The rehabilitation of the historic Lowney Chocolate Factory transformed a long-vacant industrial landmark into a vibrant mixed-use development, bringing new housing, commercial activity, and renewed energy to the Town of Mansfield. Through a careful balance of preservation and adaptive reuse, the project demonstrates the long-term value of investing in historic buildings and the communities around them.
Overview
Built in 1903, the Lowney Chocolate Factory was once deeply woven into the life of Mansfield. At its peak, the complex extended well beyond the factory itself, encompassing employee housing, a dairy farm, and other supporting facilities. Although the property eventually fell into decline and sat vacant for years, it remained a familiar local landmark. From 2018 to 2022, the former factory was transformed through a comprehensive rehabilitation into a vibrant mixed-use development with 130 residential units, including 27 affordable units, along with commercial space for local businesses.
The rehabilitation carefully restored the factory’s historic character while adapting it for a new chapter of use. Significant features were preserved in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation, including historic beams, columns, and decking throughout the complex. Historically appropriate replacement windows and doors were installed based on historic photographs, later additions that obscured the original structure were removed, and the masonry was carefully repaired and restored. The project team also faced major setbacks during construction, including severe flooding caused by a microburst and a separate water main break that damaged newly completed areas. Even so, the team remained committed to bringing the rehabilitation to completion.
As the largest rehabilitation project in Mansfield’s history, the Lowney Chocolate Factory is a powerful example of how historic preservation can support both community revitalization and housing development. Located near downtown and the commuter rail station, the redevelopment brings new activity to the area, supports nearby businesses, and adds much-needed housing in a walkable setting. It also generated meaningful economic benefits through construction jobs, local contracting opportunities, and the ongoing property management and maintenance positions that now support the site.
Contribution
Epsilon’s team of Historic Preservation professionals prepared the historic documentation needed to secure a determination of National Register eligibility from the Massachusetts Historical Commission and the National Park Service, helping the project qualify for state and federal historic tax credits. Epsilon also completed the state and federal rehabilitation certification applications and the National Register nomination, supporting the successful preservation and adaptive reuse of this significant historic industrial complex.
Achievement
The Lowney Chocolate Factory received the Robert H. Kuehn, Jr. Award from Preservation Massachusetts in 2026, which recognizes creative and forward-thinking approaches to rehabilitating and reusing historic buildings. The project reflects persistence, collaboration, and the enduring community value of historic preservation.