Restaurant Restoration
Costo Construction was engaged to oversee the this Restaraunt Restoration project – the restoration of this 103 year old commercial landmark building. Our pre-construction services included site assessment, development of the scope of work, assembling the project team and coordination of building and development permit applications. We were then engaged as General Contractor.
The project consisted of upgrades to the HVAC, electrical, plumbing systems. We also renewed building envelope from the new parapet up and over the rooftop and undertook structural and seismic upgrades. The parapet wall that was deemed a public safety concern was deconstructed, rebuilt and integrated with the existing structure. The entire project was completed while the tenant remained in operation with only two days of closure over a several months long schedule during the Covid19 pandemic.
Completed: 07/01/2020
Restaurant Restoration: Mastering Heritage Preservation and Modern Compliance
A Restaurant Restoration is a complex and highly specialized project that combines heritage preservation with modern building codes, safety standards, and operational requirements. Restoring a historic restaurant—especially one with a 103-year-old structure—requires a delicate balance of respecting the building’s legacy while upgrading it to meet today’s health, safety, and efficiency standards. Successfully managing such projects—particularly during challenging times like the pandemic—demands a seasoned construction management team, expert design professionals, and skilled trades.
In this article, we explore the specialty aspects of restaurant projects, delve into the unique challenges faced in restoring a heritage building, and highlight how Costo Construction’s expertise and collaborative approach deliver exceptional results—on time and on budget.
The Specialty of Restaurant Projects: Permitting, Code Compliance, and Building Regulations
Restaurant projects, whether new builds or remodels, are among the most regulated types of commercial construction. They involve strict adherence to building codes, health and safety standards, and environmental regulations.
Permitting and Code Compliance
Before opening a restaurant, owners must secure a range of permits, including building permits, health permits, food service licenses, and occupancy permits. These ensure the facility complies with:
Local building codes**: Covering structural integrity, fire safety, accessibility, and egress
Health department regulations**: Addressing sanitation, food storage, ventilation, and waste disposal
Fire safety codes**: Requiring fire suppression systems, exits, and emergency lighting
Environmental regulations**: Focused on waste management, grease traps, and water discharge
According to The National Restaurant Association, navigating these permits is complex, especially for older buildings, and requires detailed planning and coordination with local authorities (https://restaurant.org/).
Building Code Requirements
The International Building Code (IBC) and local amendments specify the minimum standards for fire safety, structural integrity, HVAC, plumbing, and accessibility. For heritage buildings, these codes often necessitate upgrades that balance preservation with compliance.
Typical Equipment in Commercial Kitchens and Rooftop Mechanical Systems
A restaurant’s functionality depends heavily on its mechanical systems—ventilation, heating, and cooling—that are critical both for health standards and customer comfort.
Commercial Kitchen Equipment
Cooking appliances**: Ranges, ovens, fryers, and grills
Ventilation hoods**: Exhaust systems that remove heat, smoke, and grease-laden vapors
Refrigeration units**: Reach-in and walk-in coolers for perishables
Food prep stations**: Sinks, counters, and storage
Dishwashers and waste disposal**: Ensuring sanitation and waste management
Rooftop Mechanical Systems
HVAC units**: Rooftop package units provide heating and cooling, especially in older buildings needing upgrades
Ventilation systems**: Exhaust fans and air handling units ensure proper air exchange
Grease traps and exhaust venting**: Critical for fire safety and environmental compliance
Challenges in Heritage Buildings
In a 103-year-old building, installing modern HVAC and ventilation systems involves overcoming structural limitations, preserving historical facades, and ensuring noise and vibration control. A comprehensive plan must integrate these systems seamlessly to meet code while respecting the building’s character.
Fire Mitigation and Suppression Systems: Critical Safety Components
Fire safety is paramount in restaurant projects, especially in older structures with outdated wiring or compromised fire barriers.
