2026 Excellence in Sustainable Rehabilitation

Completed in 1889, Main Hall was the first building constructed on the campus of Agnes Scott College and remains a defining landmark of the institution. Designed in the High Victorian Gothic style, the building has served generations of students in academic, residential, and administrative roles. Notably, Main Hall was the first building in Decatur illuminated by electricity. The comprehensive renovation of Main Hall preserved its historic character while adapting the building for contemporary campus use. Exterior work restored the historic slate roof, reestablished the original roofline, and rehabilitated brick, granite, and terracotta masonry using appropriate mortar. Interior upgrades modernized building systems, improved accessibility, restored historic corridors and architectural features, and reconfigured spaces to meet current student and administrative needs. The project achieved LEED Platinum certification, demonstrating an exceptional integration of historic preservation and sustainability.   

Excellence in Sustainable Rehabilitation Awards recognize excellent rehabilitation projects that also incorporate appropriate conservation and sustainable treatments that lessen a building’s environmental impact while preserving significant features that convey its historic significance.