PA L E S T I N E C H A M B E R.O RG
the building on Church Street to house Service First
Mortgage, and renovation began as soon as they closed
on the property.
“This building had red carpet and pink countertops
when I bought it,” Webb said. Someone advised her to
consider hiring a professional for the project because
she had never done a commercial renovation. However,
she was determined to jump in with both feet and do as
much of the work as possible herself.
“I looked in magazines and a lot of Pinterest, and when
I found a look I liked, I looked up how to achieve it. I
could not sit still,” said Webb.
Today, her restoration is almost complete, and Webb’s
perseverance and hard work can be seen in the details
of craftsmanship and decor, which she designed herself.
The foyer, reception area, conference room, kitchen,
two restrooms, and three offices each have their own
color scheme, from tones of gray to shades of fawn
and taupe. Original dark wood built-in shelves and desks
have been painted to match. The flooring ranges from
refinished original wood to ceramic faux wood.
As you walk through, you see architectural elements
gracing each room, such as brick and stacked stone
walls, marble and granite surfaces, and a central skylight.
You find hanging chandeliers, oversized clocks, mirrors,
light sconces, and sliding doors. The overall impression
is one of welcome and repose. Clients going through
the stress of buying and financing homes immediately
feel the calmness upon entering, and that feeling of
restfulness is sustained as they move through the
various spaces.
Webb’s labor of love took nine months to transform
the building. Only the back space is still to be completed.
With original brick walls and a vintage tin ceiling, this
section is intended as a meeting and event space. As it
nears completion, Webb cannot wait to share it with the
public.
“There’s a lot of value in sweat equity. If I can do it,
anyone can,” Webb said. “If everyone who complained
took action, we would all be better for it.”
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Webb’s accomplished renovation is an inspiration to
anyone who has ever loved an old building or historic
home, and to anyone who has ever wanted to spread
their wings and be creative. Only people who love their
community and its history tackle preserving such a
place for future generations to enjoy. All it takes is a
labor of love.