The new Student Services Center consolidates functions that were previously spread throughout Johnson & Wales’ city campus. Over 120 employees now provide services for students at administrative transaction counters and within private counseling offices, offering a “one-stop” experience for academic and financial needs as well as support for participants in the university’s international program. Lounges and conference spaces provide additional places for staff and students to meet. The abandoned 1921 jewelry factory building was restored to preserve its industrial and historic character, providing contemporary loft-like interior spaces that create an appealing and comfortable social setting for students. Retaining the original 16’ floor-to-ceiling heights and two 100’ long saw-tooth skylights on the upper level, the design added large exterior windows on the first level and cut openings into sections of the second floor to bring daylight deep into the space. Existing materials – brick, timber, and steel columns and beams – were unified by a neutral white color and are used as a backdrop for the vibrant accent color of a new architectural feature wall and the clean, modern furnishings used throughout the new interior space.

Providence Preservation Society Annual Historic Preservation Awards Rehabilitation Award 2008

Project photography by Warren Patterson