2004 Annual Awards
Preservation Publications
Those Wonderful Old Houses: A Handbook for Homeowners.
We recognize the Historic Heritage Committee of the Ohio City Near West Development Corporation for the publication of Those Wonderful Old Houses: A Handbook for Homeowners.
In Cleveland, Ohio City has been a “poster child” for how historic preservation can revitalize a neighborhood. Throughout Ohio City, the rehabilitation of numerous commercial and residential properties has helped created one of the most thriving and dynamic neighborhoods in Northeast Ohio. However, despite well-intentioned efforts, some of the work did not meet established preservation standards, and, in several cases, was downright poor and damaging to the historic fabric.
In response to this situation, the Historic Heritage Committee of OCNW was charged to develop a guide for homeowners. The result is Those Wonderful Old Houses: A Handbook for Homeowners, which explains the Secretary of the Interior Standards within the specific context of Ohio City.
Edited by Alan Fodor and illustrated with pen-and-ink drawings, Those Wonderful Old Houses contains detailed guidelines for rehabilitating various elements of a home; highlights Ohio City architectural styles; includes a glossary of architectural terms; and highlights a tour of Ohio City homes.
We commend the volunteer members of OCNW’s committee for writing, editing, illustrating and publishing this book. Those Wonderful Old Houses is an invaluable resource for homeowners in Ohio City and will contribute to the quality of restoration and maintenance projects in this historic neighborhood for years to come. Congratulations!
Commercial Revitalization
Kausek Building
In the category of Commercial Revitalization, Tim Evans is recognized for the restoration of the Kausek Building. Located at the corner of Norwood and St. Clair in the St. Clair-Superior neighborhood, the building was constructed in 1910 as the Kausek Brothers Department Store. In 1943, the building was sold to John Susnik, who renamed it, and it became the home of Norwood Furniture and Appliance.
Tim and his wife, Joan, of McGregor Development, Ltd., undertook the renovation of the Kausek Building in 2000. With the help of historic photographs and Cleveland’s Storefront Renovation Program, the exterior was restored to its original appearance. The interior of the building was transformed into eight two-story loft style apartment units that will be available for rent next month and the storefront will be occupied by the St. Clair-Superior Development Corporation in November 2004.
Unfortunately, Tim lost his battle with cancer in January 2004; but the impact of his efforts will be cherished for many years to come. The Kausek Building represents the largest public/private investment made in the St. Clair Superior neighborhood in several years, and is located in the heart of a recently established Business Revitalization District. The project is a model for future development in this district, and an excellent example of commercial revitalization through historic preservation.
School Building Restoration
Collinwood High School
In the category of School Building Restoration, the Cleveland Municipal School District is recognized for the exterior renovation of Collinwood High School.
Located in the heart of the Five Points commercial district, this Georgian Revival styled building was designed by renowned school architect Walter R. McCornack in 1926. Constructed at a cost of nearly three million dollars, Collinwood High School was the largest school in Ohio when completed.
In more recent years, the exterior of the school fell into such a state of disrepair that the building lost its ability to qualify for a listing in the National Register of Historic Places. Recognizing the significance of the building, the Cleveland Board of Education began planning large-scale improvements for the school in 2000.
The first phase was a comprehensive restoration of the exterior. The main elevations were carefully cleaned and restored and missing or damaged architectural elements were replaced. Metal rails and ornaments were restored and over 750 new windows and 55 new exterior doors were installed.
The first phase was completed in fall 2003 and Collinwood High School shines as a symbol of the importance our community places on education. By recognizing this outstanding achievement, we encourage the preservation and restoration of other historic school building in Northeast Ohio. The Cleveland Municipal School District along with City Architecture, Planned Environmental Design, VIP Restoration, Stuart Dean, and Jamieson-Rica are commended for their efforts.
Community Revitalization
1900 Euclid Avenue
In the category of Community Revitalization we recognize 1900 Euclid Avenue. The first major residential development along Euclid Avenue near Cleveland State University, this project extends the impact of the new Euclid Avenue Historic District and it generates excitement for downtown living.
1900 Euclid, designed by Cleveland architect G.A. Grielble in 1910, is a Neo-Classical Revival brick structure. It served for many years as an office building with retail on the ground floor. The noted architecture firm Walker and Weeks contributed a beautiful vestibule and staircase with marble wainscoting.
