Windsor Block Lofts

The 1890's historic structure is sited along a main arterial through downtown and includes a 1950's addition. The 1890's Italianate style facade had been covered over for decades. The facade overlay was peeled away to reveal the well-preserved historic brickwork which was simply cleaned with minimal restorative work needed, while a missing cornice was re-fabricated and fenestration uncovered and replaced with thermally efficient windows. Careful planning preserved the facade skin and openings in keeping with historic preservation requirements to qualify for tax credits. The street level storefronts were retained due to budget constraints and so the businesses could remain operational.

The original name – Windsor Block – was re-invoked and the project became the city's first downtown "loft" style living units. Nine living units were carved around the perimeter with storage units occupying the central core of the floor plate. Floor plans are arranged for open living with dynamic views of the outside urban environment thru plentiful windows. Original hardwood floors were refinished for an authentic distressed appearance while the concrete deck was stained and polished to become the flooring in the 50's addition adding to the trendy urban appeal. The original stairway to the street was restored. Ceilings were installed at the high roof structure to allow natural light to flood deep into the interior spaces while strategically placed interior transom windows share the natural light deeper within each unit.

Letter of Reference from Daniel Seftner

Location
Rapid City, South Dakota

Owner
D.J.S. Downtown Properties
Dan Senftner, President and CEO
605-721-3378

Contractor
MAC Construction Co., Inc.
Dale Vanyo, Project Manger
605-787-4685

Role
Architect of Record

Personnel
Lyle Murtha, Principal Architect
Anthony Jacobsen, Project Manager

Scope
Re-purposing (interior)
Rehabilitation (exterior)
Design-Build

Size
13,500 Square Feet

Cost
$1.2 Million

Completed
2009