This stylish, two-story, brick, Beaux-Arts residence stands in a prominent location in the Geneva Street National Register Historic District of Opelika. Built circa 1900, it was recently used as a restaurant and B&B but now stands vacant and in desperate need of repair. Roof and cove gutter problems have damaged the handsome exterior wooden cornice and threaten to spread wood rot and insect infestation to the gracious interior that currently remains intact. Elaborate neoclassical woodwork surrounds original doors, windows, and multiple fireplaces. A dated commercial kitchen needs new appliances to meet current codes.
The City has threatened demolition due to the owner’s ongoing neglect of the exterior, but the local preservation community is fighting to save the landmark building. A relatively new metal roof over the original slate seems serviceable, but the cove gutter problems continue to damage the vintage entablature. The owner would like to fix the building but needs a business partner with capital and a business plan to revitalize the grand old residence as a restaurant, B&B, or another appropriate use.
Contact: Lisa Thrift, Historic Preservation Coordinator, City of Opelika, 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, AL 36801, (334) 705-5155, LThrift@opelika-al.gov.
Contact: Lisa Thrift, Historic Preservation Coordinator, City of Opelika, 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, AL 36801, (334) 705-5155, LThrift@opelika-al.gov.
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