Living and Working in Downtown Athens
By Annette Nelson, CPA
Downtown Athens with its culture and charm has become the hot spot to eat, sleep and work. The best part about working in downtown Athens is you don’t have to walk very far to be a part of something unique. Every corner has a story, complete with historical details and rich textures. For over 200 years, downtown Athens has been the economic engine for Athens and Northeast GA.
In the middle of all that wonderful culture stands a beautiful living piece of history, the Michael Brothers Building. Built in a Renaissance design, it is generally considered Neil Reed’s, Atlanta’s architect, most famous commercial building. Originally built by Moses and Simon Michael in 1922 as a dry goods store, the Michael Brothers Building has been a center for business in downtown Athens for 93 years. Just like most of the historic buildings in Athens, the Michael Brothers Building has evolved and changed to meet the needs of its community.
Purchased by the Nelson family in 2001, Nelson Properties has continued the legacy the Michael Brothers began, by offering quality retail and office space to small businesses that want to be in the center of a thriving commerce. Located only one block from UGA, the Classic Center, the Clarke County Courthouse and City Hall, the building now houses 25 small businesses that employ over 150 individuals.
Park Plaza Executive Offices is the newest edition to the Michael Brothers Building. Located on the 4th floor of the building, this truly unique office environment allows businesses of all sizes to have the amenities of a large office without the expense. Each office includes shared conference rooms, a receptionist and break area. Another great perk to working at the Michael Brothers Building are the two wonderful restaurants located on the ground floor. No matter what the weather or how late you are working, Mellow Mushroom and Taqueria Tsunami are ready to serve you.
Annette Nelson is a local CPA who owns and manages the Michael Brothers Building. A past Chair of the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce and a member of several local boards, Annette is always looking for new ways to add to the already thriving downtown Athens.
