East Tower project receives ABR approval

TIFFIN — The city of Tiffin's Architectural Board of Review recently approved the exterior and design renovation plans for the East Tower project, allowing the long-discussed restoration to move into its next phase. Owner Andrew Kalnow shared that the project timeline is still taking shape, with the team currently weighing whether to begin work on the new south-side addition during winter months or to wait until spring. Built in 1893 and formerly home to Columbian High School and later East Junior High, Kalnow purchased the building in 2012 with the intent of restoring and repurposing it for long-term use. According to the project plans, the historic building will be transformed into eight luxury apartments and a two-level commercial space. Kalnow said the apartments will include two one-bedroom units on the second and third floors, five two-bedroom units with individual floor plans, and a two-bedroom garden apartment with a walk-out patio. The commercial space is designed with both indoor and outdoor appeal. According to Kalnow, it will span two floors connected by an interior staircase, offering views of National Corner, the gardens and splash pad, and sightlines from within the tower itself. The ground level will also feature a terrace facing Jefferson St., envisioned as a spot for outdoor dining, drinks or coffee, with a view of the former Carnegie Library. The previously mentioned south side addition also includes the construction of eight garages (in two new garage structures) adjacent to the addition. This is where the new main entrance, elevator, stairs, lobby area and additional apartment space will be located.. "Renovation and repurposing of the East Tower will be a long anticipated capstone to Tiffin's downtown revitalization," Kalnow said. "It complements and completes the revitalization vision that began in 2018 with the East Green."