After careful rehabilitation by Sandvick Architects, the building now brings quality housing back to this long-neglected stretch of historic Euclid Avenue. The 1900 Euclid Avenue Lofts apartment complex has 80 residential units ranging in size from 600 to 1,200 square feet each, parking within the building, and a first floor with retail space and a fitness center.
Work began in 2001 and architectural treasures, both big and small, were soon uncovered. A suspended ceiling was removed to reveal ornate plasterwork and terrazzo marble floors were found in the lobby. An original set of building plans were found in a wall. A brass and glass mail chute running from the 8th to the 1st floor was also incorporated into the new design.
The effects of this impressive project can be seen in the current plans by CSU to address additional historic buildings along Euclid Avenue. The award for this project goes to Cynthia Chodak of the Somerville Development Corporation. Her late husband, Skip Chodak, was the original project director. Today we also recognize her outstanding team, which includes Towne Properties, Somerville Development, Sandvick Architects and National City Community Development.
Community Revitalization
Elyria City Hall
Also in the category of Community Revitalization, we recognize the City of Elyria for the restoration of the original Elyria Town Hall and Turner Block Building.
Located on historic Ely Square, the Town Hall was the center of civic activity after its completion in 1867. In 1903 the building’s opera hall was closed and subdivided into additional city offices. The building’s exterior was remodeled in the 1930s when the two towers were removed, destroying much of the building’s original charm.
In the 1970s the city’s offices were relocated and the fate of the historic town hall was debated for the next thirty years. Thanks to the vision and perseverance of Mayor William Grace and encouragement from citizens groups, the city chose to use the renovation of the old town hall as a catalyst for downtown revitalization and to complement the downtown National Register district. The exterior of the building was carefully restored and the original mansard front towers were reconstructed. On the interior, the former opera hall space was recreated for use as the new Council Chamber.
This 9.5 million dollar project also included the renovation of the Richardsonian Romanesque Turner Block Building next door. The interior of this 1903 structure, with its magnificent light court, stained glass ceiling and grand oak staircase, is now restored for city offices, and the lower level storefront has been converted into restaurant space. Complimenting these two historic structures is a new corner pavilion that is respectful to its neighbors.
This magnificent new complex enhances the city’s historic downtown and serves as an excellent example of the enlightened use of public investment. For this achievement we congratulate the citizens of Elyria and their Mayor William Grace, along with the design and construction team who brought this complicated endeavor to fruition.
Cultural Heritage Preservation
Historic Mormon Sites
In the Category of Cultural Heritage Preservation, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is recognized for the preservation, restoration and reconstruction of several historic sites in Northeast Ohio as part of their effort to portray the early development of the Mormon church.
The results of a comprehensive research program can be seen in the striking restoration of the 1828 Johnson Farmhouse in Hiram. Exterior work included removal of aluminum siding while the interior was restored to its original configuration. Interior paint analysis revealed unique graining patterns on doors, trim and mantelpiece – all of which were painstakingly recreated by paint conservators. Contemporary HVAC and security systems were sensitively installed to provide for its current museum use.
In the Kirtland Flats, the Whitney Home, mostly recently a biker bar, was restored to its 1826 configuration from clues in the structure and ghosting on the floors and timbers. Also in Kirtland, the 1818 Sawmill and Ashery, along with an 1824 schoolhouse, were reconstructed on the original foundations based on historical information discovered during an archeological dig.
We commend the Museum of Church History and Art of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for its investment of more than 15 million dollars in Northeast Ohio, a commitment that strengthens heritage and cultural tourism in our region and gives us a rare glimpse of early 19th century life in the Western Reserve. Project partners were Chambers, Murphy & Burge; Dr. Elwin Robison; Behnke & Associates; and Archeological Services Consultants.
Ongoing Stewardship of a Historic Property
Lakeview Cemetery
One of the city’s premier architectural landscapes, Lake View Cemetery is recognized today for the Ongoing Stewardship of a Historic Property.
Originally designed in 1869 by Adolph Strauch, Lake View Cemetery has eloquently combined nature, history and architecture within its hallowed gates. Subsequent additions and modifications to the plan by the Olmsted Brothers and A. D. Taylor further enhanced this 285-acre masterpiece.
Today we recognize the caretakers of the cemetery for continuing to achieve a stunning demonstration of horticultural care and landscape preservation. Lake View has also sustained the highest standards of restoration, conservation and routine maintenance of its site, roadways, monuments, and sculpture. Whatever the season or the weather, Lake View’s romantic revival layout and its rich endowment of the stonemason’s art seem to grow more and more rewarding.
