4/4 Architecture. You know, like 4/4 time in music. Also, our address is 414 W. Broad Street in Bethlehem, Pa. We like layers of meaning and as an architect (who is also a musician) we also like accomplishing several things at once. The name ties into our address, the place where we connect with our community. 4/4 time? A basic framework in music. An underlying structure. A blank canvas where so many ideas, melodies and harmonies can be woven together to form a composition.
Cantelmi Hardware: A Compact Site, A Bold Vision
Introduction
The Cantelmi Hardware project in South Bethlehem demonstrates how thoughtful design can modernize a business while respecting its history and supporting the surrounding community. Led by principal architect Gary Lader of 4/4 Architecture, this project turned a tight urban lot into a functional, aesthetic two-story multi-purpose space, making a historic family business more efficient and future-ready.
For Patrick Cantelmi, expanding his business wasn’t just about adding more space, it was about enhancing how the company operated while respecting its deep roots. Founded in the 1920s, Cantelmi Hardware has been a cornerstone of South Bethlehem for generations. Until the recent expansion, the company operated out of a crammed and inefficient space – a far cry from the streamlined, modern facility it occupies today. “We’ve been part of this community for almost 100 years, and the new building has transformed how we run our business,” Cantelmi said.
Transforming the Workspace
Before the warehouse expansion, Cantelmi’s e-commerce operation ran out of the basement of the original store, a shared space that housed inventory for both the store and online orders. The building, a former silk mill built in 1910, was not designed for modern business needs, and this became increasingly apparent as the e-commerce side of the business grew.
“The basement was just so tight,” Cantelmi said. “We had these eight-foot ceilings and narrow hallways. The space was shaped like the letter ‘F,’ so it was tough to move inventory efficiently. We were constantly moving things, only to have to move them again.”
Faced with a tight site, the team prioritized vertical construction, incorporating a cantilevered second floor to maximize floor space. The building’s compact 7,200-square-foot footprint supports streamlined operations with designated inbound and outbound material flow areas, machinery accommodations, and organized inventory storage. The warehouse expansion dramatically improved Cantelmi Hardware’s e-commerce efficiency, replacing a cramped basement workspace with an optimized layout designed for productivity. “Productivity is up, efficiency is up,” Cantelmi said. “We can focus on getting things done instead of figuring out how to navigate the space.”
Sustainability and Adaptability
This project showcases a strong commitment to sustainability. Located within an existing urban neighborhood, the building leverages pre-existing utilities and infrastructure, reducing the environmental impact of new development. The building’s facade blends durable, locally sourced materials with aesthetic considerations. Vertical metal panels echo the rhythm of the original brick masonry, while fiber cement panels add a concrete-like texture. The recessed corner entrance and high first-floor windows maintain walkability while ensuring functionality. A rain screen facade system enhances energy efficiency, contributing to the building’s sustainable design.
The building’s adaptability enhances its value. While currently a single-tenant space, the second floor is designed to accommodate a future tenant, with dedicated egress stairs and a service elevator. High windows on the first floor allow natural light while accommodating pallet storage. Operable windows provide fresh air, creating a healthier, more pleasant workspace. By balancing utility, comfort, and flexibility, the building is primed for diverse future uses, ensuring its longevity and relevance in the community.
Designing for Community
Unlike most warehouses built far from city centers, the Cantelmi e-commerce warehouse remains rooted in South Bethlehem’s walkable, urban environment. At one point, 80 percent of the e-commerce business staff walked to work, a testament to the community-centric location.
“This is one of the few warehouses where staff can walk to work, run errands over lunch, enjoy happy hour at a brewery, and eat dinner at a restaurant – all without needing a car,” Cantelmi said. “That, in addition to other perks, makes a big difference to those who can – and who want to – apply here.” The connection to the local environment is a critical part of the project’s design philosophy.
A Modern Design, a Nod to History
The design of the warehouse expansion reflects South Bethlehem’s industrial character while addressing the challenges of a tight urban site. Vertical metal panels echo the rhythm of the original brick masonry from the Cantelmi retail store, blending past and future. The team selected fiber cement panels for their concrete-like texture, adding a tactile dimension to the design. Building upward on the small lot maximized limited space while preserving walkability and neighborhood aesthetics. The recessed corner entrance, a hallmark of local architecture, adds functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Lader was mindful of the building’s connection to the site’s cultural history. “We wanted the building feel like it was part of Bethlehem’s industrial past but still look forward to the future,” Lader said. Durable, locally sourced materials support this vision. The building’s materiality promotes health and well-being. The metal panels interact with natural light, creating a dynamic sensory experience for employees and passersby alike.
