Three outstanding Pawtucket projects were recognized at the Rhody Awards for Historic Preservation, held at the Rhode Island State House in Providence. Preserve Rhode Island (PRI) and the Rhode Island Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission (RIHPHC) broadcast the presentation on Capitol TV. The annual Rhody Awards honor individuals, organizations, and projects for their contributions to the preservation of Rhode Island’s historic places.

It took $40 million and 15 years to transform a massive turn-of-the-century textile plant built for the Hope Webbing Company into a mixed-use destination now known as Hope Artiste Village. Using Federal and State preservation tax credits, Urban Smart Growth carried out a multiphase rehabilitation that began on the Main Street side with the creation of art studios, professional offices, commercial spaces, night clubs, restaurants, and light industrial units and the restoration of the historic Breaktime bowling alley. The dynamic mix of tenants attracted an exciting attraction—the weekly Farm Fresh RI’s Winter Farmers Market—and provided the momentum for installing 149 residential loft-style apartments in the five-story mill on the Esten Street side.

The Church Hill Grammar School was rehabilitated to provide 14 market-rate apartments in the heart of Pawtucket’s Church Hill Industrial Historic District. Constructed in 1889-90 to designs by William R. Walker & Son, the Church Hill Grammar School is a handsome red brick building with Queen Anne-style details and a large square belltower. Developer Everett Amaral initiated a project to rehab the building for office tenants, and the skilled team at Caragh Development completed the project for residential use. Careful attention to detail and restoration of key historic features like the stairways ensure that this proud school building endures as a Pawtucket landmark.

The restoration of this 1941 Worcester Diner was a ten-year labor of love for owner Jonathan Savage. He relocated an abandoned diner from Connecticut and installed it outside Lorraine Mills in Pawtucket. Input from diner experts on the original configuration and where to source finishes and fixtures guided general contractor Joe Pacheco in restoring this streamlined beauty. Operated by experienced restaurateur Mike Arena, Miss Lorraine is open for business. Hot coffee and friendly service in a gorgeous setting—a recipe for success.

Beyond Pawtucket, other 2020 Rhody Award winners include: Southeast Lighthouse (Block Island); Hopkins Hollow Church (Coventry); Sunnyside and Edward King House Senior Center (Newport); Rhode Island State House Legislative Chambers and Mary Anthony (Providence); and Henry A.L. Brown (Warwick).

For more information about the Rhody Awards for Historic Preservation, please visit www.preserveri.org/rhody-awards.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 16, 2020
Videos available at https://www.preserveri.org/winners-2020
Images attached. Additional images are available upon request.
Contact: sarah.zurier@preservation.ri.gov