Case Study:

BigFire American Fare

Scope:

Total renovation of the existing Emeril’s restaurant to create the new big fire grill. JK2 increased the existing floor area of the structure to 14,000SF on the first and second floors of the three story building after stripping the interior of the building back to the original structure. An all new kitchen with wood burning exhibition grill and exhaust scrubber offer guests a view into the heart of the restaurant. All new mechanical, electrical and plumbing and fixtures were added. The focal point of the interior finishes is a 50′ lighted canoe hanging from the exposed structure three stories above the open air dining area.

Challenges: 

Located in the heart of CityWalk, construction took place during the day and night with double shifts to meet the complex schedule to coincide with the opening of Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. Demolition commenced as the final construction drawings were being developed, requiring a close partnership with the design team and the client to maintain the project schedule and provide solutions to complex unforeseen existing conditions not detailed in the drawings.

CASE STUDY:

TODAY CAFE

Scope:

Exterior and interior demolition and renovation of the former Beverly Hills Boulangerie located inside Universal Studios Florida into a Cafe with finishes and ambiance to pay tribute to Studio A1, where the TODAY Show television program is filmed. 

Challenges:

Situated just inside the entrance to Universal Studios Florida, this project was completed after hours within a three month time frame. Highlights include all new finishes, custom electrical fixtures, custom millwork, full service kitchen equipment and exterior renovations to the building facade. JK2 procured the design intended FF&E for this project within this tight timeline. 

Silver Oaks 

JK2 Construction completed the Silver Oaks amenity center in Apopka last week for one of our valued clients. The project was a design/build effort with an accelerated schedule consisting of multiple program elements. The design phase included coordination with the City of Apopka, the developer and integrating finishes matching the existing models. The construction elements included the following: 2,500 SF community building with meeting space and bathrooms, playground area, mailbox kiosk, and hardscape. The total project duration was 110 days.

CASE STUDY:

Nicklaus Clubhouse

Scope: 

Ground up construction of 16,460 SF Spanish Monterrey style clubhouse overlooking the Nicklaus Course 18th Green, complete with proshop, offices, sales center, fitness room, restaurant, bar and basement-level golf cart storage. Site work included utility, parking, hardscape, landscape and irrigation. 

Challenges: 

Discrepancies in drawings sets did not delay this build, nor did the delicate sitework which had to work around the Florida Gas Transmission Pipeline which feeds the entire west coast of Florida and was located 25 feet from the corner of the clubhouse.  JK2 value engineered various materials and finish selections to satisfy the owner’s design intent. Despite a shut down of the municipality mid project and delayed inspections of structural components as a result, the project delivered on time. 

Orlando Science Center – The Hive: A Makerspace

The Hive: A Makerspace is over 3,000 square feet of collaborative work space in which children can use high-tech tools and real materials to design and build their own projects.

JK2 Construction was brought on to manage the complete design and renovation of the construction project. The company worked closely with the architect and Science Center team to come up with a vision for the space and make it blend seamlessly with the existing design of the building. JK2 Construction completed the demolition of the existing space and managed the build-out of new framing, drywall, carpet, and painting of the newly created Makerspace.  In addition, the company worked to safely and effectively relocate mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire safety elements while working around guests and operational constraints of the facility.

AECC Industrial Park

Design / Build Contractor for the construction of 5 buildings and tenant build out within the Apopka Expressway Commercial Complex Multiple Flex Space Metal Buildings. Land development, civil engineering, and site permitting for this 10 acre industrial park were included services.

When completed, AECC will be comprised of 17 buildings ranging in size from 3,000 to 14,950 SF. Each building has been subdivided into units ranging from 875 SF to 2,500 SF. This allows the owners to sell or lease portions of the individual building in accordance with the predetermined unit designations. There are eight building pads remaining. ACEE is conveniently located off US Hwy 441 in North Apopka, 1 mile from exit 34 off the 429. Interested parties please contact christopher.pixley@gmail.com with Fusilier Realty Group.

Voodoo Doughnut

or this 2,418-square-foot project, JK2 Construction completed everything from demolition of interior components, exterior walls and storefront to constructing a fully operational kitchen. JK2 Construction was charged with building a chef’s office, viewing kitchen, a display line and POS stations, both fixed and mobile. The construction company also added a new lighting and dimming package, A/C distribution, automatic opening entry doors and elevator access to the restaurant. In addition, JK2 Construction added flooring, storefront windows, architectural aluminum finish, built-in banquettes, custom seating and multiple specialty finishes.

After JK2 Construction completed the interior build-out, JK2 Scenic added the “wow factor” with the final touches that brought the signature style of Voodoo Doughnut to life. JK2 Scenic fabricated decorative props, the POS service station and display line, custom display shelves, and the famous rotating doughnut cabinet, which showcases the crazy-flavored doughnuts in the center of the sales floor.  All of the eclectic art and show pieces, bringing the creatively weird and edgy space to life, were coordinated, purchased and installed by the JK2 Scenic team.

