The Paul VI school building may soon get the long awaited preservation treatment that has been long awaited by city residents. In December, the IDI Group Companies, the developers of Boulevard VI, sold the property to Virginia Epic Properties. A building permit has been filed with the City by Virginia Epic to revitalize the building while still preserving the facade. The project, dubbed the St Paul Project, includes a proposal to renovate the interior structure and replace the rear and side facade which are presently draped with an industrial grade covering. In addition, repairs to the front facade, which has many broken windows and lights, are also included in the application. Retail and office space are planned, but tenants have not been selected yet.
Interestingly, the proposal includes a design for a contemporary white accent façade and large glass storefronts on the front. This will definitely transform the look of the current facade. Purists say it may be too much of a change, while others may say it preserves enough of the current look and feel and that the integrity and spirit of the facade is still there. Time will tell.
