2015 Historic Preservation Award - Adaptive Reuse and Compatible Design Award - Agora Inc.

Baltimore Heritage named Merritt Construction Services a winner of a 2015 Historic Preservation Award for their restoration work on Agora Inc.’s new headquarters at 1001 Cathedral Street in Baltimore. Merritt won the Adaptive Reuse and Compatible Design Award, which recognizes excellence in the adaptive reuse of a historic structure for a new function or in compatible new construction connected with the repair, restoration or rehabilitation of the structure's historic context.

In May of 2014, Merritt completed the 16,500-square-foot interior renovation for Agora. The four-story building required a complete gut of the existing medical space for Agora’s new state-of-the-art office. Built in the early 20th century, the building’s age and condition posed significant challenges in order to reinforce the building’s structural support while salvaging much of the original historic features. The design also called for two new ornamental stairs to connect the floors, as well as installation of a roof monitor on the fourth floor to allow for more natural light throughout the office.

The finished design of this renovated space brought together the best of the original and historical features of the building and the architect’s vision of a contemporary office with vibrant colors and an abundance of natural light. Agora’s new office space is truly a showcase of excellent design and collaborative construction, resulting in a stunning new home for Agora.