Star Turn

Bank of America Plaza, the Southeast’s tallest skyscraper and one of Atlanta’s premiere office high-rises, is getting an upgrade, starting with its new tagline: The South Star, in honor of the tower’s golden spire. Purchased last year by commercial real estate firm CP Group, the 31-year-old building, which is retaining its name, is currently undergoing a $50 million capital improvement project that has so far included both a renovation of its now state-of-the-art conference center and the addition of flexible workspace suites.

The most notable change will take place in the building’s lobby, which is being completely redesigned and given a hospitality focus, says Chris Eachus, Partner at CP Group. “The stature and exceptionality of the building will be felt in the new arrival experience, which will offer an upscale coffee bar and versatile huddle-and-focus workspace for guests and tenants.” A high-end restaurant on the ground level is also being planned, according to Justin Brown, COO and Director of Account Services at core12, which is handling the building’s repositioning.

Overseen by global architecture firm gensler, the lobby renovation will honor the building’s original Postmodernist design by architect Kevin Roche. “The new design pays homage to the existing geometry through changes in materiality, creating a lighter and brighter experience,” says kevin songer, Gensler Atlanta’s Co-Managing Director and Principal-in-Charge of the project.  “With hospitality touches throughout, the overall experience adds more warmth and personality to the already iconic building.”