Scope: Renovation
Location: St. Marys, Ohio
Year Completed: 2026
The historic Reservoir Mill in St. Marys Ohio was originally built in 1847 and went though many additions over the next 125 years until it no longer operated as a mill. In 2020, the city removed all additions, returning it to the original 40’ x 60’ footprint, stabilized the heavy timber two-story structure, and completed an exterior envelope upgrade.
In 2023, Freytag and Associates, Inc. conducted multiple studies to renovate the interior of the structure and develop an entry and stair tower to allow for code compliant egress from the second floor and basement. For this first phase, the completed project involved a new interior stair, toilet rooms, a kitchenet, and interior finishes for the main level only. Beautiful hardwood flooring and pine shiplap siding add to the charm of the heavy timber structure. The entire building has been insulated and a new mud-slab poured in the crawlspace. Both the basement and second floor are prepared for the next phase while the first floor is completed and ready for community meetings and gatherings. The main challenges involved working with the quirks of the existing structural framing and stone foundation. The City of St. Marys now has a sound and level piece of history in which to gather.