River Architects

The Bank Lofts is a 14,788-square-foot deep-energy adaptive reuse of a long-vacant 1880s bank building in Richfield Springs, New York, located within a designated historic district.The project transforms a deteriorating three-story masonry structure into a fossil-fuel-free, mixed-use building that combines nine residential units, civic office space, and active commercial frontage, reestablishing the building as a cornerstone of the village center.

The design carefully preserves significant historic fabric, including original masonry walls, heavy timber framing, marble finishes, bank teller partitions, mosaic tile, and a 1914 vault, while integrating a high-performance building envelope and airtight assemblies. These upgrades significantly improve thermal performance and occupant comfort without compromising the building’s architectural character. New triple-pane windows and doors, along with strategic insulation, reduce energy demand while maintaining the historic appearance.

All systems are fully electrified, including high-efficiency heat pump HVAC, energy recovery ventilation, and a CO₂-based heat pump water heater. A carport-mounted solar array with battery backup supports on-site renewable energy generation and resilience. The project meets Phius CORE REVIVE standards, demonstrating that rigorous passive building performance targets can be achieved within the constraints of complex historic retrofits.

Accessibility and community benefit are central to the project. A fully ADA-compliant apartment and barrier-free civic spaces expand inclusivity, while the mix of residential and municipal uses supports year-round activity and walkability in the downtown core.

By combining preservation with advanced building science, The Bank Lofts serves as a replicable model for rural Main Street revitalization, reducing both embodied and operational carbon while restoring long-term economic and social value.