Mo.

Focused on enhancing the customer experience, the renovation impacted 33,000 square feet and includes an updated showroom/car delivery area, customer lounge and service drive.  It is the third assignment Pinnacle has completed for family owned Napleton, which opened for business in Chicago, Ill. in 1931 and currently operates more than 35 dealerships in five states.

In its role as general contractor, Pinnacle coordinated all site operations during the phased, seven-month project.  Phase I saw Pinnacle update service bays while Phase II zeroed in on showroom space.

Pinnacle Project Manager Phil Moxey met an important deadline by completing Phase II in time for Black Friday 2019. “Effective communication and timely coordination between Pinnacle and Napleton enabled us to expedite build-out while keeping customer safety foremost in mind,” noted Moxey.

Joining Pinnacle on the project team was architect difilippis + associates, Inc., Chicago, Ill.

Founded in 1998 in St. Louis, Pinnacle’s senior management team includes CEO Tom McLaughlin, President Nelson Grumney Jr., and Vice President Tim McLaughlin. The company provides general contracting, construction management and design-build services for the historic renovation, office, educational, industrial, healthcare, hospitality, retail and multi-family markets.

 

The Staenberg Group Completes Purchase of Chesterfield Mall

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The Staenberg Group (TSG), headquartered in St. Louis, Mo completed the purchase of Chesterfield Mall on February 14, 2020.  The mall is located at the intersection of I-64/40 and Clarkson Road in Chesterfield, Missouri. This transaction follows TSG’s previous acquisition of the Sears building at the mall in April of 2018 and positions the company to control and lead the impending development.

“This is the start of Downtown Chesterfield, a high-end, urban, mixed-use development that includes multi-family residential, corporate office, upscale retail and restaurants, a theater, boutique fitness, supermarket and pocket parks,” says Tim Lowe, vice president of leasing and development for TSG.  “The entire development will be designed to create a vibrant, suburban city center where residents can live, work and play. Chesterfield is the ideal location is for this type of unique redevelopment.”

As the new owner, TSG plans to work with Macy’s and Dillard’s, the remaining two landowners at the mall, regarding their interest in participating in the proposed development program.

A project of this scale and significance will be transformational and will require strong support, partnership and assistance from the City of Chesterfield. The proposed development will enhance the quality of life for the community and offer residents and visitors the chance to connect in a new way.

“Endeavors of this magnitude take shape very methodically, and the process typically requires a number of years to complete,” Lowe continues.  “The initial phase will include re-zoning, entitlements, financing, master planning and design.”

TSG has a strong track record of successful developments within the City of Chesterfield, and the  company understands the significance of the Chesterfield Mall property to the City and community.

The Staenberg Group is a vertically integrated real estate development firm, which designs, develops and manages shopping centers throughout the United States. Beyond Development, TSG Properties engages in the communities in which they operate through pro-bono consulting, direct philanthropic gifts and volunteering technical expertise and determination to make neighborhoods stronger, healthier and more sustainable. For more information visit www.tsgproperties.com or call 314.513.1500.

Holland Construction Nearing Completion on New Whispering Heights Project

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A ribbon cutting ceremony was recently held to mark the completion of the first phase of the

Whispering Heights development. The project, a new $34 million mixed-use community, located off Highway 157, is in the heart of Edwardsville, Illinois. The ceremony marked the completion of the South Building. The North Building is scheduled to be completed in May.

Holland Construction Services is working with Edwardsville developer Fireside Financial on the project which will eventually feature two six-story buildings with a total of 153 luxury apartments and 18,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space. Holland Vice President Doug Weber said his team was honored to have been selected by Fireside to work on this project.

“It’s exciting when you get to the final phases of a project and get to see their vision for the property become a reality,” said Weber. “From the beginning, this project has been a true collaborative effort involving the ownership, design team, city officials and subcontractors. We’re looking forward to completing work on the North Building in a few short months and delivering a high-quality mixed-use project to the community of Edwardsville.”

Kristie Bailey, Partner at Fireside Financial, said, “We are excited to be a part of Edwardsville’s growth, especially on the 157 corridor, with this mixed-use project connecting downtown to the Goshen trail to all of the other exciting things the city has to offer.”

Edwardsville Economic and Community Development Director Walt Williams said this type of mixed-use commercial and residential development meets the needs of the community.

“This development is in response to the lifestyle preferences of the most economically-active generations,” said Williams. “The force behind the popularity of this type of real estate development growth has been the Millennial generation; however, the “one-stop-shop,” instantly gratifying lifestyle is not only a claim by the youth. Baby Boomers have also gravitated toward real estate that offers expediency and walkability, which this project provides.”

Residents of Whispering Heights will enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness center, private entrances, private parking garage, business center, and a rooftop “amenity deck” with grilling stations, fire pits, an enclosed kitchenette, and bar area. The luxury apartments will range from studios to 2-bedroom suites of up to 1,100 square feet and feature stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and high-end finishes throughout. Whispering Heights is located at 1010 Enclave Blvd. in Edwardsville and is managed and leased by 2B Residential. For more information, visit www.whispering-heights.com or contact Ashley Schmidt at 618-515-5230.”

Holland Construction Services is a full-service construction management, general contracting, and design/build firm based in Swansea, Ill., guided by the principle of providing our clients the best possible building experience on every project. Holland has been providing quality construction services throughout Illinois and Missouri since 1986, when it was founded by company CEO Bruce Holland. For more information, visit Holland’s website at www.hollandcs.com.

 

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Cutline: Holland Construction Nearing Completion on New Whispering Heights Project.

 

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