From Empty to Essential: New Retail Environment for Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Racine, Wisconsin

There are two absolutes in General Contracting. Everyone wants a commercial construction partner they can trust. And finding one that also cares deeply about their community is a rare commodity.

However, this case study demonstrates our commitment to both of those criteria. We’re putting the spotlight on our recent renovation project for Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Racine, Wisconsin and collaboration with Partners in Design Architects.

1. Background: Transforming a Vision into Reality

Habitat for Humanity ReStores play a vital role in communities by offering affordable home improvement goods and diverting reusable materials from landfills.

When they outgrew their current ReStore space, they purchased an 18,000 SF former grocery store in a west Racine neighborhood that had been abandoned for years.  Partners in Design Architects collaborated with the owner and Katt Construction to transform the severely run down structure into a beautiful new retail space for ReStore.  The project included approximately 13,000 SF of sales floor, a new drop off entrance, donation prep area, offices, break room and new restrooms.

From the outset, the collaborative nature of the project was evident. The project team consisted of:

• Grant Buenger and Jed Haas – Racine Habitat For Humanity
• Logan Martin – Habitat For Humanity Board of Directors
• Eric Migrin and James Wall – Partners In Design Architects
• Herb Katt and Frank Nowag – Katt Construction

Several factors presented unique challenges:

• Evolving Design and Budget: The façade design underwent numerous iterations, with many budget modifications presented to align with ReStore’s operational needs, aesthetic preferences, and financial limitations.
• Extensive Demolition: The scope of work included the removal of existing acoustic ceiling panels to expose the roof deck and the complete demolition of a two-story office structure at the rear of the building to create a more open and unified space.
• Unforeseen Structural Issues: Demolition revealed significant structural deficiencies, most notably a complete failure of the existing roof joist system in the front ceiling area. This necessitated the design and installation of a new structural beam and supporting columns.
• Challenging Existing Conditions: The concrete floor presented several obstacles, including trench drains with embedded steel angle irons, a large section with difficult-to-remove epoxy from food freezers, and a sinkhole requiring removal and replacement. Also, the existing walls and ceiling lacked adequate insulation to meet current energy codes.
• Strict Deadline: Habitat for Humanity ReStore had a firm deadline to vacate their existing premises by the end of 2024.
• Cost Sensitivity: As a non-profit organization, cost-effectiveness was an important consideration.

2. Solution: A Collaborative and Adaptive Approach by Katt Construction

Our team applied its project management and problem-solving skills in navigating the challenges.

• Close Collaboration and Communication: Jed, acting as the owner’s representative, was on-site daily, fostering a strong working relationship with Frank and Herb. This constant communication facilitated the swift exchange of information regarding discoveries and allowed for timely decisions from the Habitat board to keep the project on track.
• Proactive Problem Solving: The installation of the new structural beam and columns to address the failed roof joist system is a testament to our ability to handle critical challenges efficiently.
• Budget Management and Flexibility: We worked diligently to present and modify numerous budget versions as the project scope evolved. Our transparency and willingness to explore cost-effective alternatives ensured that the project remained financially viable for Habitat for Humanity ReStore.
• Creative Solutions for Existing Conditions: We addressed the challenging concrete floor by exploring various options and ultimately recommending grinding and polishing. This solution not only proved cost-effective but also delivered a unique and appealing industrial aesthetic.
• Energy Efficiency Focus: Recognizing the importance of long-term operational costs, we implemented comprehensive solutions to improve the building’s energy efficiency. This included installing 6″ steel studs, fiberglass insulation, and drywall over the existing masonry walls, and infilling the exposed roof joist cavities with 10″ insulation batts covered by a 1″ fire retardant white foam board.
• Meeting the Critical Deadline: Despite a number of issues, our team focused on the end-of-2024 deadline, managed the schedule and coordinated subcontractors to ensure timely completion.
• Leveraging Subcontractor Partnerships: Our strong relationships with our subcontractors proved invaluable. These partners often provided work and equipment at minimal or no charge.
• Comprehensive System Upgrades: Beyond the structural and aesthetic renovations, we oversaw the installation of a new fire suppression system, lighting, and heating and cooling systems.

3. Outcome: A Welcoming and Efficient Transformation

The successful completion of this renovation project resulted in a transformed space for Habitat for Humanity ReStore. The key outcomes include:

• Aesthetically Pleasing and Welcoming Space: The removal of the two-story office structure and the exposed, high ceiling create a wide-open and inviting atmosphere for customers and staff. The polished concrete floor adds a unique industrial charm.
• Structurally Sound and Safe Building: The critical structural issues were addressed, ensuring the long-term stability and safety of the building.
• Energy-Efficient Operation: The comprehensive insulation upgrades to the walls and ceiling have resulted in an energy-efficient building envelope, so that ReStore can enjoy lower energy bills.
• Adherence to Deadline: Our team successfully met the critical end-of-2024 deadline, allowing ReStore to seamlessly transition to their new space.
• Cost-Effective Solutions: Through careful planning, value engineering, and strong subcontractor relationships, we delivered a high-quality renovation within the budgetary constraints of a non-profit organization.

Conclusion:

Katt Construction’s successful partnership with Habitat for Humanity ReStore underscores our ability to transform visions into reality, delivering functional, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable spaces for our clients.

Most importantly, the Racine community has responded positively to the new ReStore. Donations, customer traffic, and sales have increased. Local businesses in Racine appreciate ReStore’s presence. And the new location is making more people aware of Habitat for Humanity.

We are a construction partner you can trust to navigate the complexities of your commercial project and show you how much we care about your success.

During design, Katt Construction assisted our team and the owner with developing cost-effective solutions to allow the owner to accomplish their goal of restoring the building while staying within budget.  Throughout the construction process Katt Construction was extremely proactive and helpful in resolving issues related to unexpected existing conditions while keeping the project costs in line with the owners’ expectations.  The field superintendent from Katt was in regular contact with our team and kept the project on track throughout the process. -Eric Migrin, Partners In Design Architects