Union Primary School Lofts East Providence, RI
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The Union Primary School, located in the quaint village of Rumford, RI, sat dormant for the better part of three decades. Last utilized as a community center and for serving senior meals, the City of East Providence owned and maintained the building where many seniors today recall their elementary school classrooms. The original structure facing Pawtucket Ave was designed in 1873 by architect Christopher Dexter, featuring a single story with an end gable roof. The iconic tower and the south addition were added in 1888. A rear addition was built with brick in 1961.
The City of East Providence issued an RFP in late 2020 for the purchase and redevelopment of the schoolhouse, with an emphasis on the preservation of the distinct historical features. Our firm responded to the RFP with a plan to develop six quality apartments and preserve the exterior features and character. Our proposal was selected and we brought in our client, a private developer to purchase, fund and build the project. Our role from that point forward was the design and construction administration.
The City of East Providence issued an RFP in late 2020 for the purchase and redevelopment of the schoolhouse, with an emphasis on the preservation of the distinct historical features. Our firm responded to the RFP with a plan to develop six quality apartments and preserve the exterior features and character. Our proposal was selected and we brought in our client, a private developer to purchase, fund and build the project. Our role from that point forward was the design and construction administration.
The program of the project was to create eight new apartments including five two-bedroom units and three one-bedroom units, all with one bathroom, totaling approximately 7,500 square feet of living space. The building exterior was preserved, with a modern color palette on the original clapboard with a detail of cedar shingled siding. The interior features high ceilings, with some units displaying original interior beams. Exposed ducts contribute to the industrial “loft” feel, while modern kitchen and bath designs provide style and comfort sought by tenants.