“I’m proud that both JK2 Construction and JK2 Scenic have been able to work on the Voodoo Doughnut shop at Universal’s CityWalk in Orlando,” said Paul Holmes, JK2 Construction president and founder. “Together, we’ve created something iconic that is both a complement to the other outstanding venues at CityWalk and a showpiece visitors will enjoy for years to come.”

Both companies were able to overcome the logistical challenges of working inside a small retail footprint within a high-traffic tourist destination, completing the project in the allotted time frame.  JK2 collaborated with Universal Creative and the interior designer to ensure the look and feel of the space was delivered with perfection.

The Canyons at Highland Ranch

JK2 Construction, a leader in the Central Florida construction industry, recently completed work on a luxury amenity center in the booming city of Clermont.

The amenity center is part of Taylor Morrison’s Canyons at Highland Ranch development. The project features a cabana, pool, splash pad and dog parks. In addition to these amenities, JK2 Construction also created volleyball, basketball and tennis courts for residents.

The amenity center JK2 Construction built offers something for all residents, whether they want to relax and unwind with family and pets or get active on the court.

This is the first project JK2 Construction has completed with Taylor Morrison. Thanks to its success, the two companies have continued their partnership, with multiple projects already in the works.

“Taylor Morrison is known for building homes tailored to the needs of residents,” said Paul Holmes, JK2 Construction’s president and founder. “Our efficient, quality building approach allowed us to produce a luxurious amenity center quickly and affordably while they focus on constructing homes their clients will love. We look forward to growing this partnership.”

CASE STUDY:

Hello Kitty / Betty Boop Store

Scope:

Interior and exterior demolition of the “I Love Lucy Store and Museum”.  All Lucy memorabilia had to be carefully removed and prepared for shipping prior to the demolition, overseen by the Arnaz Family.  Once complete the store interior was removed back to the structure, and the exterior windows, doors, and partial façade removed and prepared for new materials.  The store was themed in three different finishes and merchandise for 1) Hello Kitty, 2) Universal Studios Store, and 3) Betty Boop.  Exterior work was performed to change the finishes and window displays of the entire structure prior to painting and adding canopies. 

Challenges:

All new mechanical and electrical systems were added to the existing HVAC and electrical equipment, requiring cleaning and updating.  Floor prep and leveling had to be completed prior to laying the laser cut specialty flooring (each laser-cut tile was numbered from the factory prior to shipping) so that the specified pattern could be duplicated.  Work hours and deliveries were performed after park closing because the building sits in the middle of the park.

Wet and Wild Demo

JK2 Construction was contracted for the complete demolition of all existing structures, imported  new fill material, rerouted underground utilities, and recycled removed concrete

Summerlake Clubhouse & Pool

General Contractor for the construction of the 5,000 Square Foot Clubhouse, and Pool in the Summerlake Community in Windermere, Florida.

CASE STUDY:

Emerson Park North Amenity

Scope:

Design-build of cabana pool house with restrooms and large covered area for guests, an 800 square foot pool, playground and mailbox kiosk.

Challenges:

Timeline

Lakeshore Community Center

The Lakeshore Community Center consists of a 5,416-square foot building situated on 3.4 acres. Key features of the center include a clubhouse with a fitness center and meeting room, pool, mail kiosk, dog park, half basketball court, picnic area and tot lot.

JK2 teamed up with Winter Park’s PVK Architects on the design-build project, which is the latest in a string of projects with premier home builder Pulte Homes.

“This is our third community center for Pulte,” JK2 President Paul Holmes said. “Our expertise in the design-build approach of quality amenity centers allows Pulte to focus on revenue-generating home construction.’’

Lakeshore at Narcoossee is a gated, lakefront community with access to Fells Cove and East Lake Toho. The community offers three series of home designs, starting in the low $200s. The community will consist of 208 townhomes and 208 single-family homes.

The ongoing collaboration between JK2 Construction and Pulte Homes has resulted in clubhouses at Royal Estates of Orlando and Lakeview Pointe in Winter Garden. JK2 has previously completed similar residential community projects for Starwood Land Ventures, Winter Garden’s Orchard Hills Community, Summerlake Community in Windermere and Hickory Hammock Community.

Lombard Street Renovations – Universal CityWalk

Renovation of the existing hardscape walkway and planters – including concrete coloring, new finishes, railings, and planter modifications.

Universal City Market Exterior – Façade and Signage

General Contractor for the Exterior balcony completion, elevator renovation, and sign support at the existing building shell.

Universal Store – Universal Studios

Design / Build project for the Expansion & Remodel of the existing store including flooring ceilings, wall bays and cash wrap. The store stayed in full operation during the demolition and build out.

HoneyDukes™ – Universal Studios

Negotiated Design/Build project and Pre-construction services for a heavily themed venue. The expansion of the Candy store included new displays, cabinetry, and themed finishes. Store remained open during entire expansion and remodel. Additional support and construction services provided for the installation of props and animatronics.

