Kelly Construction & Design completed the renovation and buildout of Avli, a 6,920-square-foot restaurant project in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, delivering a high-performing commercial kitchen and dining environment while navigating complex existing conditions and fast-paced construction challenges typical of hospitality projects.
Designed by Vavra Design, LLC, the project required extensive demolition, MEP upgrades, and interior buildout to support a modern restaurant operation. From the outset, the project demanded careful planning and sequencing due to the presence of heavy existing equipment and concealed building systems that needed to be safely removed or modified before new work could proceed.
One of the most significant demolition challenges involved the removal of a large stone pizza oven located on the main floor. The oven was supported by structural steel framing, requiring specialized demolition methods and coordination to safely dismantle and remove the unit without damaging surrounding structural components. KCD managed this work with strict attention to jobsite safety, structural integrity, and debris handling logistics to keep the renovation progressing efficiently.
In the lower-level food preparation area, the construction scope required cutting and removal of portions of the existing concrete slab to install new plumbing infrastructure. This phase revealed an additional challenge: hydronic heating lines embedded within the concrete floor. Because these circuits were not immediately traceable, KCD had to investigate and locate the active feeds serving the area, then properly terminate and isolate the system prior to new concrete placement. This step was critical to avoid damaging active heating circuits and to ensure the new slab could be poured safely and correctly.
Once underground plumbing modifications were completed and hydronic circuits were addressed, KCD coordinated the replacement of the concrete floor and continued buildout work to support the updated kitchen layout. Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing scopes were carefully coordinated to support restaurant operations, including kitchen equipment, prep areas, and back-of-house workflow.
Another key project challenge involved the main kitchen hood system. During inspections, it was determined that the existing hood did not have a visible UL label, creating a potential barrier to occupancy approval. Kelly Construction & Design worked directly with the project team and inspectors to address the issue, ultimately coordinating with the health inspector to secure approval and keep the project moving toward successful turnover.
Throughout construction, KCD maintained close coordination between trades, inspectors, and the design team to manage schedule impacts while resolving unforeseen field conditions. Restaurant renovations often require flexibility and rapid problem-solving, and this project was a strong example of KCD’s ability to adapt while maintaining quality and compliance.
The completed Avli restaurant space reflects Kelly Construction & Design’s expertise in hospitality and restaurant construction, including complex demolition, slab and plumbing modifications, mechanical coordination, and regulatory approval support. By proactively addressing structural, MEP, and inspection challenges, KCD delivered a finished environment built for performance, safety, and long-term operation.
