DoubleTree Among 5 MVHS Preservation Award Winners

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The DoubleTree by Hilton Downtown Youngstown is among the buildings being recognized by the Mahoning Valley Historical Society for architectural preservation.

The former office and retail building, previously known as the Stambaugh Building, was built in 1907 by Albert Kahn for Youngstown Sheet and Tube Co. and four floors were added in 1914. Following the closing of Sheet and Tube, the building saw sporadic use over the years and deteriorated. 

Based on Hilton’s design and construction standards, 47 different room types, from suites to king rooms, were developed. The renovation was also designed to host multiple businesses, including Bistro 1907. Design started in 2015 with construction beginning in August 2016. The DoubleTree officially opened in May 2018. 

Also receiving Historic Preservation Awards are the city of Youngstown’s City Hall Annex, Wick Park Recreation Center, Youngstown Neighborhood Development Corp.’s renovation of a four-unit residential building at 650 Clearmont Drive and the St. Anthony of Padua church bell tower. 

At the City Hall Annex, restoration efforts focused largely on the city’s municipal court space and rehabilitation the building’s exterior. The roof was entirely replaced and windows were reglazed. Built in 1933, the building originally served as a U.S. post office.

The renovation of the Wick Park Recreation Center, built in 1956, was led by Youngstown CityScape and the Rotary Club of Youngstown. Work included a new handicap accessible entrance and restrooms, a comprehensive window replacement, masonry repairs, interior finishes, lighting replacement and new mechanical systems. 

Acquired by YNDC in 2015, 650 Clearmont Drive opened as the community improvement group’s rental. Each of the four apartments has been fully rehabilitated, including installation of energy-efficient replacement windows matching the design of the original wood windows, preservation of existing masonry and restoration of bathroom floor tiles and interior woodwork.

Despite the decline of the steel mills, St. Anthony of Padua Church has continued to maintain its place as a primary residence and leader in the neighborhood. In 2017, a major restoration took place, with the contract awarded to A.O. Construction and Restoration, Inc. and The Verdin Co.. The restoration is in line with the original 1958 blueprints for the tower. 

The Mahoning Valley Historical Society will host the Historic Preservation Awards ceremony 5 to 8:30 p.m. June 18. 

Pictured: A before (inset) and after picture of the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel.

Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.