Sterling Riverfront

Disciplines

  • Architecture
  • Urban Planning
  • Historic Tax Credit Consulting

Types

  • Housing
  • Historic/Reuse
  • Feasibility
  • Workspace
  • Hospitality

Location
Sterling, IL

Size
688,000SF

two riverfront properties with potential as large as the buildings themselves
GWA Dots
The Lawrence Brothers and Stanley-National complexes are former manufacturing buildings that have shaped the southern gateway to Sterling, Illinois for over 100 years. The success of each enterprise was manifested in the sheer size of their buildings; put together, the complexes have over 688,000 square feet of space.

Since 2006 the City of Sterling has been working to address the building conditions of both complexes. Selective demolition, environmental assessments, and a district-wide redevelopment plan have aimed to improve the appearance and potential of the riverfront.

a comprehensive look at redevelopment prospects
Studio GWA teamed up with Hunden Strategic Partners to assist the City of Sterling in its redevelopment efforts for the Lawrence Brothers and Stanley-National complexes. Our team conducted a market analysis and financial feasibility studies in order to identify viable, compatible uses for the sites, and to understand what degree of gap financing might be necessary. Our community engagement efforts included a tour of completed adaptive reuse projects in downtown Rockford, Illinois to help guests see how historic manufacturing buildings can be repurposed to meet a variety of uses. Conceptual floor plans showcase the program of uses, and detailed renderings offer fresh perspectives of the buildings in a renovated state.

related projects

Design rendering - Rockford Public Library Hart

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Nicholas Conservatory

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Image of the east elevation of the Old McHenry County Courthouse in Woodstock, Illinois.

Old McHenry County Courthouse

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Architecture, Interior Design, Historic Tax Credit Consulting

Since 1857, the Old McHenry County Courthouse has been the centerpiece of the town square in Woodstock, Illinois. Consisting of the original Courthouse and Sheriff’s house, these landmark buildings are undergoing a complete renovation that will include retail, restaurant, event, and community spaces.