Civil – American Engineering Assoc.
Structural – O’Donnell & Naccarato, Inc.
PME – Shultz Engineering Group
Contractor – Danforth Construction
The three “R’s” of sustainability are Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. While all three concepts are important, the most critical ideology when considering the built environment is to “reuse”. The concept of “thrifting” was popular after World War II and it has become trendy again. Younger generations enjoy going thrifting for clothes, furniture, books and household items. Thrifted Architecture is also becoming increasingly fashionable.
Post pandemic, there are thousands of buildings that have been vacated due to an increase in flexible working styles. More unoccupied buildings will be available as long-term leases expire. It is not sustainable to demolish these buildings and dump the debris into our landfills. Charlotte had a love affair with imploding and demolishing many buildings in the 1980’s and 90’s.
Many of the demolished buildings were architectural gems that told the history of Charlotte. Extensive amounts of natural resources were wasted to replace them and the history of these buildings could not be replicated. By rehabilitating these structures, we promote a “greener” community while maintaining the character and charm of “vintage” architecture.
…The most critical ideology when considering the built environment is to “reuse.”
Developers, corporations, and owners are now more environmentally-conscious and thrifty. They understand the advantages of reusing existing buildings and preserving their history. While these buildings are often thrifted for similar uses, creative developers and architects are also adopting new uses for these existing structures. Benefits can be realized by thrifting architecture, whether using a distinctive architectural gem, or a more utilitarian building.
ODA Architecture understands the economic and ethical advantages of this trend and is introducing clients to the possibility of thrifting buildings. Some of these structures are being adapted for new uses for the third or fourth time. A typical structure is designed to last for 100 years but these projected lifespans should be much longer. Extending the life of structures and reusing buildings is important to save the earth’s natural resources, to preserve history, and to protect green space for many future generations.
Check Out Other ‘Thrifted’ Buildings in Charlotte by ODA Architecture
Panzu Brewery, Mint Hill, North Carolina
Civil: Franklin S. Craig
P.E. Interiors – KK Interior Design Group
Structural: Taylor & Viola
PME: C2E Solutions
Contractor: UP to Date Construction Group, LLC
Panzu Brewery is a welcoming craft brewery that settled in a “thrifted” home in the heart of Mint Hill, North Carolina. Caribbean influenced craft beer and tapas are served out of this repurposed, single-story brick residence. The layout of Panzu Brewery achieves an intimate vibe while being able to accommodate 62 guests indoors and another 30 outdoors.
The Platform, Charlotte, North Carolina
Owner: Investicore
Civil: Cole Jenest & Stone
Structural: WGPM, Inc.
PME: McVeigh & Mangum Engineering
Contractor: Choate Construction
The Platform is a mixed used development in South End at the head of the Rail Trail. A new, modern, three story building and a revitalized, one story, existing building surround a courtyard space that is the central gathering for tenants and customers. The existing building, built in 1945, was part of a larger manufacturing and storage facility. The adaptive reuse of this 11,000 square feet building has become a space for retail, restaurants, and entertainment.
The Vintage, Charlotte, North Carolina
Interiors: Design Bar
Structural: bab Structural Engineer
PME: Wave
Contractor: BMH Construction
215 E Worthington Ave has seen many renovations over the years but is currently a whiskey and cigar bar named The Vintage. In the past, the 3,400 square foot brick building served as a auto body shop belonging to Michael Jordan’s father, James Jordan. The Vintage is a perfect example of transforming a space into different uses. Once an auto body shop and a cross-fit gym, now a popular gathering spot, the bar creates a unique niche – an upscale club in a booming neighborhood where you can also enjoy a cigar.
Let’s discuss turning your vision into a masterpiece!
Stephen F. Overcash, Managing Principal, ODA Architecture (704) 905-0423
