Story

For the past decade West Michigan has become an excellent example of the green movement. Hundreds of companies in the Grand Rapids area are following sustainable practices, and Catalyst Partners and M Retail Solutions had decided to dedicate their new office location at 502 2nd street to achieve LEED Platinum status from the U.S. Green Building Council. The building was originally built in 1917 to house a very successful flour mill that shipped out the highest quality flour in the country at the time. Throughout its history the building has housed a variety of businesses that reflect the changing nature of the neighborhood. Most recently it was home to a local engine repair shop. Wolverine Building Group headed the renovation project of the two-story historic building into two office spaces for Catalyst Partners and M Retail Solutions. The existing 2,825 square foot building was renovated as well as the construction of an additional 1,125 square feet to expand the space. A large emphasis was put on material re-use to restore as much of the original features as possible; much of the hardware, trim, doors, and existing floors were re-used. Other sustainable features include the addition of windows to meet natural light requirements, and the incorporation of geothermal heating for the building. A great deal of time and effort was spent by the owners to make sure the proper products were selected and used. The owners selected some recycled items to use that showed tremendous creativity, such as using old aluminum bleachers to surround the entrance canopy, and saving a brick paver walk way, found during excavation for the addition, that used to be an old alleyway. Even a stair-railing was composed of used aluminum and bicycle wheels. Other sustainable features incorporated into the building include, rainwater collection, daylight harvesting, rain garden storm water collection, natural ventilation, and low or no flow bathroom fixtures.