Facade Work Will Start At Herald

WATER VALLEY – Construction is scheduled to start next week on the renovation of the North Mississippi Herald newspaper building at 416 North Main Street. The plans include a new façade and work will start with the demolition of the front of the building.

Architectural designer Leigh Ann Black has worked on the project for several months, outlining the new look that includes recessed entrance with an eight-foot door, replacing the concrete in entrance of the building that will include a hexagonal tile entry, custom interior benches in front of each window that flow with the jutted entranceway, metal cornice, lighting, and exterior repairs and painting.

“I’m honored to be a part of the Herald’s renovation. I hope when the project is complete, the façade will feel as if it has been there all along. My design process led me to old neighborhood design publications, historic precedents, and a case studies of renovated storefronts throughout Mississippi. I’m happy to impact Main Street in a positive way, and I can’t wait to see the drawings come to life.”

Black is a graduate of Mississippi State University, earning a Bachelor’s in Architecture. She also was an architecture exchange student at TU Delft in the Netherlands. Her previous architectural work experience includes jobs in Los Angeles and Seattle, as well as construction management experience.

Contractor James Ledford of Water Valley will perform the work. One of Ledford’s recent Main Street projects was work on My Blue Heaven Boutique Hotel.

Water Valley Main Street Manager Mickey Howley has also assisted with coordinating the work.

During the month-long project, customers will access the Herald, starting next week, using the rear door at the back of the building. A sign will be placed to mark the temporary entrance.

“We appreciate your patience during this project. We are excited to join the Main Street revitalization that has fielded so much press nationwide,” Herald Editor David Howell said about the project.