Smith Bros' Hardware Co. Building

Project Description

Vacant for 20 years, this 210,000 SF historic Downtown Columbus building is an 8-story concrete and brick structure that includes a penthouse, basement, sub-basement, four elevator shafts, concrete columns, and concrete slab. The building was gutted and new mechanical, electrical, and interior systems were installed. An 8-story scaffolding system was utilized to protect the integrity of the building and provide weather protection, enabling window and brick work to proceed during winter months. 1,000 windows were replaced with models that maintained historical accuracy.

The original building utilized Nelsonville brick, which is no longer available for purchase (the manufacturer had gone out of business). However, after researching in several Ohio counties, Nelsonville brick was found, salvaged, and using a tuck point process, the brick facade was restored, allowing work to continue on schedule.