308westmain.com

Site Moved: 308westmain.com

2009-12-30T11:14:00.003-05:00

If you have been reading along.....I thank you.

I've moved the site off blogger and onto my own website. You can access it by going to www.308westmain.com and selecting "thebarryblog" at the top. Or you can go straight to www.308westmain.com/thebarryblog

Thanks for your support and encouragement these last 18 months.

The Master Bath Takes Shape

2009-12-11T20:47:00.002-05:00

The stone was also delivered for the Master Bath.

The floor of the shower is a single piece of Cosmic Black Wave. The same material is on the bath countertop and goes up the wall on either side of what will be a mirror. The stone rocks! What you can't see is that it has texture. Instead of being smooth it has some waviness. I like it more than I thought I would. Now a back-story....

I got a call a couple of weeks ago that the stone I had chosen was not available. They had stone, but it wasn't in sizes to allow installation without seams. It could be found, but would put the time-line to completion in jeopardy. But I loved the stone chosen, it was called "Black Wave". So, Jeff Troch as Design Surfaces says they have a similar stone in stock called "Cosmic Black Wave". I could come out and see it to decide if it would work. Well, scrambling around between work meetings, 2 trips to Raleigh, and the above is the result. I think I might like this stone better. But, it's one of those decisions that without each piece side-by-side, I don't have a clue.

Kitchen Countertops

2009-12-11T20:40:00.003-05:00

This is ridiculous! Really! The countertop in the kitchen make a HUGE island. The counter is normal depth, but the slab on top hangs over by 24". Notice the perspective size of the sink. It appears small but it is not. The sink is approximately 40" long.

My kitchen is the coolest kitchen......

Backsplash and Cabinets

2009-12-11T20:33:00.002-05:00

Things are moving fast. I'll try to catch you up on the progress......

Here David is standing in front of the kitchen cabinets. Above are spaces that open up. I'll need a stool to get to them; they'll be useful for seldom used kitchen items. On the right is the "pantry" where I'll keep some food and dishes. I don't have cabinets like most homes with places for plates, cups, bowl and etc. Since when am I a traditional person?

Rich in the middle, being held up with boards is the back splash. One giant piece of metal. Weathered. Finished. Just metal. I'll call it the "Conrad Reyes Feature".

Plaster repair begins

2009-11-28T14:32:00.003-05:00

I lost. I had hoped to keep the walls with partial plaster in places where it had come off. I thought the look of plaster exposing brick was cool.

Not according to State Preservation. Walls where plaster is largely in tack needs repairing to "original look". Places where the plaster had completely been stripped from the brick can remain.

So, here you see the plaster guy repairing the northwest corner, and you see a brick wall that can stay just as it is. A coat of brick glaze will be applied to prevent brick dust. I suppose that in time I won't remember partial walls....but this is a sad day.

Kitchen Cabinets

2009-11-28T14:24:00.003-05:00

The kitchen cabinets are taking shape. Here is the installation to-date. The color and shape are becoming evident.

Along the bottom are drawers for pots and pans. Above is storage for seldom used appliances. The opening on the right will be a large pantry. The middle will be the cooktop and hood. Under the tarp on the left is an opening similar to the pantry, but which will frame the refrigerator.

In the background, folks are stripping the old plaster in preparation for a new coat. More on that soon.....

Painting has begun

2009-11-22T17:31:00.003-05:00

The ceilings were painted this week. White. The ceilings were painted to allow installation of lights (scheduled for this week).

This photo is a good view of the ceilings. You can no longer see individual pieces of drywall or drywall mud. Now the ceiling looks smooth across the entire space as if it's been there forever. Notice the holes, those will be where the lights are installed over the counters and island.

And she's buying a stairway......

2009-11-13T18:01:00.005-05:00

I'm on the 3rd floor with my back to Main Street. The stairs lead up to the roof deck (notice the light on the wall at the top of photo).

I like the stairs more everyday. And I've always liked them so that's saying a bunch. The risers are a steel beam and the treads are wood. These treads are temporary; the permanent treads are made of reclaimed wood from floor and ceiling joist.

Notice a couple of details that I hope the Historic folks let me keep. The bricked in door behind the stairs used to lead to the building next door. I love it. It was bricked in with less than perfect masonry work, giving it a very authentic look. I hope I can leave it as it is. The other detail is the writing on the wall that you can just see at the top right hand corner of the photo (black and white block lettering). This is advertisement of W. R. Murray and Sons music store that was in the building next door that I wrote of the "murder mystery". I definitely don't want to cover that up.

Outlook: Showers Expected

2009-11-13T17:42:00.002-05:00

The master bath and shower begin to take shape. A few weeks ago I showed the massive skylight going in above the shower. Now that the walls are going in you can get the whole view.

The framing at the top defines the entire bathroom space, with the framing at the bottom showing where the shower will be. On the left wall will be bathroom cabinets/mirror/sinks/lights. The doorway in the middle will be to the toilet (left as you walk in) and linen closet (right as you walk in).

On the wall in the shower space you see some plumbing rough-ins. The top one will be a shower head, and the 2 below will be controls for the shower heads; one for the "normal" shower head and the other for the rain head.

The walls around the shower will be glass. I think. We're still negotiating with vendors on price and as you know, this may change the design.

For what it is worth: this week the Triangle has seen 4"+ of rain and winds gusting to near 40 mph because of Tropical Storm Ida. I would not be using the rain head this week.....

They sing: I'm on Top of the World

2009-11-08T18:19:00.005-05:00

The rooftop deck is finished (mostly). Here is the view you get when stepping out onto the deck near sunset.

Excellent!

The decking is wood (not composite that was scheduled but changed for cost reduction). The rails are 1/4" x 1.5" iron; with steel cables strung horizontal and capped by a handrail that is made of stainless steel. Iron gates are made of the same material. The effect is perfect; you feel secure but look through the railing as if it isn't there.

The other view is looking back at the structure that now pops up off the original roof. The walls are concrete board painted gray. The roof of the structure is galvanized aluminum, with an aluminum gutter that feeds a rain-barrel.

The windows let sunlight in; sort of acting like a functional skylight feeding both living floors. A slight overhang will provide some shade from the midday sun. But, in late afternoon it washes the walls with an orange glow. Awesome!

You get a better look at the rails and gate from this view. Again, notice that you see them when you look at them but they go away when you're looking at something else.

More singing "....looking down on creation and the only explanation I can find....".

More Storefront: Comparison to Last Year

2009-10-29T19:15:00.007-04:00

Yesterday I referenced the construction look. Today, we're going into the WayBack Machine to the time in July of 2008 when the building was purchased.........

On July 13 of 2008, I compared the then storefront as "a face only a parent could love". I didn't love it so it received a makeover. Click the link above to see the comparison photo and then tell me what you think.

All the windows have been replaced. They look original, but are double paned and swing in for maintenance and cleaning ease. The oval windows above were repaired but not replaced. The glass remains in each of those panes.

The street-level front is all new. Instead of an overhang, there is now windows out to the sidewalk. Doors were placed on each side of the central window (commercial door on the left, residential on the right). The doors were set back to meet code and to not impede pedestrian traffic. A steel beam spans the length, with 2 others for vertical support.

I especially like that the lines of the building now are contiguous from ground to roof. It gives an appearance that there may be vertical supports rising 40' up. Nice work to the folks at Center Studio.

Welcome to 308westmain street

2009-10-28T22:59:00.008-04:00

I loved the artist storefront, but it got old. And made a lasting impression. Let's hope the "you never get a second chance to make a first impression" isn't true in Durham.

Let's start anew. Durham, this is the new storefront to welcome folks to 308 West Main Street in downtown. We've added much glass to bring the outdoors in, and the indoors out. Window seating or ample visibility for your retail merchandise.

The entrance is tucked neatly off to the side to allow visitors a chance to gather themselves before entering and exiting.

From indoors a large window was installed to provide a view looking west down main street toward Five Points.

This milestone makes me smile. I hope you enjoy and come by for a visit.

