WMAIA 2022 Design Awards
ENTRY
Dietz & Company Architects, Inc., Springfield, MA
Dietz & Company Architects designed the renovation of the historic 48,000-square-foot Chicopee City Hall including programming, rehabilitation of the exterior envelope and long-closed Auditorium, and accessibility upgrades. Guiding the design was balancing historic preservation with contemporary and changing needs. The Auditorium is transformed into a flexible and accessible multipurpose space with new state-of-the-art technology and lighting systems for meetings and civic events, while retaining its original character. One of the major features of this project is the restoration of the iconic rose window and stained-glass that illuminate the Auditorium in a vibrant play of color and light.
The exterior rehabilitation respects the historic architectural significance of the building and includes restoration of the campanile, stained-glass, slate roofing, and masonry. New thermally improved windows that replicate the originals, along with efficient mechanical systems, acoustic improvements, code, and accessibility upgrades enhance the day-to-day experience of the building for the community.
Photos by Leigh Chodos
