ATA-B was retained by the Greenacres Foundation to provide architectural and historic renovation design to convert the 24,000 square foot Nippert mansion into a vibrant and arts and ecology education center. ATA-B began the process by documenting and researching the existing 1929 building including forensic structural analysis. The renovations included restoration of existing windows, exterior cladding, and ornamentation. A new elevator and egress stairs were sensitively added to provide both accessibility and safety. Mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems were modernized and questionable structural components repaired. A new serving kitchen and classrooms were designed to fit within the existing spaces. Interior wood floors, walls, and plasterwork ceilings were restored. Travertine stairs with verdigris marble were removed, cleaned, and replaced. The lower level’s 2000 square foot ballroom and indoor swimming pool were refurbished and equipped with new accessible restroom facilities. The building infrastructure was updated to the 21st century standards with high efficiency systems and integral audiovisual, communications, wireless networking and alarm systems in every public space. All work was sensitively completed in accordance with the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation.
