Built in 1890, the Faber Building is a commercial, Italianate style, three-story building in downtown Wooster’s Public Square Landmark Historic District. Today the Faber Building is a bustling icon for revitalization and a gathering space for local runners. The building had been vacant for over a decade and was in dire disrepair when purchased by franchisees of the Vertical Runner retailer. Stabilization of the monumental skylight was the first order of business, because missing glass allowed water infiltration to damage the wood structure and spaces below. Perspectus then provided architectural design for restoration and adaptive reuse, along with historic tax credit consultation. Extensive work was done to replace the roof, restore the historic skylight and preserve the original storefront of the building, and character-defining features of the entry tile, pressed metal tin ceiling, hardwood floors, cast iron façade and windows. A new partition in the rear of the store defines a meet-up area for runners, locker space and an ADA restroom.
