Overview of Student Housing Redevelopment
The Student Housing Redevelopment project for the Pennsylvania College of Art & Design in Lancaster, Pennsylvania converted a historic structure into updated student housing. The renovation involved extensive modifications to the original open floor plan while incorporating modern residential necessities and conveniences throughout the building. At the same time, the redevelopment preserved and highlighted defining historic features connected to the former tobacco warehouse structure. Throughout the renovation, the project balanced updated residential functions with preservation of the building’s original character and architectural identity.
Historic Preservation and Building Character
The renovation retained many of the historic elements that define Lancaster’s former tobacco warehouses.. Exposed brick walls remained visible alongside the heavy wood beams and columns found throughout the original structure. Rather than covering these materials, the renovation incorporated them into the updated residential spaces across the building. As a result, the completed redevelopment continues to reflect the character of the historic warehouse while accommodating student housing use.
Interior Layout and Residential Updates
The Student Housing Redevelopment project included extensive modifications to the original open floor plan throughout the building. A new central staircase was installed to provide access to two apartments on each of the three floors. At the same time, the renovation incorporated modern residential features within the existing structure while blending renovated spaces with preserved historic elements, improving circulation between apartments and organizing residential access throughout the building.
Student Housing and Project Completion
Warfel completed the redevelopment of the former tobacco warehouse into updated student housing for the Pennsylvania College of Art & Design July of 2018. Throughout the renovation, the project maintained many of the building’s original architectural elements while introducing modern residential spaces within the historic structure. Exposed brick, heavy timber beams, and wood columns remain visible throughout the completed housing environment, continuing the character long associated with Lancaster’s historic warehouse buildings.
