Preserving History with Modern Innovation

The remodel and repurpose of an approximately 100-year-old tobacco warehouse into shared-space workspaces for four departments of the University of Kentucky

The R.J. Reynolds Building, an iconic structure with deep historical ties to Lexington and the University of Kentucky (UK), has long stood as a testament to architectural excellence. Originally constructed as a tobacco processing facility nearly 100 years ago, the building played a pivotal role in the region’s economic and cultural development. Now known as the Gray Design Building and part of a significant renovation project, it is being transformed into a workspace for the University of Kentucky’s Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment’s Department of Landscape Architecture, as well as UK’s College of Design and the College of Engineering’s F. Joseph Halcomb III, M.D. Department of Biomedical Engineering design studio. This adaptive reuse not only preserves the building’s historical essence but also ensures that it meets contemporary sustainability standards.

MAPEI has been involved with the project since the beginning, when the revitalized building was still known as “The Reynolds Building.” In an early interview at the beginning of the project, The University of Kentucky College of Design unveiled the vision of the designing engineering firm, Studio Gang, for the reinvented Reynolds Building, which highlighted the importance of sustainability in the design for the historic building. Jeanne Gang, FAIA, founding partner of Studio Gang, emphasized the significance of the project, stating, “The Reynolds project demonstrates this idea and takes it beyond environmental necessity, showing how re-use can also be a satisfying, creative act of design and making.”

By blending innovation with restoration, MAPEI helped to transform an aging landmark into a sustainable, future-ready space for UK students and faculty.

MAPEI was selected as the trusted partner to provide advanced flooring and surface solutions, ensuring that the building’s legacy endures while aligning with the project’s environmental and performance requirements. The renovation required products that could seamlessly integrate with the existing structure while delivering durability, sustainability and aesthetic excellence.

MAPEI on the job

To achieve a balance between preservation and modernization, a range of MAPEI’s high-performance products were utilized throughout the project. The specifications called for the existing wood flooring in the building to be repaired, resanded and finished with MAPEI’s Ultracoat hardwood floor system. Ultracoat Aqua Plus, a sawdust admixture for crack filling of wood flooring, was applied to ensure even surfaces, while maintaining the original character of the flooring. To help achieve the desired color consistency,Ultracoat Toning Base two-component, deep-tone, water-based sanding sealer for all types of wood flooring – including exotic species – is designed to enhance the natural color of wood without causing it to darken or redden. Ultracoat HT 2K – a two-component, water-based wood-flooring finish that is available in the gloss levels of natural, matte, satin and semi-gloss – provided a high-traffic-resistant finish to preserve the floors for years to come.

The project experienced interruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but as work resumed, additional areas were added to the renovation scope. The restrooms, requiring both durability and water resistance, were protected using Ultraplan 1 Plus, a quick-setting, self-leveling, self-drying underlayment and repair mix for interior concrete and engineer-approved floors. Keraflex Plus professional, extra smooth, large-and-heavy-tile mortar with polymer was then used to install the ceramic tiles, ensuring a secure bond, while Ultracolor Plus FA grout provided a stain-resistant and uniform finish. To enhance longevity, Mapesil T Plus – a 100%-silicone sealant with enhanced adhesion for heavy traffic and expansion/movement joints – was applied for additional moisture protection.

A unique design element of the renovation involved creating a surface that mimicked the appearance of raw concrete while maintaining durability. To achieve this industrial aesthetic, Planibond EBA high-modulus epoxy bonding agent was applied. It was followed by Mapesand Coarse calibrated, washed and oven-dried, 16/30 mesh silica sand to create the necessary texture. Finally, Ultraplan M20 Plus – a calcium-aluminate-based, quick-setting, self-leveling underlayment and topping – was used to provide a smooth, stable surface that maintained the historic charm of the original flooring while enhancing performance.

Balancing preservation and sustainability

One of the key challenges in this renovation was maintaining the historic character of the R.J. Reynolds Building while ensuring compliance with modern sustainability requirements. Tony Ziola, MAPEI’s Business Development Manager for Wood Flooring Systems, explained, “MAPEI’s product solutions played a crucial role in achieving this balance. Many of the selected materials feature low VOC emissions, contributing to improved indoor air quality. Additionally, the use of water-based and environmentally friendly Ultracoat products aligns with the project’s green building objectives.” Brad Back, MAPEI’s Technical Sales Representative, highlighted the importance of this collaboration: “The R.J. Reynolds Building is a landmark in Lexington, and it was essential to approach this renovation with a commitment to both heritage and sustainability. MAPEI’s innovative solutions allowed us to provide long-lasting performance while respecting the integrity of this historic structure.”

The successful renovation of the R.J. Reynolds Building showcases how advanced construction technologies can seamlessly integrate with historic preservation efforts. Through MAPEI’s comprehensive flooring and surface solutions, the project not only honors the past but also ensures a sustainable and resilient future for one of Lexington’s most significant architectural landmarks.