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At Jamerson-Lewis Construction, historic renovations aren’t just another job—they’re a responsibility. These buildings tell stories, and it’s our job to make sure those stories continue for generations to come. Whether it’s a century-old courthouse, a historic school, or a local landmark, these structures deserve the kind of care and expertise that respects their history while making them functional for the future.

Restoring historic buildings isn’t like working on new construction. These projects come with their own unique challenges:

How We Approach Historic Renovation

At Jamerson-Lewis, we don’t just build; we partner with our clients to ensure their vision comes to life. Each project is unique, and we make it a point to fully understand the client’s goals, needs, and timeline.

What sets us apart is our commitment to communication and resource management. Clients often remark on our ability to keep them informed and involved every step of the way. As Geoffrey Kershner, Executive Director of the Academy Center of the Arts, noted: “This wasn’t just any construction project but the renovation of a public space that hadn’t been occupied in 60 years and was utilizing historic tax credits, which had strict Department of Historic Resources demands. This took a high level of specialty contractors, attention to detail, and a high level of engineering. Kevin’s leadership ensured that the final product was jaw-droppingly gorgeous and above all, functional.”

Projects

We’ve been honored to work on some of the region’s most significant historic restoration projects. While this is not an exhaustive list, here are some of the projects we’ve completed across different categories:

Cultural & Arts Centers

The Academy Center of the Arts in Lynchburg is a story of perseverance and community dedication. Opened in 1905 as the Academy of Music, the theater was a local hotspot for entertainment, featuring theater acts and early films. A fire in 1911 forced a rebuild, but the theater bounced back and remained a key part of the city’s culture for decades. But like many historic theaters, it eventually fell into decline and closed its doors in 1958. The building sat empty for years, narrowly escaping demolition multiple times. It was the dedication of the community and preservation groups that kept hope alive. Jamerson-Lewis took on the challenge of restoring the Academy, reinforcing the fly tower, carefully matching ornamental plasterwork, and updating the space while keeping its historic charm intact. When the Academy reopened in 2018, it was more than just a building coming back to life—it was a piece of Lynchburg’s history, revived and ready to serve the community for years to come.

The following photos showcase the Academy's journey through restoration:

The State Theatre of Culpeper was similarly restored with updated structural components and period-specific details, ensuring its continued use as a community venue. Our work on the 921 Main Street Fine Art Gallery successfully transformed a historic structure into a refined, functional art space that honors the building’s original details.

Higher Education & Institutional Buildings

For Randolph College, our renovations to Martin Science Hall modernized its lab spaces while preserving the building’s structural integrity. The renovations to Wright Hall upgraded student living spaces while maintaining the historic character that defines the campus. At VMI’s Moody Hall, we balanced the need for updated facilities with the preservation of its distinguished military heritage.

Religious Buildings

Our restoration work on St. John’s Episcopal Church, First Presbyterian Church, and Rivermont Evangelical Presbyterian Church focused on preserving stained glass, intricate woodwork, and historical masonry. Each project required detailed craftsmanship to restore Gothic Revival elements, original millwork, and structural reinforcements while maintaining these sacred spaces for future generations.

Historic Courthouses & Government Buildings

In the public sector, the Lynchburg Courthouse Museum Rehabilitation ensured this historic courthouse remained structurally sound while preserving courtroom details. The Bedford County Courthouse Bell Tower restoration stabilized a key architectural feature that has stood for generations. In Nelson County, we modernized the courthouse’s infrastructure while preserving its original design and historical significance.

Residential & Multi-Family

Historic structures often require adaptive reuse, as seen in our transformation of The Krise Building into modern apartments while retaining its character. The 1312 Church Street Townhomes project preserved the exterior details of historic residences while introducing contemporary amenities. Similarly, the Jefferson Street Apartments (River Loft Apartments) turned a former warehouse into upscale lofts, maintaining the charm of its industrial past.

Landmarks & Special Restorations

Our work on Monument Terrace in downtown Lynchburg helped preserve this iconic community landmark while reinforcing its structural integrity. Meanwhile, the historic farmstead at Meanwhile Back on the Farm - Locust Thicket was carefully restored to maintain its original structures while preparing it for long-term use.