Skylight, Sky Bright

2009-10-12T21:43:00.005-04:00

Here's a view of the skylight above the master shower. That is the skylight, not just a hole. The skylight is clear so the clouds, or voyeurs, can be seen plainly.

The pipe will one day accommodate the rain head. On a cloudy day you can shower in the rain.......

Blue Tarp = Rooftop Structure

2009-10-09T22:02:00.003-04:00

(you might click the photo to enlarge)

Ok, the rooftop structure is taking shape. Framing is complete and Tyvek is wrapped around it. The photo was taken last weekend when rain was expected, so the structure was covered by a big blue tarp.

Of things fire and contractural

2009-10-09T21:42:00.003-04:00

Remember that feeling of having an eyelash in your eye? You know, so painful you can't keep your eyes open to get it out.....crying, excruciating pain? Then, you get the lash out and look at it on the end of your finger and wonder how such a small thing could have caused so much discomfort?

That is what contract issues are like during construction.

For 2 months I've been selecting fire/security vendors.....listening to experts.

"You need a commercial system."
"No, you only need a residential system since you are living in the space."
"You need a hybrid - commercial on the first floor, residential on the remaining."

They talk to other experts. They talk to me (moron). They provide estimates. Then, just when I'm about to make a decision and get over the hurdle, the lash moves to the other part of my eye causing me to wince and start the whole process all over.

And, I have a contract where security and fire equipment are documented. The contract is signed and payment agreed upon. Why the heck don't I just say, "you know, I thought I could solve this problem but I can't. You guys install the system you priced in the contract and I'll be happy."

The next time I'll say that.......real early. So early I'm already saying it. Don't come at me with more decisions that appear as they should have been made before we ever signed a contract!

Yeah right! I'll get a full more lashes in my eyes before this one is over.

Rooftop Construction

2009-10-01T09:54:00.006-04:00

Work, life and building decisions are getting in the way of progress documentation. Oh, and taxes. This has been an extremely challenging year of administration related to taxes owed to the US and Canadian government. Alas, these are not related to Downtown living so I'll keep those stories for my All Things Inevitable blog......

Construction started last week on the rooftop structure and deck. Here are the beginnings of that work; the metal framing that will support it all. Notice the natural slope of the roof. We intend to maintain that by suspending the deck structure above the roof, allowing water to run freely below. Suspending the decking will also keep weight off the roof framing and allow for a level walking surface.

Here is a view from down the street; an area called Five Points. The big blue tarp is the rooftop structure you see framed above. I have one of the best views of the Hill Building (the building with the flag) because my roof is 40' above views from the street. Much more to follow on the rooftop as construction continues.

Holes in Roof = Rain on Floors

2009-09-21T22:25:00.005-04:00

You ever notice that when you cut holes in your roof, the rain hits your floors?

Of course not. You're not stupid enough to cut holes in your roof. And if you did, you'd have a plan to repair it straight away.

Not me. My plan was to cut a hole in the roof and then figure out how to build a structure on the hole to keep the rain out. But it takes time to figure it out. And there are approvals to be had. And materials to hoist onto the roof. And temporary structures to build in failed attempts to keep tarp down. But rain water fills up tarp, forcing it to sink into the hole and let the water in.

The project is going well despite some hurdles.......

I wanna know, have you ever seen the rain
Comin' down on a sunny day?

Hollow Metal Doors

2009-09-03T17:26:00.003-04:00

The rear entrances are also nearly complete. The hollow metal doors were installed, as were the frames for the transoms above. The opening you see on the right was also delivered, but it didn't fit and needs to be re-manufactured.

Windows in the Rear

2009-09-03T17:20:00.003-04:00

Now the drama is happening. Windows (and doors) were also installed in the back of the building. These make a huge visual upgrade. Perhaps it is because you stand closer to the building when in the back....but the effect is real. I love it.

Windows in the Front

2009-09-03T17:13:00.003-04:00

I came home early to catch up on some building stuff including letting you see what has been happening. It occurs to me now that so much is happening, I can't really catch you up. But I'll try......

The windows were installed this week. I was looking at old photos, and I'm not sure the windows make as dramatic an impact as I had imagined. At least not from far away. I had imagined an immediate "oh, wow! Look at those nice new windows!" kind of reaction. But not so much.

However, there are some benefits that you might not see in the photo:

There are panes in each frame. Sounds like that would be consistent with before but some of the windows were broken out. This is the first the building has had fully glassed windows.
The panes are double glass giving extra insulation
The hardware makes cleaning the windows simpler and more efficient to use
They haven't yet been finished or painted

So maybe the dramatic appeal will happen. I'm still excited.

Oh, and ask Keith Freeman to tell you about "trying". He'll give you a good story about Bear Bryant.....

Two floors become one

2009-08-22T19:44:00.003-04:00

I really like this shot because it shows the relationship between both floors. On this floor is the closet on the left, bathroom/shower behind that and then utility closet on the right with the stairwell coming up to it.

In front of me is the loft opening to the second floor. I love the way you can see the entire space.

The windows are set to come in this week, as are the stairs up to the roof. Following that will be the roof-structure which will finally dry the place in. Southern thunderstorms drive me crazy knowing the rain is soaking my new (old) floors.

Flooring material and 3rd Floor Design

2009-08-22T19:38:00.002-04:00

(click photos to enlarge)

The framing is complete and the flooring has been laid. The stairs are nearly complete.

This is an excellent shot of the 3rd floor. The opening nearest me will be the stairwell up and down. The framing on the left is for the closet (big). Just behind that where you see framing on the floor is the shower (big). The framing on the right will be a utility closet.

Can't wait to see the stairs.

Framing: The Design Takes Shape

2009-07-23T00:43:00.004-04:00

David's framing work is moving along. It's excellent. It's exciting.

I'm standing here on the second floor near where the bathroom will be looking toward the front of the building. Above you see the suspended hallway; the stairwell up will be to the left of this photo, and the open loft cutout to the right.

The framing header that is going across the photo is a steel I beam with wood in the middle to frame against. The beam is attached to the walls with anchors that are bolted in.

The woodpile to the right is material to be reused.

Below is another view but now from the 3rd floor (same back wall but now opposite corner). Here David is walking across the hallway; stairs will be to his left. Stairs up to this floor is the opening below his feet. Notice above, a framing structure where he is beginning to frame the opening to the rooftop. I think it's gonna be real cool having stairs stacked. The view from the top clear to the bottom will be very excellent.

Note, the new floor joist you see were required because the old stairwell used to come up here. So, the need to frame that opening, and non-code framing from before required completely new framing to go in. Every other joist will have another attached to it making the floors more rigid.

The New Train Station

2009-07-14T19:38:00.005-04:00

Visiting the new train station makes me:

even more excited for Durham's potential and
wanting to ride and encourage transportation by rail

The place is beautiful. The train pulls up under a metal awning, with awning escorting you to the door of the station. At the door is signage welcoming you to Durham. The outdoor signage is plain in an old school, yet new kind of font. Very simple. Very cool. Inside (photo) the place is awesome in the same juxtapositional (sp?) way. The place seems like it could have been there for 100 years, yet you are certain it's new.

Old photos hang on the back wall showing Durham architectural, train and cultural history. Simple signage shows the Amtrak route and fare options. Benches beg for you to read the paper while donning hat and trench coat.

Thanks, Durham. Thanks, Amtrak. All aboard for a day in Charlotte.

Framing: 3rd Floor Loft has begun

2009-07-08T21:04:00.003-04:00

Framing is underway on all floors. Here is a view from the second floor rear, looking toward the front.

The large opening is the span width for

1) my open loft which will be from approximately the metal "bridge" you see across the middle over to the right wall and
2) stairs from this floor up to the 3rd. These will be on the left hand side (as you are viewing here).

More photos of this to come. Here I'm standing on a ladder 16' up from the ground floor. I feel fortunate to have snapped this photo successfully......

Eno Festival Weekend

2009-07-06T19:55:00.008-04:00

Is it graffiti when you write "Hi Mom" on the sidewalk in chalk?

The weekend weather was perfect for the Eno Festival. 4 stages with bands playing rock, country, blues, and bluegrass. There were dozens of artist displaying their wares: pottery, painting, photography, metal sculptures and the like.

