Commercial Windows Transform Historic Chester Springs Eatery

For the transformation of the historic Vickers Tavern into the vibrant new White Dog Cafe, Pella partnered with D. Semerjian Builders and Stokes Architecture + Design to deliver high-performance fenestration solutions that preserve character while performing under pressure. The result: a 350-seat dining destination with seamless transitions between interior and exterior, and a nod to the building’s heritage at every corner.

Professionals in the field know that commercial renovation in a legacy structure is never plug-and-play. Every opening tells a story—and has a different depth, reveal or structural consideration. The White Dog project is a textbook case in balancing aesthetic goals, energy performance and installation logistics, especially when you're retrofitting modern solutions into uneven walls and mixed substrates.

For the main dining rooms and guest spaces, Pella Lifestyle Series double-hung windows were chosen for their ability to blend seamlessly into the historic envelope while delivering modern performance behind the scenes. These wood windows offer both design flexibility and thermal efficiency, making them a smart solution for high-occupancy commercial environments where comfort and light control are essential. The factory-applied white interior finish provided the crisp, clean look the design team envisioned, while the durable aluminum-clad exteriors offered the protection needed to withstand Pennsylvania’s seasonal changes. With multiple units installed across varied wall conditions and finish materials, the Lifestyle windows had to be—and were—reliable, adaptable and easy to work with on site.

To create a smooth transition between the dining room and patio, the team installed Pella Lifestyle Series hinged patio doors—a reliable, energy-efficient choice that fit the project’s architectural style and performance needs.

Sized to exact specifications, the doors integrated cleanly into existing wall conditions, with factory-applied finishes minimizing on-site work. Their solid construction supports frequent commercial use while maintaining tight seals for comfort and efficiency. Grilles were aligned with adjacent windows to ensure consistent sightlines across the façade.

For professionals working in adaptive reuse, this project shows how standard hinged doors can deliver custom-level performance when specified and installed with care.

As is often the case in adaptive reuse, not every wall was plumb and not every opening was standard. Installation required a coordinated approach between the Pella team, builder David Semerjian and the architects at Stokes Architecture + Design. Field measurements were carefully verified to accommodate varying wall depths and structural quirks. Sightline alignment across units was prioritized to preserve visual consistency—especially where bifold doors met flanking fixed windows. Customizations such as factory-applied jamb extensions and foldout fins helped streamline integration with a mix of interior and exterior finishes. These technical details made a big difference in keeping the project on schedule and avoiding delays due to field adjustments.

Today, the White Dog Cafe in Chester Springs feels as if it’s always belonged—an intentional blend of history, hospitality and thoughtful design. Every detail, from the muntin patterns to the color palette to the operation of the sashes and doors, contributes to a space that is not only beautiful but also durable and built for daily use. For tradespeople, this project is a reminder of what’s possible when product selection is paired with precise execution and proactive collaboration.

At its core, this wasn’t just a window and door package. It was a performance-driven solution that honored the soul of the space and helped deliver an experience that guests will return to again and again. For those working in commercial renovation, White Dog Cafe offers a compelling case for how craftsmanship, customization, and collaboration can come together to create something truly lasting.