The Exner Block

The $1.2 million restoration of the historic Exner Block at 7 Canal Street in Bellows Falls, Vermont was completed in August 2000. The Exner Block is a historic building key to the revitalization of downtown Bellows Falls. It is a unique structure that contains many of the charming historic details - wainscoting, pressed tin walls & ceilings, solid wood doors intact with original glass and traditional brass hardware. In designing this project, the team took the opportunity to retain many of these elements while creating viable residential and commercial space. It is amazing to think that in 22 months a building that was virtually dormant for 60 years was beautifully restored to serve as a live/work setting for emerging artists!

This project was a joint effort of several organizations including Housing Vermont and The Rockingham Area Land Trust. RAMP (Rockingham Arts and Museum Project) has acted locally and regionally to raise awareness of the project with the public. RAMP also oversees the process of filling the residential and retail spaces in the building.

The building includes:

Affordable Housing and Studios for Artists

• 6 one-bedroom duplex apartments with a Studio Space
• 3 one-bedroom apartments
• 1 two-bedroom, wheelchair-accessible apartment with a Studio Space

• 6 commercially viable spaces ranging from 250 - 1200 square feet.

• The Exner Gallery which features rotating exhibitions tailored by local community members.

Applications for space in the historic Exner building are accepted on an ongoing basis. If you are an interested artist, please see eligibility for more information. If you are interested in a retail storefront, please see available spaces for more information.

Photos of one-bedroom duplex apartments with a Studio Space

Upstairs Living Room

Upstairs Kitchen

Upstairs Kitchen (Door to Bedroom)

Upstairs Bedroom

Downstairs Studio Space