Eyesore ‘bug building’ set for lofts, retail renovation
Pat Patera, 4/6/2009
The Firehouse 495 renovation crew includes Ken Bartlett of Bartlett Architecture along with Darin Murphy of MB Construction, working with local plumbers and electricians.
The building, says Rae, needs a new electrical system, sprinkler system, heating ducts and working mechanicals. Plus new plumbing for nine kitchens and baths — and the coffee shop. The work requires the drilling of 100 four-inch holes for venting and piping. And the utilities will get some respect — the silvery spider web of conduit will be exposed to keep the industrial feel, as seen in loft projects in the major metro areas.
Rae returned to her hometown after a career as an agent with the federal Drug Enforcement Administration turned developer. The first project, built in 2001, was modest: A duplex on West First Street, subsequently copied on Wheeler Street. But after building the Eight on Center condo project, Rae says, “I wanted to do an old building.”
