MKC was given award of merit for best large rehabilitation project for the renovation of the firm's new corporate offices at 40 W. Fourth Street.

MKC Principal, James Schmidt, AIA, accepted the award presented by Heritage Ohio on May 4, 2006 in Springfield, Ohio. Heritage Ohio is a statewide, not-for profit organization dedicated to historic preservation and downtown revitalization.

Originally constructed as a farmer's market in 1916, the building served as a forerunner to the modern grocery store well into the 1940's. MKC decided in 2004 to purchase, relocate and renovate the historic structure in order to be a part of the renaissance in downtown Mansfield and create a new corporate headquarters.

The project was designed to honor the building's character by preserving the original structure and leaving the interior structure exposed, including the interior brick walls, original glass clerestory and the structure's steel framing.

According to Main Street Mansfield Development Director Jamie Lustig Thompson, more than 32 communities, organizations and individuals submitted nominations for consideration. "The award is fantastic achievement for MKC Associates and downtown Mansfield," Lustig said.

Main Street Mansfield is a non-profit organization specializing in economic development and historic preservation in the downtown district.