The Bradford apartments and HomeStar Financial Corporation's Gym of '36 have been named winners of this year's Business Beautification Awards by the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce.
The Bradford,located at 535 Forrest Avenue in Downtown Gainesville, is owned by Steve McKibbon and Robbie Robison of McKibbon-Robison. The original structure was built in 1978 and features unique 1970s era design. McKibbon and Robison purchased the property in 2015. An extensive renovation stripped the existing units to the framing with the installation of all new electrical wiring, HVAC units and appliances. The buildings are now 85% new and units include new porches providing a private, outdoor area for residents.
HomeStar Financial, a full service mortgage lender, is located at 322 Washington Street in the historical Gym of '36 building in Gainesville. HomeStar purchased the facility in 2013 and began a $1.3 million renovation to turn the multi-tenant facility into HomeStar’s corporate headquarters. Work included opening-up staircases, while updating technology, fire/safety and lighting in the building. Windows were a big part of the renovation process as they were original to the building. Stucco was removed from the front to reveal the original entrance of the building which is brick. Other original features that were incorporated include hardwood floors and some basketball court markings.
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For more information on this and other programs of the Greater Hall Chamber’s Beautification Committee, contact Robin Halstead, Vice President of Community Development, 770-532-6206 x 100. Email: [email protected]
www.greaterhallchamber.com
