A historic power plant transforms into a vibrant commercial hub, preserving history and fostering renewal
Location
Chester, PA
Services
Architecture
The Chester Waterside Station, a PECO power plant built in 1919 during the City Beautiful movement, stood as an architectural symbol of industrial progress. Designed by John Windrim, the building linked industrial functionality with monumental public architecture, enhancing the electric industry’s identity.
Abandoned after 70 years of service, the building’s decline mirrored Chester’s industrial downturn. In 1999, a vision for adaptive reuse emerged, converting the structure into a commercial hub. The process involved delicately removing machinery embedded in the structure while preserving its historic integrity, infusing modern functionality with elements of its storied past.
As the base building architect, Blackney Hayes preserved the station’s historic character, designed common corridors, and completed tenant fit-outs for companies like Wells Fargo. Today, the adaptive reuse project, The Wharf at Rivertown, is a catalyst for Chester’s revitalization.
