Texas developers begin conversion on historic Atlanta building

A Texas-based development team has embarked on an ambitious project to transform one of Atlanta’s oldest office buildings into modern homes for downtown residents. 

The W.D. Grant Building, a historic 10-story structure located off Broad Street, will undergo extensive renovation by Wolfe Investments and Bluelofts Inc. to become 165 apartments, making it one of downtown Atlanta’s most significant adaptive reuse projects, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

Built in 1898, the 125-year-old building is an iconic example of Chicago-style architectural design and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1979. 

The developers said they recognize the value of preserving the city’s history while addressing the need for additional housing in the downtown area.

Kenny Wolfe, owner of Wolfe Investments, praised the building’s detailed craftsmanship, which showcases the architectural finesse of its time. 

The renovation involves stripping down the current offices to the studs, Wolfe said, but the transformation aims to attract future residents by retaining its historic facade and character. 

David Mitchell, executive director of the Atlanta Preservation Center, cited the importance of preserving cultural and artistic integrity for residents. 

“Generally by amenities today, so many of them are modern — gyms, swimming pools, all these things,” Mitchell told the outlet. “However, culture, beauty, art, integrity and identity are also amenities. When you walk in that lobby, you’re defining who and what you are to a certain degree by supporting the beauty of that space.”

The project is part of a broader trend of converting outdated office spaces into much-needed housing, a response to the shifting office market dynamics caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many developers are turning to adaptive reuse projects like this one to revitalize urban spaces and create vibrant communities.

The 165 residential units in the Grant Building will mainly consist of studios and one-bedroom apartments, designed to offer a hotel-like experience for tenants.

The conversion process is expected to take around 18 months, and all units will be rented at market rates.

Residents will also have access to modern amenities, including a clubhouse, business center, fitness center, private spa, and lounge space. 

Parking will be added on an adjacent lot, as the building was built in an era when motor vehicles weren’t as prevalent.

Cities and developers nationwide are seeking out opportunities to convert office buildings into residences. In New York, officials have considered ways to incentivize conversions outside of the Financial District. A task force recommending last year that the city rezone parts of Midtown to create more conversion opportunities.

— Ted Glanzer