#United States #Cleveland #Tivoli Place #Coliseum 2708 #Lofts at Whitaker Park

Revitalizing History: Celebrating the Novogradac Historic Rehabilitation Awards

In a remarkable showcase of innovation and dedication to preservation, four outstanding properties have earned accolades at the Novogradac 2025 Historic Rehabilitation Awards. These awards recognize projects that exemplify excellence in conserving historic structures while breathing new life into communities. The winners exemplify how old buildings can be transformed into functional spaces that serve today's needs while honoring their rich pasts.

The Winners

1. Tivoli Place, New Orleans
Originally constructed as the Bienville Hotel in 1921, Tivoli Place stood the test of time, eventually being converted into a residential development that now includes 163 apartments. This project primarily serves seniors and individuals with special needs. The redevelopment faced several challenges, including extensive upgrades to plumbing and climate control systems, all while maintaining its historical integrity. Supported by over $50 million in various tax credits, Tivoli Place has become a pillar of affordable housing in its community, showcasing a successful blend of historical preservation and modern urban housing needs.

2. Coliseum 2708, Minneapolis
Formerly a department store and dance hall, the Coliseum 2708 has undergone an inspiring transformation from a heavily damaged site during the civil unrest of 2020 to a vibrant commercial space. Managed through the efforts of Redesign Inc., the three-story structure faced significant setbacks but emerged as a community hub, housing several businesses, including a cocktail room from one of the nation’s few Black-owned distilleries. The project received $8 million in federal HTC equity, exemplifying how community-focused revitalization can both honor the past and foster economic growth.

3. Lofts at Whitaker Park, Winston-Salem
The Lofts at Whitaker Park signify a bold revival of a once-neglected tobacco manufacturing plant. Overcoming legal disputes, hurricane damage, and logistical delays, Frye Properties converted the site into 163 loft-style apartments, blending history and modern living. The project's successful navigation through past neglect highlights the potential of historic preservation in overcoming immense obstacles. With $25.6 million secured through state and federal HTC equity, this project stands as a testament to resilience and vision in redevelopment.

4. AC Hotel Kansas City Downtown, Missouri
The AC Hotel, formerly known as the Rialto Building, has transformed a century-old structure into a thriving hospitality business. This extensive redevelopment required careful structural reinforcement and a sensitive approach to restoring architectural features. With support from both federal and state HTC equities totaling over $27 million, the hotel successfully combines historical charm with contemporary amenities while enhancing the Kansas City skyline.

Conference Recognition

The award-winning projects will be celebrated during the Novogradac 2025 Historic Tax Credit Conference scheduled for October 9-10 in Cleveland. This conference serves as a gathering for industry leaders, policymakers, and enthusiasts of historic preservation, aiming to inspire further advancements in the field.

Conclusion

The Novogradac awards not only honor exemplary projects but also highlight the critical importance of historic preservation in contemporary society. Such transformations demonstrate that with vision and community support, the past can fuel the future, fostering vibrant urban living spaces that connect generations. Those interested in participating in future awards or learning more about these projects can access additional information on the Novogradac website. 

In a world where sustainability and community development go hand in hand, preserving our historical landmarks becomes even more vital. The 2025 Novogradac Historic Rehabilitation Awards aptly remind us that with innovative thinking and collaborative efforts, history can indeed pave the way for future successes.