We Renovated An Old Prison Into Apartments For $64 Million

In an era where urban redevelopment often leads to the erasure of historical narratives, the Liberty project stands as a university of resilience and revitalization. Nestled within the storied walls of the former Lorton Reformatory in Virginia, this innovative initiative transformed a once-dreaded structure into a vibrant community hub, featuring 165 apartments. The project exemplifies a cherry-picked confluence of history, architecture, and social responsibility, all under the poignant banner of “Liberty.”

“We really felt that we were liberating these buildings from their dark past,” reflects David Vos, a development project manager with the Alexander Company, responsible for overseeing the transformation. “For that reason, we thought Liberty was a good name for the project.”

The Origins: A Unique Canvas

The Lorton Reformatory was not your average prison. Built during the Progressive Era, it housed prisoners in a setup far removed from the grim stereotypes associated with correctional facilities. Vos emphasizes this distinction: “Unlike most prisons that tend to be large, dark buildings without many windows, these actually had an abundance of light and quite a bit of character, making them suitable for conversion into apartments.”

The original design was progressive for its time, aimed at rehabilitation rather than mere punishment. One of the standout architectural features was the vast use of natural light and ventilation. Structures were fitted to encourage a more humane living environment, distancing themselves from the oppressive prison aesthetic. Vos notes that the facility’s original bricks, made by the prisoners themselves, serve as a poignant reminder of the site’s history. “If you drive by, you’ll notice the buildings still have numbers referring to specific cellblocks,” he adds. These remnants spark conversations about the dualities of justice, freedom, and community transformation.

Community Engagement and Economic Uplift

Before breaking ground, the project faced skepticism about whether tenants would want to live in a redefined prison. Early concerns revolved around location—Lorton is not situated in a major metro area, and there was hesitation regarding the viability of mixed-income housing. Despite these hurdles, community support quickly outweighed doubt. “There were people supportive of seeing the project happen, feeling it was critical to preserve the history,” Vos recalls. Community dynamics remained complicated, however; some citizens voiced concerns over the less savory aspects of the prison’s later years, particularly the treatment of inmates.

Yet, Vos and his team remained resolute in their mission to embody the lessons of history: “It’s important to preserve history so that you can learn from the past. The project isn’t merely about housing, it’s about creating a societal ecosystem where past mistakes inform future progress.”

The project, ultimately costing around $64 million, included a plan to ensure that 44 of the 165 apartments cater to individuals earning 50% of the median income, fostering a diverse community. Individualized units were designed with contemporary lifestyle needs in mind, featuring full baths, granite countertops, and even in-unit washers and dryers. The application of modern comfort meets historical consciousness resonates with the resident demographic.

A Cultural Hub Emerges

The Liberty project emphasizes not just residential living, but community engagement. Transforming the former dining facility of the reformatory into a spacious community room, the developers installed comfortable furnishings and recreational amenities, including pool and shuffleboard tables, thereby creating a communal space that encourages interaction and relaxation.

Beyond the walls of individual apartments, the development includes a yoga room complete with mats and a rubberized floor for comfort. Furthermore, a fitness center opens its doors not just to residents but also to the broader Lorton community. This commitment to inclusivity extends to outdoor spaces—playgrounds and a community pool were designed to be enjoyed by both apartment residents and nearby families, bridging gaps in communal ties.

Preserving the Past While Building for the Future

As part of maintaining historical integrity, the developers have decided to keep certain architectural features intact. Reminders of the site’s history—like signage promoting respectful conduct while on the campus—are strategically positioned to educate visitors and residents alike. Such thoughtful integration serves to remind people of the generally darker historical narratives associated with prisons while spotlighting a more empowering future.

Future projects are already in the works, including conversions of additional penitentiary buildings into commercial spaces, indicating a forward-thinking approach. The power plant is being redeveloped into ten additional apartments, while the guards’ quarters are set to transition into condominiums in a few years, further cementing Liberty’s role as a multi-generational living space.

Conclusion: A Renaissance of Reflection and Progress

The success of the Liberty project illustrates a significant turning point in urban planning, highlighting the importance of balancing historical preservation with modern needs. By reclaiming an iconic prison, the Alexander Company has turned shadows into light and has built not just homes, but a community. As the Liberty project continues to flourish, it stands as a beacon of what can be achieved when vision, respect for history, and a deep commitment to community well-being converge.