The showroom at WIN Warehouse is like no other. It gives nonprofit members direct access to appliances, cleaning products, workwear, boots, and more. The layout is open and easy to navigate, offering a hands-on way to browse the inventory that supports the work nonprofits do in the community.
Whether you’re stocking up on everyday essentials or hoping to discover a rare find, the showroom offers a practical, engaging experience that reflects WIN’s commitment to helping nonprofits do more with the budget they have.
A Historic Building With New Purpose
WIN first opened its doors in 1992 in the basement of the National Vendors Building #4 at 5100 San Francisco Avenue in St. Louis, Missouri. The retail space had no windows, and the offices were tucked into abandoned walk-in coolers. As the business grew, they expanded into the warehouse and ultimately purchased the entire building in 2010.
This came with the responsibility of becoming the caretaker of the sprawling 1930s building, which was quickly deteriorating. The roof over the office needed replacement, and water had damaged the foundation. WIN dedicated substantial resources to repair the roof and foundation, and even expanded the fire suppression system to protect the entire building.
Renovating the Building With SPACE
To complete the renovation, WIN hired SPACE, an architect-owned and architect-led design-build company in St. Louis. SPACE provided WIN with a complete turnkey package that included architecture, interior design, construction management, and custom fabrication services. This also allowed their design and construction teams to work as one to elicit the most value from the budget.
SPACE helped WIN create a cohesive, branded experience for guests and staff, both inside and outside the building. Construction began in September 2018, and the grand opening took place in March 2019.
Identifying the Entrance and Designing the Exterior
Since the building spans an entire city block, visitors often had trouble locating the entrance. The solution was repurposing an abandoned loading dock and dumpster location, roughly halfway down the length of the building.
Glass, steel cladding, and painted metal panels work well with the existing building. A series of steel fins to one side of the entryway creates a veil across the existing brick facade, historic art deco windows, and new windows. This thoughtful detail is brought inside, influencing the handrails, millwork, furniture, and fixture design.
Opening Up the Interior for Light, Flow, and Function
Inside, the design team used the building’s existing masonry openings and concrete frame to create wide passages after enclosing the former dock. The entry is bright and welcoming, like WIN’s optimistic spirit.
Offices were moved from the dimly lit basement. Large expanses of glass throughout foster transparency between departments, making it easier to welcome members, carry out daily operations, and maintain clear sightlines into the entry, retail area, and warehouse.
Clear sightlines enhance the customer experience as well, allowing them to see from the airy retail area into the warehouse. They can view the flurry of activity and browse the inventory with ease.
Deals of the Week Allow Members to Save More
WIN Warehouse allows nonprofit organizations to shop smart and save big! Each week, WIN curates a selection of discounted products as part of its Deals of the Week Program. These limited-time offers give nonprofit members the opportunity to stretch their budgets even further.
Come to WIN Warehouse and See What’s In Store
Our showroom at WIN Warehouse is open Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm.
We definitely have regulars that come in! For instance, DOORWAYS and Wayman African Methodist Episcopal Church stop by to acquire cleaning supplies. Fathers & Families Support Center and clients of the Criminal Justice Ministry come in to pick up work clothes.
Walk-ins are welcome, so come see the space for yourself! Explore 150,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space, check out the latest Deals of the Week, and see how our nonprofit can support yours. We’ll have some coffee ready for you.