Helix Architecture + Design Begins Work to Reimagine Historic International Shoe Factory
Helix Architecture + Design, a nationally recognized architecture and interior design firm, is leading the transformation of the historic International Shoe Factory building, located in the Capital Avenue corridor in Jefferson City, Missouri.
Leadership from State of Missouri’s Department of Natural Resources (MoDNR) last year proposed to revitalize the International Shoe Factory building, creating a permanent headquarters for Missouri State Parks and a home for several other MoDNR programs. The move will consolidate MoDNR office space across the city and create a more efficient workplace environment.
“Helix is excited to be the design partner for this project, and the opportunity to highlight the important work of the Department of Natural Resources, from environmental stewardship to historic preservation.”
— Alissa Wehmueller, Helix Principal and Director of Interior Design
“This is an ideal project that checks all of the boxes: it’s a beautiful historic building that will become a supportive, contemporary workplace and catalyze future development in the area,” said Helix Principal and Director of Interior Design Alissa Wehmueller, IIDA, LEED AP, WELL AP. “Helix is excited to be the design partner for this project, and the opportunity to highlight the important work of the Department of Natural Resources, from environmental stewardship to historic preservation.”
The International Shoe Factory building is iconic to both local residents and the state; it was listed as a local landmark in 1995 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2021. Many residents in the area have stories of generations of family members working in the Shoe Factory, and the community has passionately advocated for its reuse.
“The revitalization of the International Shoe Factory is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to combine our commitment to stewardship, efficiency, and community,” said MoDNR Deputy Director Jake Buxton. “It reflects our values as an agency and as Missourians. By bringing together multiple programs under one roof in a place that means so much to Jefferson City, we’re breathing new life into the Capital Avenue corridor. Thanks to the collaboration with Helix and our project partners, we’re honoring the past while building a stronger future for the Missourians we serve.”
Leveraging its expertise with historic structures, Helix completed field verification and existing building analysis as a critical first step in the design process. Helix has also met with key user groups from each program to understand what kinds of space, tools, and amenities they want in their new office. Concurrent with the building analysis, Helix and its consultant partners will complete a master plan of the area, devising cohesive solutions for the Shoe Factory, enhanced parking, and other development projects underway.
“The revitalization of the International Shoe Factory is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to combine our commitment to stewardship, efficiency, and community. It reflects our values as an agency and as Missourians.”
– Jake Buxton, MoDNR Deputy Director
Additional project partners include:
- Confluence – Master Planning and Landscape Architecture
- IMEG – MEP Engineer
- STAND – Structural Engineer
- Taliaferro & Browne – Civil Engineer
- United Spinal Association – Accessibility Consultant
- FSC, Inc. – Code Consultant
- Construction Management Resources (CMR) – Cost Estimating
- Terracon – GeoTech Engineer
- CMPS – Surveyor
- SCI – Hazardous Materials Consultant