Lessons in Flexibility
The Cantelmi e-commerce warehouse expansion came with its share of challenges. The team’s ability to adapt and learn was key to its success. “The project site – a mix of overgrown land and parking lot – presented opportunities for creativity,” Lader said.
One significant challenge emerged during the demolition phase. SAGE Design-Build’s Construction Superintendent, Jeremy Temos, and his crew were ripping up the parking lot when they made an unexpected discovery. “Whatever buildings were there had been demolished and the debris was buried and paved over,” Temos said. “We didn’t expect to find that much material under the surface. We had to adapt, clear the site, and fill it to keep the project on track.” In total, SAGE removed 14 tri-axel truckloads worth of building materials.
The parcel’s unique shape and urban location dictated design decisions, such as the recessed corner entrance, the decision to build upward with a cantilevered second floor, and the strategic placement of the windows.
Managing the logistics of the construction site also required careful planning, given the site’s dual function as a parking lot. To set up for construction, they temporarily removed 13 parking spots. The team was mindful of the impact this could have on a family business and the community. By the end of the project, they restored nine of the 13 parking spots. This minimized any long-term disruption for patrons and residents.
A Space for the Present, a Legacy for the Future
For Cantelmi Hardware, the warehouse expansion not only solved immediate operational needs but also reinforced its place within the South Bethlehem community. The warehouse allows Cantelmi’s team to store inventory efficiently, providing more reliable service to customers and supporting the local economy.
For Cantelmi, the building represents the continuation of a family legacy and the evolution of his business. “We’ve been here for nearly 100 years, and now, with this building, we’re set for the future,” he says. “It’s a great example of how you can grow while staying connected to our roots.”
For Lader and 4/4 Architecture, the project is a testament to their skill in designing buildings that balance functionality, sustainability, and cultural connection. The Cantelmi warehouse is a successful blend of old and new; a space that honors history, supports present needs, and sets the stage for future growth.
Could you use a design expert to help you build the business of your dreams? Contact us at gary@44architecture.com to schedule a consultation today!
Bringing Music to Life: The Arts Academy Charter Middle School Outdoor Stage
A Vision for the Arts
For years, the Arts Academy Charter Middle School (AACMS) in Allentown has been a cornerstone of arts education, nurturing young talent in music, theater, and visual arts. As a tuition-free public charter school, AACMS has provided students with opportunities to explore their creative potential in an environment dedicated to artistic excellence. But until recently, the school lacked a dedicated performance space, an essential element to fully support its mission.
That changed when the school embarked on an ambitious project: the creation of an outdoor stage that would serve as both a performance venue and a symbol of the school’s commitment to the arts.
“We wanted a space that would not only showcase the incredible talent of our students but also invite the community to engage with the arts in a meaningful way,” said Bill Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of AACMS.
Designing an Immersive Experience
The AACMS stage represents a collaboration between architecture and the arts. The project creates a dynamic environment that supports a variety of performance types while reflecting the essence of AACMS’s commitment to creativity and student expression. The stage supports diverse artistic forms, from drama to dance, while allowing students freedom to adapt the space for their performances.
The outdoor location presented challenges in terms of weather, visibility, and acoustics. To address these, the team oriented the stage to leverage the site’s natural slope, enhancing acoustics while strengthening the connection between built and natural environment.
“The walls are designed not only to amplify sound naturally but also to direct the audience’s focus toward the performers,” Lader explained. The deliberate angling of the walls and roof creates a visual and auditory experience that enhances every performance.
Wood planks lend warmth to the sound and reinforces the idea of the stage itself as a musical instrument. The stage’s structure resonates in harmony with performances, amplifying sound. This thoughtful integration of materials ensures a space that actively enriches artistic expression.
At the same time, metal siding was introduced to give the stage an edgier, industrial feel. “That decision was about reflecting the youthful energy of the performers and also harkening back to Musikfest, which has such a rich history in this area,” Lader noted.
A Flexible, Evolving Performance Space
The stage was designed with adaptability in mind. As AACMS continues to grow, the space has the potential to evolve alongside its performers. To maintain flexibility, the design avoids permanent seating or fixed elements, allowing students to configure the space as needed. The design also allows students to introduce temporary elements like draped fabrics, transforming the stage depending on the performance.
The raised platform was another carefully thought-out feature. “The supports are inset, which gives the illusion that the stage is hovering above the ground,” Lader explained. “It integrates seamlessly with the landscape and extends into the horizon, reinforcing a connection to the natural environment.”
