From Daycare to Dough: Shawnee Construction Transforms Space into a Brand-New Papa Johns

Every great building has a story—and this one starts in a place you might not expect.

What was once a neighborhood daycare center has officially been given new life as a fully functioning Papa Johns restaurant, thanks to the craftsmanship and expertise of Shawnee Construction. In a recent walkthrough video, a Shawnee Construction team member gave viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the completed renovation and highlighted the thoughtful details that turned an empty space into a high-performance pizza operation.

Built for Function, Designed for Efficiency

Converting a daycare into a commercial kitchen isn’t a simple makeover—it requires careful planning, precise construction, and attention to operational flow. Shawnee Construction reimagined the entire interior to support Papa Johns daily needs.

In the back of the facility, the team installed custom racking and storage to organize supplies and ingredients. Dedicated food prep areas and commercial sinks were added to ensure a smooth workflow and proper sanitation for employees.

One of the standout features is the brand-new, 200-square-foot walk-in cooler, built and assembled on-site. This large refrigerated space keeps dough, cheeses, meats, and vegetables fresh and ready for use throughout the day—an essential component of any busy pizza restaurant.

Just outside the cooler sits a refrigerated make line, where pizzas are carefully assembled before heading to the oven. This setup keeps ingredients chilled and accessible, helping staff work quickly and efficiently during peak hours.

State-of-the-Art Equipment

At the heart of the operation is a newly installed XLT series oven—top-of-the-line equipment designed for speed, consistency, and quality. Shawnee Construction also ensured the space meets modern safety standards by installing a full fire suppression system, giving the owners peace of mind and the restaurant the protection it needs.

A Fresh, Inviting Customer Experience

While the back of the house is all about performance, the front of the restaurant was designed with style and customer experience in mind.

The front counter features clean, classic subway tile, paired with a beautifully designed back wall. Reclaimed wood accents bring warmth and character to the space, while a bold, backlit sign proudly displays Papa Johns iconic slogan: “Better ingredients. Better pizza.”

A crisp board-and-batten wall ties the entire look together, creating a welcoming environment that feels modern, polished, and true to the brand.

Another Successful Transformation

This project is a perfect example of Shawnee Construction’s ability to transform existing spaces into something entirely new. From structural changes to finishing touches, the team delivered a renovation that blends function, safety, and visual appeal.

What started as a former daycare center is now a vibrant Papa Johns location ready to serve its community for years to come.

If you have a space in need of transformation, big or small, Shawnee Construction has the experience and vision to bring it to life. Let's build together - get a free quote today!