Members’ Texas-Sized Generosity Helps Rebuild Local HBA Office

The strength of an association lies in its culture of membership. For example, when an unexpected crisis hit the Dallas Builders Association headquarters located in Plano, Texas, last year, more than 100 members stepped up to contribute to rebuilding the association's home. 

In February 2021, a severe winter storm hit Texas, leading to several days of below-freezing temperatures and power outages. The Dallas BA sustained catastrophic damage during the storm when a burst pipe collapsed a ceiling in the office, effectively displacing the eight-person staff.

“A silver lining is that the damage and disruption created an opportunity to modernize the building and make it a truly outstanding place for association members and staff,” said Dallas BA Executive Officer Phil Crone. 

The BA spent several months working with its insurance company leading up to the rebuilding efforts. Dallas BA Past President Michael Turner of Classic Urban Homes immediately stepped up to serve as general contractor and chairman of the rebuilding task force.

According to Crone, Turner's expertise, attention to detail, and passion for the residential construction industry made him an exceptional leader for the effort. "Michael Turner went far beyond the call of duty, spending countless hours to see the project to completion." 

The task force created a strategic Rebuilding Better Together fundraising campaign to rebuild the Dallas BA headquarters, and the initiative was a success. More than 100 Dallas BA members generously provided funds, materials, and labor needed for items that fell outside the insurance claim. NAHB also donated to the rebuilding efforts and recognized the campaign with an Association Excellence Award.

The 8,500-sq.-ft. office space officially reopened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 24.

New features in the building include: 

• Foam encapsulation in the attic and other energy efficiency upgrades reduced the number of HVAC units, which will lower operating costs and increase indoor air quality.
• A state-of-the-art audio/video system optimized for hybrid meetings and an enhanced experience for the association's educational classes.
• Modernized design with white painted brick on the outside and a clean, comfortable interior.
• Upgraded staff cubicles into modern enclosed offices with LED lighting.
• An upgraded kitchen showcasing the newest appliances, a large island, and custom cabinetry.
• Installation of a backup generator to better protect against future winter storms.
• A reimagined outdoor patio that is a stunning extension of the building’s other gathering spaces. 

The BA recently held its first in-person board meeting in the office space and is resuming its educational sessions and other member events.