Navigating Challenges Together
While the vision was clear, bringing it to life required overcoming significant zoning and regulatory hurdles. Impervious coverage limits, township regulations, and construction permitting presented obstacles that had to be carefully navigated. Fortunately, AACMS was already working with Jerdon Construction on another project. Their experience with local regulations made them the ideal partner for this new initiative. They brought architect Gary Lader into the mix, and together with Bradbury Engineering, the civil engineer who helped design the site’s infrastructure, they were able to address these challenges head-on.
“Projects like this don’t happen in isolation. It takes a team that understands not just design and construction, but also how to work through the bureaucratic and logistical challenges,” Lader said. “Having that partnership approach was key to making this a reality.”
For Bill Fitzpatrick, the success of the outdoor stage went beyond just design and construction; it was about the trust and reliability that Gary brought to the table.
“Working with Gary was more than just hiring an architect; it was a true partnership,” Fitzpatrick said. “He consistently delivered on time, which I really appreciated. His professionalism and commitment made the entire process smooth. Whatever he committed to, he followed through on. I’d highly recommend him to anyone.”
A New Era for Arts Education
With the stage now complete, the school has ushered in a new era of arts education and community engagement. Students have a space to develop their craft, and the broader community has a venue that will host performances for years to come.
“This project is about more than just a stage – it’s about giving our students a space that inspires them,” Fitzpatrick said. “It’s about showing them that their art matters, that their performances deserve a proper home.”
For Lader and the team at 4/4 Architecture, the project was equally rewarding. “It’s been incredible to see how this space has already made an impact,” he said. “Good design should engage the senses, and this stage does exactly that. It amplifies not just sound, but the voices and aspirations of the students who perform on it.”
With its thoughtful design, rich acoustics, and striking visual presence, the new outdoor stage at AACMS stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and community support for the arts.
Looking to create a performance space that inspires? Contact 4/4 Architecture to learn how we can bring your vision to life.
Constructing Connections: Green Hills III Unveils the Art of Collaboration
Introduction
In 2023 amidst a landscape of evolving business needs and shifting market dynamics, Sunburst Property Management embarked on a transformative commercial design project: Green Hills III. With a vision to accommodate tenant needs, Sunburst sought to breathe new life into its commercial complex.
“Green Hills III was born out of a necessity to adapt to evolving tenant needs while maximizing the potential of our property assets,” said David Weinstein, President of Sunburst Property Management.
At the heart of this endeavor was the collaboration between Sunburst, Jerdon Construction, and 4/4 Architecture.
The Project
Located on Tilghman Street in Allentown, PA, Green Hills Commerce Center serves as a bustling hub for commercial businesses. The property has slowly expanded over the years and included two buildings, each with flexible office space to accommodate tenants.
Jerdon Construction was a longtime tenant of Green Hills, leasing office space within the complex for more than 10 years. Their company, a commercial construction management firm, was growing significantly; their space no longer accommodated the needs of their team. They approached Sunburst about expanding. Sunburst seized the opportunity, teaming up to design and construct a new building on the complex.
When it came to selecting a team to realize the new commercial design project, Weinstein had no questions about who he would choose. “Selecting Jerdon Construction and 4/4 Architecture was a no-brainer for me,” he said. “I have worked with both firms extensively over my career. We have developed a deep level of trust and I just really enjoy working with them.”
The Design Process
Green Hills III emerged from a collaborative effort between Sunburst, Jerdon, and 4/4. Navigating the intricate land development process was the initial challenge. Sunburst, with a team of engineers, determined the optimal size of the future building while adhering to permit regulations, Township ordinances, and environmental requirements. The team developed creative solutions to overcome obstacles, such as the Township sidewalk ordinance, which required an innovative approach to ensure pedestrian access throughout the complex and to its nearby amenities.
Jerdon, leveraging their construction management expertise, led the initial design process for the building and their tenant fit out. Even though the team had a clear vision for the space, the process required back and forth with the architect. 4/4’s role was not simply to put the design on paper, but to make Jerdon’s vision as clear as possible through drawings, which could then enable more-informed decisions.
“Building is what Jerdon does for a living. They could have selected any architect, so I was proud they selected 4/4 Architecture,” said Gary Lader, Principal of 4/4 Architecture. “We translated their design into reality.”
Ron Jerdon, President of Jerdon Construction, agreed. “4/4 Architecture provided valuable insights into code compliance and shared design recommendations for our fit-out,” he said. “Their suggestions greatly improved the end result.
