Forgotten treasure: an ode to the Omaha Train Depot in Menomonie

Abstract

Vacant buildings can easily become subjects of abandonment that are overtaken by nature and eventually razed in communities. These vacant buildings carry historical value and hence it is critical to conserve these monuments. Menomonie, Wisconsin has lost many such historic buildings in the past. Long-term vacancy and improper maintenance are often the main causes for the loss of historic buildings. Many buildings could have been saved if long-term vacancy was prevented through adaptive redesign and constant maintenance was ensured through proper use. The primary purpose of this project is to redesign the Omaha Rail Depot building in Menomonie and present its new design as an example of the potential for reuse of vacant historic buildings. Multiple suitable functions for the building were identified and the space was designed to support these multiple functions. The design demonstrates how a space can be developed to support a range of functions such as those presented here, which include a communal residence, a co-working office and a gallery. The multiple design options will share a common core of mechanical and utility area; however, a larger portion of the depot will be designed with flexible partitions to create varying functional spaces.