Blue Man Group™ – Universal Orlando

General Contractor for the build-out within an existing sound stage including the Stage and Auditorium Seating, Bathrooms, Offices, Shops, and Snack bar. Later built the VIP seating and welcome area.

Hickory Hammock Community

JK2 Construction completed work on Hickory Hammock Community in Winter Garden.

Orchard Hills

Harmony Recreation Center

The Harmony Recreation Center will include a 6,240 square foot building containing a fitness center, recreation room, community room, kitchen, men and women’s restrooms, breezeway, conversation porch and ramada with outdoor fireplace situated on a 2.43 acre lot.

The center amenities will include a resort style zero entry pool, spacious sun deck, gazebo, and two tennis courts.

JK2 Construction has been providing amenity packages for residential community developers for more than 25 years.

“JK2 has really developed a niche by building outstanding recreation and community centers for all types of developments,” said Paul Holmes, President. “Our expertise in amenity construction allows the quality home builders in the growing Harmony community to focus on what they do best.”

Universal City Market – Moe’s™

General Contractor for Food Court at CityWalk – Three Story Build Out of vacant space which included a central food court area, new entry and exterior glass balcony. Three national restaurant chains – Moe’s, Panda, and the brand new Whopper Bar by Burger King. Included full service kitchens, hoods, Prep and serving areas with coolers, freezers and storage facilities on the third level. Entire project build-out was above existing ground floor venues

Simpson’s™ Games – Design/Build

Design/Build General Contractor for the renovation of existing hardscape area, which included heavy civil engineering to work with existing drainage and grading but allowing for ADA access to the new game structures, and construction of the new façade to fit prefinished graphic wraps.

Photo Op – Shrek™

Design/Build General Contractor for the Interior & Exterior Renovation of an existing space which included a new Photo Op Area, Guest Interaction and Actors Performance area, new themed roofing, and scenic elements.

Universal City Market – Burger King™

General Contractor for Food Court at CityWalk – Three Story Build Out of vacant space which included a central food court area, new entry and exterior glass balcony. Three national restaurant chains – Moe’s, Panda, and the brand new Whopper Bar by Burger King. Included full service kitchens, hoods, Prep and serving areas with coolers, freezers and storage facilities on the third level. Entire project build-out was above existing ground floor venues.

Starbucks Islands of Adventure™

General Contractor for total interior and partial exterior demolition of existing Ice Cream Shop renovated to create the new Starbucks IOA Venue. All new MEP, Kitchen Hoods, custom Storefront exterior, and Re-Themed the exterior. All demolition and construction completed while the venue sharing the space stayed open.

Mummy Retail Store – Universal Studios

General Contractor for the interior Remodel of the retail store and photo area, including custom wall bays and extensive hieroglyphic theming.

Jurassic Park GamesTM – Design/Build

Design/Build General Contractor for the renovation of existing hardscape area, which included heavy civil engineering to work with existing drainage and grading but allowing for ADA access to the new game structures.

Sheraton Vistana Villages Resort

Mel’s Drive-In Renovation

General Contractor for total Renovation of Existing kitchen mechanical systems and interior renovation of dining area.

Universal City Market – Panda™

General Contractor for Food Court at CityWalk – Three Story Build Out of vacant space which included a central food court area, new entry and exterior glass balcony. Three national restaurant chains – Moe’s, Panda, and the brand new Whopper Bar by Burger King. Included full service kitchens, hoods, Prep and serving areas with coolers, freezers and storage facilities on the third level. Entire project build-out was above existing ground floor venues.

Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville – 12V Bar & Airport™

General contracting services on multiple outdoor deck and covered canopy expansions. Built new kitchen and bar to handle outdoor seating expansions. Built the Lone Palm Bar which included Jimmy Buffets Airplane. Built the island themed 12 Volt Bar and exterior deck.

Scope of Work:

Tower 1 – Renovation of the existing, occupied, 18-floor tower, while the floors above and below were occupied with guests. Noise and work hours were restricted so the guests’ experience was not affected, and the floor under construction was kept under negative pressure to contain all dust and debris.

Tower 2 – Demolition of all interior improvements to concrete structure. Provide new mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems for all 18 floors. Provide new penetrations in the existing post tension slab for the new MEP layout. Build out of all new rooms and common areas for the tower.

CASE STUDY: 

Universal Archway & Hardscape

Scope:

Demolition of existing arch and globe construct a new and iconic entrance for Universal Studios Florida. This included the massive Universal globe, 65′ archway, the waterway hardscape between the two parks, as well as hotel access walkway connected to Universal Studios. 

Challenges:

The main ticket office and guest travel path was just outside the jobsite fence without disruption to the guest experience. Logistics were challenging as access was shared through our jobsite with several other contractors. New mechanical, electrical and plumbing were added. Multiple situations required the expertise of our team; aerial delivery by helicopter to place specialized xenon lights on the top of the arch; unique engineering installed to create the misting surrounding the globe; custom-made, sand-cast, decorative railing procured and installed for over 1000 FT from the Universal Studios bridge to the Islands of Adventure bridge.