LAWRENCE LIGHTGUARD ARMORY
Puzzle: To reuse a historic landmark structure in disrepair, originally designed (circa 1884) for military drills and storage of ordinance and equipment. On the National Register of Historic Places, this property had been neglected by its previous owners, a fraternal organization. The structure is of heavy granite and masonry exterior walls, with large arched windows on the drill shed sides. Entasked with perserving the architecture and details within the parameters of the National Register, and create a viable alternative use for the building.
Solution: Preserved existing facade and details while reconstructing delapidated roof and structure. A new floor installed at mid level in the high drill shed space, including egress stairs, and converting the ground floor into an enclosed parking garage, provided more program space while maintaining existing fenestration. The historic details are saved while the building takes on a new economic life as professional condominiums.
