Abernathy Arts Center Improvements

The existing stone arts building at the Abernathy Arts Center requires significant repairs and updates. Due to the unsafe and unstable condition of the building, the City of Sandy Springs plans to construct a temporary facility that will add art programming space to the existing site.

December 5, 2023 City Council Meeting Abernathy Arts Center Improvements Presentation (PDF, opens in new tab)

The City hosted a Public Open House in October 2023 to discuss the future of the Abernathy Arts Center, including proposed changes and program enhancements.

• Abernathy Arts Center Presentation – October 30, 2023 (PDF, opens in new tab)
• Abernathy Arts Center Display Boards – October 30, 2023 (PDF, opens in new tab)
• Abernathy Arts Center Welcome Letter – October 30, 2023 (PDF, opens in new tab)
• Abernathy Arts Center Comment Card – October 30, 2023 (PDF, opens in new tab)

Those unable to attend the Public Information Open House were invited to provide comments during the public comment period. The final day to submit comments was Sunday, November 12, 2023.

Additional Information

The Sandy Springs Public Facilities Authority approved the transfer of the Abernathy Arts Center from Fulton County in 2021 as part of a quitclaim deed. The City of Sandy Springs also approved an agreement with Art Sandy Springs, Inc. (ArtSS) to provide arts programming at the Abernathy Arts Center.

The property spans approximately 3.59 acres and currently includes three buildings:

• A single-story former residential structure with a partial basement (4,722 square feet)
• A garage with a studio above
• A single-story steel-framed annex building (5,000 square feet)

The site also includes tennis courts, a small playground, and a parking lot.

Project Updates

The Abernathy Arts Center has undergone significant improvements to enhance its facilities, particularly for ceramics classes. The existing stone arts building was identified as needing substantial repairs and updates due to structural deficiencies and noncompliance with ADA regulations.

To address these issues, City Council approved a contract to demolish the stone buildings and replace them with a modular arts studio. This temporary facility was designed to accommodate the return of pottery classes. The modular structure, approximately 1,200 square feet in size, is expected to have a lifespan of five to seven years.

Abernathy Arts Center – Ceramic Studio Complete – Ribbon Cutting April 28, 2026

The City of Sandy Springs is excited to share that construction on the new Ceramic Studio at the Abernathy Arts Center is nearing completion. City Council approved a contract award of $599,947.60 to Rubio and Sons Interiors to complete the renovation, and work has progressed steadily over the past several months.

This project transformed the existing structure into a vibrant creative space featuring two classrooms, dedicated storage, and a restroom. Exterior improvements include a new wraparound deck, refreshed building façade, enhanced sidewalk access, and landscaping designed to complement the surrounding campus.

Construction is expected to be substantially complete in March 2026. Construction fencing will be removed, and final landscaping improvements will begin. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is anticipated in April 2026 to formally celebrate the completion of the new Ceramic Studio.

Once complete, the Ceramic Studio will provide artists of all ages with a place to learn, create, and connect, further strengthening the Abernathy Arts Center as a cornerstone for arts and culture in Sandy Springs.