One of those recommendations was the incorporation of additional windows and vision panels throughout the fit-out. “There are significant benefits to maximizing access to natural light in an office setting,” Lader said. “It not only fosters a sense of connection throughout the building and to the outdoors, but it also improves occupants’ well-being and boosts productivity.”
The Result
The team completed Green Hills III in 2023 via a design/build project approach. The new 11,200-square-foot office building consists of CMU, steel bar joists, metal decking, an EPDM roof, and a split-face block finish.
A strategic feature of the Green Hills III building is that, while there are currently only two tenants, the building’s design can accommodate up to six tenants. “The ability to subdivide the space was a strategy we devised up front,” Jerdon said. “It minimizes any future cost to Sunburst should a tenant decide to leave because the infrastructure to support future tenants is already there.”
Green Hills III currently accommodates two tenants, one of which is Jerdon Construction. The tenant fit-out projects occurred simultaneously with the completion of the building shell. The team expedited materials to accommodate the tenant relocations.
“Our new office is going to serve our team well for a long time to come,” Jerdon said. “We are very happy with how it turned out, and that’s a direct result of the strength of our team and the strength of our relationships with Sunburst and 4/4 Architecture.”
Weinstein emphasized the significance of strategic collaboration in the success of the commercial design project. “While some may measure success by magazine covers or awards, the true success of Green Hills III lies in the smart design decisions made through collaborative efforts,” he said. “Our focus was on crafting a space that serves its purpose now and sets the foundation for years to come. This partnership with Jerdon and 4/4 Architecture exemplifies strategic planning and forward-thinking design, setting a new standard for commercial developments in the area.”
Could you use a design expert to help you achieve your vision? Contact 4/4 at gary@44architecture.com to schedule a consultation today!
4/4 Architecture Honored with 2023 Award of Excellence from AIA Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter
Local residence recognized for its design excellence and contribution to Hellertown’s ongoing revitalization
The Story
4/4 Architecture was recognized with an Award of Excellence for the renovations of Hellertown Lofts at the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Eastern Pennsylvania Design Awards on Thursday, December 7 at the Allentown Art Museum.
The Project
Hellertown Lofts is an adaptive reuse of a 120-year-old former auto dealership on Main Street in Hellertown, PA. The project transforms this two-story mixed-use building by creating a residence from an unused warehouse area, thus making a distinctive space that reflects the personality of its owners.
Jurors for the award competition acknowledged the Hellertown Lofts as a significant contributor to Hellertown’s ongoing revitalization. The adaptive reuse creates a unique residential space, allowing its owners to access and contribute to Hellertown’s walkable and growing downtown. “[The project] encourages possibility and optimism within the surrounding community,” the jury comments read.
“Good architectural design happens when we work as a team,” Gary Lader, Principal of 4/4 Architecture, said. “This project showcases how shared exploration and creative freedom between architect and owner can yield exceptional results.”
The Award
The ceremony featured 11 submissions from six Eastern Pennsylvania firms. 4/4 Architecture’s Hellertown Lofts project earned an Award of Excellence, the AIA EPA’s highest honor, in the Residential Architecture category.
The AIA’s Eastern PA Chapter engages leading architects and partners to review and evaluate the annual design submissions. This year’s jurors included Larry Eighmy, Managing Principal for The Stone House Group, Bea Spolidoro, Principal of Fisher ARCHitecture, and Randy Rhoads, Executive Director of Affordable Housing for Cushing Terrell.
The Team
Additional key project team members for the Hellertown Loft project include General Contractor David Yost, and Financial Consultant Howard Lieberman of Business and Community Financing Solutions.
A Lofty Vision
Introduction
In 2019, Brad and Allison were searching for a building they could repurpose into a bar and bistro. It was a dream for the couple. They were already successful business owners, and Brad was also an expert in the food service industry. Then, COVID hit.
Despite their plans being temporarily shelved, they were still in the habit of spotting “Sale” signs on buildings with potential. Brad noticed one such building in Hellertown. But when they walked in, instead of visualizing their future business, Brad immediately visualized their future home – and a new dream was born.
The Building
The building, a former auto dealership on busy Main Street in Hellertown, PA, is a two-story mixed-use building that is more than 120 years old. The first floor includes 1,500 square feet of retail space, which was previously occupied by Organic Mattress Store, and 1,560 square feet of residential space, which was rented out as an apartment. The second floor included 4,000 square feet of open warehouse space.
Prior to spotting this diamond in the rough, Allison and Brad were renting a townhome in rural Pennsylvania. It was not a great space for their lifestyle and routines. They had always loved the idea of living in a loft-style home, but never came across the right opportunity. Now, they were determined.
