The challenge of this project was to restore the historic character of the building while upgrading the mechanical systems, allowing handicapped accessibility and integrating a modern, yet sympathetic, addition.

Based upon extensive historical research, the historic building was restored to its original character by preserving existing elements where possible and reconstructing new elements when necessary. Restoration included extensive masonry work, original plaster reconstruction based on the original mold profiles, and repair to the ornate wood and stamped metal frieze and cornice bracket. A wrought iron fence surrounding the light well was fabricated to match the originals. Street level windows were refurbished and upper level windows were replaced with modern, energy efficient, historically accurate designs. Ductwork from rooftop HVAC units and required sprinkler plumbing weave unobtrusively through the building from the top down. The addition is separated from the historic building visually and spatially by an alleyway topped with circulation.