It is believed that the building locally referred to as the Normal Hardware Building was built in 1909. It is unclear whether this was the date of the building’s first floor or the addition of the second level. We do know that the second level of Normal Hardware was originally used as a community-based meeting hall until the late 1950s. Later, the hardware store utilized the spaces as offices and storage until the late 1960s. Until the 2019 renovation, the space had been left vacant and had fallen into disrepair. Missing window panes allowed bats to move in as the primary tenants of the space.
Arcollab approached Normal Hardware’s owner, Hank Logan, inquiring about the possibility of renovating the second floor to become the firm’s design studio. At that time, we learned that there had been several attempted renovations that were unsuccessful due to their expense. Arcollab proposed a thoughtful and practical renovation which helped Hank bring the project to life.
The 3,000 SF renovation has infused new energy into Normal Hardware’s previously underutilized second level. Rehabilitation has improved code compliance, energy and water efficiency, and provides a wonderfully daylit working environment for the Arcollab studio. Heart pine rafter joists were reclaimed and used in the fabrication of shelving, tables, slat walls, and desk adornments.
Repurposing the second level of this historic hardware store building has improved the sustainability performance of this space and enhances the business diversity of the Normaltown business district. Its central location allows Arcollab employees a short commute, with most employees living within a 2-mile radius.
The project won an Historic Athens Award for Outstanding Adaptive Reuse in 2020.
