Providence, RI – The Providence Preservation Society (PPS) announced that the Industrial Trust Building in Providence has turned 92 years old.
In the midst of the Roaring 1920s and on the heels of the 1923 Providence Zoning Plan, the Industrial Trust Company forever changed the skyline of Providence. On October 1, 1928, the bank opened the doors to its new flagship in the heart of downtown. The style of the massive skyscraper – still the tallest building in Rhode Island – would become known as Art Deco, but at the time was touted as “American Perpendicular.”
The bank and office building built “with Faith in the Progress and Prosperity of our People” (vintage Industrial Trust Company promotional booklet) has stood vacant since 2013. Questions circulate about the building’s condition and future. The Providence Preservation Society and Building Enclosure Science have collaborated to produce a white paper to address common misconceptions and to highlight adaptive reuse potential of this local landmark.
The Providence Preservation Society (PPS) works to improve Providence by advocating for historic preservation and the enhancement of the city’s unique character, thoughtful design, and planning.
