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BUYER'S DELIGHT
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By Peter Downs
The commercial construction industry has hit a slow patch. As the
construction industry slows across the country, so too it is down
in St. Louis. The Associated General Contractors of St. Louis reported
in April that hours worked in construction in metropolitan St. Louis
were down 16 percent from one year earlier.
St. Louis Commerce asked three local construction industry
leaders for their perspectives on the state of the regional construction
industry and what to expect over the coming year. They are Joe McKee,
president of Paric Corp., Gary Frossard, president of Kadean Construction
Co., and Pam Duffy, president of Rhodey & Son Construction.
How is the commercial construction industry faring?
McKee: Office and warehouse has slowed down significantly
off the peak of 16 to 24 months ago. Retail is relatively strong
in some geographic markets. The elderly market [e.g. assisted living
centers] is staying strong and student housing has stayed relatively
strong. Water and wastewater, interior office finish, and health
care are strong.
Overall, the market in St. Louis is down. Where we were seeing a
manpower problem a year ago, that is not the case anymore. We’re
even seeing electricians sharing hours, where they used to be one
of the trades in shortest supply.
As a rule the market has gotten tremendously more competitive in
the last 16 months, and I expect that to continue for at least the
next 12.
Frossard: In general, the construction continues to reflect
the current downturn in the economy with some weakness on the demand
side, but some bright spots are emerging. Savvy business owners
and developers have been rewarded for weathering the rough times
and have capitalized on historically low interest rates and competitive
construction pricing.
Construction opportunities seem to lie with the retail sector, which
is driven by consumer spending. The office and industrial segments
of the markets are still suffering from an overbuilt market, but
some developers in niche markets are proceeding after pre-leasing
a portion of their projects. Our current backlog is in great shape
primarily due to projects from 2002 that have finally kicked off.
It is still a very competitive market, but the better contractors
are getting their share of the work. With the economy on the brink
of recovery, we believe activity will increase substantially later
this year in the commercial markets.
Duffy: The commercial construction market right now is fairly
tight. There is good work out there, but not as much as previous
years, so there’s a lot of competition for the work that is there.
It’s definitely a “buyers” market.
We see a lot of work in the health care, education, and industrial
markets. There are a lot of high schools being built right now,
especially in Illinois, where the state [government] is supporting
school construction. That doesn’t look to change soon as the governor
there, despite a state budget crisis, is proposing to increase spending
on school construction.
What do you see as the major trends in the industry?
Frossard: Better, faster, cheaper is still the order of the
day. Technology has to be the method to accomplish this goal in
order to maintain reasonable margins. Besides advances in the electronic
transfer of information, including drawings and other construction
documents, the use of technology in the field is increasing as well.
While the cost of labor and materials are increasing faster than
the cost of living index, subcontractor prices have remained steady
over the last few years. Subsequently, the overall cost of construction
has increased slightly and some contractors have sacrificed margins
in order to create work volume.
General contractors also are taking on more and more responsibility
on the front end of their construction projects. Design/build is
the process of choice for providing better value to the owner and
general contractors have grown more sophisticated as the ranks of
traditional developers have dwindled. Design/builders are taking
up the slack by offering solutions from design to real estate-related
challenges.
Duffy: There does seem to be a lot more design/build work
being done by general contractors and less self-performed work.
There also is more institutional work. We’ve started doing schools,
that is a new market for us, and that seems to be a strong market
that is attracting the attention of a lot of contractors.
McKee: If you rely on relationships for your work, you are
in much better shape than if you rely on hard bids.
Owners are turning more to design/build and partnering. Design/build
delivers a project in less time, at a better price, and with better
quality. Hopefully, the State of Missouri will figure out how to
let us do that on public projects. In Dallas, they have a whole
different approach to public contracts, one where qualifications
and people matter.
I don’t know if it is a trend, but the graying of the trades is
a matter of concern. As an industry, we need to dedicate ourselves
to making more young people aware of the high quality, good paying
career opportunities in the trades. Getting members of the next
generation to consider and eventually select the trades as a career
is vital to the health of the construction industry, the economy,
and ultimately the preservation of a viable middle class.
The AGC is doing some great things to attract that next generation
of workers to the trades. The Construction Career Center south of
downtown is giving less advantaged youth a glimpse of the great
opportunities in construction, and the AGC and labor unions have
started an initiative where they are openly discussing longstanding
issues that have handicapped the St. Louis region’s ability to compete
nationally.
What are the main obstacles the industry faces?
Duffy: One of the main obstacles the industry faces is dealing
with the inherent risks associated with construction, and the high
cost of minimizing that risk. Escalating worker’s compensation costs,
professional liability costs, and labor costs are difficult to control.
There is also the challenge of bringing young people into the trades
to ensure a future labor supply.
Insurance is probably our second largest overhead cost next to salaries.
Our worker’s comp policy is going up for renewal in June, and I’m
expecting a 10 to 20 percent increase. We’re a mid-sized company.
We do about $30 million in business a year, and my worker’s comp
and general liability insurance cost more than $100,000. That’s
a lot. General liability went up 20 percent last year, and I expect
another 20 percent increase this year. And that is with every carrier
excluding disasters from your coverage, and now mold. So you don’t
know what your exposure is.
McKee: Obviously the economy poses the biggest challenge
for the construction industry. That being said, what specifically
are the factors within the economy presenting the challenges?
The absence of any substantive job growth is a real roadblock. That
is why it is imperative that business and community leaders continue
to look for and attract new types of industry. Biotech is a prime
example of this. In addition to the numerous high paying stable
jobs biotech is directly responsible for creating, indirectly it
provides opportunity in other industries such as construction.
