Ormi Building 5 New mixed-use project in the works at historic building in downtown Birmingham — The historic Armour & Co. building is the site of a new mixed-use development. Rendering via Christopher Architecture

In the downtown real estate boom, mixed-use is the name of the game. Birmingham-based firm Christopher Architecture & Interiors is turning a historic downtown building into the newest mixed-use development, complete with residential units, commercial space and even a rooftop lounge.

The Historic Armour & Co. Building

Mixed-use in Birmingham — Bird’s-eye view of the new project, including the rooftop patio. Rendering via Christopher Architecture

Built in the late 1890s, the Armour & Co. Building is one of Birmingham’s oldest standing buildings. This 4-story, 40,000 square-foot building originally housed the Armour & Co. meat processing facility. In late 1900s, it was home to Arnold Institutional Foods and the offices of Boise Cascade office supplies. Eventually, Liesa Cole turned the ground floor into her Omni Studios photography suite.

A New Lease on Life

Christopher Architecture purchased the building in 2016, with the idea of turning it into downtown Birmingham’s newest mixed-use development. In 2019, the building qualified for more than $1.894 million in federal and state historic tax credits, kickstarting the project. In addition, the team is looking at getting Opportunity Zone funding.

Once completed, the building will hold 24 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments. Additionally, the ground floor will host 20,000 of commercial space, including a co-working space and a new restaurant. We can’t wait to see the new restaurant!

Mixed-Use in Birmingham

Address: 2309 1st Avenue North, Birmingham, Alabama 35203

Although this is hardly the first mixed-use development in downtown Birmingham, we are super excited for the future. Once completed, the Armour & Co. Building will add to the number of residential lofts and dwellings in downtown Birmingham. We can’t wait!