April 30, 2025
CEMS was recognized with the Honor award at the Annual AIA Wilmington Design Awards event. Renowned Architect Frank Harmon, FAIA, who headed the independent judge panel, heaped praise on the project and the outstanding job our CEMS team did regarding restoration of this significant historic building, while also distinguishing Mark Smith as the Architect of Record. This was the first time CEMS has been recognized by the AIA Wilmington Chapter.
Located in the heart of Wilmington, NC, the Alton Lennon Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse was originally built in 1919 and has long served as an architectural gem and a symbol of civic pride. Known for its neoclassical design and historical importance, the building was named in honor of U.S. Senator Alton Asa Lennon in 1976. The building was hit by Hurricane Florence in 2018 and was damaged badly. The recent damage relief project was meticulously planned to balance the need for modernization with respect for the building’s historical fabric.
“We are truly honored for the project to receive this Award,” said Steve Thomas who served as Project Manager for the CEMS Engineering Design Team, “The Alton Lennon Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse holds deep cultural and architectural significance for Wilmington and North Carolina as a whole. GSA gave us a great opportunity to serve them as the A/E. This project was a labor of love, and we are thrilled to see it recognized.”
The renovation included architectural, engineering, construction administration services, along with extensive interior updates – with an eye towards restoring the building back to its original glory. Key elements of the project included replacement of roof and all exterior windows and repointing all exterior limestone and brick to ensure the building envelope was sound. Historic restoration work included restoring the building’s original neoclassical architectural details, such as marble floors, marble wainscotting, barrel vaulted corridors, and marble columns. Virtually all building systems were replaced with current technology as part of the project, including HVAC, mechanical, electrical and communication infrastructure. All repairs were made with the goal of upgrading the building’s infrastructure to meet modern environmental and safety standards and ensuring that not only is it restored to its original beauty but also remains a fully functional courthouse for years to come.
This honor recognizes the teamwork and dedication of all those involved, including our engaged owner’s representatives and all engineers, architects, contractors. The whole team’s commitment to blending the old with the new allowed the project to be finished keeping historical preservation and modern utility at the forefront. This recognition comes at a time when preserving historical buildings has never been more important. As our cities grow and develop, keeping their history intact through such projects ensures future generations can appreciate and learn from the past while also keeping the functionality of the building itself.
