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David DeQuattro of RGB Architects in Providence

Maximizing Small Spaces: Tips and Tricks for Efficient Interior Design

David DeQuattro of RGB Architects in Providence has made significant contributions to the field of architecture with his rich experience in the industry. His expertise in creating functional and aesthetically pleasing small living spaces is renowned. This article explores strategies for maximizing small spaces, drawing on DeQuattro’s insights and the latest design principles.

Understanding Space and Functionality

1. Multi-Functional Furniture:

  • One of the key strategies for optimizing small spaces is using multi-functional furniture. Items such as sofa beds, extendable dining tables, and ottomans with storage can significantly enhance the usability of a room. David DeQuattro often emphasizes the importance of furniture that serves multiple purposes, enabling homeowners to make the most of limited space without compromising on comfort or style.

2. Vertical Storage Solutions:

  • Utilizing vertical space is crucial in small living areas. Installing shelves, cabinets, and hooks higher up on walls can free up floor space and create a more open feel. DeQuattro advises incorporating built-in storage solutions that blend seamlessly with the room’s design, providing both practicality and visual appeal.

Design Techniques for Small Spaces

1. Light and Color:

  • Light and color play vital roles in making a small space feel larger. Lighter colors, such as whites, pastels, and neutrals, reflect light and create an airy atmosphere. David DeQuattro recommends using a consistent color palette throughout the space to maintain a cohesive and spacious look. Additionally, maximizing natural light through large windows or skylights can make a room appear more expansive.

2. Mirrors and Reflective Surfaces:

  • Mirrors and reflective surfaces can visually enlarge a space by bouncing light around the room. Strategic placement of mirrors can create the illusion of depth and openness. DeQuattro often incorporates mirrored panels and glass surfaces in his designs to enhance the sense of space in small interiors.

3. Open Floor Plans:

  • Open floor plans can make small spaces feel less confined by eliminating unnecessary walls and barriers. Combining living, dining, and kitchen areas into a single open space encourages a more fluid and flexible living environment. David DeQuattro advocates for open floor plans that allow for easy movement and interaction within the home.

Decorative Elements and Personalization

1. Minimalist Approach:

  • Adopting a minimalist approach helps prevent clutter and ensures that each item in the space has a purpose. This doesn’t mean the space has to be devoid of personality; rather, it’s about carefully selecting décor that adds value and enhances the overall design. DeQuattro emphasizes the importance of quality over quantity in small spaces, advising clients to choose a few statement pieces that reflect their style.

2. Custom-Built Furniture:

  • Custom-built furniture tailored to the specific dimensions and needs of the space can be a game-changer. Built-in seating, fold-out desks, and tailored storage solutions can maximize functionality while maintaining a clean and organized look. David DeQuattro often collaborates with craftsmen to create bespoke pieces that perfectly fit the unique requirements of each project.

3. Utilizing Underutilized Spaces:

  • Making use of underutilized areas, such as the space under stairs, beneath windows, or corners, can add valuable storage or functional areas. Installing drawers or cabinets in these spaces can help keep the main living areas uncluttered. DeQuattro’s designs frequently incorporate innovative solutions to optimize every inch of available space.

Case Studies and Practical Examples

1. Transformative Design Projects:

  • Case studies of transformative design projects can provide inspiration and practical examples of how to maximize small spaces. For instance, a compact urban apartment designed by DeQuattro features a fold-away bed, a retractable dining table, and built-in storage units that blend seamlessly with the décor. These design choices not only save space but also maintain an aesthetically pleasing environment.

2. Real-Life Applications:

  • In a tiny studio apartment, DeQuattro utilized sliding doors to separate the living area from the bedroom, creating privacy without sacrificing space. Additionally, he incorporated a loft bed with built-in storage underneath, maximizing both vertical and horizontal space.

Maximizing small spaces requires a thoughtful approach to design, functionality, and aesthetics. By employing strategies such as multi-functional furniture, vertical storage solutions, light and color manipulation, and custom-built furniture, it is possible to create a living space that feels both spacious and comfortable. David DeQuattro’s expertise and innovative designs serve as an excellent guide for anyone looking to make the most of their small living areas.

