Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing is proud to announce that the Turkey Bend Warehouse restoration project has been recognized by the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) through its Excellence in Construction (EIC) awards program.
Located along Buffalo Bayou in Houston's historic East End, the Turkey Bend Warehouse project transformed a long-abandoned industrial facility into a vibrant community destination while preserving its rich history and architectural character. Originally developed in 1938 as a barge terminal, the site played a significant role in Houston's transportation and industrial development before falling into disuse for decades. Working alongside Buffalo Bayou Partnership, NADAAA, Walter P. Moore, and Tellepsen, Chamberlin helped bring new life to this landmark through a comprehensive roofing and waterproofing restoration effort valued at more than $3 million.
The Excellence in Construction awards recognize outstanding construction projects that demonstrate exceptional quality, innovation, safety, and craftsmanship. The Turkey Bend Warehouse project exemplified these qualities through the careful integration of modern building envelope systems within a nearly century-old structure. Chamberlin's scope included purlin repair and replacement, metal deck installation, salvaged wood deck reinstallation, TPO roofing, masonry restoration, structural concrete repairs, below-grade waterproofing, air barriers, insulation systems, grout injection, and sheet metal flashing.
One of the project's defining challenges involved preserving the building's historic industrial character while improving performance, durability, and safety for future public use. Chamberlin collaborated extensively during the design development process, helping create constructible and budget-conscious solutions that supported the owner's vision for adaptive reuse. The restored facility now serves as a unique waterfront venue for community gatherings, cultural events, markets, weddings, and festivals.
Throughout the construction, Chamberlin maintained a strong focus on quality control and safety. Due to the deteriorated condition of many building components , detailed structural evaluations were conducted before work began, Additional safety measures, including fall protection systems, controlled access zones, and ongoing site oversight, helped ensure worker safety while navigating complex restoration activities compromised structural elements. Comprehensive quality assurance procedures were also implemented across roofing, waterproofing, masonry, and building envelope operations.
The project also showcased Chamberlin's expertise in value engineering and innovative restoration solutions. Rather than replacing all existing roof decking, the team carefully evaluated and salvaged reusable wood decking to preserve the facility's historic appearance while reducing unnecessary material replacement. Additional solutions included helical anchors for masonry stabilization, fluid-applied air barriers for enhanced building envelope continuity, silicone elastomeric coatings for long-term weather protection, and specialized grout injection systems to address decades of water infiltration throughout the tunnel structure.
Restoring a structure that had endured decades of weather exposure, deterioration, and active water intrusion required extensive coordination among multiple trades and stakeholders. Chamberlin's integrated roofing and waterproofing approach streamlined communication and sequencing, helping the project team overcome complex challenges while maintaining schedule objectives and achieving the Owner's performance and preservation goals.
The recognition reflects Chamberlin's ongoing dedication to delivering exceptional roofing and waterproofing solutions on some of the region's most challenging and impactful projects.
For an in-depth look at how our team executed complex waterproofing and roofing solutions on this site, read our full Turkey Bend on Buffalo Bayou Case Study. The study details the technical challenges, material selection, and specialized craftsmanship that went into preserving the historic structure while bringing the modern venue to life.
For more information about Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing and our award-winning work, visit www.chamberlinltd.com.