A private developer wanted to create an apartment complex out of two adjacent buildings in downtown Norfolk: the Norfolk Naval YMCA (c. 1909) and the former Virginian-Pilot annex building that the YMCA had purchased in 1939. In 2010, CPG was engaged to assist with the tax credit application to bring the developer’s vision to life. The project ultimately involved the two existing historic buildings as well as a third newly constructed building located at the rear of the main building.
Project Design
Both historic buildings were altered throughout the 20th century; however, much of the historic material was still intact. The client and reviewers placed an emphasis on restoring historic features such as the remaining wood and steel windows, ornamental plaster, and terrazzo floors throughout the building. CPG provided building treatment recommendations to facilitate the sensitive insertion of 86 apartment units throughout the two-building concept, all while maintaining historic public gathering spaces and restoring remaining historic features.
Challenges & Accomplishments
During the project, a few challenges arose when trying to maintain historic character while incorporating modern features in the building. An example involved the sprinkler system and YMCA pool. The former required particular care and attention to minimize impact on the remaining historic features when inserted into the ceilings, and the latter was a historic feature that needed to be retained in some way to meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. The design team identified a creative solution that transformed the pool structure into a gym for tenants. Doing so resulted in the preservation of historic materials, including the pool tiles, while it also maximized the floor area within the basement. CPG successfully guided the developer through the tax credit process, resulting in three functioning apartment buildings that aligned with their vision.
