Listed in 1999 as one of Massachusetts’ Most Endangered Historic Resources, the Kingston Public Library building was reclaimed by the town and underwent a transformation to a heritage center and community gathering place. The stewards of this archetypal Colonial Revival former library were committed to preserving and celebrating the building’s striking architecture and Classical interior detail while creating an accessible, functional venue that welcomes the community and creates an active social and cultural resource. 

Our firm was engaged in 2009 to rehabilitate the building interior and to design an accessible entry addition that honors the building’s Colonial Revival character. The renovation included new exhibit space and climate-controlled historic collections storage, offices, accessible restrooms, meeting rooms and performance space, and restoration of original interior details and finishes. 

The new Frederic C. Adams Heritage Center opened its doors to the public in November 2012. The project was recognized with a 2013 Massachusetts Historical Commission Preservation Award for Rehabilitation and Restoration.