Fire Suppression Requirements
Kitchen suppression systems**: Typically involve automatic hood-mounted fire suppression with agents like FM-200 or wet chemical systems
Sprinkler systems**: Must meet NFPA 13 standards, especially in open areas and storage zones
Emergency lighting and exits**: Adequate signage and lighting to ensure safe evacuation
Fire alarm systems**: Integration with local fire department monitoring
Challenges in Heritage Buildings
Retrofitting fire suppression systems in a historic building often involves careful coordination to avoid damaging original features, while ensuring full compliance with current safety standards.
Storage, Refrigeration, and Waste Management: Essential for Food Safety
Proper storage and waste systems are vital in a restaurant, especially during restoration, to meet health standards.
Food Storage & Refrigeration
Walk-in coolers and freezers**: Large capacity units for perishables
Dry storage**: Shelving and cabinets for non-perishables
Temperature control**: Monitoring systems with alarms for safety compliance
Grease Traps and Waste Disposal
Grease interceptors**: Required to prevent clogging and protect municipal wastewater systems
Waste management**: Compliant disposal of food waste, recyclables, and hazardous materials
Code and Environmental Standards
Local ordinances regulate waste water discharge, grease trap maintenance, and hazardous waste disposal, requiring careful planning and installation during the restoration.
Restoring a Heritage Building During a Pandemic: Challenges and Successes
Restoring a 103-year-old restaurant building during the pandemic posed unique challenges—keeping the business operational while performing extensive upgrades.
Managing Construction During Operations during this Restaraunt Restoration
Phased construction**: We planned work in stages to keep the restaurant open, minimizing down days
Temporary facilities**: Portable restrooms, temporary exits, and dust control measures
Safety protocols**: Strict adherence to COVID-19 safety standards for workers and staff
Meeting Municipal and Life Safety Requirements
Despite the complexities, we successfully passed all inspections—fire, health, and building—and completed the project with zero down days. The client was able to continue operations throughout, demonstrating our expertise in managing high-stakes restoration projects.
The Importance of Working with Experienced Construction Managers and Design Teams
Restaurant restorations and remodels are complex endeavors that require the coordination of architects, engineers, consultants, and specialized trades.
Why Strong Relationships Matter
According to Construction Executive, small business owners benefit immensely from working with construction managers who can navigate permitting, code compliance, and technical challenges, especially during initial start-up phases and future expansion plans (https://www.constructionexec.com/).
Why Costo Construction Is the Ideal Partner
As Certified Construction and Project Managers, we specialize in managing restaurant build-outs—whether new construction or renovation. Our team’s expertise ensures:
Accurate scope and budget management
Coordination of complex systems like HVAC, fire suppression, and electrical
Timely permitting and inspections
Minimization of operational downtime during construction
Our ability to deliver on time, within scope, and with quality craftsmanship makes us a trusted partner for restaurants seeking restoration or expansion.
Salvaging Heritage: Sustainability, Cost, and Schedule Benefits
Choosing to restore a 103-year-old property rather than tearing it down and rebuilding offers significant advantages:
Environmental sustainability**: Reduces embodied energy and waste
Schedule efficiency**: Avoids delays associated with new construction permits and site work
Cost savings**: Less material and labor expenditure compared to new builds
Community value**: Preserves historical character and local identity
Industry research confirms that adaptive reuse projects not only support sustainability goals but also provide economic benefits through faster project timelines and lower costs.
Conclusion: Your Partner for Restaurant Restorations & Renovations
A Restaurant Restoration project—especially involving a heritage building—requires a comprehensive understanding of building codes, safety standards, and operational needs. With our extensive experience, Costo Construction has demonstrated the ability to manage complex, high-stakes projects that keep businesses operational, pass all inspections, and deliver exceptional results.
From structural upgrades and fire suppression to HVAC and waste management, our team collaborates with architects, engineers, and trades to ensure every detail aligns with safety, efficiency, and sustainability goals. Whether starting fresh or restoring a cherished building, partnering with a seasoned construction management firm like Costo Construction ensures your restaurant’s future success.
Resources & Further Reading
https://restaurant.org/
https://www.nfpa.org/
https://www.usgbc.org/
Ready to restore or expand your restaurant? Contact Costo Construction today to learn how our expertise can help you achieve your vision efficiently, safely, and sustainably. https://costoconstruction.com/uncategorized/why-hire-a-construction-manager/