Pictured from left to right: Celine Gladwin, BFB Gladwin Architects; Erin Vaughn, BFB Gladwin Architects; Kara Hope Hanson, Coleman Talley LLP; Becky Pearson, Coleman Talley LLP; Mayor John Gayle, City of Valdosta; Tim Tanner, Coleman Talley LLP

Coleman Talley was awarded the Outstanding Achievement Award for its rehabilitation of 109 South Ashley Street during the Valdosta City Council meeting on May 23rd. The city’s 11th annual awards program recognized organizations and individuals who made significant contributions to protect and preserve buildings within the local Historic District. The City of Valdosta presented the 2019 Valdosta Historic Preservation Awards in observance of National Historic Preservation Month.

Coleman Talley transformed the Historic Southern Salvage buildings into its 22,000 square feet law office, combining the two buildings to accommodate its attorneys and staff upwards of 50 people. The buildings were built in 1897 and 1902 and were home to various businesses and organizations, including wholesale grocers, furniture stores, a Coca-Cola bottling plant, a bowling alley, a florist, and an army-navy surplus store. Efforts were made to maintain the unique character of the building, including a fireproof vault, restored hardwood floors, freight elevator gears, and the original staircase and atrium railing. The project was completed in October 2018.

“We are honored to be recognized by the City of Valdosta and the Historic Preservation Commission for this award,” said Justin Scott, Managing Partner. “We are so proud to share in the landscape of Historic Downtown Valdosta and acknowledge the importance of its value to our community.”