Allison and Brad first approached their financial consultant, Howard Lieberman, to discuss the potential purchase. Howard is a Managing Partner at Business and Community Financing Solutions (BCFSOL). Howard first met Allison when she was working to purchase her salon, providing business financial planning, financing, and ongoing business management consulting services. After determining this property might be a good fit, Howard sent the couple to 4/4 Architecture.
“The loft adaptive reuse of the Hellertown building required significant planning to secure zoning approvals, meet code requirements, and align with Allison and Brad’s vision,” Howard said. “We chose 4/4 Architecture because they are local, the owner is directly involved, and they are hands on.”
4/4 Architecture assisted Allison and Brad with due diligence by surveying the building and conducting a structural review. During this process, 4/4 documented existing conditions to gain a thorough understanding of the property. 4/4 also identified changes necessary to obtain zoning variances to turn the second floor into a residential space, and identified building code provisions that might come into play along the journey.
“Good architectural design happens when we work as a team”
Gary Lader, Principal, 4/4 Architecture
The Vision
Some clients rely heavily on an architect to develop a design concept; others have a well-established vision. During our initial design meetings, 4/4 quickly found that Allison and Brad were the latter type of client. They have a self-described “eclectic taste” in design, appreciating many periods and styles of architectural design; namely, Frank Lloyd Wright, mid-century modern furniture, and modern art.
“Being creative people, we came in with a vision and 4/4 Architecture allowed us to develop it as we imagined it, while protecting the functionality of the design,” Allison said.
Despite the client having a clear picture of the end goal, it still took some exploration to get there. That’s where 4/4’s team shined. They proactively identified potential challenges, proposed workable solutions, and worked in an iterative process to identify the path forward.
“An essential part of what we do as architects is translating a client’s vision into a set of documents that can be realized by a contractor,” Gary explained. “Part of this process is understanding constraints and close coordination with partners.”
One of the primary challenges was streamlining the flow of the loft. In designing the plan, 4/4’s team minimized unnecessary walls by pairing areas that required privacy (bathrooms) with storage areas (closets). They also leveraged visual cues to divide the space without closing it off, such as the industrial shelving to outline the master bedroom, and the island to divide the kitchen from the entertainment area.
“The team helped us make the space more optimal by suggesting storage options and improving the flow,” Allison added.
The Loft Adaptive Reuse
Brad and Allison received their occupancy permit and moved into their loft in October 2022.
What made this renovation process a success is that it was a true partnership. Allison and Brad have a strong eye for style, color, and materials – so 4/4’s team stepped back and gave them the flexibility to bring this creativity to the project. In contrast, the couple had no experience with architecture, renovations, or residential code requirements. 4/4’s team took the lead in helping them leverage the space, meet code, and be conscious of the project budget.
“Good architectural design happens when we work as a team,” Gary said. “4/4’s design approach is fueled by our humanistic philosophy and innate curiosity. We get to know our clients and building users – beyond the functional scope of the building project – and design spaces that respond to their needs in a way that promotes health, joy, and overall well-being.”
While there are still some outstanding tasks, Allison and Brad couldn’t be happier with the results of the loft adaptive reuse so far.
“I would absolutely recommend working with 4/4 Architecture,” Allison said. “They have a lot to offer any project because of their willingness to listen to and work with their clients to achieve the project goals.”
Could you use a design expert to help you achieve your vision? Contact 4/4 at gary@44architecture.com to schedule a consultation today!
Image courtesy Allison and Brad
4/4 Architecture Earns Industry Partner Award through AIA Eastern Pennsylvania
Key partnership between 4/4 Architecture and Alliance for Building Communities results in renovations that significantly impact the lives of tenants.
Award for Mountain View
4/4 Architecture is proud to announce that our firm, along with Alliance for Building Communities (ABC), jointly received an Industry Partner Award for the renovations of Mountain View Apartments at the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Eastern Pennsylvania Design Awards.
After reviewing entries from several local firms, the 2022 jury presented 4/4 Architecture’s design for ABC’s Mountain View Apartments with the Industry Partner Award. This award recognizes contributions to the built environment through an important partnership of architect and owner. The jury included Frank Grauman, FAIA LEED AP, a Principal at Bohlin Cywinsky Jackson, and Larry Eighmy, Managing Principal and Founder of The Stone House Group.
Mountain View Project & Team
ABC is a non-profit organization that provides affordable housing for low-income families and senior citizens in Northeastern Pennsylvania. After securing a Community Development Block Grant to improve their tenant spaces, ABC approached 4/4 Architecture about designing ADA renovations to two units within the Mountain View building. Those units belonged to tenants, each of whom struggled to navigate their living spaces due to a physical disability.