Efficient interior design in small spaces not only enhances daily living but also reflects personal style and ingenuity. As architects and designers continue to explore new ways to optimize limited spaces, the principles and strategies discussed in this article will remain essential tools for creating beautiful and functional homes. David DeQuattro of RGB Architects in Providence continues to inspire with his ability to transform small spaces into extraordinary living environments, demonstrating that even the most compact areas can be both practical and visually stunning.

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David DeQuattro

The Role of Owner’s Project Managers in Construction

In the complex realm of construction projects, managing the various facets—from planning and budgeting to execution and completion—requires expertise, coordination, and meticulous oversight. Owner’s Project Managers (OPMs) play a pivotal role in ensuring that these endeavors progress smoothly, adhering to timelines, budgets, and quality standards. David DeQuattro explores the critical responsibilities and benefits of hiring an OPM, highlighting their essential role in achieving project success.

Project Managers Ensure Success

Owner’s Project Managers are professionals hired by property owners to represent their interests throughout the construction process. They serve as the liaison between the owner and the project team, ensuring that all aspects of the project align with the owner’s vision, goals, and requirements. Here are the key responsibilities OPMs undertake:

Project Oversight and Coordination

OPMs provide comprehensive oversight and coordination across all project phases:

  • Strategic Planning: Collaborating with stakeholders to define project objectives, scope, and timelines.
  • Team Selection: Assisting in the selection of architects, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors based on expertise and project requirements.
  • Contract Negotiations: Reviewing and negotiating contracts to ensure terms align with the owner’s interests and mitigate risks.

Cost Control and Budget Management

Managing project finances is a core responsibility of OPMs to prevent cost overruns and maintain budgetary discipline:

  • Budget Development: Developing realistic project budgets that account for materials, labor, permits, and unforeseen contingencies.
  • Cost Monitoring: Tracking expenditures, conducting financial audits, and implementing cost-saving measures without compromising quality.

Schedule Management and Timeline Adherence

Ensuring projects adhere to established timelines is crucial for timely completion and operational readiness:

  • Scheduling: Developing project schedules, setting milestones, and monitoring progress to prevent delays.
  • Conflict Resolution: Addressing scheduling conflicts, coordinating activities among contractors, and facilitating efficient workflow.

Quality Assurance and Compliance

Maintaining high standards of construction quality and regulatory compliance is paramount for OPMs:

  • Quality Standards: Implementing quality assurance programs, conducting inspections, and ensuring adherence to building codes and industry standards.
  • Permitting and Regulatory Compliance: Facilitating permit applications, environmental assessments, and compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

Benefits of Hiring an Owner’s Project Manager

The expertise and proactive management provided by OPMs yield numerous benefits for property owners and stakeholders:

  • Risk Mitigation: OPMs identify and mitigate potential risks early in the project lifecycle, minimizing disruptions and costly delays.
  • Cost Efficiency: Effective cost control measures and strategic budget management help optimize resource allocation and maximize project value.
  • Improved Communication: Serving as a central point of contact, OPMs foster clear communication among project stakeholders, promoting collaboration and alignment.

OPM in Large-Scale Infrastructure Projects

For large-scale infrastructure projects like airports or stadiums, OPMs are instrumental in orchestrating complex construction activities. They ensure seamless coordination between design teams, contractors, and regulatory agencies, delivering projects that meet functional requirements and stakeholder expectations.

Conclusion

Owner’s Project Managers play a pivotal role in navigating the intricacies of construction projects, from inception to completion. By providing strategic oversight, cost-effective management, and ensuring adherence to quality and regulatory standards, OPMs safeguard project success and optimize outcomes for property owners. Their expertise in project coordination, budget control, schedule management, and quality assurance makes them indispensable assets in achieving construction goals efficiently and effectively.

As the construction industry continues to evolve with technological advancements and regulatory complexities, the role of Owner’s Project Managers remains indispensable in driving project excellence and delivering tangible results. By understanding their pivotal responsibilities and leveraging their expertise, property owners can navigate construction challenges with confidence, ensuring the realization of their vision and objectives with each project undertaken.

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David DeQuattro

Cultural Influences in Architectural Design

David DeQuattro

Architecture is more than just the art and science of designing buildings and structures; it is a reflection of culture, embodying a society’s values, aspirations, and historical context. Across the globe, architectural designs vary widely, influenced by many cultural factors. This diversity in architectural styles speaks volumes about the uniqueness of cultures and their adaptation to their environments, social structures, and technological advancements. In this blog from David DeQuattro, he will explore how cultural influences shape architectural design, delving into examples from various parts of the world and examining the elements that contribute to the distinctiveness of each region’s architectural identity.

