Overview
At Intel Cost Estimate, we are committed to delivering detailed, precise, and dependable construction cost estimates that empower our clients to make confident decisions. One of our recent collaborations involved a respected general contractor on a significant commercial renovation: the 1280 Lafayette Building. Located in the heart of St. Louis, Missouri, this project focused on revitalizing a mid-century office complex into a modern, sustainable, and multi-use facility.
Project Details
- Client:
Established General Contractor (Confidential) - Project Name:
1280 Lafayette Building Renovation - Location:
St. Louis, Missouri - Scope:
Complete interior and exterior renovation, including structural retrofitting, MEP upgrades, façade improvements, and accessibility compliance.
Challenges
Renovation projects often involve working with outdated infrastructure, hidden conditions, and evolving design goals. The 1280 Lafayette project was no different:
- Aging Infrastructure:
The building’s existing mechanical and electrical systems were outdated and required full modernization while maintaining budget limits. - Historic Design Considerations:
Certain elements of the building were deemed historically significant, requiring careful integration of modern materials without compromising architectural integrity. - Code Compliance & Accessibility:
Bringing the facility up to current ADA standards and building codes added layers of complexity to the scope and budget.
Our Approach
To navigate these challenges and deliver an exceptional estimate package, our team employed a multi-faceted strategy:
- Comprehensive Site Review:
Leveraging detailed as-built drawings, field reports, and design narratives, we ensured all scopes were accounted for—even those typically overlooked in older building renovations. - Precision Estimating Tools:
Using industry-leading software like Planswift and Bluebeam, our estimators created a fully itemized cost structure, aligned with 2025 market conditions in the St. Louis region. - Client Collaboration:
Our team maintained regular check-ins with the GC to align estimates with evolving design feedback and ensure alignment with owner expectations. - Mitigation Planning:
We included contingency allowances for unforeseen conditions, such as asbestos abatement and structural reinforcement, based on our renovation experience.
Results
The final estimate package we delivered was:
- ✅ On Schedule: Delivered within the agreed 7-business-day window.
- ✅ Extremely Accurate: Within 3.5% of the target construction budget after third-party reconciliation.
- ✅ Well-Received: The client praised the clarity of our line items, CSI formatting, and realistic projections for material and labor costs.
Conclusion
The 1280 Lafayette Building Renovation stands as another example of how Intel Cost Estimate supports high-stakes construction projects with professional, intelligent cost analysis. Through precision, collaboration, and industry insight, we helped our client position themselves competitively for this high-visibility redevelopment.
We’re proud to be part of projects that shape our urban environments, and we look forward to bringing this same level of excellence to your next development.