Kim and I rode bicycles up to the Eno, which made even the journey fun. Only 2 sketchy points in the trip; one crossing Duke Street and the other Roxboro Road. I've written to organizers asking them to consider posting their suggested bike route next year.

Kim is standing in front of a bike some person fashioned into a camel.

Here's the real reason for the Eno Festival. Entrance fees go to preserving and purchasing land in the Eno River basin. Here is a man-made dam with tree trunks used to climb and dive from.

Great fun.

New Term: LVL - Laminated Veneer Lumber

2009-07-06T19:43:00.003-04:00

Last week the LVL's went into the first floor ceiling/second floor flooring.

LVL's are 6" thick products of laminated wood that spans the entire width of the building. They are heavy, approximately 400 lbs each, and are bolted to the walls on either side.

These new framing items will provide 1) support to existing framing and 2) material to support new structural material. In this photo, these 2 LVL's (light colored wood) will frame out the opening of the elevator shaft on the right hand side.

It was interesting watching how they were put in place. Metal forms were bolted to them while on the ground. Then, from above, they were hoisted up using eye bolts by a winch that was on the second floor with the wire material going through holes drilled in the floor. Because they expand the entire width, there was little clearance side-to-side. So, these were hoisted level otherwise they would wedge between the walls.

Similar framing material will be used on each of the next 2 floors.

An opening where there was none before

2009-06-24T01:27:00.004-04:00

The sidewall was opened today, with views down Main Street and onto the "court yard" next to the building. Beautiful! The opening is 9' tall and 4' wide.

This opening makes the space MUCH more appealing to potential tenants. Plus, light access from another direction makes the space look larger.

This photo shows the unfinished opening. On the left of the photo is the storefront framing for the door entrance off Main Street.

Here's a pre-restoration view from the exterior. The shrub on the left is the same as seen from the interior photo above.

Um, your backend is open

2009-06-18T19:15:00.006-04:00

Compare this photo to the one I wrote about during "Easement" last July. The original openings are being punched back out and will be filled with new windows and doors.

On the far left, will be the door to my upstairs unit. The existing door in the middle will be moved over about 8" to align with the window opening that you see here above it. The opening on the right, where there are workers, will be a window into the downstairs space.

Amazingly, the brick openings (my walls) are 16" thick. Buildings are built like this today. The exterior facade might be brick, but the interior would be wood, steel or cinder block. 16" of solid brick just look weird. However, I think it will make the window sills and door openings look VERY cool.

All good surprises.

A View from Bull McCabe's

2009-06-18T19:09:00.004-04:00

Nothing much to write except this is a view of my building from my local pub, Bull McCabe's. Click the photo to enlarge it and scroll to the bottom. There you'll see the top of my building behind & beside the green and white street sign.

Now, scroll back up and look at the sky. All this madness and concern are lost when we have days like this in Durham.

Let There Be Light......There was Light

2009-06-18T18:50:00.004-04:00

My new favorite day was today........

Demolition officially happened about a year ago. But, back then we didn't remove the stairs from the first floor because, well, there'd have been no way to get up to the second floor. Two major events happened today:

The stairs were removed and
Windows that had been bricked up were reopened

So there's a temporary problem created now. You can't get to the upper floors unless you use a REALLY TALL ladder (there's 16' between floors so the ladder needs to be at least 20'; and even then I wouldn't want to climb it). This problem will be remedied when the new stairs are framed in.

The stairs were removed to make room for the brick masons. In the picture you can see them working, repairing the brick in the openings they created. It's amazing how much light gets in. And it's amazing looking at the wide open spaces. And the hyrogliphics/sayings that were written on the walls in places just now being seen again......some of that isn't printable on my family blog.

Oh, click on the photo to enlarge it and then look at the ceiling joists near the back of the building. Notice how many of them have been cut away over the years? That's not supposed to have been done. Floor/Ceiling joists should span the entire structure to support weight and prevent sagging. Wonder even more how there wasn't a major disaster in the building???!!!

Much progress today. It is my new favorite day.

And even more Storefront

2009-06-10T22:06:00.004-04:00

OK. You must be tired of posts about the storefront. "When are you going to talk about some other bit of work, Barry?" I get it. I've heard you and here's your answer......"soon".

But for now it's more storefront. 7 weeks ago I wrote of work underway that would complete the storefront, produce new window openings and material and frame stairwells and access to the residential space. A project scheduled for 8 weeks has us still largely on storefront construction. But a cool storefront it will be. Here you see the steel framing that the actual storefront will be built to. I love the scale and view and get excited everyday at the changes.

The Festival for the Eno

2009-06-10T22:02:00.004-04:00

The Festival for the Eno happens again on July 4th weekend. Kimberly and I went to the Eno park over the weekend and noticed a new trail and bridge to nowhere.

Well, it probably goes somewhere we just don't know where. Loving the idea that there's a new pedestrian/bike trail. I can feel an exploratory ride in the near future.

A Great Place to Live: US News and Durham Palooza

2009-06-10T21:51:00.006-04:00

Durham's growth as a viable, sustainable city is upon us. Evidence is all around:

The week, US News and World Report ranked the 10 Best Places to Live in America. Durham made the list. Now, they appear on the list 5th but that's because the list was alphabetical. Maybe Durham is REALLY their choice for the best place to live???

Also, last weekend a group of musicians organized "Durham Palooza" where they assembled in the concrete park across the street from where I live and just played music. Banjos, mandolins, juice harps and accordions played past sunset making it clear that Durham has arrived.

OK, tongue-in-cheek doesn't write so well. This isn't evidence at all. But I don't need evidence.......Durham is becoming a GREAT place to live and I know it.

More Storefront

2009-05-30T11:13:00.004-04:00

The storefront remained the theme of work this week.

More concrete was poured as a footer because the original footer was about 4 feet too short. Now the wall for my entrance stairs can be framed out and structural members anchored.

In the photo, David and Brian "Merg" are attaching the storefront cross-beam that will be used to affix the storefront material. This created some minor challenges. One, brick was removed to anchor the beam into the supporting walls. How do you match 100 year old brick during replacement? Two, now walls that were interior will be exterior in the entrance ways. How do I finish the surface to make it appropriate for exterior exposure while astetically tying into the interior wall surfaces?

More on these later.

Storefront Entrances

2009-05-20T19:41:00.004-04:00

The concrete slab was poured and fixed that makes the storefront entrance ways. Here in the photo you can see the "floor" of the building on the left, and the brick sidewalk on the right. Closest to you on the left will be the commercial space entrance. The 2" raised portion in the middle of the photo will be the actual floor level for the commercial space. Farthest in the photo and not very visible is the entrance to my space.

We met with window and storefront fabricators yesterday. Progress on those fronts should happen soon.

Support Columns

2009-05-10T10:15:00.004-04:00

Two steel columns were put in place to support the support the steel header beam that frames the storefront.

The bit of work is interesting from an engineering perspective. One, the header beam was sagging a bit but not so much that it required repair. This is fortunate because that would have been a big, unplanned job. Also, we got to see how the header beam was being torqued by the "old storefront" that was hanging from this beam. The front of the beam was being twisted down from the weight of that overhang. Reinforcing this beam was necessary. I like our solution.

I also like this work because light is getting in again. I like light. The construction barrier made me forget how the space looked when it was open to Main Street. An open street view is what this building needs, don't you think?

Springsteen vs. The Kentucky Derby

2009-05-08T03:46:00.008-04:00

You can't always get what you want
But if you try sometimes, you mind find
You get what you need - Rolling Stones

So, Spot and I are online about 2 months ago trying to get Bruce Springsteen tickets when they go on sale. Spot can get one at a time; I can't get any. Spot gets 3 and we quit. Perhaps my not getting tickets is an omen: the Springsteen show is on the same day as the Kentucky Derby. I can't miss my favorite event of the year with the Freeman's and the opportunity to catch up with friends. Seeing folks happens WAY too seldom now-a-days.

I rationalize; I can go to the Derby Party during the day, leave early, and catch the Springsteen show in Greensboro that night. But then Mark, Spot and I decide to try the "lottery" for the Springsteen show. We need to be in Greensboro before 5:00pm. No Derby party.

