Beloit College Powerhouse Adaptive Reuse is a bold transformation of the decommissioned Alliant Blackhawk Generating Station into a vibrant recreation and wellness center that redefines adaptive reuse in higher education. Located along the Rock River, the Powerhouse blends historic preservation with modern design to create a dynamic hub for student life, wellness, and campus connection.

Originally constructed in phases from 1908 to 1947, the former power plant posed significant design challenges, including varying structural systems, misaligned floor plates, and expansive industrial volumes. Rather than masking these complexities, the design team highlighted them—preserving historic steel trusses, brick walls, and massive interior spaces while introducing clearly modern interventions that allow the building’s history and future to coexist in harmony.

Inside, the Powerhouse houses a suspended indoor track, eight-lane competition pool, large field house, and full-service fitness center. These athletic amenities are paired with cafés, lounges, study areas, and meeting rooms to encourage both recreation and academic engagement. The building’s new program components are carefully integrated into the existing structure, maximizing functionality while maintaining the integrity of the original industrial architecture.

The Powerhouse also strengthens the physical and symbolic connection between Beloit College, the City of Beloit, and the Rock River. It links directly to a pedestrian bridge, public riverwalk, and city park, inviting both campus and community into the space. As a model of sustainable design and creative reuse, the Powerhouse demonstrates how institutions can preserve historic character while creating forward-looking spaces that inspire health, learning, and connection.