Project Background
The Feed Store Beer Company commercial renovation project is located along Main Street (State Road 54) in Bloomfield, Indiana. This existing 4,100 square foot structure was formerly a grain feed store in the early 1900’s that served the surrounding areas. Structurally, the building consists of a 3-wythe brick perimeter wall and wood framed roof that is typical of the construction used in that era.
Building Survey
In the spring of 2019 the existing structure, as well as the existing site, was fully measured and drawn showing the as-built conditions. Surveying existing structures in the field offers a dynamic aspect to the drafting profession. It involves being on the actual project site rather than confined to an office, providing opportunities to gain experience about different construction methods and materials used.
When surveying a building, capturing detailed photographs from various angles is crucial for documenting existing conditions accurately. Unlike the era of 35mm cameras, where one had to be selective due to film limitations, digital photography allows for a more comprehensive approach. Approximately eighty photographs were taken to capture the structure fully for future reference. The accompanying image displays a snapshot of the brick veneer on the exterior, highlighting details like the running bond courses and the central row lock course adjacent to the downspout. Such details are essential for precisely drafting the building’s exterior elevations.
Construction Documents
It took approximately three months to create all the various sheets included in a commercial set of construction drawings, illustrating various aspects of code compliance. During this period, there was a continuous exchange of feedback with the client regarding the project. Commercial construction drawing sets differ significantly from residential home plans, necessitating additional clarification and adherence to multiple codes.
This set of drawings served as a personal challenge to assess whether my knowledge of commercial building codes and drafting abilities was sufficient to obtain state approval independently, without any review from architects. Rest assured; I will get schooled below.
The commercial code-compliant construction drawings we submitted for state approval in the summer of 2019. In the field of architecture and design, when commercial project plans are sent for review at the state level, they typically return with cryptic explanations for non-compliance. State plan reviewers often obscure the corrections needed, making understanding the adjustments difficult.
For instance, if there is an error in the dimensioning of an accessible toilet seat, the state may respond that it does not comply with IBC Chapter 11 Accessibility. It would streamline the process for all parties involved if they explicitly specified the correct subsection, such as ‘1110.2.2.3 Height,’ instead of requiring a thorough search through the entire section. End of rant! I would like to thank architect Doug Bruce for reviewing the state officials RFI and marking up some of the fire-stopping notes and egress path issues on the drawings so the client could be on their merry way!
Construction
In the scorching heat of the summer in 2019, the contractors began work on the Feed Store Beer Company project. They framed the interior, installed the exterior walk-in cooler on a freshly poured concrete slab, and awaited the arrival of the brewing tanks.
Occupation
The Feed Store Beer Company project was open for occupancy in the summer of 2021. The wicked custom metal pendant lights in the interior of the facility were designed and fabricated by Poindexter Metal Design located in Bloomfield, Indiana.
Feed Store Beer Co.
750 West Main Street
Bloomfield, IN 47424
(812) 227-8116