So we arrive in Greensboro about 4:15, drive around the Coliseum and find a sweet parking space on a side street. There is a guy sitting in the front seat of the SUV parked behind us talking on the phone. He gets off the phone and tells us his kids are trying for the lottery as well. They've been here camping out for a while, he's here to pick them up in case they don't get in. We get excited and head to the Coliseum.

We go right up and get a numbered armband. It is 5:00.....the drawing is taking place in 15 minutes. We find our place in line. Our armbands are numbered 1263, 1264 and 1265. 1200+ have gotten here before us and been waiting. Should we have stayed in the Triangle and gone to the party?

A guy on a bullhorn announces how this will work: a number will be drawn from a hat, that person will be first in line, we'll take the next 450 persons behind that persons number. Very efficient and fair. Still, we've got less than a 33% chance of being within the proper "grouping".

And then the announcement....the number is 11xx. I can't even think! We're going to get to the front of a Springsteen show. "I'm Courtney Cox in the Dancing in the Dark video!!!!" (note: wow......this video is from 1984! Have I changed this much in 25 years?)

The show was AWESOME. Springsteen still performs with the passion that makes his shows epic events. I hope I have half his energy and good looks when I'm 61. The E-Street Band is showing signs of age but not sounding any older. Clarence is something like 71 and showing it. Bruce would help him to his place on stage and during encores Clarence did not leave (he sat in a chair). Max Weinberg's son played drums during most of the show. He was excellent and it was fun to watch the relationship between the young Weinberg and Springsteen. It must be weird to have known this boy when he was born and now have him keep time for your band.

3 hours later my ears are ringing. I've been on cloud-nine for this entire week. I hate that the show happened on Derby Day but..........you can't always get what you want, but if you try sometimes......

(the Steensboro May 2nd setlist)

Cheers.

Storefront, Concrete & Redesign

2009-05-08T01:56:00.005-04:00

Storefront: note that the plywood mural that has been the storefront for 6 months has changed. Construction is underway and the "storefront" has been moved out onto the sidewalk to accommodate the changes. Footings have been poured to allow for 2 columns to be added to support the sagging steel structural beam that you see at the top of the photo. The beam has sagged a bit over the last 100 years and columns are necessary to prevent further damage. Fortunately, the deflection has not been so much as to require replacement of the beam.

Concrete: inside, concrete is being poured to make the new storefront floor. Pouring is happening in 3 phases: footings, general floor material and then the pour that will be feathered out to create my new entrance ways. It's fun to watch the storefront take shape from the ground up. Hmph, sounds cliche'.

Redesign: unfortunately, the requirements of the Federal folks are creating churn in our overall plan. My third floor layout looks to be my biggest risk as the National Parks people think the "catwalk" is not acceptable. Scott and Tom are investigating ways to redesign that allows me to have a loft type floorplan but still meet government requirements.

I was warned that working toward Historic Tax Credits would be challenging. Leave money on the table or build the residence the way I want. Have a coin? I call heads.

Federal Approval: Sort of

2009-04-30T16:30:00.003-04:00

Phase II of the Department of Interiors assessment of my building plans came back today. Obviously, getting it back is a HUGE amount of good news. We now know something. However, it was not necessarily good news. Here are a couple of areas we need to address (paraphrased):

Replacement Storefront: must be compatible with the appearance, size, design, proportions and profiles of a traditional historic storefront........Photos of completed work must be submitted.
Replacement windows must match the appearance, size, design, proportions and profiles of the existing. Comparable detailed drawings of existing and proposed must be submitted and approved by SHPO and National Park Services before proceeding.
Proposed rooftop addition must not significantly impact the historic roofline of the building. Construction of a mock-up and photographs of mock-up from "each surrounding right-of-way and keyed to the historic district map must be reviewed and approved".
Retaining historic plaster walls in a deteriorated condition does not meet the Standards and must be repaired. Photographs of the completed work must be submitted.
The proposed two-story space within the upper level apartment must be reduced in size. A preferable alternative was proposed. New plans must be submitted.
New mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems must be installed in a manner consistent with the historic character of the building. Ductwork must be set back from storefront and painted. Photographs of completed work must be submitted.

If you can read between the lines and know me well, then you'll know some of this is disappointing to me. However, you'll also know that my optimism will change my outlook in about a minute. (tick, tock, tick, tock)

There, that is better. What is all the fuss about?

So here is some good news

2009-04-30T00:57:00.008-04:00

Work has begun. Holes are everywhere in the floor and ground. And I got this as an email from Tom @ Center Studio:

.....Also, I was able to reach someone at the National Park Service regarding the status of Part 2 of the Tax Credit Application and they said they had misplaced a drawing and that had caused some delay, but were able to get another copy of the drawing from another department and it was now being reviewed. The review should be done within the next couple of days and I asked that she fax me a copy of the final Part 2 documents so that we can have them in hand before the mailed copy arrives.

This fax will allow work on the storefront, windows and new openings to begin in earnest. Keep your fingers crossed that it comes this week.

Renovations began this week

2009-04-26T11:48:00.004-04:00

Here Kimberly and David stand in front of the "art wall" where Kimberly has painted the announcement that "Renovation begins APR20". (and she appears to be holding up a pineapple....not sure what that means). The sign at the top was made so that when the wall comes down there is still some advertisement.

The water line has been moved and inspected. Concrete has been broken to allow footers (front store posts and stair) to be poured. The gas line marked to accommodate moving the meter from the front of the store to the side of the building. The dangerous stairs to the rooftop were removed. And, termite junk was poured around the foundation.

Changes are happening fast.

For you: A Free Movie Pass

2009-04-20T19:47:00.007-04:00

Would you turn down an invitation to a free movie? You would if it was terrible? Well, how about if it is only 1.5 minutes long?

The folks downstairs turned the SketchUp file into a movie. You'll be hooked from the start. It begins as if you are walking down the sidewalk, across the street from 308westmain. You find yourself compelled to cross and enter the building. Upon entering you find open, people friendly space. Warm light cascades from a window on your left. A mezzanine invites you so you head toward the stairs. Or is it the beautiful woman above that you find yourself drawn to? What will happen as you approach?

Ok, you spent longer than 2 minutes reading this. Just watch the movie.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MppHPCgiAY0

It'll be even better live.

Marketing Weekend

2009-04-19T20:59:00.004-04:00

Contracts are signed. Renovation begins on Monday. More on that tomorrow......

The first floor of 308westmain is officially for lease. We kicked off this event by once again taking advantage of Durham Art Walk.

This weekend brought the streets of Durham more life with Art Walk '09. Remember that the fall Art Walk was the event where local youth were invited to paint the storefront construction facade. It was very cool. But repeating that would have seen unoriginal.

So this weekend I incorporated the help of a real artist. Kimberly painted an invitation to vote what the space should become. Then folks started stopping by. And stopping by. And stopping by. I met Europeans here as grad students, local residents excited by the changes, parents, kids, lawyers, council members, renovation specialists, and architects. So many interesting people. Really. And all of them were passionate about how a downtown should be reborn. Here's what we heard about my space:

an overwhelming response for a cafe/coffee shoppe.
a community grocery/corner market. The number of responses for this surprised me. So did the number of people that knew about Central Market opening but still requesting a market on a smaller scale. Interesting.
Retail space......especially of the boutique variety
a bar or club
gallery space, often coupled with cafe or coffee
small bookstore, magazine shop and cafe/coffee (seeing a trend....coffee goes with every request)
yoga/day spa
bicycle shop and coffee bar. This one interested me because the couple that discussed it had historical bikes and had a friend that was a repair "artist"
and one each response for boxing ring, Dollar Store, English Smoking Club, an occult shop and a combination martini bar/shoe shop

This really was one of my favorite weekends in Durham. The people made it special. May the space lease to someone who shares the dream of community.

And now to bed to get some rest for a great week.

Contract Review

2009-04-08T22:35:00.004-04:00

Edits are underway to the construction contract. David is available to begin work. The National Parks Service contacted me for payment approval of Phase II of their review.

