Cabell County Courthouse Clock Tower Restoration

Edward Tucker Architects were asked to evaluate the condition of the historically significant, 90-foot tall courthouse clock tower, construction around 1900. Extensive investigation revealed significant deterioration of the ornamental metal and stone. The architect completed detailed documentation of areas needing attending, working closely with the WV State Historic Preservation Office to coordinate historic preservation considerations and requirements.

The scope of work for the project included constructing scaffolding, selective demolition, reconstruction of brick masonry corbels, carpentry, flashing, rehabilitation of the stone, repair of the copper domes, cleaning and sealing the stone, and painting exposed wood and primed metal surfaces.

City Hall Restoration

The comprehensive and multi-phase endeavor focused on providing an inviting, efficient and inclusive environment for all who enter its doors. The installation of accessibility features including lifts, elevators, handrails, and widened clearances, making City Hall inclusive and welcoming to all visitors, regardless of mobility challenges. One of the most noticeable changes was the replacement of the outdated windows with energy-efficient, double-glazed windows throughout. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal
of the historic City Hall, but also improves thermal insulation, reducing energy consumption and enhancing occupant comfort. Meticulous attention was paid to interior finishes, successfully preserving the building’s historic charm while incorporating contemporary design elements. Ornate ceilings and intricate moldings have been restored, complemented by fresh paint and tastefully chosen wall coverings. The final touch was the installation of new furniture, thoughtfully chosen to complement the architecture while providing ergonomic support for the staff, enhancing productivity and functionality in various departments throughout the building, and ensuring comfortable seating for visitors.  The upgraded and revitalized building serves as a source of pride for the community, accommodating citizens of all abilities and providing a modern, efficient, and pleasant environment for all who walk through its doors.

Nenni Building Restoration

The Nenni Building in Matewan, West Virginia was operated by the Nenni Family for over 100 years until the buildings were purchased by Coalfield Development in 2013. Originally three separate buildings, the project consists of the historic restoration, rehabilitation, and adaptive reuse of the buildings. The renovations were approached in two phases

To preserve and restore the historically significant structures, the project consisted of adapting them to a new use of commercial space on the ground level and upper story lodging facilities to serve the Southern West Virginia coalfield region’s burgeoning tourism industry, specifically the Hatfield McCoy Recreational Trail System. With shell space on the ground level, and lodging areas on the second level, the interior renovations of the project were carefully considered. The interior objective was to prolong the historic components of the building by maximizing its authenticity, however, still creating a fresh, new space for future occupants. The exterior of the aged building is composed of brick, which will be cleaned and repointed. The original decorative cornices on the buildings have been removed over time, and these will be reconstructed as part of the project. It is paramount that the project maintains the integrity of the buildings; therefore, replaced elements will be as consistent as possible with that of the original units.

Situated on Mate Street in Matewan, WV, the site is located within the Matewan Historic District, deemed a National Historic Landmark through the United States Department of the Interior National Park Service. The site allows both locals and visitors to reflect upon not only the history of the building, but the history of the entire town of Matewan.

Black Diamond Sustainable Logistics Hub

Black Diamond is a former manufacturing site in Huntington, West Virginia, located in the community of Westmoreland. Redevelopment of the site began with clean up efforts to reduce the environmental hazards present in the soil and analysis of the remaining four structures. An additional building will be constructed to host the sustainability hub. The site will host a solar panel installation company, a recycling corridor, and community gathering space.

Coalfield Development was the recipient of funds from the Build Back Better Grant, a program through the Biden Administration and Economic Development Association to redevelop the brownfield site and introduce quality trade training programs to the region.

Foundation for Independent Living

Formerly the Sears Roebuck & Co. store, the building now serves as a corporate office for the Mountain State Centers for Independent Living. The original façade of the building was damaged from the previous removal of black tile installed during the operation of the Sears Roebuck & Co., requiring a portion of the façade to be demolished. ETA collaborated with the Owner to identify alternative designs to honor the Owner’s aesthetic vision and historic details.

The existing limestone surrounding the roof and third floor was repaired and new windows installed above a stone sill. The first and second floor exterior were retiled with a light porcelain tile, highlighting the original limestone. New windows, doors, and exterior lights were installed to provide a sleek, modern look for this historic building.

The Progress Building

The redevelopment of The Progress Building was recognized as a Certified Historic Rehabilitation by the US National Park Service in 2019. Constructed in 1918, the building sat vacant for nearly 20 years before being purchased and developed as retail and office space. The facade had been modified through renovations in the mid-1900’s, requiring removal and reconstruction of brick and storefront. Historic photographs guided the restoration.

Daine Gallery Addition

Built in the 1950’s, the original Museum’s size doubled when gallery and studio additions designed by Walter Gropius with The Architect’s Collaborative were added in 1968. In 2008, a private endowment provided funding specifically for an addition to display the Museum’s collection of works on paper and to provide an expansion of the vault.

Completed in 2011, the new gallery addition wraps around the base of a Gropius-designed clerestory light monitor form.  To take advantage of the view of the courtyard and Gropius Studios beyond, a skewed window breaks from the rigid form and focuses the view. Because of strict light exposure restrictions for works on paper, an anteroom is formed around the window to help block direct daylight into the gallery space.

“You were so easy to work with and totally responsive. I never felt I had to make a decision without having the benefit of your expertise when I needed it. None of that even touches on the splendid design…”
–Margaret Mary Layne, Director, Huntington Museum of Art