Woonsocket Middle School Redevelopment | Woonsocket, RI
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Client:
Developer Problem:
This example of Classical Revival architecture was designed by a prominent local architect, Walter Fontaine, and built in 1914. Originally constructed as the local high school, it became the middle school in 1967 - the largest middle school in New England at the time. The school was closed in 2009 when new smaller middle schools were built nearby. Now vacant since 2010, the city had been looking for a new owner and purpose when our client learned about the building and developed a vision for its future, and purchased the property at the end of 2022. We were tasked with designing the new development and helping realize our client's vision. Historic preservation will be an important factor for this project, as the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2017 and we are working with our historic consultant to help the client obtain historic tax credits. Solution:
Working with approximately 200,000 square feet of space, our aim is to preserve the integrity of the original architecture, ensure the safety of the structure and all future occupants, redesign the interior for its new intended use while using space efficiently and maximizing the number of quality housing units this project will offer to the community. The project is expected to result in more than 150 apartments and an upscale community recreation center. |