DJ Case renovates century-old building, reclaims brownfield and reinvigorates a downtown community

When the DJ Case team expanded, the search began for a new headquarters. Dave Case surveyed properties on the outskirts of Mishawaka and South Bend, Ind. in search of a piece of fresh land to build a new office.

Though his search turned up a few ideal farm fields and woodlots that would be an excellent setting for a modern office building, they did not mesh with DJ Case ideals.

The team instead decided to look for ways to improve Mishawaka's downtown and lessen urban sprawl. In 2004, DJ Case renovated a manufacturing facility built in 1900 and restored its adjoining trash-strewn lot. The building had been used as a steel foundry and wood shop.

The renovation has reinvigorated a previously blighted corner of Mishawaka's downtown. The building now features 15 offices, a meeting room, video production facilities and high-speed telecommunications. The interior is reminiscent of a mountain lodge with locally-grown hardwood floors and trim, and rough-hewn aspen furniture from Colorado.

If you are in the area, stop by the DJ Case office for a tour.

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