Rome, Georgia
Location
Studio Pierce, Adaptive Reuse, Non-profit, Renovation, Rebranding
Development Type
12,000 SF
Project Size
Rome-Floyd E.C.O. Center
Year
The E.C.O. Center, which opened in 2011, is housed within the city of Rome’s freshwater pumping station. The historical pumping equipment from 1893 is preserved inside, aligning with the center's water-conservation purpose. However, due to increased demand and a growing number of visitors, a renovation for a more modern facility became essential. After discussions with center staff and Rome officials, primary renovation goals were established: optimizing the first-floor interior for science exhibits and offices, reimagining the lower-level storage as a flood-resistant multi-function space for community events, improving the building entrance for intuitive access, and incorporating water-conservation elements in the facility's exterior to emphasize its educational mission. (Due to be completed in 2024.)