Artist Alley Lofts
Bennett Building, 1888

             
Before rehab                                 After 2002 rehab

Building History

Built in 1888, this structure combines elements of both Romanesque Revival and Queen Anne styles such as the wide, round arch second floor windows and the variable brick patterns found on the façade.  The current structure replaced an earlier, wood frame building that occupied the site since the 1840s.  Originally owned by John Bennett, his woodenware shop was located here in 1896.

Preservation and Reuse

After acquisition by the City in 1997 for nonpayment of taxes, the building was sold to a private developer who proceeded to rehabilitate the building into four units of artist live-work residences in 2002.  Brick infill was removed and new period-appropriate wooden storefronts were installed that complemented restored, original cast iron piers and sign lintel.  Original window sash hidden behind applied exterior plywood was restored while new, custom wooden windows were installed elsewhere.

Now home to various types of artists, the building’s historic character has been recaptured and is once again contributing to the vibrancy of Lowell’s historic district and downtown. 

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