Think Idea Studio

Historical Building Restoration & Preservation Project in Searcy, AR

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Mercantile Building Project in Searcy, AR

The Think Idea Studio is a 108 year old mercantile building in Searcy, AR. CertaPro Painters® of Central Arkansas were asked to complete a large scale renovation of the building, uplifting its appearance while maintaining its historic roots. With wooden floors and open rafters along with exposed brick walls, the structure required an array of techniques to properly finish the project. Certapro’s professionals are equipped to handle assignments of this magnitude and variety to meet their high standards.

CHALLENGES:

With the building being over a century old, challenges were inevitable. The exposed brick and open wooden rafters had accumulated decades of dust and debris, which needed to be thoroughly cleaned before any sealing could take place. Removing the buildup was essential to ensure proper adhesion and long-term protection.

In addition to surface preparation, coordination with the historical society was required to ensure all work aligned with preservation guidelines. Maintaining the integrity of the building’s original design meant using specific materials and techniques that would protect and enhance the structure without altering its historic character.

Large-scale restoration projects like this also demand precise coordination among the crew. Given the scope of work and the need for specialized equipment, scheduling and execution had to be carefully managed to complete the project within the expected timeframe without compromising quality.

CONDITIONS:

  • Dust Accumulation – Decades of buildup covered the wooden rafters and interior surfaces, requiring extensive cleaning before sealing
  • Exposed Brick – The original brickwork, a defining feature of the building, needed protection to ensure its longevity while maintaining its authentic look
  • Aging Structure – Over a century of wear left certain areas in need of careful restoration and reinforcement

PROJECT INVOLVEMENT:

  • Surface Preparation – The floor, walls, wooden rafters, and building exterior were meticulously cleaned to remove accumulated dust and debris.
  • Sealing and Protection – The interior exposed brick was coated with H&C Concrete and Masonry Sealer from Sherwin-Williams to safeguard it from moisture and deterioration. The wooden rafters were treated with Kem Aqua Plus, a clear coating designed to preserve and protect the natural wood.
  • Exterior Work – Lifts were used to access higher surfaces, ensuring the brick and wood surfaces were properly sealed to withstand weather and environmental exposure.

PROJECT TIMELINE – Approximately 2 months

Choose CertaPro Painters to Preserve Your Properties in Central Arkansas

Restoring and preserving historic buildings requires the right expertise, materials, and attention to detail. Whether you’re working on a century-old property or a commercial space that needs specialized care, CertaPro Painters of Central Arkansas has the experience to handle it. From cleaning and sealing exposed brick to protecting original woodwork, we ensure your building maintains its character while staying well-protected for years to come. If you have a project like this, give us a call—we’re here to help.

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When our team completes a project at your business, nothing is more important to us than your complete satisfaction. We are flexible and available for you if you ever have any questions about any step of the painting process. CertaPro Painters® of Little Rock & Central Arkansas provides professional services during weekends and off-hours to effectively meet all of your commercial painting needs. Contact CertaPro by clicking the box below.

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BEFORE PHOTOS

Before starting the project, CertaPro’s professionals surveyed the area and took pictures of what required attention.

Exterior Repaint

Exterior Repaint

The exterior of the building needed a new coat of paint to complete a full renovation.

Exposed Brick

Exposed Brick

The brick walls needed a clear coat to protect them from frequent exposure and traffic.

Dusty Rafters

Dusty Rafters

The building had collected years of dust in its open rafters that required the use of leaf blowers to help clear.

Before & After Slider

THE FINAL RESULT

CertaPro Painters® of Central Arkansas analyzed the completed project to make sure all areas were properly addressed.

Refinished Exterior

Refinished Exterior

The exterior of the building was refinished, giving it a new look while meeting the Historical Society's requirements.

Exposed Brick Protection

Exposed Brick Protection

A clear coat was used on the exposed brick to protect and preserve the historic nature of the interior.

Cleaned Rafters

Cleaned Rafters

The rafters were cleaned and a clear coat was applied to protect the wooden beams.

Heath Boyd – VP Of Commercial

Ready to start your commercial painting project? Contact Heath Boyd at [email protected] or 501-434-0105.

Heath Boyd is our VP of Commercial projects here at CertaPro Painters of Central Arkansas. A longtime resident of Little Rock, Heath has raised a family here by repainting and revitalizing warehouses and other businesses right here in the Little Rock area.

From humble roots as an intern at Sherwin Williams, Heath has cultivated a wealth of experience in the field of construction, as well as painting. Having joined CertaPro back in 2012, Heath has found his home among CertaPro Painters.

For painters that always deliver what we promise; Call CertaPro Painters Today! And for a direct line to Heath, just call 501-434-0105.

Heath