Historic stained glass windows from the former Tabernacle Baptist Church were preserved when the buidling was restored and converted into office space. (Photo by Janice E. Ashton) Photo gallery from this project >


Those responsible for the 1919 Decatur project faced some unique challenges adapting a historic church to a new use. Tabernacle Baptist Church was founded in 1891 in what is now the Old Sixth Ward. The church was rebuilt in the 1920s after two devastating fires and was used as a house of worship until 2000.

When the property came on the market, Kathleen English, Charlotte Rothwell, Walter Visinsky Sr. and William Visinsky recognized they had a rare opportunity to maintain the building's architectural integrity while creating a modern office environment. The owners feel especially fortunate that Compass Bank appreciated the opportunity as well.

Careful renovation brought the building into compliance with present codes while maintaining its historic character. During the project, the main floor was leveled and original flooring was salvaged and refinished. Historic stained glass windows were preserved, and new railings were created in the shape of the window frames. An acoustical tile ceiling was removed and original roof trusses were revealed.