Another impediment to growth is the woeful state of the region’s
infrastructure, particularly the roadways. The crisis facing our
transportation system in the metropolitan area is a huge deterrent
to prospective industry. Those who are looking to invest in an area
like biotech are less likely to set up shop in an environment whose
infrastructure is less than hospitable to their businesses’ needs.
Another strike is the current budget crises in Illinois and Missouri.
The first instinct in a budget crisis like the one we are currently
facing is to slash and burn, just start cutting. However, that really
diminishes our ability to compete and spur growth. The prudent approach
is to look for opportunities where the state can make a sound investment
that can and does spur growth. Some examples of areas where the
state should be looking is investing in shoring up our infrastructure
and expanding TIF programs. These are elements that businesses use
as tools to grow and ultimately creates a greater demand for jobs.
Municipalities also have to play a hand in creating a much more
hospitable and fertile business environment. Many municipalities
don’t realize how some of their policies or non-responsiveness actually
retard growth. It’s a shame that some municipalities have gained
a reputation of being unfriendly to business or difficult with which
to deal. This does no one any good. Their approach should be how
can we help you invest in our community.
What kind of construction projects most affect the region’s
economic momentum and how can we get more of them?
McKee: Those projects that create new jobs mean the most
to the region. To get them, we have to create the environment where
businesses want to be in St. Louis. Projects like a MasterCard are
a great investment in our market. They moved to Winghaven with 1,800
employees, now they have more than 2,500 making an average of $70,000
a year. That is a tremendous engine for our economy, but it doesn’t
happen without local government and state people working to make
it happen.
The new Cardinals stadium is key, and historic tax credits absolutely
have to stay in place. We’re doing the Paul Brown Building conversion
to apartments. Our part is about $30 million. That doesn’t happen
without historic tax credits. There is a positive trend in growth
in the downtown population. The Convention Center hotel, the Cardinals
stadium, Grand Center, SLU’s Stadium, there are a lot of good things
happening downtown. Downtown St. Louis is really important to all
of us. Home rule and loft development in downtown are important,
and we need to continue to expand on the positives of downtown.
Frossard: Development and construction follow infrastructure.
It is imperative that we streamline the delivery process for public
funded work—specifically highway improvement projects. The St. Louis
region cannot afford to get behind the curve with its economic development
programs and highway funding despite the fact that the state is
suffering a severe budget crisis. Politicians and civic leaders
need to understand that economic development programs and incentives
packages drive growth. It is important to make certain that TIFs
do not go the way of Industrial Revenue Bonds (IRB) from years ago.
Granted, TIFs may have been somewhat abused in the past, but they’re
a great economic development tool that we need to maintain.
St. Louis needs to continue to reinvest in its core areas—not only
downtown, but in the surrounding communities as well. The same deterioration
that occurred downtown will manifest itself in other areas if we
do not constantly keep an eye on redeveloping infill sites. Maintaining
an excellent quality of life throughout the metropolitan area will
be critical to attracting new businesses to St. Louis and sustaining
steady growth. Duffy: I would think infrastructure and major projects
like the stadium have a large effect on the economic momentum due
to the dollars being spent and the attraction they provide for businesses
considering locating to this area. The RCGA tries to attract businesses.
They look at everything, but I think infrastructure is key.
Peter Downs is a St. Louis-based freelance writer.
Cityplace
3 Orlando Café
location: 11631 Olive Street Road, Creve Coeur, MO
developer: Koman Group
engineer: Alper Audi
cost: $450,000
completion date: April 2003
size: 5,237 square feet
architect: Forum Studio
description: Offering a wide variety of menu items, the Cityplace
3 Orlando Café defies the look of the typical corporate campus cafeteria.
The design opens the ceiling to structure for added height and interest
to the large open space. The elliptically-shaped ceiling design
is reflected in the floor pattern, and brings a sense of continuity
to the overall space in dramatic fashion. A warm color palette features
wood cabinetry, and soft muted colors create a comfortable atmosphere.
Designed to complement the high-tech building tenants such as Microsoft
and Daugherty Systems, the coffee bar serves bakery items, cappuccino
and lattes, all within the wireless network zone of the campus.
The soft lounge furniture, combined with the bar-height seating
give the laptop clientele a choice of surfing areas.
St. Louis
Gateway Classic Sports Foundation
location:
2012 Dr. Martin Luther King Drive, St. Louis, MO
general contractor: Interface Construction Corp.
engineer: ABNA Engineering Inc.
cost: $2.1 million (building cost)
completion date: September 2002
size: 16,000 square feet
architect: Fleming Corporation
description: 2002 marked another significant milestone in
the growth of the St. Louis Gateway Classic Sports Foundation as
it unveiled its new 16,000-square-foot, $3 million sports complex.
The complex also includes a “Walk of Fame” paying tribute to notable
St. Louisans and inspiring many to reflect on their legacy and the
community’s collective potential.
The mission of the Foundation is to create social, athletic, and
educational opportunities for thousands of African-American youth
in the region. The Foundation sponsors an annual football game between
predominantly black universities. The majority of the ticket sales
and corporate gifts are raised to provide college scholarships to
underprivileged high school graduates. The purpose of the new facility
is to extend the Foundation’s charter of providing inner-city children
with a safe place to grow and succeed.
Saint Louis University— Griesedieck Dining Hall
location: 3630 West Pine Mall, St. Louis, MO
general contractor: Clayco Construction
engineer: ABS
completion date: October 2002
size: 3,300 square feet
architect: Fox Architects
description: The 3,300-square-foot poured in place concrete
and glass pavilion showcase a large central skylight. The building
is located along the central pedestrian mall of Saint Louis University.
