Picture the W W Orr Building. Its Art Deco elegance stands tall at 478 Peachtree Street. This isn’t just any building. It’s a piece of Atlanta history. Completed in 1930 it was designed by Francis Palmer Smith of Pringle and Smith. They were known for Beaux-Arts style but the W W Orr Building showcases their foray into Art Deco. This building was one of their first Art Deco projects. The other being the William-Oliver Building.
The building’s namesake Wayman W Orr was a significant figure. He served as president of the Atlanta Retail Merchants Association. His name is forever etched into this architectural marvel. The W W Orr Building was groundbreaking for its time. It was located far from Atlanta’s city center. It marked a significant shift. Peachtree Street began its transformation into an automobile-oriented boulevard.
This wasn’t just a random location. Before the W W Orr Building stood a residence. It belonged to J Bulow Campbell. The building was also notable for being Atlanta’s second building specifically designed for medical offices. The Medical Arts Building held that distinction first. Interestingly the W W Orr Building is adorned with serpents and staffs. These symbols subtly allude to the building’s medical function. A clever detail you might overlook.
The W W Orr Building has stood the test of time. It has undergone restorations in 1946 and 1964. In 1989 Atlanta officially recognized its architectural significance. It was designated a city landmark. Today it remains a vital part of Emory University Hospital Midtown. The W W Orr Building continues its legacy. It stands as a testament to Atlanta’s growth and architectural heritage. A true landmark in a city full of stories.