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An Iconic Kalamazoo Landmark Rooted in History

The Arcadia Buildings, located on the west side of Rose Street between Water and Eleanor, have been a defining part of downtown Kalamazoo for more than 150 years. The original structure—commissioned in the early 1870s for Lawrence & Chapin Iron Works and designed in the Second Empire style with its distinctive slate Mansard roof—set the architectural tone for the site.

Since then, the buildings have evolved from industrial use to a railway hub, to the longtime home of Vermeulen’s Furniture, and later a key piece of the Arcadia Commons redevelopment. Today, they have been reimagined as the Lofts at Ironworks, blending historic character with modern living in the heart of downtown.

1870–1872

Birth of an Icon

The original building at the corner of Rose and Water Street is commissioned by William S. Lawrence and Dr. L.C. Chapin for their Lawrence & Chapin Iron Works. Designed by local architect L.D. Grosvenor and built by the Bush and Patterson firm, it showcases the elegant Second Empire architectural style. Highlights include a slate Mansard roof, dormer windows, and Eastlake-style fluted columns, giving the building its historic charm that remains today.

1906

Expansion and Industrial Innovation

A four-story rear addition is added using post-and-beam construction, much of which remains exposed on the first floor. This expansion allowed for more manufacturing space and stands as a testament to the building’s industrial roots, now providing unique architectural character for modern residents.

1914–1928

The Railway Era

In 1914, Michigan United Railways moves its interurban train station to Rose Street. Tracks ran along the north side of the building, now the private courtyard, connecting Kalamazoo to Grand Rapids. For over a decade, the building was a hub of city travel, continuing its role as a vital part of Kalamazoo’s growth until the railway lines were abandoned in 1928.

1928–1990s

Vermeulen’s and Arcadia Commons

After the railway era, the building became the original home of Vermeulen’s Furniture, a downtown Kalamazoo mainstay, where it remained for decades. In the 1990s, the building was expanded again as part of the Arcadia Commons redevelopment, which transformed the surrounding area. Initiatives included administrative offices for First of America Bank, relocation of the Kalamazoo Valley Museum, a new downtown campus for KVCC, creation of Arcadia Creek, and the addition of a modern parking deck—all while preserving the historic architecture of the original building.

1990s–Today

Modern Lofts with Historic Charm

Today, the building has been beautifully renovated and expanded with a three-story addition, creating Lofts at Ironworks. Residents enjoy spacious apartments with high ceilings, large windows, exposed beams, and a private courtyard, all while living in a piece of Kalamazoo history. The new additions were designed to complement the original structure, blending historic character with modern living in the heart of downtown.

Historic. Modern. Downtown. Your loft awaits—book a tour today!

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Ironworks

Ironworks

The rental or lease of this property must comply with the City of Kalamazoo ordinance regulating the use of criminal background checks as part of the tenant screening process to provide individuals with criminal backgrounds a fair opportunity. For additional information please contact the City of Kalamazoo Civil Rights Board.