The goal of this project was to maximize residents’ safety and mobility, while ensuring they could independently and successfully function within their living space.
The jury felt the project was successful in meeting its goal. “The architect took the trouble to develop a deeply personalized understanding of … tenants’ individual needs. By carefully and economically tweaking their apartments, the project clearly makes a huge difference in their lives,” the jury comments read.
The jury also acknowledged ABC, the building owner. “[ABC] is recognized for taking the initiative to seek and provide funding for these essential and very personal requirements.”
Mountain View renovations targeted the entryway, kitchen, and bathrooms as high-impact areas for improvement. In the entryway, the team reconfigured the area to create appropriate clearance space for tenants who use mobility aids. The team lowered countertops in the kitchen, cut out space under the sink for accessibility, and added hardware to cabinetry. In the bathrooms, the design replaced a tub with a walk-in shower with adjustable bench, created clear-floor areas in front of fixtures, and added grab bars.
Other team members included Mohawk Contracting and Development, the Construction Manager, and Barry Isett and Associates, MEP Engineer.
Accessible Design
…it’s as easy as ABC!
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Alliance for Building Communities (ABC) is a non-profit organization that provides affordable housing for low-income families and senior citizens in Northeastern Pennsylvania. After securing a Community Development Block Grant to improve their tenant spaces, ABC approached 4/4 Architecture about designing accessibility renovations for their Mountain View Apartments. The ultimate objective of this accessible design project was to maximize residents’ safety and mobility, while ensuring they could independently and successfully function within their living space.
“We were excited to receive the grant to improve some of our tenant spaces,” Austin Snyder, ABC Facilities Director, said. “Gary and I worked well together, bouncing ideas off one another to come up with the final design. The renovated apartments will improve the lives of the current tenants, as well as any future inhabitants of the space.”
Construction Manager Lewis Ernst of Mohawk Contracting and Development agreed. “Thanks to Gary and 4/4 Architecture’s expertise, we were able to upgrade two affordable apartment units to meet ADA accessibility requirements with limited space and on a limited budget, improving the overall quality of life for the tenants,” he said.
BACKGROUND
ABC’s mission goes far beyond housing those in need. For more than 40 years, ABC has provided resources for residents to make educated choices about their living arrangements, such as financial counselors. ABC owns and manages several large properties throughout the Lehigh Valley; among them are the Mountain View Apartments in Slatington. This apartment complex includes 44 one-bedroom, one-bathroom living units.
After receiving the grant, ABC had the necessary funds to initiate some accessibility and ADA improvements to their tenant spaces. ADA refers to the American with Disabilities Act, which prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. In architecture, ADA improvements might look like design that accommodates the safety concerns of seniors, the mobility concerns of someone who uses a wheelchair, or the sensory concerns of a person who is blind or deaf. ABC identified two tenants with the greatest need for these types of improvements, and reached out to 4/4 – in part because of our vast experience successfully designing accessible renovations for clients.
OUR PROCESS
4/4 Architecture began the design process by interviewing tenants about the challenges they face in their current space. The meeting allowed the team to identify opportunities to support the tenants’ well-being and quality of life.
“Early on in the process, I met with Gary to do a walkthrough of my space,” Jonathon Videira said. Videira, an ABC tenant, has Cerebral Palsy and uses a walker. His walker is an important part of his daily life – so much so that he’s had it customized by an auto detailer with a design that reflects his love of cars. “When I would walk into and throughout my apartment before the renovations, my walker would bump into the door frames – damaging the door and the walker. I had nowhere to put my walker that was out of the way.”
First floor tenant Donna Shannon echoed Videira’s concerns. Shannon, who has Muscular Dystrophy and utilizes a motorized wheelchair, shared that her doorframes and walls were “chewed up” from trying to navigate her chair through the narrow spaces. In addition, many spaces in her apartment were simply unusable because she could not properly access them with her chair. Over years of struggling to navigate her space, Shannon developed creative, yet inconvenient, workarounds. “I couldn’t use the sinks in my kitchen or bathroom. I essentially had to parallel park my wheelchair to get close. When I brushed my teeth, I couldn’t reach the sink to spit out my toothpaste. I’d have to hold a cup in my lap, spit into that, and reach forward to pour my cup into the sink.”
Following the walkthroughs and client interviews, 4/4 Architecture worked with engineers at Barry Isett & Associates to design renovations. During the design process, the team offered options to the tenants, who then had a voice in how their space was designed by selecting the design that matched their preferences. In addition to improving accessibility in the kitchens and bathrooms, they widened doorframes and upgraded finishes.
