State foundation announces Preservation Award winners

Published Jul 17, 2012 at 9:00 am (Updated Jul 17, 2012)

Architect and developer Dyke Nelson of DNA Workshop and his business partner, David Weinstein, are receiving the Bricks and Mortar Award from the Foundation for Historical Louisiana for work on The Tessier Buildings in downtown Baton Rouge. Nelson and Weinstein are among the recipients of seven awards for commercial redevelopment to be presented at the 36th annual Preservation Awards Program on Tuesday, July 24, at the City Club of Baton Rouge. The Tessier Buildings, also known as the Lafayette Buildings for their location in the 300 block of Lafayette Street, are the oldest commercial buildings in Baton Rouge, dating back to the 1700s, according to FHL. "Using architectural expertise and various tax credit initiatives, Nelson and Weinstein have created an exceptional restoration of the two buildings, creating an opportunity [to put] a great building back into commerce," says FHL Preservation Awards Chairperson Michele Deshotels. The FHL is also presenting Michael Doiron of Baton Rouge with its award for Neighborhood Preservation. Doiron, owner of J. T. Doiron Inc. Realtor, is being recognized for moving and restoring more than 40 homes—in addition to building 10 others—in the Capital Heights neighborhood. Cleona Parisi is getting FHL's Volunteer of the Year Award for donating her time to entertain students and visiting tourists who arrive in Baton Rouge on the American Queen Steamboat with her "Magnolia's Memories" guided tours. Other winners include Louise Martin, Felicity Street Redevelopment of New Orleans; The City of Shreveport, for its historical preservation ordinance; the 1840 East Feliciana Parish Courthouse Restoration; and Allen Crochet, Louisiana Master Wood Carver. Reservations for the awards banquet are being accepted through Friday and can be made by calling 387-2464.