Case Studies

Forest Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Forest Pharmaceuticals

Construction start:  May 2002
Occupancy:  December 2002


Awards:  Best Project Design-Build Award for an Expansion Under $5 Million was awarded by The Ohio Valley Chapter of the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA).


Customer Overview:  Forest Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a world class manufacturer of pharmaceutical drugs. Their manufacturing and distribution facility located in Cincinnati is a major location for the fast growing company, headquartered in St. Louis. The facility operates under stringent conditions, as mandated by the US Food and Drug Administration.


Situation:  In 2001, the company recognized the need to add on to its facility to create additional meeting and training space, and add amenities to improve the working environment and image of its lobby and entrance.

The 12,200 square foot expansion and renovation presented many challenges. To address these complexities, the client chose Unit Building Services and the design-build method. Some of the challenges faced included:


  • The need to duplicate the look and feel of the Forest Pharmaceutical corporate headquarters in St. Louis.
  • The need to expand the existing facility rather than build a new facility, because federal regulations in this industry are complex with no guarantee of approval.
  • The need for the business to be fully operational during the renovation.
  • Limited space on the site on which to expand.

Solution:  Unit helped the client build a 12,200 square foot addition to adjoin the original facility and upgrade the lobby and building entrance. Some of the highlights of the successful solution included:


  • Unit worked directly with an on-site Forest Pharmaceuticals manager in charge of the renovation.
  • Weekly update meetings were held to work through challenges and keep the project on track.
  • To prevent any shut-down time, dust and other building byproducts were kept out of the facility and regulated clean rooms.
  • The lunch room roof was raised and skylights added to create an improved atmosphere for employees.
  • Due to limited site space, a deeper foundation accommodated the training facility.
  • Dramatic improvements were made to the lobby including a custom-made glass staircase handrail, wood cabinets, paneling, and stainless steel laser cut signage.

Outcome:  This project demonstrates how a design-build team can work with the client to resolve problems, and keep a project on schedule and within budget. The renovation and addition exceeded the customer’s expectations. The project also won a DBIA Design Award for Best Project for an Expansion Under $5 Million.