“4/4 developed multiple floor plan options of varying levels of modifications, while maintaining the existing footprints of the units… The selected option was not only compliant with the accessible building codes but was a cost-effective approach allowing for multiple units to be completed using the grant funds available to the client,” said the Project Manager and Engineering Liaison for Barry Isett & Associates.
OUR DESIGN
Renovations reconfigured the entryway to help with access in and out of the unit. The team replaced hardware on the entry door, eliminated a large closet with accordion doors, and replaced it with an open foyer and small closet. Opening this space up created appropriate clearance space for the door. While Videira uses this newfound space to store his walker, Shannon hopes to leverage this area as a creative and welcoming entry nook to hang seasonal decorations, coats, and hats.
According to Shannon, the kitchen renovations have had the most impact on her day-to-day life. “The kitchen accessibility has improved tremendously. A couple of years ago, I had the ability to stand without my chair. With the support of the counters, I could slowly move around the space to make myself a sandwich. Unfortunately, I solely rely on the chair now – so the kitchen was barely usable for me,” Shannon said.
In addition to not being able to access the sink, Shannon shared that the cabinets were also unusable. The upper cabinets were too high to reach. The lower cabinets opened into her chair, and she struggled to reach deep into a cabinet to access what was inside.
4/4’s design also called for lowered countertops and a cut out space under the sink for accessibility. We made the upper cabinets taller and included hardware to make them more accessible, even from a seated position. While not required by ADA, 4/4’s design replaced lower cabinets with drawers and a corner cabinet with a turntable Lazy Susan. Shannon, who previously could not access her cabinets, can now open a drawer or rotate the turntable to view and reach everything within.
“The renovations have made everything so much better,” Shannon said. “On top of it all, it looks beautiful, and it makes you feel proud when you’re living in a nice-looking place.”
In the bathroom, the design created appropriate clear-floor areas in front of the fixtures. Prior to the renovations, it was not possible for a wheelchair to navigate past the toilet to access the tub. The team replaced the full-sized tub with a walk-in shower with an adjustable shower head and bench. We added grab bars and towel bars at appropriate heights to ensure the safety and comfort of the residents. It’s Videira’s favorite part of his new space. “The thing that I’m happiest about is the new shower. The tub was really difficult for me to step in and out of, and now I’m able to use my space.”
CONCLUSION
At 4/4 Architecture, our mission is to provide creative, healthy, and high-quality design that solves problems, brings joy to its users, and contributes to the greater good. Serving communities is cornerstone to fully achieving this mission. We strive to contribute to the greater good through designs that truly benefit everyone.
Our process, our services, and our final designs were financially responsible, code-compliant, and accommodated a wide variety of abilities. The team did not assume they knew the answers, but asked and listened. Through the accessible design of their units, residents of Mountain View Apartments are now equipped with the tools they need to navigate their living space.
It doesn’t get much more accessible than that!
Could you use an expert to help you make your living space more accessible? Contact us at gary@44architecture.com to schedule a consultation today!
What’s New with 4/4 Architecture?
We have been hard at work at the 4/4 Architecture offices! Preview our Spring 2022 newsletter for some updates on our work – both completed and on-the-boards!
Our newsletter includes stories like our work with Made in the Shade, as well as projects that are still in the works, like our collaborations with The Clubhouse Grille and the Cantelmi family (of Cantelmi’s Hardware). We also share collaborations with some frequent partners, such as Civitas Regio and Serfass Construction.
Looking at the pandemic through (rose) tinted glasses
Introduction
Opening this business was fulfilling a dream, decades in the making.
4/4 Architecture was introduced to Wesley West through our previous collaborations with Austin’s Auto. The proprietor of Austin’s Auto, Nelson Tavarez, recently purchased a commercial property at 1825 West Broad Street in Bethlehem. The building, which housed a Coca-Cola bottling plant from 1942 until the early 1980s, is currently undergoing a $2.5 million renovation in preparation to become a state-of-the-art office complex: the West Broad Street Commons.
West’s business, Made in the Shade Film Pros, was the first new tenant in the complex.
Made in the Shade is the Lehigh Valley’s premier window tint experts, specializing in automotive, commercial, and residential window film applications. Many think of window tinting as being meant strictly for privacy. However, there is film designed for purposes such as blocking UV rays, reducing glare, and preventing break-ins. Among West’s clients are vehicle owners and homeowners, as well as commercial and institutional clients, such as Lehigh University. One of West’s jobs involves installing a decorative frosted film on the offices in Lehigh University’s new Health, Science, and Technology building to add an element of privacy.
