PROGRESS: Bekins building transforming into loft-style apartments

While driving through Sioux City on a visit, he caught a glimpse of the former Bekins warehouse building near the city's Wesley Way entrance and envisioned what it would be like as an apartment complex.

"I just thought that building had a lot of potential," he said. "It's close to the interstate and you can get around town pretty easily from there."

Now, the building is Stencil's first Sioux City project. Over the past year, his construction company has been working with Sioux City-based M+ Architects to transform the 112-year-old structure at Wesley Way and West Fourth Street into 70 loft-style apartments.

Renters could arrive as early as this spring. Rent is expected to range between $700 and $750 per month.  

The Bekins building dates back to 1906 and was touted as the first in Sioux City constructed with reinforced concrete. The building for years was owned by Bekins Moving and Storage Co., a moving, storage and furniture operation started by brothers John and Martin Bekins in 1891 in Sioux City.

Stencil, whose company works throughout the region, said the building was in good shape structurally. He pointed to several successful projects in Sioux Falls that have converted older buildings into loft-style apartments as his inspiration. 

Stencil's crews tore down a one-story addition at the front of the property to turn it into a lawn and have been completely renovating the interior, although some areas will keep exposed brickwork. Crews have also cut out new windows from the masonry walls. 

The finished apartments will have Energy Star appliances, and residents will also have access to an exercise facility and a game room with a fireplace.

City staff say the project has been about a $6.5 million investment and will create about $4.2 million in new assessed valuation for the city. 

"We've worked on the project quite extensively," said city economic development director Marty Dougherty.

Dougherty said housing like what Stencil's project will provide is important for the future growth of downtown. Several other projects, such as Ho-Chunk Inc.'s Virginia Square and renovations at the former Hatch Furniture Building and Commerce Building, are also bringing rental housing to downtown Sioux City.