Old Factory, New Beginning

Looking for new office space with a historic feel? When renovations are complete, look no further than the old Studebaker factory! Designer Adrian Smith has a goal of encompassing the city's past as he looks to the future enterprise and economy the city will bring in.

The Studebaker company was one of the only firms to successfully make the transition from wagon production to automobiles. Production empowered the local economy and employed people from nearby cities. 

The Studebaker factory was not bailed out by the government and consequently shut down production in 1963. The factory lay vacant for a number of years and had extensive damage until it served as a storage warehouse for large boats. Renovation of the factory has been a bumpy road  

The city of South Bend is contributing around $7.9 million towards the renovation project which is estimated to exceed $17.5 million. The new office space will include condos, a green roof patio, and an early childhood center. In an effort to save a part of the city's history, the old factory will give fulfill a new purpose in developing the city's future.

Sources:

https://www.southbendtribune.com/news/local/renovation-of-old-studebaker-plant-under-way-in-south-bend/article_e494617a-6017-54de-91bb-862e8f7c3fd4.html

Emily Reth