Building B is a split-level public/private parking garage with 14 residential units above.
A split level parking deck provides the flexibility to conform to code requirements for parking spaces and functions. Most importantly, the design places public parking at grade thereby eliminating the need for elevators and ventilation shafts and consequently reducing future maintenance costs for the City. It also lowers the perceived height of the building, when viewed from Mound and Hope, effectively concealing the parking functions.
The design of this building is also based on adaptive reuse principles. The shell of Building B has been designed as a transitional façade of a light-industrial or old office building, similar to the effect achieved by the Mission Lofts (the old Oneonta Transfer and Storage Building located on the southeast corner of Hope and Fremont, just one block west) which has been converted to loft housing. Complementary to the Mission Lofts and the brick building adjacent to the east on Hope, the windows of Building B will appear to have been replaced by modern, oversized louvered panels and operable, metal casement windows. A partial penthouse level will also appear to have been added to the roof. The partial penthouses are small mezzanine spaces that will be accessible exclusively through each unit. Private Patios are also key design features of Building B.
Building B will be finished with cement plaster and pre-cast concrete. Appropriate colors will be painted to accent the new features and functions.