Portland Food Co-Op

WCG Team

Project Specs

year completed

2014

Gross floor area

5,000 sq ft

Partners

Kaplan Thompson Architects
Structural Integrity
Spark Applied Efficiency
Peerless Painting
Cumberland County Glass
C. Caprara Food Service Equipment

Warren Construction Group partnered with Portland Food Co-op and Kaplan Thompson Architects to create a community-focused grocery store that reflects the organization’s commitment to sustainability, local food systems, and cooperative values. The project transformed a former commercial space into a vibrant retail environment designed to serve members, shoppers, and local producers alike. “The Portland Food Co-op began with just a few passionate people. To see the Co-op expand enough to be able to move into a space like the one we built on Congress Street was really special,” says Co-op board member Rachelle Apse.

The build-out included extensive interior renovations, custom millwork, energy-efficient building systems, and thoughtfully crafted retail spaces that enhance the customer experience while supporting daily operations. Special attention was given to sustainable construction practices and the incorporation of durable, high-quality materials that align with the Co-op’s environmental mission. Warren Construction Group built everything from the light fixtures, which use long wide pine boards and energy efficient lighting, to a system that uses heat from the refrigeration equipment to heat the space. As Peter Warren proudly puts it, “We did a lot with a little.”

Through close collaboration with the ownership team and design professionals, the project delivered a welcoming and functional grocery store that has become a valued resource within the Portland, Maine community. The completed facility showcases Warren Construction Group’s expertise in retail construction, sustainable building, and creating spaces that strengthen local communities.

Project Photos: Irvin Serrano