Designing the Business
West has decades of experience in the industry, having subcontracted for several automotive tinting shops over the last 20 years. Finally, he decided to venture out and build his own shop.
“Before we swung the first hammer, I had a vision for what I wanted to do,” West said. So, he began designing his ideal shop, incorporating elements from prior shops and making them his own. He developed branding, an interior color scheme, and even preliminary space layouts on his own. Eventually, though, he needed an architect to assist with preparing the official plans. That’s where 4/4 Architecture, and Founder Gary Lader, came into the picture.
“Gary was easy to work with and extremely efficient. He listened, understood my vision, and made insightful architectural suggestions that supported the design concept,” West said.
In addition to drawing up the plans for the space to ensure feasibility and compliance with code, 4/4 Architecture suggested some adjustments to the floor plan to help with the flow of the overall space. For example, 4/4 proposed moving the location of the sales desk to assist with wayfinding. It also clearly delineates the boundary between public areas and private workspace.
Location, Location, Location
Aside from fulfilling his dream of opening his own shop, one of West’s favorite parts about the building is the location, which happens to be across the street from his childhood home.
“I spent most of my life looking across the street at the Coca-Cola building. Now, as an adult with a family and business, I look out my window and see my former home. It feels like I’ve come full circle, and I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished,” West said.
Made in the Shade officially opened for business in June of 2021. To learn more, visit their website, www.mitsfilmpros.com. For more on the West Broad Street Commons and its progress, click here.
Could you use a design expert to help you build the business of your dreams? Contact us at gary@44architecture.com to schedule a consultation today!
Workplace with Light and Space
Apex Management manages both residential and commercial properties and wanted a workplace that featured light and space. Recently, they knew it was time to move out of their previous location. They had been in an older row house in downtown Bethlehem. Fortunately, an opportunity came to relocate their business to the top floor of a commercial office building. The new third floor location was an improvement in many ways. It provided more space to the staff. There are lots of windows that bring in natural light and a sweeping view across Bethlehem towards South Mountain. Plus, the space was pre-furnished with office furniture from a previous tenant. What more was needed? The thing that the space was missing was personality and privacy!
Tracy Yadush, who is the CEO of Apex Management, expressed a list of needs: She wanted her new office suite to offer privacy for meeting with clients and privacy for tenants who frequently stop by to make rent payments. Also, she wanted the space to feel personalized, to be a place that she and her staff could be proud of and enjoy coming to work every day. It was during the innocent pre-Covid days of course, when we got started on the project …
‘What do you want in your workplace?’
When we first met with Tracy, she had already prepared a collage of images that inspired her. (She used a phone app to organize her inspiration that we’d like to start using, too.) These ranged from light fixtures to interior finishes.
The design aesthetic was about funkiness and 1960’s vintage, in a tasteful and subtle way. Think Madmen rather than Batman.
We also understood — light and space mattered to Tracy.
Budget-friendly resources and solutions
In working with Tracy, we determined that there were three key areas in the existing office space that needed definition and different levels of privacy. These included a reception area, a new kitchenette/ staff lounge, and a large conference room. The idea was not to divide up the space with solid partitions, but to use partitions that would allow light to pass through and still create acoustic privacy. However, glass partitions tend to be pricy and specialty translucent glass tends to be even pricier. In addition, glass panels are heavy! Fortunately, we had some good solutions for Tracy and Apex.
To separate the reception area from the open office area, we included a sliding barn door in our plans. We designed large wood frames to hold the panels and a wood frame for the sliding barn door.
Then, one of the resources we like to bring to our projects is a knowledge of materials and fabrication techniques. With an eye towards budget friendly and locally sourced products, we contacted Palram in Kutztown about using their polycarbonate panels.
After comparing different samples with Tracy, we selected the Sunlite White Opal product for the partitions. The panels are very durable structurally, lightweight, offer good light transmittance and have a class A fire performance rating.
Worksplace Light & Space and the Elements of Surprise
There are always some surprises in a design project; we like the surprises to be good ones. Covid wasn’t one of these, and it definitely extended the construction process. On the bright side, we were fortunate to have Quadratus Construction Management of Bethlehem to coordinate the subcontractors involved. One of the nicest surprises was the transformation of the space itself. Now, the translucent panels in their frames cast a special quality of light and give a calming feel to the space. Best of all, the team at Apex are happy with the results and yes, it does feel like home now.
If you’re looking to redesign your workplace, contact us at gary@44architure.com.