News – Vavrek Architects, Inc.

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Vavrek Architects News

27 Mar

Seeking Project Architect to Join Our Team

Job Opportunities, March 27, 2018

Vavrek Architects is a commercial architecture firm established in 2005 based in the Chicagoland Area (20 minutes from downtown Chicago) that believes in relationships, good design, practical solutions, enriching communities and environmental stewardship. At Vavrek Architects, we believe that a healthy work/ life balance is a core value that motivates us to be efficient, focused, and responsive to our clients and projects. We are passionate about our work and maintain an office atmosphere that is inclusive, flexible, and creative. Check out our about us page on our website to learn more. We are currently seeking a talented, versatile individual to.

27 Jul

The Unique History of the Vavrek Office Building

Renovation project, July 27, 2017

In 2008, Thomas Vavrek purchased the historic hotel building at 1522 East 119th Street which was constructed in 1898 and served as a temporary residence for day laborers of the nearby Standard Oil refinery, now owned by BP.

4 May

Mascot Hall of Fame Building Under Construction

Renovation project, May 4, 2017

Construction on the new building for the Mascot Hall of Fame is currently under way. The 25,000 sq. ft. building, located at the corner of 119th and Front Streets, is on track to be completed by the end of the year.

30 Mar

Thomas Vavrek on WJOB AM Hammond Radio

Renovation project, March 30, 2016

Founder and principal of Vavrek Architects, Thomas Vavrek, was interviewed on WJOB AM Hammond Radio along with the MVP Builders team to discuss an exciting new project in Whiting.

10 Jan

Vavrek & Developers Featured in News Article

Renovation project, January 10, 2016

A news article focusing on development in Whiting was recently published in the local paper, the Times of Northwest Indiana. The Chicago developers, along with local architect Tom Vavrek who is working with the group and designed their first major project, are featured in the article. View article at the following link: Developers take chance on Whiting

30 Mar

Community Fitness Center

Design, March 30, 2015

Construction is complete on Lobby and Lower Level Renovations to the Whiting Community Center. Fitness equipment and furniture are now in place in the new space that will be run by the Crossroads YMCA Whiting branch. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on March 30th, as the Center officially opened its doors for the first time since closing for construction. The project included the historic renovation of the lobby area and transformation of the lower level into a modern fitness environment. View articles at the following link: Y Ribbon Cutting News Articles 03_30_15

8 Oct

Mascot Hall of Fame Museum

Renovation project, October 8, 2014

The City of Whiting hosted a kick-off event for the National Mascot Hall of Fame Museum on October 8th at the Oil City Stadium. The 25,000 sq. ft. building will contain a dramatic 3-story atrium, allowing patrons to capture views of the Chicago skyline as well as Whiting’s own historic 119th Street. Slated to open in 2017, the museum will be a showcase for national sports mascots and the perfect venue for interactive family exhibits and activities. View news article at the following link: wacky-brilliant 10-23-14

11 Jun

Construction Under Way on Mixed-Use Development

Renovation project, June 11, 2014

Construction is under way on a multi-million dollar development in Whiting by Chicago developers, MVP Builders, LLC. The four story, mixed-use building will contain 24 high-end apartments and retail space. It was designed to fit into Whiting’s historic downtown while offering modern amenities and views of Lake Michigan. Slated to be one of many new future developments in the City, it will complement the already constructed Oil City Stadium and $50 million lakefront improvement project. The building should be ready for occupancy in the Summer of 2015. The project is being financed by a consortium of lenders led by Centier.

26 Feb

Vavrek Architects Receives “Investor Award”

Company, February 26, 2010

Vavrek Architects was presented with an “Investor Award” at the Whiting-Robertsdale Chamber of Commerce installation dinner on February 26. The award recognizes owner Tom Vavrek’s accomplishment in 2009 for the rehabilitation of his office building and the addition of new retail space. The building is located at 1522 119th Street in downtown Whiting. Tom purchased the building in September of 2008 and has successfully managed to carry out extensive renovations to both the interior and exterior, acquiring a new tenant in the process.

1 Feb

Building Voted “New Construction Project of the Year

Renovation project, February 1, 2010

The new office building for Will-MC, LLC was voted “New Construction Project of the Year” by the Munster Chamber of Commerce. An award was presented to the building owners at the Munster Chamber’s Annual Dinner on Jan. 30. The 16,000 sq. ft. office building, designed by Vavrek Architects and built by Hasse Construction, is located at 10010 Calumet Avenue in Munster, Indiana. Construction of the building was completed in November of 2008.

1 Nov

Tom Vavrek Appointed to Historic Preservation Committee

Company, November 1, 2009

Tom Vavrek was recently appointed by Mayor Joseph Stahura as an advisory member of the Historic Preservation Commission of the City of Whiting. Tom created a set of standards to be used as a guideline to developers, builders, and architects for future development along the 1500 block of 119th Street. He will aid the Whiting Redevelopment Commission in reviewing designs that are submitted in an effort to promote the future of Whiting’s business corridor.

1 Oct

Pavilion Restoration Featured in “The Write Stuff”

Renovation project, October 1, 2006

The Whiting-Robertsdale Monthly News Magazine features an article in their October 2006 issue on the restoration of the Whiting Park Pavilion. Tom Vavrek provides insight on the restoration at hand. View article at the following link:

1 Jul

Tom Vavrek Featured in “The WRite Stuff” Magazine

Company, July 1, 2006

Tom Vavrek is featured in the July 2006 issue of The WRite Stuff Monthly News Magazine. Click on the link below to learn more about the principal architect and founder of Vavrek Architects who is “building” his business. View article at the following link: tom_july06