Oriented towards the grand views of historic DuBourg Hall, this
close collaboration between university, architect, contractor and
food service vendor allowed design and construction during summer
break.
subcontractors: Corrigan Co., PayneCrest Electric
St. Anthony’s Heart + Ambulatory Care Center & Garage
location:
10012 Kennerly Road, St. Louis, MO
general contractor: Alberici Constructors
developer: St. Anthony’s Medical Center
engineers: Clayton Engineering (civil), Alper-Audi Inc. (structural),
Murphy Mechanical Co. (mechanical), Guarantee Electrical Co. (electrical),
Shannon & Wilson (geotechnical)
cost: $32.6 million
completion date: February 2003
size: 124,670 square feet; four levels with a five-story
rotunda
architect: The Lawrence Group
description:
The new facility houses two outpatient cardiac catheterization labs,
private doctors’ suites and an exercise facility for physicians
and employees. Bridge links provide doctors, staff and patients
direct access to the hospital from every level of the office building.
The diagnostic cardiac catheterization rooms are linked by a sterile
hallway to backup emergency care in the hospital’s heart-procedure
and operating rooms. The facility was designed to be patient and
staff friendly, with an atrium café serving local food specialties
and a fitness center with wraparound, floor-to-ceiling windows.
The Lawrence Group designed a unique, round, glass-enclosed rotunda
lobby constructed of masonry block and glass. Masonry colors for
the new building were chosen to complement the materials of the
existing hospital. A 513-space parking garage and 102-space surface
lot also were added.
subcontractors:
Murphy Mechanical Co. (mechanical and plumbing), Guarantee Electrical
Co. (electrical), St. Louis Automatic Sprinkler Corporation (fire
protection), T.J. Weiss (drywall)
BJC Waldheim
Shoenberg Renovation
location:
4932 Forest Park Parkway,
St. Louis, MO
general contractor: McGrath & Associates Inc.
developer: $17.6 million
completion date: Under construction (nearing completion)
size: 152,000 square feet; 9 levels
architect: Cannon Design/Hellmuth Obata + Kassabaum Inc.
description: The project involves phased renovation of nine levels
of Waldheim and two levels of Shoenberg within the Barnes Jewish
Hospital North Complex. McGrath & Associates developed plans that
broke the project into six major areas and more than 20 phases of
work to ensure minimal disruption to the hospital. The phasing resulted
in significant cost savings as compared to temporary relocation
of hospital departments. Installation of 13 pieces of major medical
equipment on the third floor and 15 pieces on the second floor also
was phased to ensure continuous use of the facility. The completed
building will offer a variety of medical services including a Cancer
Information Center, Breast Center, Neuro Diagnostics, Transplant
Coordination, Chemo Infusion, Hand Therapy and Plastics, Radiation
Oncology and Nuclear Medicine.
subcontractors: Kaemmerlen Electric (Lower level–3), Sachs
Electric (Floors 4–8), T.J. Wiess (drywall)
Des Peres Community Center
location: 1050 Des Peres Road,
Des Peres, MO
construction manager: L. A. Schaefer Construction Co. Inc.
owner: City of Des Peres
engineer: McClure Engineering
cost: $27.5 million
completion date: November 2003
size: 74,000 square feet (building and outdoor aquatic center
with pool house)
architect: Hastings & Chivetta
description: The new Des Peres Community Center will feature
the only indoor wave pool in the St. Louis Metropolitan Area, and
one of only a handful in the country. The 73,600-square-foot center
is loaded with amenities for a variety of ages. The wave pool has
zero-depth entry and a 25-yard, six-lane lap pool, as well as a
toddler pool with play structure. In addition to the wave pool the
center includes an outdoor pool complex and a separate outdoor building
housing locker rooms, offices and a concession stand. Other building
amenities include 1,500 square feet of meeting rooms, two-court
basketball, multipurpose gymnasium, a three-lane track, a 5,450-square-foot
fitness center, and a 1,750-square-foot aerobics room.
subcontractors: Corrigan Company, Stephens Flooring, Golterman
& Sabo
Residence Inn by Marriott
location: 3290 Rider Trail South, Earth City
general contractor: Dominion Construction Inc.
developer: The Mullenix Companies
engineer: Stock & Associates, Consulting Engineers Inc.
cost: $8.5 million
completion date: July 2002
size: 66,560 square feet
description: The new 104-room Residence Inn by Marriott hotel
is a design prototype never before seen in St. Louis. Marriott International
Inc. recently named it the top new Residence Inn opened in the nation
in 2002. It was the hotel’s only unit to debut in 2002 that achieved
an occupancy rate of higher than 85 percent and an extended stay
occupancy rate of greater than 54 percent. The hotel is operated
by St. Louis-based franchisee Dominion Hospitality Group, one of
The Mullenix Companies.
Washington Avenue Streetscape
location: Washington Avenue in the City of St. Louis
general contractor: Kozeny-Wagner Inc.
developer: Owner–City of St. Louis
engineers: Kiku Obata & Company, David Mason & Associates
cost: $12 million
completion date: June 2003
description: The project is a total reconstruction of Washington
Avenue from Tucker to 18th Street. Work items include new storm
sewers, wider brick sidewalks, trees and related grating, architectural
paving, granite curbs, custom lighting and other amenities. The
street has been transformed into an attractive, cohesive promenade.
The project’s funding demonstrates the commitment of the entire
St. Louis region to downtown’s comeback. Senator Bond earmarked
$4 million in federal funds for the project, while East-West Gateway
Coordinating Council—an agency representing nine Missouri and Illinois
counties—approved $13.5 million in additional funds.
