Project Highlight: The Hill’s Building 2025

Contributing to the revitalization of The Hill’s Building in downtown Vicksburg, Michigan, was an honor for PMV Painting. The landmark commercial block, built in the late 1800s, was the home of Hill’s Pharmacy for decades. The three-building store front at 106–110 S. Main Street sits at the heart of the community. PMV was part of the broader redevelopment effort, completing interior and exterior surface preparation and finishing work to give the restored architecture a fresh look.

Our role focused on applying durable, historically appropriate coatings that highlight the buildings’ craftsmanship and support their use as an active destination for business and gatherings.

Respecting Historic Character Through Paint and Finish Detail

The restoration team wanted to maintain the building’s heritage while enabling modern functionality. The PMV team applied finishes to protect the restored building, unify the façade across three connected structures, and visually enhance details representing more than 140 years of local history.

Achieving the project’s goals required careful surface preparation. We had to address varied substrates, previous coatings, and aged materials, then apply finish systems that would perform well in a historic downtown environment and complement the building’s architecture.

Exterior Finishing: Extending Color and Character Across the Block

One of the most striking visual elements of the completed project is the continuity of color across both the Hill’s Building on Main Street and the west elevation. PMV applied exterior paints to the brick, trim, and architectural elements using a coordinated palette that unifies all three buildings.

Soft blue and warm red masonry colors, paired with crisp light trim and dark metal accents, reinforce the block’s identity and contribute to the renewed energy on Main Street. Extending those finishes around to the west elevation changed the service-focused rear entrance into a purposeful public-facing space that encourages outdoor use and community activity.

Building 110 (light blue):

Brick Siding: Jamestown Blue by Benjamin Moore
Sashes: Rookwood Shutter Green by Sherwin Williams
Frame/Casing: Rookwood Jade by Sherwin Williams
Other Trim: Classical White by Sherwin Willaims

Building 108 (red):

Brick Siding: Tea by Benjamin Moore
Sashes: River Rock by Benjamin Moore
Frame/Casing: Olive Grove by Sherwin Williams
Other Trim: Classical White by Sherwin Williams
Metal Details: Tricorn Black by Sherwin Williams

Building 106 (dark blue):

Brick Siding (lower): Twilight by Benjamin Moore
Brick Siding (upper): Peacock Plume Sherwin Williams
Sashes: Rookwood Red by Sherwin Williams
Frame/Casing: Forest Valley Green by Benjamin Moore
Other Trim: Classical White by Sherwin Williams
Metal Details: Tricorn Black by Sherwin Williams

Inside The Hill’s Building

Inside the building, PMV Painting completed interior wall and ceiling finishing, helping create a welcoming environment that respects the building’s original scale and character. We selected colors that balance durability with visual clarity, helping the architectural details and interior furnishings work cohesively in the renewed space. For example, a neutral palette allows the tin ceiling to become a focal point, blending old and new elements in a way that supports flexible community use.

Interior Finishing: Light, Warmth, and Authentic Expression

Interior restoration choices reinforce the exterior’s balance of authenticity and usability. The tall ceilings, arched upper-story windows, and original wood ceiling boards help preserve the building’s scale and craftsmanship from its earliest years. Rather than concealing age, the restoration intentionally leaves history visible through the patina, original structure, and exposed mechanical systems, conveying openness and evolution.

Light, neutral wall tones, and natural light contrast with the textured ceilings, revealing details that might otherwise be lost. Traditional furnishings with patterned textiles and wood accents complement the historic scene and create a welcoming environment. The space feels both renewed and familiar, rooted in history but ready for everyday activity and conversation.

Interior:

Trim and Ceilings: Snowbound by Sherwin Williams
Walls: Neutral Ground by Sherwin Williams
Interior Door Panels: Big Chill by Sherwin Williams

A Revitalized Community Hub

The Hill’s Building retains the 1880s commercial-block appearance, integrating historical accuracy with modern functionality. The project, led by developer Chris Moore, creates a new hub for local businesses, dining, and entertainment. Currently, the restored buildings are the temporary home for the Cone Top Brewery Museum, celebrating American brewing innovation and cultural legacy. Additional tenant spaces, outdoor gathering areas, and flexible interior environments will allow the buildings to adapt to the community’s needs.

The Hill’s Building restoration reinforces the power of preservation done well: it protects meaningful history, strengthens small-town identity, and creates lasting spaces built for connection.

If you’re considering an update to your commercial building, we offer complimentary design consultations, or you can call our office at 269.276.0907 with questions. Let’s talk about how you can revitalize your space!