I'm getting real close to seeing progress!!!

State Historic Approval??

2009-03-18T00:06:00.009-04:00

Today I received the Review and Recommendations from the State Historic Preservation Office. The document has "United States Department of the Interior - National Park Service" in the letterhead. Let's see....the Internal Revenue Service.....I've just doubled the number of US Government Agencies I am in contact with. Well, those are 2 that I know of.

My review "meets the Standards only if the attached conditions are met". The conditions are not that rigorous or disappointing:

plaster will need to be added to the walls where it has deteriorated...with allowance for "some" existing exposed masonry
the storefront must have clear glazing on the windows (no tint)
the storefront aluminum must be baked enamel to replicate the appearance of painted wood
mechanicals and duct-work can not result in lowering of the ceiling heights, impact the character of the building or be visible from the exterior. Ductwork needs to be set back from the storefront, needs be adjacent to walls and must be painted to match the ceiling color

OK. Not so bad. But, who doesn't like the character of aluminum colored ductwork? Paint it, really??!! This we might review.

Now, I found that this isn't really approval. The Federal government will review this State recommendation and can either rubber stamp their approval (which also would mean State approval), or they will add their requirements including potential areas the State didn't highlight.

Never-the-less.....After too many weeks I've seen progress in the approval. It should be any day now that the build can commence.

Oh, and the tournament begins on Thursday. Thursday and Friday should be a holidays.

Finally, Progress

2009-03-10T22:26:00.003-04:00

After 7 months, something was ADDED to the building!!

The new roofing is nearly complete. All vent holes were repaired and new roofing material was laid down. The material starts up on the wall and each sheet is bonded to the other creating a seamless bond. This mostly dries the roof.....though there is still a big hole where the stairs come up on the roof. We need to remove the existing stairs, fill the space with plywood and then come back and bond this new material to fill the space.

Such a minor change, but major because it is my first.

More news from nowhere

2009-02-26T10:58:00.006-05:00

Thanks to those who admonished me for not posting and/or to those who encouraged me to start up regular posting. This will be the first of more to come. I promise.

First, news of the building
Well, there's nothing much new to post. We are still awaiting State and Federal approval on the design. I desperately want to start hearing hammers. They call to me. But, the windows, storefront and new (old) window cut-outs have to be first. And, without State approval on the plans I might either 1) need to redo work or 2) lose out on tax credit opportunity. I'm not so much interested in either; so no meaningful construction right now.

I have uncovered a potential way for me to get capital and a real-estate professional to lower their tax burden. If you know of anyone in the real-estate business that wants to make about 20% on their money......send them my way.

Next, ramblings about nothing (most of you can stop reading)
I still love living in an urban environment. Sunday brunch, coffee and NY Times reading has become a regular event for me and friends at Parker and Otis. I continue to meet people who live in the downtown core and are excited by the potential, while remaining challenged by ways to integrate smartly. The Durham Station opened on Monday. A very European style transportation facility makes me excited about Durham's future and vision. There's talk of a "circular route" for short trips around the Duke/Downtown core. I would love to take the bus for a grocery run. Count me as one who would use the service.

One of my favorite bloggers took part in an urban design and planning exercise in Raleigh with leaders from the Triangle urban and rural centers. This was one of my favorite reads in a long while (including the NY Times articles on how crappy our economy is and will be). You must check it out, especially if you live in the area (defined by Burlington to Zebulon). It also has interesting principles about the challenges of collaboration. Speaking of Cisco.........

Work is going excellent. I (we) are succeeding on a project that I've been working for the last 6 months. But mostly, I'm learning just how challenging it is to work collaboratively. I'm too stubborn at times and at others I should be even more stubborn. I must find ways highlight the important areas and let go of the chaff. 'Tis hard for me though, because caring brings passion and then even the little stuff matters. So, because work is hard it is good. And, I'm thankful to have meaningful work right now.

I hope this for all of us.

Ciao.

Merry Christmas, Mom

2008-12-25T12:05:00.006-05:00

Mom and I are sitting here Christmas morning. The gift opening is complete. We're planning food and visits to friends and relatives.

I made the following movies to give her a virtual tour of Downtown Durham and of 308westmain. We both enjoyed them; the movies sparked side conversations. And now, for my final gift from her, I ask that she writes something this Christmas morning to last as part of this blog. My mom.....

Thanks for my special gift. I enjoyed the time spent looking at all of the scenery downtown and hope to come visit and enjoy it with you soon. It looks like you've found a great location. I'm proud of you for upgrading this historical building. Wishing you lots of success in your venture. Love, Mom

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all.

Tour of Durham Part I: American Tobacco, Durham Performing Arts and Durham Athletic Center areas
Tour of Durham Part II: 308westmain (front, interior and rooftop)

So Many New Toys

2008-12-20T15:00:00.003-05:00

Will gave me the drawings in PDF form and a cool application that lets me take virtual tours of the building's interior. Both great toys, but I'm too stupid to figure a way to share the information. For now, I'll make do showing this mock-up of the storefront.

My entrance will be the one on the right and the retail space will be on the left. I really like the relationship the store windows have with the sidewalk. I hope my future tenant likes it also.

Drawings, Permits and My Hero

2008-12-17T10:59:00.005-05:00

The drawings were completed on Friday, the 12th and were submitted Monday morning to the City. Bring me positive thoughts, prayers, karma and good energy that 1) they are approved to begin construction and 2) the approval process is a short one.

And then we'll focus on whether this can come in under budget.

An excellent article was written about Gary Kueber in the News and Observer. He's sort of a local, cult hero of mine. We've exchanged emails and I think we'll meet as he wants to see the interior of 308westmain. Please give this article a read and then check out his blog if you want to see more of his great work on Durham's architectural and cultural history. There's also a link to it in the left column of this blog.

Cheers.

I'm in Love

2008-12-02T22:37:00.005-05:00

This post is not directly related to 308westmain but certainly has a connection......

Today I felt even more a part of the community. Scott and the folks at center studio architecture invited me to be their guest at the Downtown Durham Inc. Annual Meeting. The meeting was hosted at the new Durham Performing Arts Center, making this the third day in a row that I visited (dinner with Wayne before B. B. King on Sunday - Ashley, Chris and I went to the grand opening on Monday - then this afternoon).

I'm back from that brief commercial break.

Anyhow, the meeting was very informative and renewed my interest in Downtown Durham. I learned:

residents of downtown have grown from 180 in 1996 to 1470 in 2008. Nearly a tenfold increase in 12 years
# downtown employees has grown from 5,851 in '96 to 13,500 today
office occupancy rates remain in the high 80 percentile (88% this year)
resulting from downtown's renaissance, properties increased in value an average of 135%, compared to the county average of 30% (results of 2007 reevaluation)
folks are committed to keeping the downtown SAFE, DIVERSE and full of the arts

Downtown Durham: Find Your Cool (new slogan)

Most importantly, my connection to the community was deepened because of the people I met and hung out with. Thanks to:

David Downie for his continued friendship and dedication to construction
The folks at DDI for their vision of Downtown Durham
Joni Madison, the outgoing DDI chair and COO of McKinney, for a moving salutation
Congratulations to Kelli and Billy of Toast for winning this year's "Outstanding Retail Entrepreneur" award
Cheers to my new friends and neighbors; Lindsay, Rachel and Nicole
And finally, a BIG THANKS to Scott, David, Will, Tom, Chris and Dawn for inviting me and putting up with the noises that come from above their studio

A Building Birth Story.......Part II

2008-12-01T17:09:00.004-05:00

In the first part of the story, Durham's Main Street grew west with my building being built circa 1907. Druggists, working for R. Blacknall, moved to my building and opened their own drug store, sharing space with a physician and an art shop. The westward movement continues......

1911
King, C. E. & Sons are the only business listed at 224 West Main (my buildings address in the early years)

The King brothers, Charles E., Charles H., and Harris L., are still living at 505 Duke Street and listed as druggists. Blacknalls Drug Store is still at 130 West Main (corner of Corcoran and Main) along with Five Points Drug Co. at the corner of Main & Chapel Hill, Main Street Pharmacy at 202 West Main and Rexall Pharmacy on the corner of Corcoran and Main. There are 16 Drug Stores listed in the Directory. Clearly this was a booming business, and perhaps one heading for consolidation.

