Surber Barber Choate & Hertlein

The Academy of Medicine

Atlanta, Georgia

One of Atlanta's architectural landmarks, the Academy of Medicine required careful and extensive restoration befitting its status on the National Register of Historic Places. Following a detailed survey and analysis of the building's mechanical, electrical and enclosure systems, the building's roofs, exterior walls, and interiors were restored and mechanical and electrical systems redesigned and replaced.

The 15,000 square foot building contains a public level with meeting rooms, an auditorium, and a central rotunda. A lower level houses offices for the Medical Association of Atlanta and all building services.

One of the more complex aspects of the restoration involved the up-grading of the auditorium to improve the acoustics without altering the architectural character of the space. This was accomplished by placing absorptive material in some places on the auditorium walls and reflective material in others. Concealed by a fabric wall covering, the auditorium retains its aesthetical appeal while measurably improving its acoustical performance. Similar care was taken to integrate the new lighting and mechanical systems.

Client: The Medical Association of Atlanta

Completion: 1983

Awards & Publications:
   Atlanta Urban Design Commission Award of Excellence, 1983
   Georgia Association, American Institute of Architects,
       Award for Excellence In Architecture, 1983
   Georgia Trust For Historic Preservation, Outstanding Restoration Project, 1985
   Atlanta Medicine, Fall 1991
   Atlanta's Lasting Landmarks, 1987
   Design South Magazine, March 1986
   Interiors Magazine, April 1984
   Architectural Record, February 1984
   Atlanta Journal & Constitution, 19 June 1983
   Atlanta Magazine, July 1981

All Images © Gabriel Benzur Photography