Case Study
Transforming Walter French Junior High into Affordable Housing
Commercial | Mixed-Use
The Residences at Walter-French
Lansing, MI
76+1+1
Residential Units + Child Care Facility + Community Center
176,000
Total Sq. Ft.
Services Provided:
HVAC/Mechanical & Plumbing
Pinnacle Operating Company:
The Challenge
The historic Walter French Junior High in Lansing, Michigan, a landmark since 1925, was slated for a major transformation. With its centennial year approaching, the vision was to preserve the iconic structure while converting it into a modern apartment complex. The project focused on creating affordable housing for lower-income families and residents, alongside new childcare and office spaces. The challenge was twofold: integrate state-of-the-art plumbing and HVAC systems into a century-old building while ensuring the new amenities supported both comfort and efficiency for future residents.
The Solution
Parker-Arntz Plumbing & Heating partnered with a large local contractor to provide a full range of mechanical solutions across the entire complex:
- HVAC Installation: Large rooftop units were carefully placed and integrated to deliver efficient climate control throughout the apartments, childcare center, and office spaces.
- Plumbing Systems: Complete plumbing installation including natural gas lines, sinks, toilets, water heaters, drains, and piping to support residential and community use.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Every detail, from individual apartments to the childcare center, was designed with reliability, safety, and long-term sustainability in mind.
The Result
The Walter French Apartments building now stands as a vibrant community hub, offering:
- Modern Affordable Housing: Beautifully renovated apartments tailored for lower-income families and residents.
- Community Amenities: A new childcare center and office area supporting families and local services.
- Historic Preservation: A 100-year-old building brought back to life, blending history with modern functionality.
The Impact
This project was more than a renovation, it was an opportunity to provide families with safe, affordable, and beautiful living spaces while preserving an important piece of Lansing’s history. Parker-Arntz Plumbing & Heating is proud to have played a role in delivering comfort, functionality, and hope to a community that deserves it.
HVAC/Mechanical
Plumbing
Why Go with Pinnacle?
Safety & Compliance
All work performed to meet code requirements and industry standards.
Full-Service Expertise
One trusted partner for HVAC, plumbing, electrical and piping.
Built for Commercial Needs
Specialized experience in large-scale construction and building operations.
Efficiency & Reliability
Systems designed to maximize performance and reduce downtime.
Lifecycle Support
From project design to long-term maintenance, we’re with you every step of the way.
Find Your Local Pinnacle Team
Pinnacle operating compaines provide complete mechanical services.
Find Your Local Pinnacle Team
Pinnacle operating compaines provide complete mechanical services.