Henry Tracz III and the BETCO team partnered with Middletown Self-Storage for a planned self‑storage development in Middletown, Rhode Island. The goal was simple yet ambitious: create a four‑story, ground‑up storage facility that didn’t just meet capacity needs—but redefined what a self‑storage building could look like.
Over the course of nearly two years, this vision took shape through careful planning, collaborative design, and complex construction execution. The result is aself-storage facility that stands out as one of the most architecturally distinct storage projects in the region.
Objectives
Middletown Self-Storage wanted more than a standard four‑sided structure. Their goals included:
- A high‑end look and feel is more aligned with multi‑family developments
- An efficient and profitable unit mix
- A facility that would visually elevate the surrounding area
- A trusted partner capable of handling a nontraditional, complex design
BETCO worked closely with Middletown Self-Storage from concept through completion to bring these priorities to life.
Timeline
Challenges
This project was anything but cookie‑cutter. Unlike traditional self‑storage buildings, which typically resemble a simple rectangular box, this facility incorporated:
- Architectural peaks and valleys
- Bump‑outs and structural articulation
- Multi‑family–style exterior features
- Complex visual elements requiring precise engineering coordination
These design elements created challenges in planning, materials, and execution. Our team worked proactively across disciplines to ensure the design intent was preserved without compromising constructability or cost efficiency.
The BETCO Approach
To handle the unique demands of this build, the team prioritized:
1. Early and Frequent Collaboration
Consistent communication throughout design ensured the aesthetic goals were met while maintaining a viable, code‑compliant, and functional structure.
2. Integrated Design & Construction Planning
The complex exterior required tight coordination between architectural, structural, and MEP partners.
3. On‑Site Adaptability
As the design evolved from typical storage norms, our crews adapted installation methods and sequencing to match the building’s unusual geometry.
The Final Outcome
The completed facility is a four-story self-storage building that blends high-end design with functional performance. It offers a premium customer experience while giving Middletown Self-Storage a visually striking asset that differentiates it in the Rhode Island market.
The finished product is—quite simply—beautiful, distinctive, and unlike traditional storage developments.
Customer Experience & Satisfaction
This was Middletown Self-Storage's second facility built with us, reflecting their trust and confidence in our team. Although minor bumps occurred along the way—as with any large‑scale construction project—they were ultimately very pleased with the final result. Their continued partnership speaks volumes about the project’s success.
