South Street Power Station
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The South Street Power Station in Providence, Rhode Island, underwent a major renovation to transform the historic industrial facility into a modern academic and mixed-use center.
Originally built in 1912 to supply electricity to the city, the 265,000-square-foot building had been decommissioned and vacant for two decades.
DBVW Architects commenced a $220 million redevelopment project to design academic spaces for Brown University, the University of Rhode Island, and Rhode Island College, as well as office and retail space.
3D laser scanning was essential in renovating the South Street Power Station, capturing precise measurements of its aged and complex industrial structure.
This data helped architects and engineers understand the structural integrity and layout of the original steel framework, masonry walls, and other critical elements.
By integrating the 3D laser scan point cloud data into a 3D BIM model, the team could identify potential conflicts, plan modifications, and ensure that new additions—such as academic spaces and mechanical systems—fit seamlessly within the existing structure.
3D laser scanning minimized unexpected challenges during construction by reducing measurement errors and allowing for better coordination between architects, engineers, and contractors.
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Case Study: South Street Power Station
The South Street Power Station, an industrial landmark in Providence, Rhode Island, was decommissioned in 1995 and left vacant for over two decades.
In 2013, DBVW Architects and Existing Conditions were tasked with transforming the 265,000-square-foot building into a modern academic and mixed-use facility as part of a $220 million redevelopment project.
The goal was to preserve the historic structure while integrating contemporary elements to support new functions, including academic spaces for Brown University, the University of Rhode Island, and Rhode Island College, along with office and retail spaces.
Scope of Work
Existing Conditions was contracted to provide precise documentation of the South Street Power Station's as-built conditions using 3D laser scan technology.
Initial scanning began in December 2013, capturing highly detailed data of the building’s interior and exterior. The first phase of 3D laser scanning was completed within one week, with data processed and delivered within 30 days, including a high-resolution point cloud dataset, 2D CAD drawings, and a detailed 3D BIM model, forming the foundation for architectural and structural analysis.
To enhance the dataset, a second phase of 3D laser scanning was conducted in the spring of 2014, providing Tsoi Kobus Design and DBVW Architects with a more detailed and accurate representation of the building’s structural and architectural elements.
This phased approach ensured precise documentation, supporting the successful renovation and integration of new academic and commercial spaces within the historic site.
Challenge
The South Street Power Station posed significant challenges due to its complex construction history. The building was constructed in nine phases with irregular column placements, non-uniform grid patterns, and varying floor elevations. DBVW Architects required precise documentation of these structural and architectural elements to integrate modern academic and commercial functions into the existing industrial framework.
The abandoned building presented several additional challenges, including potential structural instability, accumulated debris, and temperature fluctuations due to the lack of heating, all of which could affect safety and data accuracy. Limited access to certain areas further complicated the scanning process, requiring careful planning to ensure comprehensive coverage without compromising safety or data quality.
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Solution
Existing Conditions provided 3D laser scanning and Building Information Modeling (BIM) services to help DBVW Architects address these challenges. The scanning process provided precise data to accurately map the building’s irregularities and incorporate them into a comprehensive BIM model.
With the 3D BIM model, the team could identify potential conflicts, plan modifications, and ensure that new additions—such as academic spaces and mechanical systems—fit seamlessly within the existing structure.
Accurate point cloud data, 2D CAD drawings, and a 3D BIM model helped to minimize unexpected issues during construction by reducing measurement errors, while facilitating coordination between architects, engineers, and contractors.
With accurate data, the architect was able to focus on preserving and highlighting the building's historical features, such as steel-framed windows and exposed brick walls, ensuring that the renovation maintained the building's character while adapting it for modern use.
The result was a seamless blend of old and new, transforming the South Street Power Station into a vibrant academic and commercial hub.
