Asheville, North Carolina is noted for incredible historic buildings. There is a great deal of interest in our area around historic preservation, as you might expect. Many of us are at work to sustain the heritage and the sense of place that is Asheville ...and this work involves preserving the unique historic resources we are so proud of here.
The Preservation Society of Asheville and Buncombe County founded in 1976, has "provided critical leadership in local efforts to preserve the rich cultural legacy of the region through four primary areas of activity: advocacy, education, technical preservation assistance, and historic property intervention."
You may have heard of the mythological animal sometimes placed at the entrance of buildings to protect those who entered...the griffin. 
Well...Asheville has its very own griffin. When you come to visit or live here, be sure to see it at the Grove Arcade. . Why am I mentioning this? Because the griffinis Asheville's symbol for protection and preservation of beautiful historic buildings. The Preservation Society has adopted it and each year accepts nominations from individuals, companies, organizations who all may nominate projects, persons, or groups to receive the Griffin Award.
The Griffin Award is given for "outstanding preservation projects and individuals that further the goals of historic preservation in Asheville and Buncombe County."
Past awards have recognized a broad range of preservation efforts such as "residential or commercial rehabilitation; restoration; stewardship; new construction in historic districts; research/publication; leadership; interior residential rehabilitation; interior commercial rehabilitation; and adaptive reuse. "
No wonder Asheville is not only a treasured destination for many visitors, but home to creative people interested in a sustainable community.
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