Furniture also seems to be going through some considation because Herring & Elliott Furniture is now listed at 126 West Main. The Elliott name has moved onto the marque. It's still not tied to my building, I'm using him as the character to drive interest........

1915
My building is still labeled as 224 West Main on the Sanborn maps and Herring & Elliott Furniture Co. is listed in Directory as the tenants. H. H. Herring and B. W. Elliott are listed after the building name, maybe meaning they are co-owners. Benjamin W. Elliott lives at 905 Yancey so he's moved out of living where he works. H. H. Herring is listed as a resident of Spartanburg, SC.

Why B. W. Elliott is interesting to me is he is the great-great grandfather of Kristy, my friend and hair stylist. I've known Kristy for 17 years and even dated her for a time. She remains one of my favorite persons on this planet. Having a connection to her past gives me great pleasure.

C. E. King and Sons are listed at West Main corner Market. I'm not sure which corner, but I suspect what is now known as the Temple Building. Charles H. and Harris L. are still listed as proprietors.

1919
Now my building takes on its current address of 308 West Main. Elliott Furniture Co. (not Herring and Elliott) is listed as the tenant. B. W. is noted as sec-tres, with H. H. being the president.

Benjamin W. moved his home to 114 E. Geer.

1923
Elliott Furniture Co. has moved to 416 West Main. H. H. and B. W. are still proprietors.

Benjamin C. Woodall Sporting Goods moved into 308 West Main.

The building is 15 years old and Durham is growing. The building was home to 3 shops; druggists, furniture and sporting goods. Not an exact parallel to my life but oh well. I've got enough information now to decide how to brand the building.

A Revised Building's Birth Story

2008-11-30T10:12:00.010-05:00

Today the Durham Performing Arts Center opens with a show by B. B. King. The weather is "cold and rainy"; hopefully it won't dampen the mood of the evening (I crack myself up).

Tom (the architect) discovered from the Sanborn Maps that my building wasn't always addressed as 308 West Main. In its first 10ish years, the block west of Corcoran was the 200 block, with my building being at 224 West Main. So, here's the Directory search information for 224 West Main, including my cross-references of the business/persons names......

Summary:
From the Directory it appears my building was built pre-1907 and post-1905. The druggists who were employed at R. Blacknall & Sons on on Corcoran and Main in 1905 moved a block west and started their own pharmacy in my building pre-1907. They gave the business their family name. In 1907, the building also contained a physician, an art shop and a person of unknown profession. I've got later years information that I'll save for another post.

Now here's the detail for those freaks like me:

1903
224 West Main was not listed. Nor was "B W Elliott or Herring". (stay with me on the names, they start to make sense in the coming years)

Searching on King I found:
King, Charles E (Haywood and King), home 505 Duke
King, Charles H, drug clk R Blacknall and Son, home 503 Duke
King, Harris L, druk clk R Blacknall and Son, home 503 Duke

Searching on Blacknall I found:
R. Blacknall and Son, Druggists, northeast corner of Main and Corcoran Sts.
I even found some ads so maybe this was a big, important business in town. It was certainly on a prominent corner of the community, what is now a vacant lot.

1905
224 West Main was not listed.

Searching on Elliott I found:
Elliott, Benjamin W, mngr Herring Furniture Co. home 126 West Main

Searching on Herring I found:
Herring Furniture Co, 126 w Main, B W Elliott mngr - phone 473 (so BW lived where he worked?)
I also found this list of salesmen, including some with the "colr" notation. This denotes "colored" which at times had a seperate listing in the Directories.
Cannon, Joseph P (colr); Case, L Baseom; Robinson, W Prince; Thompson, Wade W (colr); Walsh, William E (colr)
I don't know when integrated workforces began in the south, but it seems Herring Furniture Co had one.

1907
Searching on 224 West Main reveals:
Durham Art Shop (Owen Z Wren, William S Marten)
Felts, Robert L. physician home 409 n Mangum
King, C E and Sons (Charles E., Charles H., and Harris ), druggists - phone 106
Woodard, Charles A

So, the building dates 1907 and its first collection of merchants were physicians, druggists and an art shop.

Searching on Elliott reveals:
Elliott, Benjamin W, mngr Herring Furniture Co., home 126 W Main (so he still lived where he worked)

Searching on Herring reveals:
Herring Furniture Co., 126 W Main and East Durham, B W Elliott mngr

Searching on King reveals:
King, C E and Sons (Charles E., Charles H., and Harris L.) druggists 224 W Main - phone 106

Herring and Elliott become part of my buildings history in later years. I'll write more about them in the future, as well as cross-reference the above with the Title search Lynn ran. Gotta run now so I can meet Wayne before he heads off to the show.....

Alert: Progress in Progress

2008-11-19T09:32:00.003-05:00

We met yesterday to review "Permit Drawings".

David, Scott, Tom and I met yesterday for a long, 6 hour session. It was rough but I'm happy with the outcome. The drawings are complete enough for two purposes: accurate pricing and building permit.

The estimate I currently have is a ballpark that enabled me to get a loan. I've got the loan. Now, the fun starts. David will use these drawings and price each area accurately. If we're still in the ballpark, we're good. If the new pricing doesn't fit in the budget, we get to lower quality or remove items to make the project fit in budget. In the current economy, I'm a little nervous.

Of course, nothing moves without building permits. These drawings will go to the city folks for approval and permit so we can begin construction. Current plans have us starting work in 3 weeks.

It was hard writing this with my fingers crossed.

The Waiting is the Hardest Part

2008-10-26T18:55:00.003-04:00

"Wait. Design. Pay Interest. Wait. Design. Pay Interest."

Queue Jeopardy music.....

"What is the progress stage of 308 West Main, Alex."

There seems to be progress but none to write about. We meet for our weekly Tuesday meetings and discuss material, elevation and other details of the floor plan. When complete, they go before engineering and the city for approval. Hopefully I then get permits and work begins. Until then, there's nothing much to write about.

The waiting is the hardest part
Every day you see one more card
You take it on faith, you take it to the heart
The waiting is the hardest part

The Wall

2008-09-21T19:27:00.006-04:00

With tribute to Roger Waters & David Gilmour:

Hey you, standing in the road
always doing what you're told,
Can you help me?
Hey you, out there beyond the wall,
Breaking bottles in the hall,
Can you help me?
Hey you, don't tell me there's no hope at all
Together we stand, divided we fall.

The artwork Brian painted on the door reminds me of the the screaming face from The Wall's album artwork. I don't think it was intentional 'cause I never mentioned Pink Floyd during the painting session. Weird.

Anyway, it's complete and I think very cool (or as David's 12 year old daughter said "beast"). I hope the rest of the city thinks so too.

Alive with the Sound of People

2008-09-21T09:56:00.008-04:00

Brian and David came up with a great idea on Friday - "Paint the Storefront".

So yesterday, Brian is on the street soliciting folks to stop and decorate the plywood that is the temporary barrier of the building. And folks did. Kids would paint and then giggle with glee; spraying paint all over themselves and parent. A father stopped by to see what we were doing and then asked if he could go home and get his family. Four teenagers spent 2 hours painting flowers, characters, slogans, lyrical lines and "The Hendrix Company" slogan. Even Otis, a white poodle mix got in the action. Brian painted a picture of Otis on the temporary door and Otis signed his approval with his paw prints. In RED! The paint is water soluble but poor red footed Otis. What fun.

David is coming back today to bring his daughter. He'll put up scaffolding and paint the top portion that couldn't be reached from ground level. I'm suspecting a different kind of art today. Yesterday's was "real" because of the fun it gave to people. I suspect today's will be more "professional". I'm sitting here on Sunday morning and can't wait to see what they come up with.

This really is brightening Downtown. I hope others agree.

More History/There's Friedman's

2008-09-16T23:43:00.005-04:00

Most of the demolition is complete. The storefront is coming down. Pulling up the wood planks that were the entrance reveals this tile walkway.

