History & Modernity.

This brick building, situated in the vibrant Old Port district of Portland, has a rich historical past. It previously housed two jewelry stores on the ground floor, and commercial space occupies the upper two floors.

In 2020, the building’s owner enlisted Woodhull’s studio to explore the feasibility of adding a new story to create two apartments on the second floor and two-story apartments on the third and newly constructed fourth floor. With the successful transition in occupancy type, the acquisition of federal tax credits for historical preservation, and the completion of the apartment designs, Woodhull’s Construction team turned the vision into reality.

Care & Attention.

Over ten months, the construction team skillfully removed the roof (above the still-operational jewelry stores) and erected an additional floor atop the existing structure. Adhering to the esteemed National Park Standards for historic rehabilitation, every detail was meticulously crafted to honor the building’s past.

The fusion of historical brick with contemporary aluminum paneling gracefully fades into the skyline, creating a captivating juxtaposition that celebrates both heritage and progress. The apartments blend their historical charm with plaster finishes and pine floors, with contemporary design elements like ornamental convenience stairs, roof decks, and skylights. Completed in June 2023, 50 Exchange pays homage to the rich history of the Old Port district while ushering it into the 21st century with grace and style.