Located within Atlanta’s business district, this historic building has undergone multiple transformations over time. Once associated with civic and communications-related uses, the facility now operates as a colocation data center and serves as a critical communications node for the region.

The building includes multiple stories and a utility penthouse, with a total area of approximately 153,000 SF. The façade includes stone panel cladding, while the window systems consist of curtain wall assemblies and hung windows within punched openings. Parking and loading areas are located behind the building.

As an active data center, the facility presented specific design and construction considerations that were critical to its ongoing use. Carlson Design Group was engaged to design remedial solutions for deficiencies in the building envelope, specifically within the stone cladding and window systems along the primary frontage areas.

Given the operational sensitivities of the facility and the challenges involved in updating the building envelope, façade repair and in-kind replacement were selected as the most appropriate approach. This strategy allowed the project team to improve building performance while respecting the existing architectural style and minimizing disruption to ongoing operations.

Scope of Work

• Stone cladding replacement in-kind along primary frontage areas.

• Curtain wall repair along primary frontage areas.

• Storefront replacement in-kind along primary frontage areas.

• Building envelope improvements to support waterproofing and long-term performance.

• Exterior-based construction approach to limit disruption to active facility operations.

Construction Considerations

• No interior access permitted.

• Continued operation of the building throughout construction.

• Protection of critical equipment, safety, and security.

• Exterior access required for façade work.

• Scaffolding required due to exterior-only construction access.

• Mast climbers identified as an effective solution for façade installation and repair.

• AHJ requirements to preserve the existing architectural style.

Operational Considerations

• Maintain 24/7 data center functionality for clients.

• Protect mission-critical equipment and secure environments.

• Support environmental control requirements.

• Improve waterproofing and building envelope performance.

• Minimize disruption to ongoing colocation data center operations.

• Preserve the reliability expected from a critical communications facility.

Carlson Design Group Design Response

Considering the construction limitations, operational requirements, and AHJ expectations, Carlson Design Group developed an in-kind renovation strategy as the guiding design approach for this scope.

The design focused on strengthening the building envelope while preserving the existing architectural character of the facility. By prioritizing exterior-based work, façade repair, and in-kind replacement, Carlson Design Group helped support continued data center operations while improving the long-term performance of the building.

Project Value

This project demonstrates Carlson Design Group’s ability to deliver technically sensitive renovation solutions for active mission-critical facilities. The design approach balanced architectural preservation, building envelope performance, safety, security, and continuous 24/7 operations.

Through a carefully coordinated renovation strategy, Carlson Design Group helped reinforce the long-term function of a historic urban building that now serves as an important digital infrastructure asset.