Garrison School Lofts

Disciplines

  • Architecture
  • Interior Design
  • Development Services

Types

  • Housing
  • Historic/Reuse

Location
Rockford, IL

Size
17,666SF

Awards
AIA Northern Illinois Honor Award

Rockford’s oldest school is transformed into new living space, with townhomes designed to complement a traditional neighborhood context
GWA Dots
Located in Rockford’s historic Signal Hill neighborhood, the Garrison School Lofts & Townhomes are a shining example of how historic preservation and new construction can be stitched together within a traditional neighborhood fabric.

a textbook example of adaptive reuse

Constructed in 1887, Garrison School retains its Queen-Anne design features while incorporating modern day residential living amenities. The school along with the gymnasium were renovated into 14 residential units that make the most of each building’s historic features. Exposed brick, reclaimed gym flooring, and exposed steel structuring hearken back to the building’s original use. Original windows, molding, stairs and bookcases were salvaged and restored and contribute to the unique character of the space.
restored, designed, and constructed in harmony with the surrounding neighborhood, Garrison School Lofts & Townhomes are a welcome addition to the Signal Hill neighborhood
GWA Dots

townhomes well-suited for the neighborhood

The Garrison Townhomes incorporate the same level of taste and detail as the historic Garrison School. Each space includes vaulted ceilings, expansive windows, stone countertops, and exquisite lighting. The townhomes are placed next to each other with minimal building setbacks to fit properly into a traditional neighborhood context.

related projects

Nicholas Conservatory

Nicholas Conservatory

Rockford, IL

Architecture

a tropical oasis that embraces nature, inside and out The Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens is situated along the banks of the Rock River in Sinnissippi Gardens. The Conservatory is the…

A channelized creek runs through a neighborhood on a sunny day in Rockford, Illinois

Keith Creek Corridor Study

Rockford, IL

Urban Planning

a comprehensive vision for mobility, redevelopment, recreation, and more Region 1 Planning Council partnered with Studio GWA, The Lakota Group, Strand Associates, and Hey & Associates to conduct a corridor…

Image of city staff and consultant staff walking the study area in Downtown Danville.

Downtown Danville Revitalization Plan

Danville, IL

Urban Planning

a roadmap to support ongoing downtown revitalization and recovery efforts Like many communities, the City of Danville, Illinois experienced severe economic setbacks during the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Downtown…