GMC Stadium
location: 2301 Grizzlie Bear Boulevard, Sauget, IL
general contractor: Holland Construction Services Inc.
cost: $6.7 million
completion date: June 2002
size: 17,600 square feet under roof plus 7,000 square feet
elevated skybox
architect: Kuhlmann design Group Inc.
description: A 5,000-seat minor league baseball stadium with
an eye-catching presence on I-255, the Gateway Grizzlies GMC Stadium
is designed to cater to families and provide wholesome entertainment.
The site has a fully irrigated playing field with drainage system,
stepped concrete for chair back seats, and concourse paving with
picnic areas in left and right field. A hot tub located in right
field is one of several unique public amenities. There are also
second level skybox suites. The building consists of split-face
block, face brick, accent medallions and stone and includes a merchandise
store, administrative offices, fully-equipped concessions and restrooms.
subcontractors: Guarantee Electrical Co., Keller Construction
MLK Plaza
location: Page Avenue, North St. Louis City
general contractor: The Dukes Group
leasing represented by: Koman Properties
developer: Page Partners, LLC, an organization co-founded
by Jim Koman of Koman Properties and Tony Dukes of The Dukes Group
engineers: ABNA Engineering Inc. (civil), Doering Engineering
Inc.
(survey and research engineer)
cost: $7 million
completion date: Spring 2003
size: 45,000 square feet
architect: Tri Architekts
description: MLK Plaza is the first significant new retail
development in north St. Louis City in 10 years. The $7 million,
45,000-square-foot shopping center will bring much needed services
and shopping to a seriously underserved community, while also providing
jobs for local residents. Tenants include Save-A-Lot Grocery Store,
Foot Locker, Fashion Cents, One Price Clothing, JWG Beauty Supplies,
Fashion Guy, Dollar Store, Subway and H&R Block.
This project will generate an estimated $400,000 annually in sales
taxes for the City. The City of St. Louis has approved $2.25 million
in tax increment financing for the project. In addition, the Empowerment
Zone approved funding in the amount of $500,000, which helped to
make the project a reality.
The shopping center is 75 percent minority owned.
subcontractors: Kay Bee Electrical Company, Murphy Mechanical
Co.
Earl Nance Sr. Elementary School
location: 8959 Riverview Boulevard, North St. Louis
construction managers: S.M. Wilson & Co. and M.L. Johnson
& Company Inc.
general contractor: K&S Associates
developer: St. Louis Public Schools
engineers: G&W Engineering, Kowelman Engineering
cost: $7.7 million
completion date: August 2002
size: 60,000 square feet
architect: Saur & Associates
description: The first phase of an $80 million building program
for St. Louis Public Schools commenced with the construction of
Earl Nance Sr. Elementary School in North St. Louis. S. M. Wilson
& Co. with M. L. Johnson & Company Inc. was hired by St. Louis Public
Schools to provide construction management services for an eight-school
building program. Completed in September 2002, Nance Elementary
School is currently the newest elementary school in the St. Louis
Public School District. The two-story, 60,000-square-foot building
includes 19 classrooms, cafeteria, music room, art room, multi-purpose
room and administration offices. A two-story rotunda, open cafeteria,
porthole windows, skylights and a modern data communication network
highlight the modern building.
ProLogis/Unilever Super Regional Distribution Center
location: Gateway Commerce Center, Madison County, IL
general contractor: The Korte Co.
developers: ProLogis/TRiSTAR Business Communities
engineer: Stock and Associates Consulting Engineers Inc.
cost: $28 million
completion date: Late Spring 2003
size: 1.26 million square feet
architect: Randall Paulson
description: Gateway Commerce Center will host one of five
new super-regional distribution centers across the nation being
built in 2003 for global consumer goods giant Unilever Home and
Personal Care. The distribution center is the largest ever erected
in St. Louis—the size of 28 football fields. It will host 1.23 million
square feet of warehouse space and 10,000 square feet of office
space. The remaining space will be used for storage and building
maintenance. The warehouse will have 30-foot clear height ceilings
and 130 dock doors. The facility will employ 350 people and give
TRiSTAR Business Communities’ 2,300-acre business park 4.7 million
completed square feet of industrial space—all of it built in the
past four years.
United Industries Corp. Headquarters
location: Maryland Heights, MO
general contractor: Clayco Construction Co.
leasing represented by: TRiSTAR and Grubb-Ellis Krombach
developer: TRiSTAR Business Communities
engineer: Stock and Associates Consulting Engineers Inc.
cost: $12 million
completion date: December 2002
size: 79,200 square feet
architect: Forum Studio
description: United Industries’ new headquarters was custom
designed to meet the specific needs of the company—a leading manufacturer
and marketer of pesticides and lawn-care products. It offers the
added benefit of a highly visible location within the West Port
Plaza area. Approximately 175 people are based in the headquarters
building.
The contemporary-styled structure was constructed of tilt-up concrete
panels with inset brick. Its north and south sides feature large
glass panels that highlight the primary entrances. The interior
space schematic utilizes on an open floor model designed to foster
efficient inter-department communication. In addition to office
space, the interior includes a large merchandising area and conference
center that showcases the company’s products. The building also
has state-of-the-industry lab space for new product development
and an advanced, high-tech communications infrastructure.
Bentley–St. Louis
location: One Arnage Boulevard, Chesterfield, MO
general contractor: ARCO Construction Co. Inc.
engineer: Ozark Engineering (civil), along with design team
as listed below
cost: $3 million
completion date: December 2002
size: 24,000 square feet
architect: Mitchell Wall Architects
description: The St. Louis area’s first Bentley motorcar
dealership debuted in Chesterfield, Mo. The $3 million facility
showcases British racing tradition in luxury sedans that cost up
to $420,000. The 24,000-square-foot dealership was designed by Mitchell
Wall Architects and is as distinctive as the cars being sold.
