TEXARKANA, Texas - Peeling back layers to reveal the grandeur of the former Texarkana National Bank building is a concept many in the community are banking on to continue downtown's revitalization.
A small crowd gathered Tuesday, braving chilly weather, to watch the first few sheets of aluminum be removed from the building.
Attendees were also invited inside the building's lobby.
David Peavy promises to bring back much of the building's historic character as it is redeveloped into luxury apartments and condominiums, as well as overnight and extended stay residences and retail and office spaces.
In about 1970, former owners covered the eight-story building with a modern aluminum, stucco and marble facade, hiding the original red brick and classical-style ornamentation.
Interior decoration was covered, as well, but much is still there and Peavy also plans to restore the building's lobby. On Tuesday, he opened the building to the public, and the lobby's original moldings and tile floors were visible where portions of drywall, newer flooring and a drop ceiling had been removed.
Strategically placed throughout the lobby were easels displaying vintage photos of the building's previous incarnations.
Peavy also owns 1894 City Market, a restored, mixed-use space at Olive and Front streets formerly known as the Ritchie Grocery Building, as well as the Flying Crow, a restored railroad dining car he converted into a cafe.
He has not announced any timeline for the Texarkana National Bank project.