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Michel Khozam, John Eisenhart & Eva Thorn
Commercial Restoration and Cultural Heritage Award
 Saving a small building can be a big struggle, especially in downtown San Diego. So when it happened with a historic 1906 church, it was a major preservation victory.
Once the home of a Mexican Presbyterian congregation, the church sat abandoned and was vandalized in the East Village for many years. What was once a place of significant meaning had become significantly run-down, with many people viewing it as a potential safety hazard that stood in the way of progress. They wanted it torn down.
But despite the deterioration of the wooden structure, it remained unaltered, and the people behind this project could see its beauty, potential, and cultural importance. Because of their influence, the Mexican Presbyterian Church was relocated to 1313 J Street, where it was restored to pristine condition. Now the inviting, former church is one of East Village's most valued historic buildings. It may become a restaurant or other business soon. In any case, it is an attractive destination with a compelling story.
For their divine work in historic preservation, an award for Commercial Restoration and Cultural Heritage goes to preservation contractor Michel Khozam of ZMK Construction, and John Eisenhart and Eva Thorn Of Union Architecture.
Left to right Tiffany Bombard, Michel Khozam, John Eisenhart, Eva Thorn. Top left and middle photos provided by award winners. All other photos by Sandé Lollis
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