Commercial
Project Profile

Project Summary

The stone grist mill built in 1770 and located at 2549 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird‐in‐Hand known locally as Nolt’s Mill, has gotten a new lease on life. Purchased by artists John Stevens and Sarah Gilligan, the mill has been turned into an art gallery displaying their wares. Before that could happen however, Stevens and Gilligan needed to request conditional use approval from the township to adaptively reuse the mill in accordance with the Historic Overlay District zoning ordinance requirements.

The first floor of the mill, approximately 1,750 sq ft, was remodeled for retail space as was the first floor of the circa 1907 barn that also sits on the property. John and Sarah’s intent was to remodel the areas for gallery space but also preserve the history and integrity of the buildings.

Modifications that needed to be made included the addition of 18 parking spaces to accommodate the 3,446 sq ft of gallery space as well as make the mill building more accessible. Ramping from the parking area into the mill was added and railings, to address code requirements of the township, were added to the building and around the mill race. Additionally, one‐way traffic flow for the site was established with the placement of new signage and pavement markings. For the safety and security of customers and staff, outdoor lighting was also added.