Historical Context and Architectural Evolution

The history of a place significantly influences its architectural style. For instance, European architecture is a testament to its layered history, from the classical columns of Ancient Greece and the grandiosity of Roman architecture to the intricate Gothic details of medieval cathedrals. Each era reflects the societal values and technological advancements of the time. Similarly, the traditional architecture of Japan, characterized by wooden structures, elevated floors, and sliding doors, is deeply rooted in Japanese philosophy and its relationship with nature, showcasing an architectural style that emphasizes simplicity, natural materials, and harmony with the surroundings.

Climate and Environmental Adaptation

Cultural architecture is also profoundly influenced by the local climate and environment. The thick mud walls and narrow streets of the ancient desert city of Shibam in Yemen are designed to keep out the heat, demonstrating how environmental challenges can shape architectural solutions. In contrast, the stilt houses of Southeast Asia are built to protect against flooding, showcasing an adaptation to the tropical climate and monsoon seasons. These examples illustrate how architectural designs evolve from aesthetic preferences and practical needs to adapt to the local environment.

Social Structures and Community Needs

The layout and organization of buildings within a society can reflect its social structures and community needs. The traditional Siheyuan courtyards of Beijing are designed to accommodate extended family living, reflecting the Chinese cultural emphasis on family and community. In many indigenous communities, such as the circular villages of the Museum in Cameroon, the spatial arrangement and construction methods are deeply tied to social organization and communal living, demonstrating how architecture can facilitate social cohesion and reflect collective values.

Religious and Spiritual Influences

Religious beliefs and practices have a profound impact on architectural design. The grand mosques of the Islamic world, with their minarets, domes, and intricate geometric patterns, are not only places of worship but also expressions of Islamic art and culture. The Gothic cathedrals of Europe, with their soaring spires and stained glass windows, are designed to inspire awe and elevate the spirit, reflecting the Christian values of the time. In India, the ornately carved temples are embodiments of Hindu spirituality, with every architectural element symbolizing aspects of the divine.

Modernity and Globalization

In the contemporary world, cultural influences in architecture are increasingly intermingled with global trends. The rise of modernism and the international style in the 20th century introduced minimalist aesthetics and functional designs that transcended cultural boundaries. However, even in this globalized context, cultural identity plays a crucial role in architectural design. Architects are finding ways to blend modern techniques with traditional elements, creating innovative structures that respect cultural heritage while meeting contemporary needs.

Cultural influences in architectural design are a testament to humanity’s diversity and ingenuity. From the adaptation to natural environments to the expression of societal values and spiritual beliefs, architecture offers a unique lens through which to view the cultural fabric of a society. As we move forward, the challenge and opportunity for architects lie in balancing the preservation of cultural identity with the demands of modernization and sustainability, ensuring that the built environment continues to reflect the rich tapestry of human culture.

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Minimalism in Architecture

David DeQuattro

There is plenty to say about personal preference when it comes to appreciating art of any kind. However, there is no doubt that architecture can sometimes complicate the issue with questions of functionality as well as beauty. With that interesting dichotomy in mind, David DeQuattro examines minimalism in architecture: embracing simplicity and elegance.

According to the industry experts, there is an inherent beauty in architecture’s simplest designs, usually seen in minimalism. Architects who deliberately choose to keep their designs simple maintain an elegance without losing the philosophical and practical benefits of their architectural works.

Below is a deep dive into minimalistic architecture and the beauty behind it. Particularly, buildings in a commercial space, and why minimalistic designs have become so popular in this context.

Embracing Simplicity and Elegance

Minimalism began as a practical offshoot of Cubism in art. This naturally extended into the realm of architecture. The most important principle is “less is more,” which entails getting rid of elements in a design that are not necessary.

Functionality Creating Elegance

The point of any building is not purely aesthetic; it must function as a shelter, but also has an impact on those who will be using it, psychologically. Therefore, the functionality of a building should be married to a clarity of design. This looks like simpler structures with clean lines that reflect the overall goal of the building’s construction.

Popularity in Commercial Building Designs

Let’s look at what makes minimalism popular, specifically in commercial spaces.

Relaxed Atmosphere

The atmosphere of a building in a commercial space is incredibly important. Clients and workers alike should be able to come in frequently and actually enjoy their time around and inside the building.

