News From Repair Shop to Headquarters: Southern Botanical’s Office Building Transformation September 17, 2024 In 2017, Southern Botanical’s CEO, Jason Craven, embarked on a bold journey: transforming a run-down trucking repair facility into the company’s state-of-the-art headquarters. What many saw as a risky venture, Craven viewed as an opportunity to create a space that perfectly aligned with Southern Botanical’s vision and needs. The Beginning: Finding the Perfect Location When Craven first laid eyes on the Halifax Street property, it was far from a modern office space. The building, originally a car shop, was largely abandoned, with only 20,000 of its 50,000 square feet in use. However, Craven saw the potential to create a headquarters that would serve as both a functional space and a symbol of the company’s dedication to innovation and environmental responsibility. “The location and the amount of acreage were critical for us,” Craven explained. In an industrial area where large parcels of land are rare, the property’s extensive parking space, combined with a sizeable building, made it a unique find. It was exactly what Craven needed for Southern Botanical’s large vehicle fleet and offered a perfectly sized building for the office staff. This was not just a renovation; it was an investment in Southern Botanical’s future. The Vision: A Clear and Purposeful Path From the outset, Craven had a clear vision for the building. “I saw the potential in the building from the very beginning, and it just turned out great,” he said. The goal wasn’t merely to make the space usable; it was about transforming it into something extraordinary. To bring this vision to life, Craven enlisted the expertise of renowned architect Droese Raney, who guided the transformation. The aim was not to erase the building’s past but to build upon it, creating a space that was both functional and environmentally conscious. Cleaning Up Decades of Neglect One of the most significant challenges of the renovation was addressing the environmental damage left by previous occupants. The property had been used as a dumping ground for oil and solvents. To top it all off, the water tower on site was filled with 5,000-gallon diesel fuel tank containing fuel from the 1970s or 80s. “We went through a lot of extra expense to make sure the environment was safe,” Craven shared. This included installing vapor capture systems beneath the floors, placing a vapor barrier, and pouring new concrete to ensure no harmful vapors could affect the team working in the building. Even though tests for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) showed no danger, Craven was determined to go the extra mile to protect his employees. Modernizing the Infrastructure Beyond environmental concerns, the building required a complete overhaul of its infrastructure. Craven installed new electrical systems, LED lighting, plumbing, and high-efficiency HVAC systems. The ceilings were insulated with R30 insulation, making the building not only more comfortable but also more energy-efficient. “Our electricity bill is now 25% of what it was at our previous facility, even though the building is the same size,” Craven noted. This drastic reduction in energy consumption highlights the effectiveness of the renovations in making the building more sustainable. Integrating a 400,000-Gallon Rainwater Collection System The renovated headquarters incorporates a sophisticated rainwater collection system. This system captures all the rainwater from the building’s roof and stores it in a 400,000-gallon water tower cistern, originally a diesel tank. The collected water is used to irrigate the landscape throughout the property, reducing reliance on external water sources. Looking to the Future: Preparing for Electric Vehicles As part of the renovation, Craven ensured the property was wired to accommodate future electric equipment for the company’s vehicle fleet and for its lawn equipment. While the timeline for this transition is uncertain, the company is ready to embrace new technology as it becomes available. “I didn’t know when or if it was going to happen back then, but I just wanted to be prepared,” Craven said. This forward-thinking approach exemplifies Southern Botanical’s commitment to staying ahead of industry trends and being prepared for future advancements. A Source of Pride: Revitalizing an Old Space Looking back, Craven is most proud of how the building has been given new life. “So many people just tear something down and start over. I’m proud to make something new again and give things new life,” he reflected. Today, the headquarters stands as a testament to what can be achieved with vision, determination, and a commitment to doing things the right way. The space has not only met the functional needs of Southern Botanical but has also exceeded expectations, impressing everyone who walks through its doors. As Craven recalls, “We see jaws drop when people walk in—it’s a transformation no one expected.” A Success Story Rooted in Vision The transformation of Southern Botanical’s headquarters from a neglected car shop to a modern, environmentally responsible office space is a story of vision and perseverance. Jason Craven’s ability to see potential where others saw problems has resulted in a space that perfectly aligns with the company’s mission and values. As Southern Botanical continues to grow, this headquarters will serve as a reminder of what can be accomplished when innovation meets dedication.