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Shawomet Terrace Public Housing

The Housing Authority of Warwick, Rhode Island, sought to address the growing need for affordable housing for elderly residents aged 62 and older, as well as those who are handicapped or disabled. To meet this need, Rowse Architects was selected to oversee the demolition of an outdated structure at 1035 West Shore Road and to design and administer construction for the new facility, Shawomet Terrace.

This 2-story residence, the first elderly housing complex in Warwick since 1975, offers 26 thoughtfully designed one- and two-bedroom apartments. Each unit features a separate bedroom, a living area off the kitchen, and a large bathroom equipped with walk-in showers, wall rails, and molded seats to prioritize accessibility. Every unit is individually metered for electricity, ensuring autonomy for residents.

The project also includes community spaces for gatherings and an administrative office for the Housing Authority. The building’s layout addresses the complexities of the site by incorporating a strategic circulation plan, ensuring seamless access to all units and adjacent properties via carefully designed pathways and parking areas.

Shawomet Terrace’s aesthetic is a departure from the typical subsidized housing model. With colonial-inspired architecture, a windowed cupola, multi-colored siding, and lush landscaping, the building blends harmoniously with the surrounding neighborhood.

Funded through a combination of limited Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) resources and additional financial sources, Shawomet Terrace reflects Rowse Architects’ expertise in balancing budgetary constraints with functional and aesthetically pleasing design. This project is a testament to the firm’s ability to create housing that is both dignified and accessible for the community’s elderly population.

Year Completed

2009

Location

Warwick, RI

Client

Warwick Housing Authority

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