The Powers Building

Rochester, NY

Client: Value Properties
Completion: 1991
Area: 210,000 sf

The Powers Building was built in 1869 as the tallest office building in Rochester, New York. Later cast-iron additions and rooftop extensions gave the building a complex, Victorian image. It is now listed on the National Register of Landmark Structures. FXFOWLE, in association with the Rochester firm of Handler/Grosso, converted the building into new, attractive, historically sensitive commercial space. New storefronts and lobbies, and a sky-lit atrium created from a large central air shaft, serve refurbished retail and office spaces. The renovation program also included complete replacement of mechanical and electrical systems and new windows and roofing. This project received the Buildings Magazine Modernization Award Grand Prize; the New York State Preservation League Award; the New York State Office of Parks Recreation and the Commissioner’s Award for Preservation; and the Rochester Living City Award.