Watch the Video
Watch the case study video to learn more about the value of 3D laser scanning in the adaptive reuse project at the South Street Power Station. Hear valuable insights from Founder & CEO of Existing Conditions, Kurt Yeghian; President of Existing Conditions, Jared Curtis; and Principal at DBVW Architects, Pierson Booher.
How Was This Project Unique?
The building's complex history, characterized by decades of neglect, irregular architectural elements, and a construction process spanning nine phases, made this project unique.
A key aspect of the project was the decision to preserve and highlight the building's existing architectural features, such as irregular columns, grid patterns, and varying floor elevations, rather than concealing them. This approach, focused on adaptive reuse, allowed the building’s unique character to remain a defining feature of the design.
The renovation preserved the building's historic integrity while revitalizing the surrounding neighborhood, attracting academic institutions, businesses, and creative industries. The building, once a symbol of neglect, now serves as a vital hub for education, innovation, and community engagement, positively impacting the surrounding area.
Where Does This Project Stand Now?
The South Street Power Station in Providence, Rhode Island, has been successfully transformed into an academic center, now housing spaces for Brown University, the University of Rhode Island, and Rhode Island College. The renovation has revitalized the previously abandoned structure, integrated modern academic facilities while preserving its historic industrial character.
Adjacent to South Street Landing, a 750-space parking garage is now operational. The next phase of development, the River House, a 270-bed housing complex for graduate and medical students, was completed May 2019 by GMH Capital Partners in partnership with Wexford.
In December 2023, Brown University purchased 136,000 square feet of space across four floors at South Street Landing, previously leased, to accommodate nearly 500 staff members from various administrative units. This acquisition reflects Brown's continued investment in the Jewelry District, complementing its existing facilities, including the Warren Alpert Medical School, research laboratories, and the School of Professional Studies.
History of the South Street Power Station
The South Street Power Station, built between 1912 and 1925 in Providence, Rhode Island, originally served as an electrical power generation facility for the manufacturing industry. Located along the riverfront, it was a prominent part of the community before being decommissioned and abandoned in the 1990s.
In 2013, Brown University, the University of Rhode Island, and Rhode Island College initiated a renovation project to repurpose the building. Tsoi Kobus Design (Architect of Record) and DBVW Architects (Historic Preservation Architect) led the effort to integrate modern design elements with the building's historic features, revitalizing the space for academic and commercial use.
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About the Client DBVW Architects
Existing Conditions and DBVW Architects have maintained a strong, collaborative partnership for nearly 25 years, built on mutual expertise and professionalism.
DBVW Architects, founded in 1994, is one of Rhode Island's largest full-service architectural firms, serving clients across New England. The firm specializes in contemporary and modern architecture, historic preservation, adaptive reuse, cultural arts, healthcare, housing, and educational facilities.
Known for its collaborative and client-focused approach, DBVW Architects integrates historical context with forward-thinking design. Their projects frequently blend old and new structures, emphasizing sustainability and community engagement.
The company prioritizes clear communication and hands-on collaboration, guiding clients through challenges with innovative solutions and informed decision-making to achieve successful outcomes.
Pierson Booher, a Principal at DBVW Architects, is a nationally recognized expert in historic preservation, leading restoration projects for significant regional landmarks. His expertise and attention to detail elevate preservation efforts beyond conventional standards.
Existing Conditions 3D Laser Scanning Services
Over the past 27 years, Existing Conditions has measured, documented, and modeled over 10,000 buildings across the United States, establishing ourselves as an industry leader in 3D laser scanning.
Architects trust us to deliver digital representations of the as-built environment with unparalleled accuracy and efficiency. Our dedicated Project Managers provide fast and accurate 3D laser scanning services and drone imagery services, and expert CAD and BIM technicians create custom, detailed deliverables, including point clouds, 2D CAD drawings, 3D BIM models, 3D mesh models, TruViews, and 3D virtual tours.
Our greatest reward remains delivering superior-quality scan-to-BIM work and knowing we played a vital role in our clients’ historical architecture and preservation projects.
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