So, this is just between us, but I have some really cool photos of the soon to be finished Mahler building at 228 Fayetteville Street. As part of the Fayetteville Street Historic District, it serves as an example of some of the low rise commercial buildings that used to dominate the area.

Over the past decade, however, the 200 block has been in a process of rebirth. Slated to open in the next few weeks, it will serve as an art gallery on the bottom floor, commercial offices on the second floor, and living units on the top floor. Local builder Greg Paul is the contractor, and I think he’s done a great job inside and out! Having worked for the architect in charge of the renovation, I got a firsthand taste of the rigors of renovating a historic commercial and residential site. Here are some photos, starting from the ground floor and moving up to the apartments. Enjoy!

The Mahler Gallery, which will house artwork, and which will also be on the First Friday Artwalk.

Second Floor Commercial Offices, Carter Worthy Commercial

More office space

Mahler Unit A – Fayetteville Street Side, Living Room

Mahler Unit A – Reverse

View from Mahler Unit A

Mahler Unit B – Living Room/Kitchen

View from Mahler Unit B – Salisbury Street Side – lights are still on in the News & Observer, I guess the survivors have to work even harder! Below are pictures within the space shown in the previous photo.

I even managed to get a sneak peek of the back of the building that Empire owns (I think it’s 230 Fayetteville)

I don’t know specifics about when the building is opening, or how much rent/a lease would be for the apartments, but I can’t think of a better location for living downtown. It’s a great example of a successful renovation of a historic site. The Gallery is slated to be opening in May, and the Tift Merritt Photo Show will be up for First Friday (according to their website). So with that in mind, be sure to come check it out on the First Friday Bike Ride!