Appraisal Returned

2008-09-10T20:25:00.003-04:00

The appraisal came back today and was very near the amount that I needed it to be. This means the bank will loan me the money needed for construction. So, onward toward Building Permits and City Approvals.

The appraisal process was interesting: no buildings in the downtown core have been built, refurbished and then resold. So, what's the basis for the folks performing the appraisal to make their estimates? This posed some challenges. In the end, the building's appraised value = Purchase Price (approved during purchase loan) + Construction Cost.

I've been reassured that NO buildings for sale after refurbishment is a good thing for me as it shows the building is a good investment and will climb in value. I'll know in time.

Demolition is nearly complete. The visual impact of removing the "stuff" is significant. The space looks cool. Very cool. But it also looks empty and the task to make it seem like a home appears more daunting. I'll take some pictures this weekend.

Pre-Demolition Photos

2008-09-01T20:10:00.006-04:00

Danny Mac came through with some photos just days before demolition began. Here's the link to all of them. I'll pick a few to comment on, especially as progress gets underway.

This one is from the 3rd floor, front of building looking toward the back. In the far back, left corner you can see a handmade staircase that goes up to the rooftop. The hatch door leaked and allowed rain to come down the stairs. I'm hoping to not find extensive water damage. Of course, the rooftop gets major repair.

The stairway down that you see will be patched and become the approximate location where you will come up from the floor below (opposite direction). I am standing in what will become the hallway. The closet and bathroom will be along the left wall. The bedroom will be in the back. Danny is taking the photo from what will become my office/study/rec room. Somewhere in this space will be a cutout to the floor below, creating a loft. This was located in the front where Danny is standing, but the city won't allow if I intend to apply for tax credits.

Construction Loan Approved

2008-08-30T10:27:00.004-04:00

Friday, I got the following from my banker:

Increasing the loan.....was approved contingent upon the building appraising......... I'll get (them) started on the appraisal tomorrow.

I guess I should be concerned the building won't appraise for the loan amount, but that would be valuable (though disappointing) news. So, I'm counting this note from my banker as a major milestone along the project path.

Harrington Bank has been convenient to deal with. These are uncertain times in the US regarding real estate loans. I'm finding Harrington cautious, which they should be, but also liberal. Not having a large governing board seems to allow them to process work close to the customer. I suppose it should always be that way but it isn't. Go Harrington!

Toilets and Dumpsters and Permits, Oh My!

2008-08-27T01:15:00.003-04:00

I've been excited to find a toilet before, but never for this reason. The arrival of the toilet and dumpster means demolition work begins full-force......

A Good Week for Travel

2008-08-23T18:09:00.004-04:00

I was gone all week for my real job. It was a great week on that front; many positive decisions and a renewed interest for me to focus on "entitlement".

Not much happened at 308westmain though I did receive this positive note from David on Friday:

The dumpster and the out house will be set on site this coming Monday. We will start the demolition full force on Tuesday.

Spot stopped by today. We lucked out and got to tour the Penny Furniture space with Cynthia, the owner. Her place is awesome. Seeing the metal staircase with cable rails helped me to envision how excellent my space will look if I can afford the rooftop opening. The open treads allow light (and dust) to fall through. I hadn't thought of the bonus of metal treads not requiring dusting. I hate to dust.

Spot and I finished up with lunch at Toast-Five Points. Yum!

Work Begins......sort of

2008-08-18T19:40:00.003-04:00

Demolition contracts signed. Self-Help consulted and location for dumpster and toilets are confirmed. I'm added as an endorsement to the contractors insurance policy. City plans are being drawn up to decide what portion of the front sidewalk can be blocked for purpose of barricade once the front comes down.

The work that goes on behind the scenes to get to complete major milestones is significant. I'm glad Scott is so diligent and is working on my behalf.

Unknowns that must become knowns before the end of demolition phase.....

Access to back entrance and rain water management
Construction loan details
Where (if) to move the loft space

It seems opportunity for tax credits will be reduced if I continue with the plan to cut-out the third floor near the front of the building. Historic preservationist are concerned the "loft" will be visible from the street (it will) which would conflict with the period look. So, I need make some decisions about tax credits and possibility to move the loft to another portion of the interior.

More soon when actual demolition begins.

Demolition Permit Granted

2008-08-13T22:27:00.005-04:00

Permit submitted and approved. Demolition contract will be signed tomorrow. Work should begin very soon.

Danny Mac took a bunch of photos today of the interior. I will find a way to host some of the photos for posterity sake. Dan had spent time inside 308 when it was a dance club. There's a photo of he and Kelli on the cover of a local newspaper that I'd love to find. Anyway, he didn't quite remember Ringside looking as it does today. That's unfortunate on many levels. But, mostly today because Ringside was once a vibrant part of the Triangle scene.

Even though I've had a couple of months to adjust, it still seems like a daunting series of tasks to turn this space into a home and business.

Contractor Selected

2008-08-10T10:00:00.003-04:00

I selected David Downie of Apperception Design-Build as my contractor. It was not an easy decision.

We interviewed 4 businesses, viewed their ideas/proposals and discussed the project. Each group was represented by good people. Each had unique skills and areas to bring to the project. In the end, I selected David because of his 1) dedication to turning old into new, 2) taking one job at a time, 3) hands on approach to the build and 4) "spiritual" presence when talking with him.

Check out David's webpage to see some of his past residential work. I'm excited to see he has experience creating loft condos out of historic buildings. Wikipedia has a definition of Apperception.

Title Searches

2008-08-06T20:18:00.005-04:00

Lynn Harder did some Title searches yesterday. While the information is interesting, it unfortunately did not get me closer to the name I'll attach to the project. "The Radcliffe" might win by default......

Detail for posterity (not interesting, so read at your own risk). I need to research these parties to find anything interesting about them:

No record of how John Sprunt Hill acquired the property but he did own it. This is interesting because John Sprunt Hill married into the Watts family (American Tobacco family) and built many buildings in Durham/Chapel Hill including the Carolina Inn. His bank later became CCB. This information is exciting to me, but since he owned so many properties, mine is not unique and can't acquire his name.
17APR 1905 - John Sprunt Hill to E.P. Wharton.
30JUN 1905 - E.P. Wharton to Southern Real Estate Company
17MAR 1906 - Southern Real Estate to E.J. Parrish. Might be Parrish of Parrish Street. Interestingly, the property was sold for "that for and in consideration of the sum of ten ($10) dollars and other goods and valuables....".
24FEB 1912 - E.J. Parrish to H.H. Herring
17APR 1918 - H.H. Herring to James S. Perry and devised by said James S. Perry to Mary Susan Perry, now Sudie Barbee Lindsey (whatever that means)
27JUN 1956 - Sudie Barbee Lindsey to Trustee for Sudie Barbee Lindsey (The Depositors National Bank of Durham). Perhaps part of a will?
Then it seems to go into the hands of Alice Lee Barbee Perry because
23JUN 1967 - North Carolina National Bank (successor by merger to the Depositors National Bank of Durham) to Alice Lee Barbee Perry. Deed says, "was devised to Alice Lee Barbee Perry by Last Will and Testament", so perhaps Alice Lee got the property some years later when she became an adult?
08JAN 1979 - Alice Lee Barbee Perry to George C. Love, Jr.
15JAN 1998 - George C. Love, Jr. to Owen D. Wade
15JUL 2008 - Owen D. Wade to Barry Radcliffe. This is the date of the Deed filing, closing was actually on 12JUL 2008

History of Durham: from 1907 Directory

2008-08-02T17:31:00.009-04:00

"Thirty years ago an insignificant village with a population of some five hundred. To-day a city of twenty thousand inhabitants; containing more wealth, larger manufacturing enterprises and greater school facilities than any other city in the State of North Carolina."

I found this Preface from the Durham Directory to be an interesting account of the history of Durham: considering Durham to be a "result" of the Civil War.

Directory accounts are provided by Durham County Library as part of the North Carolina Collection.

