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Fall Lecture
Historic Preservation and Flood Resiliency of Gulf Coast Mercantile Buildings in Mandeville:
Finding a Balance between FEMA Regulations and the Protection of Original Elevations of Non Residential Buildings (like Newell!)
Vaughan Sollberger
Architect/Historic Preservation Commission
25 October 2026
2 - 4:30 PM
Newell Christian Chapel
235 Lamarque Street
The City of Mandeville possesses a historic character unlike that of many Gulf Coast communities. Rather than developing around a single continuous commercial corridor, early Mandeville evolved through a collection of neighborhood-serving businesses, civic institutions, churches, residences, and corner mercantile establishments. This dispersed pattern of development produced a walkable district whose scale, rhythm, and architectural diversity remain defining characteristics of Old Mandeville today.
As historic resources are altered or lost, the district gradually loses the visual continuity that distinguishes it from newer commercial development. Protecting the remaining inventory of contributing structures is therefore essential to preserving the architectural and cultural identity of Old Mandeville for future generations.
By thoughtfully applying FEMA guidance, National Park Service Standards, and practical mitigation measures, we can achieve a balanced approach that ensures responsible flood resiliency while protecting public safety, private investment, and the historic identity of Old Mandeville.
Our Speaker
Vaughan Sollberger and Kelsea Glorioso Pinkham are the architects behind KVS Architecture, a Mandeville-based firm dedicated to thoughtful, creative design, and the sensitive stewardship of the built environment. Their work focuses on preserving and enhancing the architectural character of Mandeville’s Historic Preservation District while contributing to the broader architectural and cultural landscape of St. Tammany Parish.
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