The red brick clad building hosts office space, a showroom, a service
department and a storage area for cars to protect them from the
elements. The showroom glistens behind green-tinted glass. Marble
and granite floors, domed-ceilings, decorative soffits and chandeliers
highlight the interior. Bentley–St. Louis also features a “commissioning
room” where every detail of the car is customized by the owner,
including color and interior finishes. ARCO’s proactive approach
helped overcome multiple obstacles that saved money without sacrificing
quality.
subcontractors: Ahal Contracting Co., Flooring Systems Inc.,
Icon Mechanical, Joseph H. Beetz Plumbing Co., Fire Sprinklers Inc.
St. Louis College of Pharmacy
location: 4588 Parkview Place, St. Louis, MO
general contractor: J.S. Alberici Construction Company
engineers: Alper Audi (structural), William Tao & Associates
(MEP engineers), Grimes Engineers (civil)
completion date: July 2003
size: 99,547 square feet
architect: Mackey Mitchell Associates
description: St. Louis College of Pharmacy is nestled in
the heart of a large urban medical center in the Central West End.
Their master plan was to strengthen their sense of community and
reinforce the College’s image. A new eight-story residence hall
was pushed as far to the south of the five-acre site as possible,
creating a large green communal quad space. A 2,885-square-foot
dining hall with an outdoor terrace is wrapped with large expanses
of glass, creating an open airy ambiance. A 40,000-square-foot annex
to the existing garage will increase its capacity to 518 cars. The
residence hall with its attractive dining pavilion and terrace,
and the central landscaped quad will enhance the college’s image
and enrich student life.
Boardwalk Corporate Center
location: Winghaven, 1001 Boardwalk Springs Place, Suite
220, O’Fallon, MO
general contractor: Paric Corporation
developer: McEagle Development
engineer: Alper Audi Inc.
completion date: May 2002
size: 108,000 square feet
architect: Suttle Mindlin (design architect), ACI Boland
(technical architect)
description: This 108,000-square-foot building houses Paric
Corp.’s corporate headquarters and four companies. The anchor of
a new “town center” development, the building features an “urban
loft” look with dramatic, exposed trusses supporting a double-curved
metal roof with clearstory. Glass, metal panels, stone and concrete
give the building a rugged personality. Increasing interaction among
staff was a major goal, and the building achieved a more open and
communicative office experience by organizing work rooms, conference
rooms, hospitality areas and a public reception area around a central
“town center” space with booth and bar seating, refreshments, TV
monitors and high-tech touches telling the story of the Paric family
of companies. Boardwalk Corporate Center achieved Paric’s goal of
a unique physical environment that appeals to the “knowledge worker”
high-tech industries struggle to find and retain.
subcontractors: Murphy Mechanical Co. (mechanical), PayneCrest
Electric (electrical)
Kohl’s at Crestwood Pointe
location: Watson and Sappington roads, Crestwood, MO
general contractor: R.G. Brinkmann Construction Co.
leasing represented by: THF Realty Inc.
developer: THF Crestwood Pointe Development
engineer: Stock and Associates Consulting Engineers Inc.
cost: $15 million
completion date: October 2003
size: 88,000 square feet
architect: TRI Architekts
description: THF is transforming an 8.1-acre site that has
been largely dormant for the past five years into the first Kohl’s
in Crestwood. Located just west of Crestwood Plaza, the single-story
store is expected to generate up to $500,000 in annual sales tax
revenue for the city.
It will feature a white and tan brick facade and have two entrances,
each marked by architectural columns. One of the entrances is a
signalized entrance from Watson Plaza immediately west of the development
and another is off Watson Road. Parking will be available for 457
vehicles. Kohl’s offers clothing, gifts, and home furnishings.
The Village at Schneithorst’s
location: Clayton Road and Lindbergh Boulevard in Ladue
general contractor: Hensley Construction Inc.
leasing represented by: Colliers Turley Martin Tucker
developer: Schneithorst Development Co. L.C.
engineer: Stock and Associates Consulting Engineers Inc.
cost: $9.2 million
completion date: 2004
size: 35,000 square feet
architect: Mitchell and Hugeback Architects Inc.
description: The Village at Schneithorst’s represents a new era
for the well-known Schneithorst family and its landmark Kaffee Haus,
Bierkeller lounge and outdoor rooftop Biergarten. While the restaurant
remains open, Schneithorst is building a new office/retail enclave
steeped in the Old World tradition. The two-story building, which
sustains the property’s architectural heritage, will offer 17,600
square feet for boutique shops at street level and 15,000 square
feet of office space on the second level.
subcontractors: Charles E. Jarrell Contracting Co. Inc. (design/build
mechanical)
Spellmann Center at Lindenwood University
location: Lindenwood University, St. Charles
general contractor: Lindenwood University
construction manager: Ben Blanton Construction Inc.
engineers: Tennill and Associates Inc. (mechanical and electrical),
Alper Audi Inc. (structural)
cost: $11 million
completion date: December 2002
size:112,000 square feet; four-stories
architect: Hastings & Chivetta Architects Inc.
description: The new Spellmann Center serves as the gateway
for students to meet corporate executives and the community. As
the “nerve center” of the campus, its primary focus is to provide
a Leadership Center to prepare Lindenwood students for critical
leadership roles in the community. The Center offers services in
career development, work and learn, community work service and leadership
development. These services are enhanced with interview and conference
rooms equipped with TV/VCR, computer presentation equipment and
satellite downlink capabilities. Other amenities include a local
and national career resource library, dining services, the university
radio station, and a number of computer “smart” classrooms and seminar
rooms. The exterior of the building complements the existing neo-classical
architectural styles of the campus with a red brick/cast stone facade
and gable roof.
