Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal Building Rehabilitation

The Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Building, originally constructed in 1933 as Atlanta's main U.S. Post Office, now serves as the Southeastern headquarters for the U.S. General Services Administration after a comprehensive rehabilitation project. The architectural approach focused on preserving the building's character-defining features, including the historic postal lobby, stairways, original windows, and the marble and granite facade, while adapting the structure to meet modern needs. The updated design introduced Class A office space, modernized elevators, and enhanced electrical and HVAC systems. A strong emphasis on sustainability led to the building achieving LEED Gold certification, with the integration of high-efficiency mechanical and lighting systems, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and landscaping with native plants. Other sustainable elements included daylighting strategies, bicycle racks, and changing facilities, contributing to a 15% improvement in energy efficiency compared to building code requirements. Additionally, careful restoration efforts addressed issues such as the facade's deterioration by replacing rusted steel components and restoring stonework. The interior design draws from the building's original function, incorporating stamp imagery and references to the Civil Rights era, all while ensuring a balance of modern functionality and historical integrity.