BRATTLEBORO — On June 10, the Brooks House Development Team, Stevens & Associates, P.C., and Downs Rachlin Martin PLLC received an award from the Preservation Trust of Vermont for the Brooks House renovation and preservation project, according to a news release.
The awards recognize outstanding examples of historic preservation in projects recently completed in Vermont. The team received the award for its work in renovating and rehabilitating the historic Brooks House, located in downtown Brattleboro.
The award recognizes Stevens & Associates and Downs Rachlin Martin collaborative efforts with the Brooks House Development Team.
After a devastating fire in 2011, the Brooks House was in need of significant structural and architectural design. After reframing the building from the basement to the tower, attention was given to preserving historical elements and details such as windows, multiple bay storefronts, Corinthian columns and transoms, as well as incorporating towers and lofted ceilings in residential apartments.
The Brooks House project required a complex financing package of historic and new market tax credits, public and private loans, and private investments.
The $24 million renovation was completed in 2014. This endeavor has rebuilt a cornerstone of downtown Brattleboro offering the community academic space for two colleges and a progressive K-8 independent school, 23 residential units, restaurants, retail shops, and a spacious atrium showcasing local artistic talent.