This adaptive reuse project restored a prominent 1890s commercial building as part of a larger transit-oriented redevelopment in downtown Brockton. Originally constructed for the Brockton Enterprise newspaper and later expanded, the building had been vacant for years and obscured by mid-century alterations.
The Enterprise Building, originally constructed in 1890 and expanded in 1904, was the longtime home of the Brockton Enterprise newspaper. By 2000, after a 1970s addition had covered the historic façades, the building was vacant following the sale of the newspaper. A full core-and-shell renovation restored the historic exteriors and modernized the building systems.
All mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and fire protection systems were replaced with new, energy-efficient equipment. The project preserved the historic character of the façades while preparing the building for contemporary use. The corner of the site, includes the new Veteran’s Park, reinforcing the building’s civic presence and connection to the surrounding downtown.
The restored property contains 52,000 square feet of retail and commercial space. Approximately 30,000 square feet is now occupied by two departments of the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, bringing active civic use back to this prominent downtown site.
The multi-acre city block in the heart of Brockton has transformed into a mixed-use, TOD complex with 224 new apartments, 52,000 square feet of retail/commercial space, and a 415-space Municipal Garage, and Veteran’s Park, all designed by ICON. Within steps of downtown’s commuter rail station, this decade-long, three phase project has brought new life to downtown with a host of new residents and office workers.
