NATCHEZ — An iconic Natchez building, the now-closed Eola Hotel, could see some construction activity soon.

However, because of The Eola’s historical significance, the Natchez Preservation Commission and the Natchez Planning Commission must first approve all alteration or addition.

The Eola was built in 1927 and is considered the crown jewel of downtown Natchez.

Virginia-based attorney Robert Lubin bought the property in December 2014.

Lubin’s representatives presented plans recently to the Natchez Preservation Committee to turn the hotel into a 46-unit apartment building for senior citizens.

Part of those plans included removing the sunburst windows in the courtyard area of the building, which an architect said are deteriorating, replacing them with regular storefront windows.

The Preservation Committee rejected that alteration.

The project’s architect, Jarrett Cooper of St. Louis, said he would work with preservation commission members to design windows that fit better with the sunburst design.

Cooper told preservation commission members current plans do not call for the hotel’s restaurant and bar to be opened to the public.

Soon after the purchase, Lubin said his plans did include reopening a restaurant and bar in the building. However, Cooper said space might be available for businesses and others to lease.