Think Idea Studio

Historical Building Restoration & Preservation Project in Searcy, AR

Mercantile Building Project in Searcy, AR

The Think Idea Studio is a 108 year old mercantile building in Searcy, AR. CertaPro Painters^® of Central Arkansas were asked to complete a large scale renovation of the building, uplifting its appearance while maintaining its historic roots. With wooden floors and open rafters along with exposed brick walls, the structure required an array of techniques to properly finish the project. Certapro’s professionals are equipped to handle assignments of this magnitude and variety to meet their high standards.

CHALLENGES:

With the building being over a century old, challenges were inevitable. The exposed brick and open wooden rafters had accumulated decades of dust and debris, which needed to be thoroughly cleaned before any sealing could take place. Removing the buildup was essential to ensure proper adhesion and long-term protection.

In addition to surface preparation, coordination with the historical society was required to ensure all work aligned with preservation guidelines. Maintaining the integrity of the building’s original design meant using specific materials and techniques that would protect and enhance the structure without altering its historic character.

Large-scale restoration projects like this also demand precise coordination among the crew. Given the scope of work and the need for specialized equipment, scheduling and execution had to be carefully managed to complete the project within the expected timeframe without compromising quality.

CONDITIONS:

• Dust Accumulation – Decades of buildup covered the wooden rafters and interior surfaces, requiring extensive cleaning before sealing
• Exposed Brick – The original brickwork, a defining feature of the building, needed protection to ensure its longevity while maintaining its authentic look
• Aging Structure – Over a century of wear left certain areas in need of careful restoration and reinforcement

PROJECT INVOLVEMENT:

• Surface Preparation – The floor, walls, wooden rafters, and building exterior were meticulously cleaned to remove accumulated dust and debris.
• Sealing and Protection – The interior exposed brick was coated with H&C Concrete and Masonry Sealer from Sherwin-Williams to safeguard it from moisture and deterioration. The wooden rafters were treated with Kem Aqua Plus, a clear coating designed to preserve and protect the natural wood.
• Exterior Work – Lifts were used to access higher surfaces, ensuring the brick and wood surfaces were properly sealed to withstand weather and environmental exposure.

PROJECT TIMELINE – Approximately 2 months

Choose CertaPro Painters to Preserve Your Properties in Central Arkansas

Restoring and preserving historic buildings requires the right expertise, materials, and attention to detail. Whether you’re working on a century-old property or a commercial space that needs specialized care, CertaPro Painters of Central Arkansas has the experience to handle it. From cleaning and sealing exposed brick to protecting original woodwork, we ensure your building maintains its character while staying well-protected for years to come. If you have a project like this, give us a call—we’re here to help.

Schedule Your Commercial Painting Service in Central Arkansas Today

When our team completes a project at your business, nothing is more important to us than your complete satisfaction. We are flexible and available for you if you ever have any questions about any step of the painting process. CertaPro Painters® of Little Rock & Central Arkansas provides professional services during weekends and off-hours to effectively meet all of your commercial painting needs. Contact CertaPro by clicking the box below.

BEFORE PHOTOS

Before starting the project, CertaPro’s professionals surveyed the area and took pictures of what required attention.

Before & After Slider

THE FINAL RESULT

CertaPro Painters^® of Central Arkansas analyzed the completed project to make sure all areas were properly addressed.

Blake Finnell – VP Of Commercial

Ready to start your commercial painting project? Contact Blake Finnell at bfinnell@certapro.com or  501-295-5040.

Blake Finnell is our VP of Commercial Sales here at CertaPro Painters of Central Arkansas. Originally from Norman, Oklahoma, Blake has made Little Rock his home, where he and his wife Kyndall are raising two young children and staying active in the local community.

After earning a Bachelor’s in Professional Sales from Harding University—and even spending time at their London campus—Blake built his early career in outside sales with Hugg and Hall Equipment. He joined the CertaPro team in 2017, bringing a passion for relationship-building and customer service that still defines his work today.

For painters that always deliver what we promise; Call CertaPro Painters Today! And for a direct line to Blake, just call 501-295-5040.