In the summer of 2018, a “Microburst” blew into Downtown Sandusky, causing a significant amount of damage to a series of building along the waterfront.  One of these structures was the Biemiller and Weeden Reber Buildings.  The roof of the building was blown off, as was a portion of the second and third floor bearing walls.  This failure caused the third floor structure to collapse into the second floor causing catastrophic damage.

The Payto Team was engaged in late 2018 to bring the building back to life.  Through creative design thinking we were able to devise structural solutions that were implemented and were executed under the owner’s insurance claim budget.  Subsequently, our team continued on, designing the interior build outs for Lake Erie Shores and Islands, the local visitors bureau and their welcome center.  Apartment units were developed for the third and forth floors of the building and a penthouse condo unit was shelled out.  A rooftop deck was incorporated for tenant use to take advantage of panoramic views of the waterfront.

Construction is underway and is scheduled to be complete by the end of 2020.  Lake Erie Shores and Island has occuped their new space and the balance of construction will be complete by the end of 2020.