To compliment this, the Cemetery Association’s outreach efforts continue to build awareness about this important piece of our city’s heritage and the noteworthy Cleveland individuals for whom it is the final resting place. Through a diverse year-round schedule of educational offerings, cultural events and walking tours, the cemetery has come to life for countless visitors.
As we celebrate their 135th anniversary, we commend the Lake View Cemetery Association for their continued success in the stewardship of this priceless ensemble. The group’s dependable care and unceasing commitment allow the cemetery to provide a beautiful place for remembrance, reflection and serenity.
Organizational Achievement
Historic Warehouse District
In the category of Organizational Achievement, the Historic Warehouse District Development Corporation is praised today.
Cleveland’s Warehouse District suffered indiscriminant demolition during the 1950s, 60s and 70s. A grassroots effort by artists, architects and business people in partnership with the Cleveland Landmarks Commission resulted in National Register listing and Cleveland Landmark District designation in 1982. The Historic Warehouse District Development Corporation was born out of this effort.
In the past two decades, the organization has facilitated approximately 400 million dollars in economic development through 52 restored historic buildings and 5 newly constructed buildings. The group is a leader in implementing the Ohio Alternative Building Code and the Rehabilitation Investment Tax Credit. In addition, the Historic Warehouse District Historic Conservation Easement Program to date has received 11 donations facilitating over 30 million dollars in equity.
With the renovation of the Bingham Building into over 300 units of housing and a grocery store nearing completion, the Historic Warehouse District has reached a milestone. This project marks the renovation of the last major historic structure in the District. This year also brings the first major implementation of the 2001 District Master Plan with the construction of two new condominium projects on existing parking lots.
All in all, the Historic Warehouse District is fondly thought of as a 22-year, overnight success story. Thanks to the efforts of the Historic Warehouse District Development Corporation, the District has emerged as downtown Cleveland’s premier mixed-use neighborhood – a place where people come to live, work and play.
Cleveland Restoration Project Awards
17432 Clifton Boulevard
Next we will recognize the some of the best projects to be completed through the Cleveland Restoration Society’s preservation programs in the past year. Our first Cleveland Restoration Project award goes to Lori and Marc Waite for the rehabilitation of their Clifton Boulevard home in Lakewood.
With three kids, the Waites planned to do cosmetic work on the house and then relocate in five to ten years as the kids got older. Within two years of buying the house, they stripped glittery wallpaper from the inside and gave the exterior a historically appropriate paint color scheme. Six years and another child later, Lori and Marc made the decision to add on rather than move. The addition came in 2000 and included a kitchen and two new bedrooms upstairs. Their philosophy was to create a space that would continue to encourage use of the original house and to not just “live in the addition.” Additions to historic buildings can be major detractors, but Lori and Marc’s input resulted in an appropriate and successful design, which incorporated original windows and doors.
Additional projects, such as the construction of a new garage, have been completed with the same attention to both architectural character and utility, and thirteen years after they first moved in the Waites have a beautifully maintained, historic home that meets their needs. The family is there to stay. Congratulations to Lori and Marc Waite for their commitment to historic preservation and their contribution to community pride in one of our important first-ring suburbs.
6309 West Clinton Avenue
The next Preservation Project Award goes to Russell Grigg and Scott Cameron for their rehabilitation of 6309 West Clinton Avenue in the Franklin-West Clinton Historic District.
When Cameron and Grigg purchased this 1880s Queen Anne in late 1999, it had been divided into two units. The house was covered in aluminum siding and the porch had been rebuilt in the 1960s.
With their first loan through the Neighborhood Historic Preservation Program, the owners replaced the worn roof, upgraded the electrical system, and rebuilt the fireplaces and corbelled chimneys. The next year, an additional loan helped them to complete the exterior restoration. A neighbor gave the homeowners a picture of their house before the porch had been altered and told them of a former owner who, feeling the neighborhood was in decline, had removed a stained-glass window and interior fretwork and a colonnade.
Architect Michael Hynds of Metropolitan Architectural Studio used the historic photo to design the new porch. Meanwhile, the homeowners removed inappropriate wall additions themselves and meticulously stripped and refinished interior woodwork. They had the colonnade rebuilt, retrieved the stained-glass window from the former owner now in Florida, and had a new window made to match. They also replaced the double-leaf front doors and added period appointments. The next year, they removed the aluminum siding and had the house painted with a historic color scheme that CRS designed, taking colors from their stained-glass window.
