Yavapai County Board of Supervisors receive Arizona heritage preservation award

Sedona AZ (May 10, 2015) – The Yavapai County Board of Supervisors were selected to receive the 2015 Governor’s Heritage Preservation Honor Award for the rehabilitation project on the Yavapai County Courthouse. Bill Otwell, architect for the three year project, nominated the Board for its vision and dedication to the entire process of rehabilitation.

The process started with the commissioning the Building Condition Assessment Report which outlined the work needed to bring the building up to current code standards. The end result is an energy efficient comfortable environment in a fully restored historic structure. The visible exterior components are obvious; restored terracotta detailing, granite staircases jacked back into original position, and removal of the window and ground mounted air conditioning units. All systems were replaced or upgraded, including:

1) Attic insulation (it never had any)
2) New heating and cooling systems that are occupant-activated by CO2 sensors, and which move heat from the top floor to lower cooler floors as needed.
3) New sewer and electrical service
4) Acoustical upgrades
5) Reconstruction of original chimneys and grill work.

Bill Otwell remarked, “The awards Committee appreciates the seamless blending of sustainable design principles with solid preservation practice.”

The clear direction and attention to detail provided by the Supervisors and County Facilities staff resulted in a 100 year old piece of Arizona history functioning as a modern high efficiency structure.

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