Each of these projects reflects our dedication to craftsmanship, resource management, and an unmatched level of client service, ensuring these historic structures remain an integral part of their communities for years to come.

Why Historic Renovation Matters

Historic restoration isn’t just about preserving the past—it’s about making sure these buildings continue to serve a purpose. These projects breathe new life into aging structures, create vibrant spaces for communities, and honor the craftsmanship of those who built them. By restoring rather than replacing, we keep history alive in a way that’s both functional and meaningful.

At Jamerson-Lewis Construction, we take historic restoration seriously. It’s not just about construction—it’s about keeping history standing strong for generations to come.

Have a historic restoration project in mind? Let’s talk about how we can bring it back to life while preserving its story for the next generation.

Jamerson-Lewis Construction is proud to announce the completion of the University of Virginia Physics Building Renewal. This project embodies our vision of building better lives in our communities by creating spaces that inspire innovation and connection. This three-year, $62.5 million project transformed 107,000 square feet into a dynamic space designed to advance research, foster collaborative learning, and strengthen connections within the UVA community.

Project Highlights

• Scope: Comprehensive renovation of laboratories, classrooms, and shared spaces to enhance functionality and encourage collaboration.

• Size: 107,000 SF

• Budget: A $62.5 million investment in modernizing a key academic and research hub.

• Timeline: 2021-2024

• Architect: Goody Clancy

• Electrical Contractor: Design Electric Inc. 

Designed for Collaboration and Discovery

The renewed Physics Building is thoughtfully designed to inspire innovation and connection. Modern labs provide cutting-edge resources for research, while adaptable classrooms accommodate evolving teaching methods. Welcoming gathering spaces create opportunities for collaboration, reflecting UVA’s commitment to building a vibrant academic community.

A Collaborative Achievement

The successful delivery of this project reflects the dedication and partnership of all involved. Architects, engineers, university leaders, and the Jamerson-Lewis Construction team worked in unison to create a facility that supports the academic and scientific ambitions of UVA’s faculty and students.

Building the Future of Physics

This renewal represents more than a renovation—it’s a reflection of our commitment to building better lives in our communities. By creating spaces that empower education and innovation, we aim to leave a lasting impact on UVA and beyond. Jamerson-Lewis Construction is honored to have been part of a project that will serve as a cornerstone for innovation and collaboration for years to come.

Explore the final photos of the completed project, captured by Ansel Olsen, to see how this space has been transformed. Click here to see the full gallery. 

Crafting the Future of the Lynchburg Riverfront Park Amphitheater

The Lynchburg Riverfront Park Amphitheater is taking shape as Jamerson-Lewis Construction, in collaboration with Shickel Corporation, the City of Lynchburg, and AECOM, advances this ambitious project. The amphitheater, a key addition to the city's cultural and recreational landscape, reflects a shared commitment to enhancing quality of life and supporting economic development in the region.

Recently, team members visited Shickel Corporation's facility in Bridgewater, where the curved steel components are being fabricated with precision and care.

These structural elements will form the foundation of the amphitheater's iconic design, combining artistry with functionality to create a versatile venue for performances, gatherings, and community events.

The project highlights the synergy of skilled craftsmanship, innovative engineering, and collaborative partnerships. Each step of the process is carefully planned to ensure that the amphitheater not only meets but exceeds expectations in design, safety, and sustainability.

Looking ahead, the next major milestone will be the erection of the curved steel frame in Spring 2025. As the amphitheater comes to life, it will stand as a testament to what can be achieved through teamwork and a shared vision for a stronger community.

Jamerson-Lewis Construction is honored to be part of this transformative project and remains dedicated to delivering exceptional work that builds better lives across Virginia.

Jamerson-Lewis Construction Earns Gold in 'Lynchburg Business Best of Business Awards 2024'

Jamerson-Lewis Construction has been awarded Gold Level in the 'Lynchburg Business Best of Business Awards 2024.' We are honored to be named both the Best Commercial Builder and the Best General Contractor. This recognition reflects our commitment to delivering quality projects for our clients and community.

