MFDS was tasked with reimagining a derelict commercial building in the historic downtown of Lowell, MA. Once home to the Beaux Arts Odd Fellows building, a fire destroyed the historic structure and an ill-conceived three-story structure replaced it. Long vacant, the structure will be transformed into a twenty-six apartment unit that will feature a totally new brick streetwall facade, a restored subterranean pool and fitness center, and a new private open-air central courtyard with a skylight directly over the existing pool.
The new façade derives its structure and order from the original foundations that supported the Beaux Arts building. The existing piers and pilasters regulate and create order on the façade, providing the structural frame for insets and recesses that provide relief and shadow to create a strong and distinguished streetwall elevation.
While not historic in its design or rehabilitation, MFDS reimagined a noncontributing structure to contemporary sensibilities while still honoring its historic origins and context, drawing support from the Planning and Historic Boards for its thoughtful reconceptualization in an emerging downtown historic district.
The new façade derives its structure and order from the original foundations that supported the Beaux Arts building. The existing piers and pilasters regulate and create order on the façade, providing the structural frame for insets and recesses that provide relief and shadow to create a strong and distinguished streetwall elevation.
While not historic in its design or rehabilitation, MFDS reimagined a noncontributing structure to contemporary sensibilities while still honoring its historic origins and context, drawing support from the Planning and Historic Boards for its thoughtful reconceptualization in an emerging downtown historic district.
