Renovation of 1885 downtown Chillicothe building into offices and residential units for medical students.

Overview

Schooley Caldwell designed the transformation of the historic Carlisle Building in downtown Chillicothe, a landmark that was originally built in 1885 and that had fallen into serious disrepair.

The building had been unoccupied for years, during which time several ideas were explored for its renovation, but none came to fruition. In 2012, Cleveland-based developer The Chesler Group bought the building and retained Schooley Caldwell to design the major renovation that was necessary to give the building continued life.

Keeping the Carlisle Building standing long enough for it to be restored and renovated was perhaps the biggest challenge the design team faced.

The building had survived a serious fire (in 2003), a nearby subterranean water main break, several failed renovation attempts, and 11 years of being open to the elements.

Structural stabilization was the top priority, and was followed by comprehensive restoration and renovation of both the interior and exterior. The project made use of historic preservation tax credits, and therefore the renovation was done in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.

The Carlisle Building reopened in 2015 and now houses offices of Adena Health System, along with 32 apartments for medical residents and visiting staff.