Building Excellence in Our Community

At Jamerson-Lewis Construction, we believe in the power of teamwork and the importance of community. This award highlights the hard work and dedication of our team and the trust and support of our clients and partners. Together, we Dream. Plan. Build.

Our Commitment to Quality

From the initial concept to the final touches, our team is dedicated to delivering projects that exceed expectations. Being recognized as the Best Commercial Builder and Best General Contractor reinforces our commitment to quality, innovation, and client satisfaction.

Highlighting Our Notable Projects

To celebrate this achievement, we’d like to showcase some of our notable projects that highlight the diversity and quality of our work:

• Award-Winning Project: The Centra EmPATH Unit received the 2024 VSHE Teamwork award, highlighting our expertise in healthcare construction and attention to detail.
• Multi-Family Development: 12th & Court Lofts, our new lofts in downtown Lynchburg, create comfortable living spaces tailored for Lynchburg residents.
• Senior Living: The Summit - Independent Living Commons and the upcoming Summit Cottages (coming 2025) reflect our commitment to vibrant senior communities in Lynchburg.
• Recreational: Lynchburg Riverfront Park Upgrades - The Amphitheater enhances our community space and recreational facilities right here in downtown Lynchburg.

Looking Ahead

As we look to the future, we remain committed to our core values of safety, quality, and community. We are dedicated to delivering excellence in every project, ensuring that Jamerson-Lewis Construction continues to be a trusted partner in shaping the future of Lynchburg and beyond.

Thank you to our talented team, loyal clients, and supportive community. Your belief in our vision and your partnership make this possible. Together, we will continue to Dream. Plan. Build.

See the full digital publication of the 'Lynchburg Business Best of Business Awards 2024' featuring Jamerson-Lewis Construction here.

Engage with Us

Follow us on social media for updates on our projects and to stay connected with Jamerson-Lewis Construction:

Facebook: Jamerson-Lewis Construction 

Instagram: @JamersonLewisConstruction

LinkedIn: Jamerson-Lewis Construction

An amphitheater and a sports complex spotlight quality of life as an economic development goal - Cardinal News 

On a recent warm evening in downtown Lynchburg, dozens of residents and area officials gathered to break ground on an amphitheater anticipated to seat up to 5,000.

Just over a hundred miles away in Pulaski County, county officials are preparing to develop a major sports and recreation complex in a former candle factory.

The two projects are among the region’s recent examples of economic development endeavors designed to add jobs not just by directly employing people but by improving their communities’ quality of life, with the goal of contributing to further growth down the road.

Such quality of life has a major influence on where people choose to put down roots, Lynchburg City Manager Wynter Benda told those gathered at the April 18 groundbreaking ceremony.

The amphitheater by the James River, he said, will be a “key outdoor space to serve recreational, cultural and environmental needs.”

Downtown Lynchburg is gearing up for Phase 4 of the Renewal Project, extending from Main and 12th Street to the Main Street bridge over Route 29. With major updates planned for infrastructure and streetscape, including water, sewer, and storm drain lines, the city is ready for transformation.

“Jamerson-Lewis Project Manager, Clu Pettyjohn, said his team, as well as the city and the Downtown Lynchburg Association, will be working together to ensure that any problems that come up during construction will be handled. ‘Vehicular access may be a problem, but you know, we can park close by and walk,’ Pettyjohn said. ‘We’re gonna do our best to advertise, create signs, and show people how to get there.’”

Check out the full story covered by ABC 13 – WSET by clicking here.

Lynchburg's Riverfront Park is about to get a major upgrade! Our team at Jamerson-Lewis Construction is excited to start building the new amphitheater coming downtown starting April 1st. Stay tuned for more info and follow us on social media @jamersonlewisconstruction for updates.

Read the full article covered by ABC 13 - WSET here: 

Lynchburg Amphitheater Project Ramps Up (wset.com)

This week, we're excited to highlight the amazing women who make a difference in our industry. Today, let's meet Gretchen Sheppard, one of our Project Manager Assistants at Jamerson-Lewis. Gretchen has been in the industry for nine years! Balancing work with being a mom to her two young daughters, she shows the determination of women in our field.