Repurposing Historic Worcester Courthouse

The first of several revitalization efforts in Worcester, MA’s historic Lincoln Square district, the Worcester Courthouse was restored and given new life as a multifamily residential community. Built in the 1840s and abandoned for more than a decade, the former government building now provides inclusive housing opportunities for families of all income levels, furthering the City’s goal of creating more workforce residences.

Within the building, the project team focused on preserving historic elements, including the historic courtrooms, and restoring the building to its previous grandeur. Outside, Bohler identified creative and cost-effective means of reusing existing elements.

Designing Around Historic Utilities

Bohler’s team recognized the opportunities that could come with reusing existing utilities, so they carefully evaluated and field-verified the aged systems and developed a comprehensive plan to repurpose pipes wherever possible. While upgrades were required for both the sanitary sewer and stormwater runoff systems to bring them into compliance with today’s standards, the team found ways to reuse much of the existing infrastructure. Damaged or poorly placed pipes were slated for demolition and new, relocated utility connections were designed.

By creatively incorporating existing utility structures, Bohler delivered cost-effective solutions to successfully bring the adaptive reuse project to life. In addition to over 100 residential units, the new space features a fitness center, clubhouse, interior bike storage, and outdoor gathering areas. Nearby bus and MBTA stations offer easy access and promote walkability throughout the community.

In 2022, Courthouse Lofts was awarded the Paul & Niki Tsongas Award from Preservation Massachusetts.