In 2001, JE Dunn Construction launched a groundbreaking project in Midtown Atlanta, known as Metropolis, which would ultimately become a significant milestone for the company.
This ambitious venture was a twin-tower condominium development that not only tested the company’s capabilities but also set a precedent for future high-rise residential projects throughout the southeastern part of the country.
At the turn of the millennium, the construction market was relatively stagnant, making large-scale projects like Metropolis rare and highly competitive, said JE Dunn Executive VP Mike Bartlett. JE Dunn, renowned for its meticulous approach and reliable delivery, was one of the two finalists vying for the contract. What set JE Dunn over the winning edge was a well-crafted proposal, efficient scheduling, and realistic budgeting, which collectively instilled confidence in the project’s Ownership Team.
The project was a joint venture between Novare Group, a landowner, and Wood Partners, a prominent residential developer. Initially, the development faced uncertainty regarding the market demand for such a large number of residential units.
To mitigate risks, the developers planned for one tower to be sold as condominiums and the other as rental apartments. However, this strategy quickly shifted as the first tower’s units sold out before its completion, prompting the second tower to also be converted into condominiums. This unexpected demand validated the project’s viability and marked a significant success for the developers.
“This was more than a construction contract,” said Will Gamble, VP, Preconstruction Director. “This was an opportunity for JE Dunn to step into the high-rise residential construction market, refine our construction techniques, and find a repeatable recipe in the preconstruction approach.”
The building’s design featured a window wall system for the exterior, a method perfected during this project to expedite the construction process. The team also focused on maximizing the efficiency of the floor plans, reducing non-revenue-generating spaces like corridors and elevator lobbies to enhance profitability for the developers.
The success of Metropolis had a domino effect. It not only established JE Dunn’s credibility in high-rise residential construction but also led to a series of subsequent projects. The developers, invigorated by their success in Midtown Atlanta, acquired additional properties nearby and continued their collaboration with JE Dunn. This partnership grew, leading to the construction of 16 similar projects across major cities in the southeastern United States, including Tampa, Charlotte, Austin, and Denver. The total value of these projects reached an estimated couple of billion dollars, emphasizing the scale and impact of this collaborative effort.
Despite the eventual slowdown caused by the mortgage crisis in 2009, JE Dunn’s strategic execution and the trust they built with Wood Partners and Navarre proved resilient. The company’s ability to deliver high-quality, efficient buildings on time and within budget solidified its reputation and ensured JE Dunn remained a preferred partner for future developments.
Looking back, Metropolis was not just another project; it was a catalyst for growth and innovation for JE Dunn. It exemplified commitment to excellence and the ability to adapt and thrive in a competitive and evolving market. This project, among others, paved the way for JE Dunn’s expansion and success in high-rise residential construction, a legacy that continues to shape the company’s trajectory today.
“For me personally, this project is the foundation of my career with JE Dunn, and I routinely apply concepts learned from this project,” said Will Gamble. “More than twenty years later, my team is keenly aware of this project, the lessons learned, and the relationships that were built along the way.”
Through their meticulous planning, innovative construction techniques, and robust client relationships, JE Dunn has demonstrated that even in challenging market conditions, excellence and perseverance can lead to monumental success. The Metropolis project stands as an example of an enduring legacy in the construction industry.