Commonwealth Architects' Rehabilitation of Historic Patrick Henry Hotel in Roanoke Nears Completion
Grand Opening Celebration of the $20 million mixed use development was held on June 24
June 30, 2011
Commonwealth Architects is honored to have served as the architect for the rehabilitation of the former Patrick Henry Hotel in downtown Roanoke, VA. The once elegant hotel has been transformed into a mixed-use development that will once again shine in "the Star City."
Built in 1925, the 155,000 square-foot-building was constructed in the Colonial Revival style and was part of the construction boom that swept Roanoke in the decade after World War I. A sentimental landmark to the Roanoke community, the rehabilitation has converted the beloved structure into 132 apartments with commercial uses on the lower floors.
According to an article in the Roanoke Times that appeared on June 19, "The new Patrick Henry will look a lot like the old one, developers said. The antique chandeliers have been painstakingly cleaned and repaired. The Patrick Henry Ballroom looks like new, with painstakingly replastered cornices, fresh paint and gleaming floors. An old faux skylight above the atrium, which had been hidden by a newer ceiling, has been uncovered. It doesn't really let in any sunlight -- but it does add to the sense of space and light inside the former hotel."
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, many of the building's historic features have been rehabilitated to their original configurations including the lobby, entry concourse, and grand ballroom. The project follows the standards set forth by the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation and will receive state and federal historic tax credits.
"We worked closely with general contractor George Stanley and the developer, Ed Walker, to design a project that honored the Patrick Henry's past and provided a vibrant development for modern living and business use. We congratulate them on their commitment to this important project and wish them all success," said Thomas Heatwole, a principal at Commonwealth Architects.
