I-195 land ‘gateway’ building approved, construction could begin in spring

DESIGNING A BUILDING that combines modern elements with connections to Providence's commercial past was a challenge that Kite Architects took on with its plans for what is expected to be the first building built on the former Interstate 195 land in the city. / COURTESY KITE ARCHITECTS
DESIGNING A BUILDING that combines modern elements with connections to Providence's commercial past was a challenge that Kite Architects took on with its plans for what is expected to be the first building built on the former Interstate 195 land in the city. / COURTESY KITE ARCHITECTS

PROVIDENCE – Creating a signature building for the gateway to the I-195 Redevelopment District in Providence was a recent design challenge for Kite Architects.
The Providence-based company received approval for its design for a mixed-use structure that is expected to be the first project under construction in the district created by the relocation of Interstate 195.
Development of the one-third acre, known as Parcel 8, involves construction of a seven-story building to house rental apartments, office space and retail space, with a connection to a historically significant property.
The project, pursued by Royal Oaks Realty, is on the east side of the Providence River and will be clearly visible from the relocated I-195 highway.
It will involve 80,000 square feet of new construction, said Kite Architects Principal Christine West, as well as a connection to the historically significant, 15,000-square-foot building that originally was part of the Fuller Iron Works.
The design features both modern construction, with contemporary elements, and brick exterior finishes meant to complement the historical building. The site is bounded by Pike, South Water and Tockwotten streets, as well as the highway extended off-ramps.
“The site really is a gateway,” West said. “When you come off I-195 it’s the first thing you see about Providence.”
The Kite Architects design includes an installation of fin-like, vertical panels along an exterior wall, featuring small LED lights, which will offer a subtle, “celebratory element,” West said.
The city’s Downtown Design Review Committee, which will oversee design of the buildings in the I-195 district, has approved the design plans. Construction could potentially begin in the spring.

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