Florida A&M University (FAMU) sought to modernize a three-building complex serving the College of Education, Psychology Department, and General Studies Department. Originally built in 1968 and last renovated in 1988, the complex faced numerous issues, including life safety, accessibility, security deficiencies, and outdated mechanical and electrical systems.
The renovation began with a comprehensive programming study to assess the needs of the affected departments. The redesign improved circulation patterns within the buildings, enhancing wayfinding and increasing natural light in previously dark public corridors.
Key updates included a complete renovation of classrooms, labs, conference rooms, offices, and meeting halls, as well as the remodeling and expansion of restrooms. The complex now features advanced videoconferencing rooms, computer labs, and smart classrooms designed for collaborative and technology-rich learning environments. Code deficiencies were addressed, and the building’s infrastructure was upgraded with new roofs, plumbing, air conditioning, and electrical systems.
PenAir Credit Union desired a striking design for a new branch in a high-visibility location to boost community awareness. The chosen site was an existing 19,000-square-foot, three-story building on Airport Road, previously a bank suffering from significant water intrusion issues.
To address these issues and align with PenAir’s branding, the building underwent extensive renovation. The project involved selective demolition to strip the structure down to its core, followed by the installation of a new curtain wall and storefront facade, roof, HVAC system, and upgraded restrooms. The outdated interiors were modernized with new offices and finishes.
The redesigned interior breaks away from traditional bank layouts, replacing glass partitions with open, hospitality-inspired lounge areas and furnishings to create a more welcoming and comfortable environment for customers.
In order to preserve one of America’s treasured pieces of art, housed in Atlanta’s Grant Park, a new building was designed for the “Battle of Atlanta” during the renovation of the Atlanta History Museum. The oil painting is one of the world’s largest works of art at 47’ x 358’ and weighing nearly nine tons. The design of a new museum to house the painting would allow it to be viewed in its entirety; the first time since 1922. The museum addition would feature a 360-degree viewing platform, rising 12 feet above the gallery floor, and offering guests the opportunity to view the 15,000-square-foot painting as people experienced it in the late 1800s.
Due to area zoning that mandated a three-story height limitation, the building was recessed below grade to accommodate the artwork. The new facility provided a state-of-the-art conditioned space to regulate both temperature and humidity, in order to prevent further deterioration to the painting. An added benefit was that the environment allowed for the installed painting to be restored over a 12-month period.
Another significant addition to the project was the introduction of The Texas, a coal-fired locomotive steam engine that was prominent in the story of the great train chase of the Civil War. Also transported from the Grant Park location, the design team wanted this aspect to be a strong visual element visible from the street.
Planning the removal, transportation, and ultimate re-installation of the piece of art to its new home spanned two years and a team of over 200 architects, contractors, historians, art conservators, and countless specialists.
Transforming an existing bank building in downtown Panama City to a new City Hall, marked the beginning of the city’s effort to revitalize its downtown and marina areas. The renovation of the 58,000-square-foot Trustmark Building enabled the city to consolidate most of its services under one roof.
This prominent downtown location and design set a new benchmark for architectural excellence in the area. A redesigned exterior skin not only elevated the building’s street presence, but also maximized natural light in the interior, significantly improving the energy efficiency of the envelope system. This renovation aimed to inspire future developments and enhance the overall aesthetic of the downtown district.
