The Pryde

The Pryde is proof that historic buildings, when paired with a bit of creativity, are a source of naturally occurring affordable housing. Located in the heart of Hyde Park, The Pryde represents a bold and transformative vision for historic preservation, social equity, and community connection. Once the William Barton Rogers Middle School, the building served as a center of learning from 1902 until its closure in 2014. Expanded in 1920 and 1933, the building grew into a three-story brick structure, recognized for its distinctive facade and long-standing presence as a neighborhood landmark.

Rather than demolish the aging school, this project embraced the opportunity for adaptive reuse, preserving the building’s legacy while transforming it into The Pryde, New England’s first LGBTQ+ affordable senior housing community. The preservation effort prioritized architectural integrity and carefully restored historic elements such as original wood trim, chalkboards, and wood flooring. The auditorium’s ornate coffered ceiling and Greco-Roman friezes were refurbished, while the gymnasium floor was overlaid with the colors of the pride flag. These design decisions not only honor the building’s past but also introduce meaningful contemporary symbolism that speaks to The Pryde’s mission of inclusion and belonging.

The Pryde stands as a model for how historic preservation can intersect with social equity and sustainability. The building now houses 74 mixed-income units specifically designed to meet the needs of LGBTQ+ seniors, a population often impacted by housing insecurity and isolation. In addition to providing housing, The Pryde serves as a vibrant neighborhood hub, offering an LGBTQ+ focused library, art therapy rooms, a local art gallery, and flexible event spaces that welcome the broader community. The Pryde exemplifies how creative reuse can preserve heritage while creating a dignified and sustainable future. The building may no longer function as a school, but it continues to teach about resilience and inclusivity.