subcontractors: Weigman Associates (mechanical), Otis Elevator
(elevators)
Missouri State Office Building
location: New Northland Center
general contractor: HBD Contracting
leasing represented by: Sansone Group
developer: Sansone Group
engineer: Becker Engineering
cost: $6.2 million
completion date: February 2003
size: 51,278 square feet
architect: Archimages
description: The Missouri State Office Building is part of
Phase 1 of the 52-acre New Northland Redevelopment Project. Sansone
Group was selected as the developer over several other bidders for
the project by the City of Jennings that put out a Request For Proposal
to revitalize this ruinous center. Groundbreaking on the project
took place June 6, 2002 and the 51,278-square-foot building was
completed in February 2003, ahead of schedule and under budget.
It is 100% leased to the state of Missouri for government offices
by Sansone Group, who also serves as the leasing agent and property
manager. A new Aldi store is also being built as part of Phase 1.
More development is planned for the center.
Sandberg Phoenix & Von Gontard
location: One City Center, 15th Floor, St. Louis, MO
general contractor: Guarantee Interiors
completion date: July 2002
size: 50,000 square feet
architect: Christner Inc.
description: After a dozen years with its previous office
design, this law firm considered relocation as an option to change
their work environment, but made the decision to remain in downtown
St. Louis. The goal then became to transfer the offices and the
firm itself through a phased project that would redirect internal
dynamics, attract and retain the best attorneys and administrative
staff; and function more effectively in servicing their clients.
Creating a café space was a key radical change that encourages interactions
throughout the firm, providing an amenable environment with dramatic
city views, a variety of social settings and availability to the
firm’s conference center. Versatile spaces lend themselves to effective
client interactions, and “un-lawyerly” features (including stainless
steel, Canadian art glass, and intense color) underscore the transformation.
Thunder Aviation Hangar and Office Complex
location: 525 Turbine Ave, Chesterfield MO
general contractor: Kadean Construction Co.
developer: Alexo, RE.
engineer: Frontenac Engineering
cost: $4.8 million
completion date: Fall 2002
size: 42,000 square feet
architect: Acree Design Inc.
description: Thunder Aviation’s new office/hanger complex
can host up to six large business aircraft for the company’s expanding
operations at Spirit of St. Louis Airport. Aircraft enter the building
through 120-foot wide doors. Inside, it features a 200-foot clear
span for airplane storage and a 28-foot clear height ceiling. A
mezzanine is positioned 12 feet above the hangar deck. An advanced
fire suppression system—capable of immersing fires in eight feet
of foam—is supported from the roof. The two-story office zone is
ornamented by blue-colored glass curtainwalls that mark four tenant
entrances. Office space is finished to tenant specifications.
subcontractors: The Young Group Ltd. (metal panels), O.J.
Laughlin Plumbing (plumbing)
University of Missouri–St. Louis Performing Arts Center
location: University of Missouri–St. Louis Campus
general contractor: KCI Construction
developer: Missouri Curators
cost: $45 million
completion date: June 2003
size: 123,100 square feet
architect: Wischmeyer
description: The new 123,100-square-foot UMSL Performing
Arts Center will include a 1,630-seat performance hall, a 200-seat
multipurpose music and theatre hall, two box offices with administrative
and support space. Exterior façade is brick, cast stone, curtain
wall, skylights, and architectural metal panels. The building is
three-stories at the general public area and six stories with a
basement and sub-basement at the stage area. The stage area is enclosed
in 18 inches thick concrete walls standing 114 feet tall.
subcontractors: Golterman and Sabo Inc.
The Boeing Company–Hornet Facility
location: St. Louis, MO (adjacent to St. Louis Lambert International
Airport)
general contractor: McCarthy Building Companies
developer: The Boeing Company
engineers: Parsons Brinkerhoff (hangar); Lockwood Greene
(paint booths); and Jacobs (hush houses)
cost: $104 million
completion date: January 2004
size: 230,000 square feet
architect: Parsons Brinkerhoff
description: When this Hornet complex is finished, Boeing
will move services from four other buildings and will test-flight
T-45s, Navy jet trainers, F-15s and F/A18s at the new facility.
The facility is being built for the Boeing Company in St. Louis
at Lambert-St. Louis International Airport. Facilities include the
hangar/office, loading dock, central plant, two paint booths, two
hush houses, fuel calibration, seat assembly and fuel farm and distribution.
McCarthy is working closely with both the FAA and airport operations.
When complete, the buildings will be more efficient to operate,
in terms of heating and cooling, more pleasant for workers, and
closer to a key existing assembly plant.
subcontractors: PayneCrest Electric, Corrigan Company, Murphy
Mechanical Co., Haberberger, Kirberg Roofing, AHAL Contracting
Coronado Place
location: City of St. Louis (midtown)
general contractor: BSI Contractors Inc.
leasing represented by: New Lindell Towers LLC
developer: Restoration St. Louis Inc.
cost: $20 million
completion date: Phase 1—September 2002, Phase 2—May
2003
size: 260,000 square feet
architect: Richard Henmi
description: These first two phases of Coronado Place involved
a gut rehab of 165 apartment units. All new state-of-the-art HVAC,
electrical, plumbing and fire sprinkler systems were provided in
these beautiful new midtown St. Louis apartment units. Finished
in the project include new ceramic in all the restrooms, hardwood
floors and extensive wood trim. The project was completed in record
time; federal and state tax credits were involved. Phase 3 of Coronado
will include an elegant banquet facility on the ground floor; the
original finishes will be restored to their former glory.
subcontractors: Charles E. Jarrell Contracting Co. Inc.,
St. Louis Automatic Sprinkler Company
Olin Community Credit Union
location: 731 E. Bethalto Drive, Bethalto, IL
general contractor: HBE Financial Facilities
developer: HBE Financial Facilities
engineer: HBE Financial Facilities
cost: $4.485 million
completion date: May 2002
size: 22,000 square feet
architect: HBE Financial Facilities
description: Olin Community Credit Union relocated its main
office and operations center from East Alton, Ill. into a dramatic
new two-story facility in Bethalto, Ill. A new community charter
formed the basis for Olin’s expansion, providing enhanced visibility
and access to the community.
