IWP: 2025 Residential Project of the Year Finalist
Stabilizing a Historic Victorian Home in Manhattan, Kansas
Located in the heart of Manhattan, Kansas, 207 N 14th Street sits just north of downtown and Kansas State University, surrounded by historic homes dating back to the early 1900s. This partially renovated Victorian-style home is being transformed into an Airbnb, blending modern upgrades with historic charm. While the upper floors and garage were fully modernized for guest use, the basement level remained unfinished—and presented significant structural challenges that required a carefully engineered foundation solution.
This complex project, completed by IWP, is now recognized as a Project of the Year finalist, showcasing expert planning, adaptability, and precision foundation stabilization using ECP products.
Unique Foundation Challenges in a Historic Structure
Like many older Victorian homes, this property featured a nonstandard foundation system, a common characteristic of early 20th-century construction. These systems often lack uniformity and require customized stabilization approaches rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.
Given the home’s age, layout, and partial renovation status, preserving the integrity of recent upgrades while reinforcing the foundation was critical. The goal was not only to stabilize the structure but to ensure long-term performance and protection of the homeowner’s investment.
Scope of Work: Comprehensive Foundation Support
To provide full structural stabilization, IWP installed foundation support on all sides of the home, ensuring even load distribution and long-term reliability. The scope of work included:
- 34 push piers (3-1/2”)
- 16 push piers (3”)
- 9 concentric piers
This combination of pier systems allowed the team to address varying load requirements and foundation conditions throughout the structure.
Physical and Logistical Challenges on Site
This project presented several obstacles typical of historic residential properties—compounded by the home’s urban location.
Tight Access and Excavation Constraints
Limited excavation space around the perimeter made maneuvering equipment difficult, particularly near neighboring structures and property lines. Precision was required to safely install piers without disrupting adjacent areas.
Extensive Concrete Removal
Before pier installation could begin, large amounts of existing concrete had to be removed, including:
- Old sidewalks
- Steps
- Previous foundation patchwork
Unexpected Utility Complications
During excavation, the crew encountered a broken sewer line, which required immediate attention. Further inspection revealed deteriorating cast iron piping, necessitating the replacement of approximately 40 feet of sewer line before foundation work could proceed.
Managing Excavated Soil
The volume of soil removed during excavation added another logistical challenge, requiring careful site management to maintain safe, organized working conditions throughout the project.
- A third-party contractor was brought in to remove and later replace concrete, ensuring the property was fully restored after pier installation.
- Excavated soil was strategically redistributed around the property, reducing the need for excessive haul-off while keeping the site clean and manageable.
- Once the deteriorated sewer line was fully exposed, it was replaced with new piping, and pier placement in that area was adjusted accordingly to accommodate the updated utility system without compromising foundation support.
Additionally, the project benefited from Manhattan’s black silty soil, which proved more forgiving than expansive clay soils often encountered on similar projects. This allowed for smoother installation while maintaining precision and control.
Preserving History While Ensuring Long-Term Stability
Throughout the process, IWP worked carefully to integrate modern foundation solutions without disturbing the home’s historic character or newly completed renovations. The result is a stabilized foundation designed to support the home for decades to come—making it safe, reliable, and ready to welcome future Airbnb guests.
Project Team Recognition
This successful project was completed by the dedicated IWP installation team:
Shane Isham, Jario Gonzalez, Deven Kirkendoll, Aidan Alexander, Angel Maldonado, Lucas Isham, Colhyn Turner, Jose Rodriguez, and Javier Lira
Their expertise, adaptability, and attention to detail played a key role in navigating the challenges of this historic foundation repair.
A Project Worthy of Recognition
This Manhattan, Kansas foundation stabilization project exemplifies the level of craftsmanship, problem-solving, and technical expertise required for historic structures. As a Project of the Year finalist, it highlights how ECP foundation systems and experienced installers like IWP can deliver reliable, long-term solutions—even in the most challenging conditions.
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