A seemingly limitless project doesn't truly exist without some confines. In this post, we'll share the obstacles faced throughout this partial interior office remodel that led to some pretty great results.
At first glance, an interior remodel seems straightforward: update spaces, improve functionality, and enhance usability. But when working within an existing structure, the design process is often shaped just as much by the constraints as by the possibilities. Our recent remodel of Butler Machinery in Sioux Falls was a prime example of this.
This 8,700-square-foot renovation focused on making the second floor office spaces, locker rooms, and restrooms more functional and compliant with modern building codes. While we had a clear vision for improving the space, we had to navigate structural limitations, building classification challenges, and accessibility requirements—all while keeping the facility operational.
ENHANCING THE OFFICE ENVIRONMENT
The second floor office remodel was driven by the need for better workflow and employee comfort.
The redesigned space now includes:
Private offices for focused work
An open work area to foster collaboration
Expanded restrooms to meet modern building codes
An updated break room and training room
New meeting rooms and a mother’s room for added flexibility
These updates allow Butler Machinery employees to work more efficiently while also providing essential support spaces. However, achieving these goals required creative problem-solving—especially when it came to building codes.
A gallery of photos of the existing conditions of the space before the remodel.
ADAPTING TO BUILDING CLASSIFICATIONS
One of the major challenges in this project was working within the building’s original design. Butler Machinery was constructed as an unlimited area building, which allows for expansive floor plans under specific conditions. However, this classification also restricts certain types of spaces on upper floors—including large gathering areas like training rooms.
The original plan was to expand and relocate the training room, but due to assembly occupancy restrictions, we had to rethink our approach. Instead of moving it, we focused on updating the existing training room to maximize its usability while staying within code requirements.
REBUILDING TO CODE: THE TRUCKER'S LOUNGE TO LOCKER ROOM CONVERSION
Another key part of the remodel was converting a second-floor truckers lounge into a men’s locker room. This wasn’t as simple as swapping out furniture and fixtures—the existing lounge had been built with wood construction, which isn’t permitted in this type of building.
To meet current fire and safety codes, we had to completely remove the wood-framed structure and rebuild it using metal construction. While this added complexity to the project, it ensured the new locker room was both safe and compliant for long-term use.
MAKING RESTROOMS ACCESSIBLE FOR EVERYONE
The final portion of the project involved updating the first-floor men’s restroom and locker room while also adding a women’s restroom and locker room. These changes were necessary to ensure ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility, providing adequate clearance and features for all users.
Since the existing space didn’t quite allow for the required accessibility standards, we had to expand into the warehouse slightly. This required careful planning to work within the existing masonry walls while also maintaining warehouse operations during construction. The end result? A functional, inclusive, and modern restroom and locker room space that better serves all employees.
A gallery of photos of the completed project.
MAINTAINING COHESION ACROSS MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
One unique aspect of this project was ensuring that the interior finishes remained consistent with Butler Machinery’s standards across all their Midwest locations. Like many companies with multiple offices, Butler Machinery has a set palette of materials, finishes, and design elements that they use for continuity across their buildings.
This meant that instead of selecting new finishes, we worked within their existing carpet, paint, millwork, and fixture standards to create a seamless look that feels familiar to employees, no matter which location they’re in. This approach ensures a cohesive brand experience while still modernizing and improving the functionality of the space.
A COLLABORATIVE EFFORT
This project was brought to us by Journey Construction, and we worked closely with them to bring it to life. As with any renovation, unexpected challenges arose, but through collaboration and strategic design decisions, we created a solution that worked within the building’s constraints while significantly improving its functionality.
At 616 Companies, we know that great design isn’t just about what you add—it’s about how you work with what’s already there. And sometimes, the best results come from embracing the confines and turning them into opportunities.
Want to discuss your own renovation project? Let’s talk. We’d love to help you reimagine your space.
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