Atlanta-based adaptive reuse project achieves LEED Gold

For decades, a century-old building along one of Atlanta’s former rail lines stood empty. With plans to reinvent as a vibrant destination that blends offices, residences, retail, and event venues—the developer needed a partner who could match the project’s scope and complexity. ABM joined at the earliest stages of renovation to guide planning and execution.

Challenge

Bringing the building back to life required balancing preservation with modern expectations. Original features like reclaimed wood floors, exposed brick, iron detailing, and antique glass windows needed careful restoration. At the same time, the property had to meet contemporary standards for safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

The scale of the project added complexity:

• 10 stories and 550,000 square feet of Class A office space
• 300,000 square feet of retail space
• 260 apartments
• Event and rooftop entertainment areas
• $300 million in rehabilitation investment
• National Register of Historic Places listing
  
  • In pursuit of LEED Gold certification

With so much at stake, the developer required a partner who could manage both restoration priorities and long-term operations.

Solution

ABM joined the project early, walking the site when it was still a shell and identifying immediate and long-term priorities. ABM deployed a special services division that would carry out restoration support including: flooring and surface renewal, window washing, concrete cleanup, graffiti removal, and pressure washing.

As opening day approached, ABM would expand its role:

• Green cleaning and sustainability programs to align with LEED goals
• Day porter and janitorial services to keep the property spotless and tenant-ready
• Exterior services including landscaping, painting, and parking lot upkeep
• Onsite account leadership for immediate support and continuity

ABM worked closely with the client to recruit and train public-facing staff who could represent the property’s brand. Team members were selected for both technical skill and communication ability, and even wore vintage-style uniforms to reflect the building’s history. The result was a seamless extension of the property’s culture and guest experience.

“We believe in a hands-on, eyes-open, proactive service with a partnership.”
— Cecilia Cordero, ABM Account Director

Outcomes

With ABM as a dedicated partner, the building reopened as a vibrant urban landmark. Today, it continues to attract tenants, visitors, and residents.

ABM’s integrated facility services (IFS) model simplified vendor management, reduced costs, and delivered consistent quality across janitorial, mechanical, HVAC, electrical, parking, and landscaping support.

Key outcomes included:

• LEED Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council
• A single trusted provider for multi-service facility needs
• Tenant and guest satisfaction supported by proactive, visible service teams
• A revitalized property that blends historic character with modern functionality

ABM’s frontline staff remain central to the site’s ongoing success, helping to sustain the unique culture of this reinvigorated landmark and ensuring its place as one of Atlanta’s premier destinations.

Key stats

4+ billion square feet of buildings cleaned daily
140,000 skilled, hardworking employees globally
945+ buildings implementing ABM's green cleaning solutions
100+ years of service experience

Considering a large-scale real estate restoration? Learn how ABM’s commercial real estate facility solutions ensure quality, efficiency, and long-term value.