From the Ground Up: Kuat Racks corporate office and warehouse

Owner/developer: Kuat Innovations LLC
General contractor: Rich Kramer Construction Inc.
Architect: Arkifex Studios LLC
Engineers: Heithaus Engineering Associates Inc., civil; Edelman Engineering Corp., structural; and Schober Engineering LLC, mechanical, electrical and plumbing
Size: 40,000 square feet
Estimated cost: $3.5 million
Lender: Guaranty Bank
Estimated completion: November
Project description: On about 14 acres just outside Partnership Industrial Center West, Kuat Innovations LLC is building a corporate office and warehouse. The international bike rack company is doubling its operations from shared leased space around the corner at 4520 W. Kearney St. Production by Kuat Racks occurs in China and Taiwan, while design, marketing, warehousing and wholesale logistics are handled locally, said President Luke Kuschmeader. Kuat’s local employee count is expected to grow to 40 from 24 over the next two years. Designers with Arkifex Studios have said they’ve incorporated natural elements in the building because Kuat employees are cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. Though it’s located in an industrial zone, the design aims to integrate a modern and progressive workplace.