The new facility features a dynamic two-story entry vestibule, full-height
glass in the perimeter walls to promote natural light, state-of-the-art
digital surveillance cameras, a children’s play area, and cyber
café where members can access their account information using PCs.
Other distinctive interior design elements include a curvilinear
pattern in the floor, round reception desk with pendant lighting,
and cloud designs suspended from the ceiling. A multi-paneled, vibrant
mural depicting scenes of Bethalto-area landmarks greets ground
floor patrons, while a retail wall with built-in panels and shelves
provides an attractive display area for credit union apparel.
Chesterfield Grove IV Office Building
location: 17050 Baxter Road in Chesterfield, MO
general contractor: R.G. Brinkmann Construction Co.
leasing represented by: Follman Properties
developer: Grove 5 L.L.C.
engineer: J.R. Grimes Consulting Engineering Inc.
cost: $4.6 million
completion date: May 2003
size: 46,600 square feet
architect: ACI Boland Inc.
description: Midwest BankCentre is introducing its innovative
concept in community banking as the lead tenant in Chesterfield
Grove IV. The bank is occupying 7,000 square feet of space designed
as a vibrant gathering place with full-service banking. It includes
a coffee bar/media center, Internet station and community boardroom.
As the fourth office building erected at the $21 million Chesterfield
Grove mixed-use development, it deftly blends into the campus of
brick and cut limestone buildings positioned among a series of interconnected
lakes with fountains. The brick building includes column-studded
front and side elevations, horizontal bands of cut limestone, gray-tinted
second floor windows and a green Ludowici clay tile roof.
subcontractors: Wiegmann Associates (mechanical), St. Louis
Automatic Sprinkler Co. Inc. (fire protection)
Morris University Center, Repairs and Renovations
location: Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville, Illinois
coordinating contractor: Poettker Construction
engineer: Woolpert LLP, EDM Inc. (structural)
cost: $14 million
completion date: April 2003
size: 193,000 square feet
architect: Woolpert LLP
description: The project includes the renovation and repair
of the existing three-story building and construction of an approximately
7,000-square-foot addition. The Center houses the university’s food
service operations, the University Bookstore, a conference center,
a large ballroom, student organization offices, several student
support services, and recreation facilities. The renovation and
repair consists of infrastructure improvements, mechanical and electrical
distribution systems upgrades; replacement of fire alarm and public
address system; upgrades for ADA accessibility to restrooms; replacement
of food service facilities with a food court, new kitchen, and improved
dining areas; and the addition of a Starbucks Coffee and Auntie
Anne’s. Programmatic improvements include updating recreational
facilities, providing improvements to administrative staff and student
organization office area, and major renovations to the main ballroom.
Columbia Public Library
location: Columbia, MO
general contractor: KCI Construction
engineers: Heideman Associates Inc., (mechanical, electrical,
plumbing, fire protection, civil) Larson Engineering (structural)
cost: $20 million construction cost (including all site development,
furniture and fixtures)
completion date: September 2002
size: 102,000 square feet
architect: Hardy Holzman Pfeiffer Associates
associate architect: Arcturis
description: Arcturis, as associate architect, assisted the
architect, Hardy Holzman Pfeiffer Associates of New York, in coordinating
the construction documents with the St. Louis-based engineers for
the 102,000-square-foot library. As associate architect, Arcturis
actively participated in coordination of meetings with consultants
and provided on-site presence for HHPA. Arcturis’ service provided
assistance to the client and HHPA in coordinating the architectural
design with the engineering design. The very tight, cohesive set
of documents resulted in a project that was under budget.
Lakeside Crossing Development
location: Page Avenue, Maryland Heights, MO
general contractor: Duke Construction
leasing represented by: Duke Realty Corp.
developer: Duke Realty Corp.
engineer: Stock & Associates
cost: $ 7,600,000 (infrastructure construction)
completion date: May 1, 2003
size: 100 ± acres
architect: ACI/Boland
description: Lakeside Crossing is the re-development of 100
± acres in the City of Maryland Heights where a number of abandoned
and past-their-prime buildings were removed. Mixed-use office and
industrial development was master planned and new infrastructure
was put in place to accommodate over 800,000 square feet of rentable
space.
Fragile Forest and Train Buildings
location: Saint Louis Zoo
general contractor: Tarlton Corporation
engineers: Frontenac Engineering (civil), Leigh & O’Kane
(structural),
GRGV (mechanical and electrical), Geotechnology (geotechnical)
cost: $9.8 million
completion date: Fall 2003
size: Five acres
architect: PGAV
description: The Fragile Forest will expand the habitat of
the Zoo’s great apes, creating an improved naturalistic setting
for two endangered species—the chimpanzees and the orangutans. The
project will feature lush landscaping, pathways and a habitat recreating
the primates’ natural ecosystems. The project entails the creation
of new cages to hold the chimpanzees and orangutans, as well as
transfer cages to access the new outdoor exhibit yards. These areas
are below the existing Jungle of the Apes foundation and required
extensive shoring and underpinning. Access was extremely confined;
therefore special drilling equipment was used to drill the pin piles.
