The owners of a vacant retail bridal salon made a wise decision when they embarked on an adaptive reuse of their property. The 8,000-square-foot property, located in Dearborn, Michigan, was totally gutted on the interior, remodeled with a 2,400-square-foot addition to the rear of the site, and refaced with a new exterior facade to accomodate a new medical tenant.

Design-Build Construction Manager, D.J. Maltese worked with the Oakwood Health System OB/GYN Physicians to develop an upscale medical facility on the upper floor and a lease area on the lower level. They were looking for a place to relocate into since they were in much need of a larger space. An elevator enclosure, as well as a 2,400-square-foot addition was added to the upper floor of the gray masonry structure, accommodating staff parking below.

In keeping with their company's long standing tradition of providing excellence in design, D.J. Maltese teamed with architect Steven C. Flum, Inc. of Detroit, Michigan to effectively meet both physicians' and patient needs. The OB/GYN facility was designed as a full service establishment with a laboratory and ultrasound capabilities, as well as offices and multiple exam rooms, accommodating five physicians and staff. The Maltese family firm, named by Remodeling Magazine as one of America's Big 50 remodeling contractors, kept quality top priority throughout the project scope. Their 57 years of experience and specialized tradesmen delivered an effective, yet custom solution.

The existing first floor storefront facade was removed and enclosed. New insulated aluminum windows were cut throughout both levels and a new complimentary exterior color was chosen to stain the existing drab brick. A large decorative synthetic plaster cornice was added along the perimeter of the structure to complete a classic aesthetic.

At the upper level interior, custom maple wood cabinetry was built-in for administrative filing and record keeping purposes. Glass block separation walls between the central lab/reception spaces allowed light from the exterior to penetrate the center for all spaces to enjoy. The concept was to provide a contemporary street presence with an open functional plan and a warm feel.

At the lower level interior a contemporary interior was completed for a new graphic arts tenant with dramatic wall colors and an open plan.

All in all, the project met the Owner's expectations and came in within the original budget. Comments from the Doctors that work there have included "our patients love our new building," "the atmosphere is wonderful," "what a great environment to work in..."

MANUFACTURERS/SUPPLIERS
DIV 04: Panel Brick: Williams.
DIV 07: Roof: Firestone; EIFS: Dryvit.