The Pythian has a storied place in the history of New Orleans. The existing building was originally constructed as (2) separate structures: The corner building was first built in 1909 and subsequently renovated in 1923, 1943 and 1957; the back building was constructed circa 1925 and renovated in 1961 and 1971. During the 1961 renovation, the (2) buildings were joined together and unified with a modern-era slipcover over-cladding. Through conversations with the State Historic Preservation Officer and the National Park Service, it was determined that the corner building should be restored to its original 1909 design, while the rear building should be restored to its 1950s design. Where the slipcover was removed, the historic façade, which was significantly damaged during the installation of the slipcover, was repaired and included restoration or replacement of the masonry, ornamental terra cotta, and cast stone. Designed to meet LEED Silver standards for New Construction, the latest chapter in the life of the Pythian is an adaptive reuse of the existing historic building for mixed-use, including health care and business offices, 69 mixed-income residential units, a fresh food market, and roof deck. In less than two years in 2017, Landis completed the renovation of the historic building at 234 Loyola Avenue. The metal sheathing came off, and the building’s beautiful brick façade shone once more for New Orleanians to enjoy.
Pythian Market, the highly anticipated urban food collective located on the building’s first floor, has served as a thriving, community-driven food mecca with a focus on independent businesses since its grand opening in May 2018. The 14 independent vendors range from established local brands with a loyal following to up-and-coming new concepts with unique and creative fare; all with an eye toward turning out high-quality, fresh food in a relaxed, communal setting. Local craftsman Matthew Holdren, who’s been featured on CNBC’s The Deed, transformed the original Pythian Jazz Garden’s old dance floors into a beautiful collection of dining surfaces for the high-tops, banquettes, and communal tables, all set against polished concrete floors and exposed brick walls.
The historic renovation of the 10-story, mixed-use Pythian Building at 234 Loyola Avenue consisted of 69 apartments, a street-level food service operation, a shared working space for small businesses and nonprofits, and healthcare offices. The full scope of work for the project included selective demolition and abatement; exterior façade repairs with historical masonry and cast stone; historic railing repair and restoration; waterproofing and roofing; replication of historic windows and curtain walls; traditional plaster treatment and repairs; modern interior finishes (drywall, flooring, etc.); new elevators; and all associated mechanical, electrical and plumbing
In 20 years, I’ve never worked with a better development team than the one on this project, and a large part of that springs from the attitude and expectations of the collaborators. I am so grateful to Landis for the inspiring spirit of camaraderie and high level of competence that their team brought to work each and every day.
— Will Bradshaw, Principal, Green Coast Enterprises
A successful project is the result of the combination of an enlightened owner, a talented architect, and an engaged contractor, and the Pythian had all three. GCE and studioWTA worked closely with Landis Construction, the project’s contractor, to achieve great results. One of best development teams I’ve ever worked with.”
— Wayne Troyer, Principal, studioWTA
