Mid Century Rejuvenation

Project Details

Project Description

This building was located in a downtown area that was less than desirable and in a state of disrepair and partial neglect. The two level building had an interior with 1970's wood paneling upstairs and mold infested areas in the basement. The client purchased the building with a desire to relocate their growing construction business in the building and lease the remainder to other tenants. The building was void of natural light and had poor curb appeal making the building undesirable to lease in it's original state. After exploring various options, the decision was made to add ample natural light to as much of the building as possible while maintaining the integrity of the Mid Century design of the structure. because of the location, budget was a major concern in order to be able to lease the space at a reasonable rate. The final solution replaced the exposed textured block sections with storefront windows that match the new glass entries. Canopies were added to accentuate the entries as well as provide protection from the elements. ADA compliant ramps and interior baths were added to further the updates, with the central stairway rebuilt with reclaimed wood and steel. The building now houses four separate businesses and provides enough natural light to make even the basement level spaces enjoyable environments to work in. The addition of four new businesses in this area has already helped turn the neighborhood around. A building adjacent to this building and another next to it have since been renovated with more to follow. The sensitivity of this project to it's heritage and the financial success it has brought to the town have also been acknowledged by one of only two architectural projects recognized by the town's main Street Assoc as exemplary projects. This project has been a wonderful example of how vision, design and budget can coexist and produce great results.