Multi-Family

 

 

Project Notes

The John Gorrie School presented all the challenges that an experienced professional would expect in an adaptive re-use project of buildings constructed with material and standards born in the 1920's.

The project began with the early task to save the structure from decay before the roof leaks and other ravages of age created economically irreversible damage.

The broader challenge was to bring the project up to code structurally, demolish, remediate, and clear portions of the building in order to create the large variety of one, two bedroom units and townhome layouts. The school’s original gym and auditorium have become two-story split level
townhomes.

Project scheduling was addressed using an advanced software application which accommodated change orders based on discovery of hidden architectural elements, accommodating code issues and customization. Few apartments at the John Gorrie are exactly alike, which is one of many charming features in this project.

Preserving the city’s and its people’s history through architecture is what
doing a historical renovation is all about.

The examples of architectural detail found in a building nearly a century old deserve careful preservation, as their recreations are virtually impossible due to the prohibitive expense.

At John Gorrie, 68 condominium units blend the best of contemporary design with many elements of the old school such as bare brick walls in selective rooms. 

 

When John Gorrie was built in the 1920’s, school windows were huge by today’s residential standards. A past boon of the pre-air conditioning era, the John Gorrie windows illuminate virtually every unit in great natural daylight.

 

The 1920’s school ceiling heights were grand, and now with the exception of some dropped ceilings in areas such as bathrooms, that feature hasn’t changed with the renovation.  Tall ceilings, lots of light and open floor plans provide a loft feel unique to the Jacksonville market.

The Condominiums at John Gorrie, like the great Manhattan pre-war buildings, was built to last and will flourish in its new manifestation.

 

Gordon’s Castle would like to thank the owners, Wayne and Delores Weaver of John Gorrie Investments Group; the Development Managers Ron Buckley and David Owen of JGS Realty; Architect, H. Robert Overly; Planner, Civil and Landscape Engineer, Prosser Hallock; Structural Engineer, Atlantic Engineering Services; MEP Engineer Powell and Hinkle Engineering; as well as SkyeTec consultants; Riverside Avondale Preservation and the City of Jacksonville for allowing Gordon’s Castle, LLC the opportunity to be a part of this very special project to preserve a noteworthy focal point of a proud and historically significant neighborhood.