Stevens & Wilkinson, a full-service integrated architecture, engineering and interior design firm based in Atlanta, announced today that the Sweetwater Creek Mill ruins restoration project, the restoration of the A.H. Stephens observation tower and the preservation of Manuel’s Tavern were selected as 2019 Preservation Award recipients by The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation.
The awards were announced on April 12 at the Preservation Awards ceremony at The Georgia Trust’s Spring Ramble in Thomasville, Ga. The Sweetwater Creek Mill and A.H. Stephens observation tower projects won in the Excellence in Restoration category while the Manuel’s Tavern project won in the Excellence in Preservation.
Stevens & Wilkinson teamed up with NOVA Engineering and Environmental to provide forensic engineering evaluation, repair design, and construction administration services at the historic Sweetwater Creek Mill ruins in Lithia Springs, Ga. Originally constructed in 1846 as a five-story water-powered mill for production of clothing and other materials, the mill was destroyed in 1864 by Gen. Sherman’s troops in their siege of Atlanta. Stevens & Wilkinson worked to preserve what was left of the original structure, such as the unique window openings and archways. This project also slowed the effects of erosion, ultimately prolonging the life of the structure.
In August 2015, Stevens & Wilkinson began the restoration of A.H. Stephens State Park’s famous Civilian Conservation Corporation (CCC) observation tower. This 60-foot, three-story observation tower was built in 1935. The structure, equipped with a 3,500-gallon tank to feed the various park facilities, had experienced a variety of deteriorating factors like erosion, water intrusion and the effects of natural elements over the course of time.
Bought by Manuel Maloof in 1956, Manuel’s Tavern quickly became a famous Atlanta gathering place for everyone from blue-collar workers to writers, actors and politicians. Stevens & Wilkinson’s preservation work included cleaning and repointing the original granite and brick walls, repainting the building’s four exterior trademark advertising murals, and retaining the classic bar and interior treatments wherever possible. Most significantly, the huge collection of photographs, bar memorabilia, and advertisements were documented and charted to ensure reinstallation in their original location after work was completed.
“Stevens & Wilkinson is proud to help protect these architectural landmarks,” said Bill Clark, AIA, LEED AP, firm principal and president. “These projects required both sensitive upgrading of their everyday functions as well as the careful preservation of the historic resources found at each site. We have an extensive portfolio of conservation work and are honored to be the recipients of these three awards.”
The Preservation Awards are an annual competition by The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation. The Preservation Awards recognize individuals and organizations in the state of Georgia who have made significant contributions to the field of historic preservation. Awards are presented based on the merit of the contributions to the community and/or state and in compliance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.
About Stevens & Wilkinson:
Founded in 1919, Stevens & Wilkinson is a full-service architecture, engineering and interior design firm committed to providing clients with “Smart Design Solutions.” The firm’s combined design capabilities lead to projects executed with creative, innovative and holistic design solutions. Learn more: www.stevens-wilkinson.com.
