Wheelhouse Lofts wins Eagle Award
Miller-Valentine received an Eagle Award in the Historical Renovation category at the Associated Builders and Contractors Ohio Valley Chapter “Excellence in Construction” gala. Kassie Stangel, Project Manager, accepted the award on behalf of Miller-Valentine Construction.
Project Overview:
The all-encompassing renovation of Weyland Ventures’ historic Weustoff and Getz Company Building brings back to life this iconic and nationally recognized Dayton, Ohio, gem. Vacant since the turn of the century, the four stories of the 150-year-old industrial facility have been painstakingly converted into industrial-chic loft-style apartments and upscale commercial space. Renamed Wheelhouse Lofts, the building’s new moniker is a nod to innovation, Dayton’s well-known history in the bicycle industry, and to the building’s historic loft-style architecture.
Built in 1868 at 210 Wayne Avenue and East Fourth Street, the handsome and highly visible Wheelhouse Lofts’ spatial, openly planned space lends itself perfectly to its new use. Updated for modern living, the building’s restored historic details and industrial feel are front and center: nine-foot ceilings, concrete floors, exposed heavy-timber beams and joists, expansive windows creating light-filled rooms and original beadboard ceilings. Adding to the look, all new ductwork, electric, plumbing, sprinkler piping and fire alarm cables are left exposed. The end result—each of the 40 studio, one- and two-bedroom apartment homes brings forth a unique personality. In addition, there are six renovated commercial spaces on the first floor for retail, restaurant and professional office use, the Troll Pub Under the Bridge and the Speakeasy Yoga studio among them.
Importantly, Wheelhouse Lofts now anchors Dayton’s new “Oregon East District,” the first phase in the natural extension of the City’s thriving Oregon Historic District. Located on the outskirts of downtown Dayton’s east side, this urban mixed-use area is popular for its historic homes, quaint shops and galleries, and other entertainment options.
Building History:
Listing on the National Register of Historic Places: The Weustoff and Getz Company building was entered in the National Register of Historic Places on September 3, 2014. A characteristic mid- to late-19th century multi-storied industrial building, or “loft-type factory,” the U.S. Department of the Interior has recognized this structure for both its historical and architectural significance.
Maintaining the Architectural Integrity of the Weustoff and Getz Company Building: The original building was constructed in 1868 as a three-story structure. A fourth floor was added in 1875 and two other expansions were constructed in 1875 and 1879. This hard-working building epitomizes the changing nature of Dayton’s industrialization, through the years housing several manufacturing enterprises—from the Weustoff and Getz Company and Farmers’ Friends Manufacturing Company, both manufacturers of agricultural implements; to the Stoddard Manufacturing Company (bicycles); Kinsey Manufacturing Company (automobile parts, metal sheets, gas furnaces); the Courier Car Company and, briefly, the United States Motor Company and Maxwell Car Company, manufacturers of value-priced automobiles; and Cappel Furniture and Wayne Furniture (furniture and upholstery). Most recently it housed People’s Plumbing Supply Company, the Dayton Plumbing Supply Company, and Hughes Supplies before the City of Dayton purchased the building in 2013 to ensure its survival.
Significantly, through one and a half centuries of alterations to accommodate multiple owners and industries served, the distinctive, character-defining elements of the building—its exterior composition, materials used, structure and original spatial interior layout—retain the property’s historic integrity as identified in 19th-century depictions and recognized by the National Register.
It is important to mention the tremendous pride the entire construction team has in this building project. It was an undertaking that challenged from day one. Well-honed skills and creative out-of-the-box thinking came together on so many facets of this project to invent viable approaches to the numerous architectural gifts that only a 150-year-old building can give. With total commitment and enthusiasm to “getting it right,” the construction team was excited to be a part of something that was renewing Dayton. It was a true team effort!
Contact Miller-Valentine Construction for your next project at 877.684.7687.
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