But, he said, such projects show that historic preservation is not just about freeze-framing a building or a document. And all three have ideas, along with general enthusiasm for Krispy Kreme’s willingness to remain, rebuild and preserve.ĪPC Executive Director David Yoakley Mitchell has questions about how original materials would be incorporated into a new building and stored during construction. Three Atlanta historic preservation organizations - the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation, the Atlanta Preservation Center and Historic Atlanta - say Krispy Kreme has not contacted them for restoration advice. While much news coverage has alluded to the deep pockets of the local franchise owner, multimillionaire basketball and multimedia star Shaquille O’Neal, the reconstruction plans are spearheaded by the mother corporation and a house architect that designs all of its shops to meet brand standards.ĭespite its local-landmark status and meeting the rule of thumb that 50 years and older is potentially “historic,” the shop has no official historic designation or protections. Plans filed with the City of Atlanta show a total reconstruction of a significantly smaller shop and unspecified changes to the panels on the sign. The North Carolina-based corporation has said it will rebuild and reopen the shop with some original elements preserved, including the iconic sign, but details are lacking. Firefighters tackle the July 7 fire at the Krispy Kreme, the second blaze to hit the shop this year.