This historic building on Charlottesville’s downtown mall, the oldest building remaining on Main Street, had endured many alterations through the years, retaining little of the original fabric. The owner asked to demolish a simple addition to create a new façade and second story for office space, retaining first floor for retail. Working with architect Bruce Wardell, Alexander Nicholson stabilized the building, removed layers of paint, repointed brick and created a second floor balcony. The project reinforces the mall’s street life.