CLIENT

Avesta Housing

ARCHITECT

INVIVID ARCHITECTURE

LOCATION

Portland, ME

PROJECT TYPE

Mixed Use

AREA

50,000 SF

SCOPE

31 Residential Units

Assembly Spaces

Williston Immanuel Church

The Williston Immanuel Church project brings together historic preservation, adaptive reuse, and thoughtful architectural design to breathe new life into a cherished neighborhood landmark while addressing the growing need for affordable housing.

The project preserves the historic character and architectural significance of the church, chapel, and gathering spaces, allowing these areas to continue serving as important places for community connection and reflection. The adjacent Parish House will undergo a sensitive rehabilitation, transforming the existing structure into 21 affordable housing units. The design carefully integrates modern living requirements within the historic framework, retaining character-defining features while creating comfortable, functional homes for residents.

A thoughtfully designed addition at the rear of the church will provide 10 additional residential units, along with a new entrance, elevator, and stairwell. Designed to complement the surrounding historic neighborhood, the addition balances contemporary functionality and accessibility with a scale, material palette, and architectural character that respect the existing context.

By preserving the site's architectural heritage while introducing 31 much-needed affordable homes, the Williston Immanuel Church project demonstrates how adaptive reuse can support both community growth and long-term sustainability. The result is a thoughtful transformation that honors the building's past while creating new opportunities for its future.

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