Found: First Tenants of 308 West Main

2008-08-02T16:53:00.010-04:00

A search of the Durham Directory from 1903 reveals the business listed at 308 West Main to be Standard Mercantile Co. Here is the page from that Directory (click to enlarge). Earlier Directories do not list this address, and instead stop at 302 West Main (the corner of Market and Main). Perhaps the street didn't extend west past Market until 1903.

My research didn't find much about "Installment Houses" other than they appear to be loan companies for personal merchandise; unlike banks who loaned for business reasons. Would like to know more.

Raymond J. Davis was the proprietor of Standard Mercantile Co. and lived at 418 Warren. I tried to find more, but the business was gone from this location by 1905. I found a Raymond J. Davis listed as manager of Masters & Agee Co. of Charlotte, NC., some years later. Perhaps he continued moving south and west?

The 1905 Directory shows William J. Carter, an electrician, to be running a business in my building. Later in 1907, two business owners are listed at 308 West Main: Benjamin T. Tingen, a confectioner whose home was at 111 Jones; and Jacob H. Wheeler, a shoemaker who lived at 209 Morris.

I hope to find someone to run a title search for the land in these early years. That will complete some of these stories.

I DID discover the answer to what comes after "ELLIOTT" on the back of the building. Stay tuned.

Curb Appeal

2008-08-01T17:38:00.004-04:00

(click images to expand)

Here is the current design plan for the new storefront. Ideas of interest to me:

Downstairs storefront extended out to walkway, opposed to recessed in current design
Symmetrical and clean appeal
Offers maximum natural light into the downstairs space

Ideas worth exploring:

Large area of windows may create maintenance challenges
What awning, window shading is appropriate
Offers maximum natural light into the downstairs space (is it too much?)

I'm a fan of the old-school awnings that roll out/retrack with a hand crank. Of course, I won't be responsible for that daily task. Would my street level tenants want the flexibility to affect the amount of light, while accepting the responsibility to move the raise/lower the awning as appropriate?

If it takes a village to raise a child, maybe that can apply to my building. I'd like your thoughts on the storefront. Please feel free to use the comment button and provide me yours.......

Contractors Interviewed

2008-07-30T10:43:00.005-04:00

Hey mom, I enjoyed our conversation last night and am glad your able to read the blog.

Interviews with the 4 contractors ended yesterday. I met some good folks and feel as if each will bring something unique to the project. Each contractor is scheduled Friday to present their ideas & plans. Soon after we select a contractor, organize permits/dumpsters, and begin demolition. I'm looking forward to Friday. A contractor's experience will bring a needed perspective to our planning and design.

Juggling time off for the building project, plus immersing myself in a new project at work is an art I hope I'm performing with success on both sides.......

2nd Floor Windows

2008-07-24T00:20:00.006-04:00

Here's a view of the 2nd floor windows. The window casings and sashes all need replacing. Replicating 100 year old craftsmanship will require some magic, but are worth historical restoration.

This space will be my living room with a view of Main Street and the neighbors across the street.

Meet the Neighbors

2008-07-23T12:36:00.004-04:00

I visited the neighbors yesterday to introduce myself, find out about them and briefly discuss the easement/alley and parking. I'll be excited if they consider me a part of their little community.

Self-Help is a community development lender/real estate developer who assists folks underserved by conventional markets. Since 1980, as a non-profit, they have assisted female, rural and minority borrowers to build wealth through ownership of home or business. They were part of the early redevelopment of Asheville, NC. I love Asheville and trust Self-Help's presence in Durham will have similar positive results.

(thus endeth my first commercial interlude)

Self-Help owns every piece of property on the block except for my 308westmain. EVERY other piece. They also own the art-deco'ish building across the street that I will look upon from my front windows. They manage the waste removal since the city doesn't service the block. They own all the parking spaces near and adjoining my building. And they own the structure that currently "impedes" access to a rear portion of my building that is currently slated to become a door (see Easement). Self-Help is my big brother.

I wonder if I should bake them brownies......

Approval Granted

2008-07-22T09:55:00.002-04:00

We received City Government approval to remove the existing storefront:

I now have the authority to approve the removal of the storefront administratively. I will send you the COA today. - Steve

This is good news toward two related details: 1) I can remove and reinstall space more usable and 2) changing the storefront still may allow for receipt of tax credits.

Negotiations are still ongoing on what the storefront will look like.......

The Mystery of the History

2008-07-20T20:11:00.006-04:00

"W. R. Murray, a powerful man, closed in on his assailant, and taking a revolver shot him, inflicting a wound that caused death...".

My building uses what is called "shared walls", meaning the exterior wall of the building next door becomes the interior wall in my space. In my case, plaster was put over the brick to create clean walls for my building's occupants.

On the third floor of my place, above the rafters, you can see what appears to be an advertisement that had been painted on the wall of the building next door (306 west main) when it was an exterior wall. You can make out "W. R. Murray and Co." at the top with wording underneath that is mostly covered by plaster and framing, making it difficult to decipher.

A quick online search today reveals _W.R. Murray and Co._ was a music store in town. With that clue, I think the letters from left to right near the plaster appear like PIANO. Another search of the NY Times archives reveals that a W.R. Murray, who owned a music store in Durham, was involved in an incident where he killed his uncle with a revolver over a business dispute. If this turns out to be true, uncovering the plaster on my walls might be uncovering a bit of Durham history.

For now, time wasted as I still don't know about my building's history.....

Hercule Poirot out.

Easement

2008-07-20T11:45:00.004-04:00

The brick filled window on the left, ground floor will be opened to provide me rear private access to my space. But, notice the concrete slab and balcony post from the neighboring building blocking the lower portion of the door. More considerations. More consultations. I meet with the folks later this week who own the slab and will update you on that conversation.

Send me an email or make a comment on the blog if you think you can decipher the words between the 2nd & 3rd floors. It appears to be a sign painted that might be a clue to building owners or occupants.

Repeating History

2008-07-17T19:51:00.011-04:00

Oh, how I want to replace the existing storefront. I think it a face only a parent could love. Since I'm the parent and I don't love it, my child is under investigation for cosmetic surgery.....

A plug here for the architect, Scott; he likes the existing storefront. Maybe one needs a trained eye to appreciate its uniqueness.

We met today with City/State preservation experts to advise us on the possibilities of a building face lift. There was some risk they could tell me I MUST refurbish and leave the existing structure. This seems a more remote response after today's meeting.

Historic preservation of street facing facades seems to fall under consideration of two guiding principles: 1) existing structure is deemed historic if greater than 50 years old and 2) "pre WWII" structures come under significant approval rigor before granting renovation allowances.

We've confirmed my existing storefront was built after 1942; perhaps in the 50's or 60's by the Friedman's Jewelry family who operated out of this location. We can also confirm the "original storefront" was NOT recessed. This provides some confidence I might be able to put it back nearer its original configuration and have some flexibility in the design. But, for now it goes back to the City Preservation counsel for consideration and future guidance.

Meanwhile, I can not start demolition on the storefront. My considerations pending counsel review:

existing storefront renders approximately 200 sq. ft. of space useless for modern commercial/retail business requirements
maintaining historical integrity is important to me - the definition of "historical" will be interesting
interior ground floor needs more light which would occur by removing recessed entrance
eligibility and receipt of Historic Tax Credits may swing possibilities for my future renovations
I'm not in love with the existing storefront (this needs mentioning often)

Check out the folks at endangereddurham. They do a great job of digging up property history and photographs of the Downtown Durham area. Here's a link to their review/photographs of my building (308westmain).

It's Official

2008-07-16T23:04:00.006-04:00

Downtown Durham has a new building owner. Last Friday, I purchased the building formerly known as Ringside or Boxer's Ringside or Friedman's. Well, I financed the building formerly known as......purchased implies ownership and that applies to my friendly, neighborhood banker.

Anyway, a search for a new building name is underway. I need help in finding the original owner or occupant. I hope to market the building name back to its origins. "Don't forget where you came from" as Aunt Jannie used to say. Advice that's often useful and sometimes forgotten.

I intend this blog to document my progress. I suppose it will be more for my own catharsis, though I hope my mom and friends also find it useful.

Welcome to my journey.