Spearflex Building - Kalamazoo, MI

In partnership with the City of Kalamazoo, PlazaCorp led the redevelopment of two historic brownfield sites in the heart of downtown — the Shakespear Building and the Spearflex Building. Together, these adaptive reuse projects transformed long-vacant, deteriorated properties into vibrant, functional spaces that contribute to the city’s urban revitalization.

 

Wightman collaborated closely with PlazaCorp to evaluate existing conditions and develop a comprehensive design strategy that balanced preservation with modernization. The Spearflex Building, a five-story former factory heavily damaged by fire, required extensive structural assessment and creative solutions to stabilize and repurpose the facility. Through a hands-on, problem-solving partnership, Wightman’s team designed a repair and improvement plan that restored integrity to the structure while supporting the owner’s redevelopment goals.

 

Design services also included the creation of modern interior office environments and a striking four-story entry atrium, achieved through selective floor removal to introduce natural daylight and an open, welcoming atmosphere.

 

By working in step with the client and city stakeholders, Wightman helped turn blighted industrial spaces into sustainable community assets—delivering both visual impact and long-term value to downtown Kalamazoo.