Paladin, Inc.

Renovation and Build-Out Designed for Long-Term Community Impact

Renovation of a 24,000-square-foot warehouse gave Paladin, Inc. a new space purpose-built to support individuals with special needs through education, behavioral services, and life skills development. By working with the Paladin team, Tonn and Blank helped transform the existing facility into a welcoming and highly functional environment through a strategic commercial renovation and interior build-out project.

Through a collaborative design-build approach, the $3.6 million renovation combined architectural coordination, interior design, and construction services under one team. As a result, the finished facility now includes four flexible classrooms, offices, collaborative learning areas, and a sensory room designed to support both daily operations and future growth.

Renovation Challenges Within an Existing Facility

Renovating an existing warehouse for occupied educational use presented several construction and infrastructure challenges. Existing columns and structural framing limited layout flexibility, while elevated slab moisture levels created concerns for long-term flooring performance. In addition, renovation issues included poor site drainage, aging galvanized plumbing, uneven floors, and the integration of updated life safety systems while portions of the facility remained active.

Because of these conditions, each challenge required careful planning and evaluation to ensure the renovation remained cost-effective without sacrificing safety, durability, or functionality.

A Strategic Approach to Commercial Renovation

To address these issues, Tonn and Blank led a transparent, solution-focused renovation process centered on long-term value and informed decision-making. For example, for the concrete slab, the team presented multiple mitigation options with clear explanations of cost, performance, and associated risk. As a result, this allowed the owner to select the solution that best aligned with project goals and budget expectations.

Additionally, site regrading improved drainage conditions around the building, while outdated plumbing systems were replaced with copper piping and new sanitary lines to improve reliability and reduce future maintenance concerns. At the same time, through detailed code analysis and strategic design adjustments, the team also avoided the need for a full sprinkler system, saving approximately $175,000 during construction.

The team self-performed several scopes of work, including door and hardware installation, casework installation, and site concrete. Custom millwork was fabricated in-house to support quality control and maintain project scheduling. Using the warehouse for on-site material storage also improved sequencing efficiency and minimized disruptions throughout construction.

A Renovation Built for Flexibility and Future Growth

Today, the completed renovation provides Paladin with a flexible learning environment designed for long-term use and future expansion. Operable classroom infrastructure supports additional growth without immediate added cost, while durable systems and finishes help minimize ongoing maintenance needs.

Ultimately, this project reflects the value of thoughtful commercial renovation planning, early collaboration, and clear communication throughout the construction process. As a result, the facility not only supports Paladin’s mission but also delivers lasting value to the community it serves.

“Tonn and Blank completed a renovation project for Paladin, Inc. The agency did an amazing job managing the project. The Tonn and Blank team provided detailed information on the scope of the project. Options were provided on the scope of the project or the materials used so Paladin could choose the best materials within the best price range.

If an option was available that may not had been the most expensive choice, Kyle (Project Manager) would explain the benefit and risk of the choice. Aaron (Superintendent) managed the project on site. Aaron was responsive to all questions and concerns, as well as explaining the progress on the project. I highly recommend utilizing Tonn and Blank for any construction projects a person or agency may be considering.”

– Steve Hobby, President / CEO – Paladin, Inc.