An investment of over $45,000 and years of hard work has resulted in a traffic-stopping transformation and one of our best projects. We congratulate Russell Grigg and Scott Cameron for the rehabilitation of their home, which has set a new standard for West Clinton Avenue.
9805 South Boulevard
The final CRS Project award goes to James Graham and David Dusek for their rehabilitation of 9805 South Boulevard, a project that will look familiar to many of our members. This magnificent home was designed by the Kauffman Architectural Company as a summer home for Edwin Potter and was featured in the August 1904 issue of Ohio Architect and Builder.
In 1999, CRS was appointed receiver of this neglected, deteriorated, and even dangerous house, which had been pegged for demolition. We stabilized the structure and struck out to find a buyer. Although many were interested, few were capable of taking on the rehabilitation of the house, which, at the time, had a price tag that appeared to exceed a value that the neighborhood could support. (But we knew it would work, didn’t we?)
Enter James and David, who purchased the property and have displayed a passion for historic rehabilitation that we can all applaud. They cleaned out the interior of the house, built an architecturally compatible garage, and finished out the third floor, which would be their living quarters throughout much of the project. Assisted by interior designer Donald Bingham Schmitt and with four separate loans from CRS’s Neighborhood Historic Preservation Program, James and David have completed a total rehabilitation to the highest of standards.
Thanks to their efforts, 9805 South Boulevard is once again the jewel of the East Boulevard Historic District. James and David have graciously opened their home for many tours, and will do so once again this fall for CRS’s tour of the East Boulevard Historic District
This project has had a tremendous impact on its neighborhood, and is a testament to the power of historic preservation.
Trustees Award Preservation Award for Preservation Achievement
Weizer Building
Our first Trustees Award Preservation Award for Preservation Achievement goes to the Weizer Building. A prominent landmark at the corner of Buckeye Road and East 118th Street since its construction in 1924, this ornate terra-cotta structure had endured years of neglect.
As can be seen in the ‘before’ photographs, Cleveland weather and pollution had indeed taken a toll on the building. Terra cotta was damaged or missing in many locations, with steel lintels corroding and cracking the masonry.
After completing a comprehensive survey of the existing conditions, the project team undertook an extensive restoration program; cleaning the surface and removing paint, then resetting, replacing, and in some cases recreating missing terra cotta units with new glass-fiber reinforced cement. Corroded lintels were replaced at window openings and masonry tuckpointing was repaired. Damaged glazed surfaces were patched, and the delicate polychrome glaze painstakingly replicated by a skilled local artist to match the colors and properties of the original finish.
The finished project is now a home to Beech Brook, a provider of foster care and family services, and a critical keystone in the continuing revitalization of the Buckeye area.
We recognize the leadership of the Buckeye Area Development Corporation and the Cleveland Storefront Renovation Program, Richard L. Bowen & Assoc., Tesco Builders, VIP Restoration, Inc., and the entire team of skilled designers, preservation experts, artists, and craftspeople who worked on this project, for raising the bar for quality in exterior restoration.
[John Hopkins of Buckeye Area Development will accept the award]
Trustees Award for Preservation Achievement
Cleveland Environmental Center
Our final Trustees Award for Preservation Achievement goes to the Cleveland Environmental Center. This project is the first in our region to demonstrate the remarkable synergy that exists between historic preservation and high-performance buildings.
Built in 1918, the building was the home of the Lorain Avenue Savings and Trust until the 1970s, was the home of an architectural salvage business for a short while, and then stood vacant.
Following extensive work, this building is now home to area non-profits focused on environmental innovation and a pioneering local example of the Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design, or LEED, program. The LEED rating system recognizes that historic structures offer designers a tremendous head start in creating buildings that are healthy, energy efficient, and cornerstones of smart growth.
By recycling the existing structure, the project substantially reduced the quantities of materials used in construction. Large windows provide ample natural light and ventilation. The projects designers researched high-performance coatings for glass that would increase their energy efficiency without compromising the historic appearance of the structure. Through these and other innovations, the building is designed to achieve a Gold LEED rating.
The Cleveland Environmental Center not only provides a healthy environment for its occupants and tremendous efficiency in its energy use, but also reinforces that the restoration of our historic buildings can be the anchor for sustainable revitalization of our neighborhoods. For their leadership and innovation, we honor Cleveland Urban Properties, Ohio City Near West Development, the Cleveland Green Building Coalition and their development partners, including Doty & Miller Architects, R. W. Clark and the Cleveland Storefront Renovation Program. [Ed Small of Cleveland Urban Properties will accept the award]