2024 Rhody Awardees
Historic Preservation Project Award
Arctic Mills, West Warwick - Knight Street Capital
The adaptive re-use of a 125,000 sq ft former 19th-century textile mill building led to the creation of 136 residential units, including 31 workforce housing units, resident amenity spaces, and commercial space. This project has brought much-needed housing and revitalization to West Warwick, a town with one of the highest poverty rates in the state.
Belmont Chapel, Newport - Belmont Chapel Foundation
The Belmont Chapel Foundation is being awarded for their restoration of the Belmont Chapel, an important Architectural landmark and focal point of Island Cemetery. The chapel, abandoned and hidden from view, has been extensively restored in a way that is true to the high standards set by the original architects, George Champlin Mason and Sons, and Richard Morris Hunt.
Rosecliff, Newport- Preservation Society of Newport County
The Preservation Society of Newport County completed one of the most extensive and complicated projects in its 78-year history with the restoration of Rosecliff Mansion. The $7.4 million scope included interior and exterior restoration, from replicating the original 3,200-square-foot Ballroom oak floor to full window restoration.
Wanskuck Mill, Providence - Premier Land Development, Inc.
A local developer's seven-year undertaking of the Wanskuck Mill revitalization has brought critical housing and investment to the underserved North End of Providence, while restoring a significant and underutilized historic resource back to productive use. This project was made possible with Federal and State Historic Tax credits.
Community Impact Award
390 Pine St.- Conant Thread New Office Buidling, Pawtucket - Shri Yoga Studio
Shri, an urban outreach healing arts and yoga program that prioritizes adults with intellectual abilities, serves students every year from schools, shelters, hospitals, senior centers, and social services. They will receive the Community Award for reimagining a dilapidated mill building into a rich community resource. The first floor houses a yoga studio, food bank, and arts center, with affordable and market-rate apartments on the second floor.
Explore East Greenwich: Historic Interpretive Signs, East Greenwich- East Greenwich Historic Preservation Society
The East Greenwich Historic Preservation Society has greatly impacted the community's sense of place by installing a dozen narrated interpretive signs to form a walking trail through three centuries of Town history. The signs show photographs, drawings, and original artwork commissioned by the EGHPS, telling stories of women, Indigenous people, and the Black regiment formed during the Revolution.
Homeowner Award
Kenneth and Deborah McDonald, Newport
Homeowners Kenneth and Deborah McDonald have successfully transformed a rundown historic cottage in the Point neighborhood into a comfortable home (just over 850 sq. ft.) with all the modern conveniences. The house, which sits adjacent to a flood zone, was raised proactively to increase climate resiliency. The general contractor they selected demonstrated meticulous care while undertaking this project.
Stewardship Award
Friends of Plum Beach Lighthouse, North Kingstown
This award is being presented to the Friends of Plum Beach Lighthouse for their long-term stewardship of Rhode Island's most visible lighthouse. After a metamorphosis in 2003, the group has maintained a high preservation standard through innovative funding strategies and dedication to maintenance.
Antoinette F. Downing Volunteer Award
Cornelis de Boer
Awarded for his remarkable tenure on the Providence Historic District Commission. He acted as Commissioner from 1987 to 2023, offering a depth of knowledge that models how volunteers on local Historic District Commissions can guide applicants to best preservation practices with expertise, advice, and exceptional public relations.
Frederick C. Williamson Professional Award
Wendy Nicholas Dorsey
In celebration of her 43-year career, beginning as Executive Director of the Providence Preservation Society and later at the National Trust for Historic Preservation's Northeast Regional Office. She excelled in expanding educational programs, leading legislative campaigns, and fostering community engagement in preservation efforts.
