Surber Barber Choate & Hertlein

First Presbyterian Church

Atlanta, Georgia

Surber Barber Choate & Hertlein Architects provided architectural services and coordinated the interior design services for the renovation of the historic First Presbyterian Church in Midtown, Atlanta. The scope of work included complete renovation of the sanctuary, narthex, balcony, and choir loft.

One challenge facing the renovation was designing and matching the style of the Moravian tile floors while reconfiguring and expanding the chancel platform. Existing tile was uncovered and cleaned. New tile was designed and matched.

Another design requirement was to reconfigure the choir area behind the pulpit, so that it was easily accessible and more visible.

Other improvements included refinishing wood floors, repairing and painting the plaster walls, and cleaning and re-staining the beaded board ceiling. The lighting was completely redone. The mechanical and electrical systems were completely revamped. The large stained glass window facing Peachtree Street was reconstructed with a new wood frame.

Completion: 1996