Once the foundation was shored, the soil was excavated to the new
foundation level. The earth walls were then soil-nailed and acted
as the backside form for the new concrete walls.
subcontractors: Guarantee Electrical
Boardwalk Market Place
location: 7333-7566 Village Center Drive, O’Fallon,
MO
general contractor: Paric Corporation
leasing represented by: Trilogy Real Estate
developer: McEagle Development
engineers: Plowfield & Associates (structural), Peninsula
Engineering Inc. (mechanical), VOLZ (civil)
cost: $3.75 million
completion date: July 15, 2003
size: 28,000 square feet
architect: Forum Architecture
description: Boardwalk Market Place is adjacent to the phase three
residential portion of WingHaven®, which will feature 700 new homes.
An estimated 1,500 homes will be within walking distance of Gabris’
store. It is projected that nearly 50,000 people will live within
three miles of the retail center by 2006.
McEagle is developing and Paric Corporation is building Boardwalk
Market Place for the owners of WingHaven® Partnership, an entity
that includes McBride & Sons Homes, Fred Weber Inc. and Doug Brown.
Dave’s on the Boardwalk will soon be joined by the St. Charles County
Library District at Boardwalk Market Place, where it will open a
Library Express. In addition, Apollo Pizza will be located adjacent
to Dave’s.
Chaminade Preparatory School Classroom Addition
location: 425 S. Lindbergh, Creve Coeur, MO
general contractor: Paric Corporation
developer: Chaminade
engineers: Charles E. Jarrell Contracting Company Inc. (mechanical),
Volz (civil), Alper-Audi (structural), Kaemmerlen (electrical)
cost: $5.4 million
completion date: August 19, 2002
size: 76,613 square feet
architect: Hastings & Chivetta
description: Paric completed the largest capital improvement
project ever initiated at Chaminade College Preparatory School.
The expansion and renovation is highlighted by a new state-of-the-art
library and technology center. And for the first time in the school’s
92-year history, there will be separate classroom space for middle
school and high school students.
The project will give the institution a total of 101,813 square
feet of new and renovated space for academics, athletics and administration.
The improvements consisted of constructing a three-level, 76,613-square-foot
addition to the west wing and atrium of Chaminade Hall building.
Paric also renovated 25,200 square feet of space in Chaminade Hall.
subcontractors: Charles E. Jarrell Contracting Company Inc.,
Kaemmerlen Electric
Busch Memorial Center
location: Saint Louis University
general contractor: Clayco Construction Company
developer: Saint Louis University
engineers: Alper Audi Inc. (structural), Stock & Associates
Inc. (civil)
cost: $20 million
completion date: August 2003
size: 42,000-square-foot expansion, 110,000-square-foot renovation
architect: Mackey Mitchell Associates
description: When completed, Busch Memorial Center will be
a one-of-a-kind facility, offering an unmatched wish list of both
student and community amenities. Located at the heart of the campus,
the existing 35-year-old student center is being transformed into
what many students and faculty refer to as “a dream.” All three
floors are being renovated, and a two-story section is being added.
The addition will be constructed of brick over a structural steel
frame with curtainwall and punched windows. Metal and stone accents
and a green roof—traditional elements of SLU buildings—were incorporated
into the design, which features abundant glass, open space and an
outdoor plaza. A new entrance at Grand and Laclede avenues positions
it as the focal point of the campus and the front door to SLU.
subcontractors: Kaemmerlen Electric Co. Inc. (electrical),
Murphy Mechanical Co. (HVAC)
Pagedale Business Center
location: 1400 North Pennsylvania Avenue, Pagedale, MO
leasing represented by: Clark Properties
developer: Clark Properties
size: 355,260 square feet
description: Clark is rehabilitating the shuttered Unilever
plant in Pagedale to create manufacturing and distribution space
for single or multiple tenants. The building can be subdivided into
space ranging as small as 64,000 square feet or leased to a single
user in need of up to 355,260 square feet. Ceiling heights range
from 18 to 20 feet. The facility has 53 dock doors with levelers,
seals and locks and three rail doors served by the Terminal Railroad.
The building is fully sprinklered. A three-phase electric system
supplies power at 4,160 volts and distributes a total of 5,000 KVA
(kilo volt amps) throughout the plant.
The site is located within a State Enterprise Zone, offering potential
state tax credits and real estate property tax abatement.
Loretto-Hilton Theater Addition and Renovation
location: 130 Edgar Avenue, Webster Groves, MO
general contractor: Paric Corporation
developer: Webster University
engineers: Cole & Associates (civil), Alper-Audi Inc.
(structural), Heideman & Associates (mechanical and electrical)
cost: approximately $6 million
completion date: June 2002
size: 30,285 square feet
architect: Mackey Mitchell & Associates
description: The addition of 36,000 square feet to the backstage
area of the Loretto-Hilton Center of Performing Arts enhances the
35-year-old performing arts center’s ability to accommodate productions.
As one of the busiest performing arts center in the nine-state region,
the facility is now able to handle the volume.
The expansion seamlessly increased the size of the three-level theater
from 58,000 square feet to 94,000 square feet. It also included
renovations to 10,000 square feet of existing space.
The project included an improved backstage area highlighted by the
Jean and Wells Hobler Dance Studio that mimics the 50-foot main
stage. It is adorned with a translucent glass curtainwall to enliven
the facade and flood the ballet studio with natural light.
subcontractors: Murphy Mechanical Co., Sachs Electric
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