A building designed with minimalistic elements, especially in the interior, helps this along. There are often open spaces, psychologically lessening stress that might be induced through a sense of clutter. Precise shapes and a sense of “breathing room” are often associated with comfort, the same way an open field might affect a person standing in it.

Economic Improvements

A minimalistic building that has no fancy, unnecessary ornaments or décor, as well as fewer changes in materials in general, becomes less expensive to build.

It is also less expensive to maintain. What this means is that the building no longer represents a drain on resources and the benefits of the design can be enjoyed more freely.

David DeQuattro

Higher Quality Work

Finally, the smaller variation in components used for a minimalistic design is usually a sign of work that is more excellent in quality. Builders can re-assign their funds to the highest caliber materials, for example.

Conclusion

In summary, the benefits of minimalism in architecture, specifically in commercial building designs, shines a light on this approach to design that allows us to easily embrace simplicity and elegance.

Minimalism emphasizes the idea of less being more for a variety of reasons. For example, in a building that is smaller than many commercial design choices, there is more time and money saved for higher quality. In addition, fewer elements and components of design can contribute to an overall relaxation of atmosphere for consumers and workers who use the building itself.

Finally, the cutting of costs is a practical addition to the beauty that minimalistic-designed examples of architecture provide. Not only are the components of the building less expensive, but maintenance on a smaller, less complex building is cheaper, too. This frees us up to appreciate the soft color palettes, simple symmetry, and other elegant elements.

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David DeQuattro RGB Architects

How Architecture Influences Human Behavior

David DeQuattro

Architects need to place a lot of thought into how they design buildings and spaces for the people that will inhabit them for many reasons: safety, function, efficiency, etc. However, building design can also influence human behavior as well.

David DeQuattro explains that architects can use tenets of environmental psychology to help them to create spaces that positively affect those living in them.

Keep reading to understand more about the influencing factors behind architecture on human behaviors.

Environmental Psychology

Environmental psychology involves studying the link between people and their environment. It helps us to understand why people feel a certain way in certain spaces and also helps to inform environmental and architectural planning.

A perfect space is based on three important elements:

  • Unity – which means that people feel connected to the environment and the purpose of the space.
  • Legibility – which makes the building easy to navigate.
  • Mystery – sparks curiosity and makes people want to learn more about the environment.

How can Architecture Positively Influence Human Behavior

• Improve Wellbeing

Well-designed architecture can promote physical and mental well-being. Incorporating elements such as natural light, good ventilation, and access to green spaces can improve mood, reduce stress, and increase productivity.

• Increase Connectivity and Purpose

Architecture can be designed to foster social connections and create inclusive spaces. Well-planned public spaces, community centers, and parks can serve as gathering places, encouraging social interaction, and promoting a sense of connection to the environment.

Open floor plans, shared spaces, and common areas in buildings can facilitate collaboration and communication among residents or employees, helping to build a sense of inclusion and community.

Efficient and well-designed architectural spaces can enhance productivity and functionality. Optimized layouts, ergonomic workstations, and efficient circulation paths can facilitate smooth workflows, reduce stress, and improve performance in various settings, such as offices, schools, and hospitals.

• Foster Creativity and Culture

Architectural designs that incorporate elements of beauty, uniqueness, and aesthetic appeal can inspire and stimulate creativity. Thoughtful use of materials, colors, textures, and spatial arrangements can evoke emotions, spark imagination, and enhance the overall experience of the built environment.

Architecture can celebrate and preserve cultural heritage by incorporating design elements that reflect local traditions, history, and values. This can create a sense of pride, identity, and connection to one’s cultural roots, fostering a positive sense of belonging and appreciation for diversity.

David DeQuattro

The Negative Influence

• Lack of Inspiration

Bland and monotonous architectural environments can impact people’s moods and overall well-being. Dull spaces lacking visual interest or natural elements may lead to boredom, disengagement, and decreased creativity.

Extensive research has demonstrated that individuals possess an innate inclination to evade or disregard vacant voids. This profound insight substantiates the remarkable potential for structures aspiring to elude detection to harness the power of blank exteriors. Likewise, those aspiring to engender unwavering compliance among inhabitants and pedestrians can deftly employ blank facades as a powerful instrument of influence.

• Not Meeting Needs

Poorly designed architecture that fails to meet the needs of its users can lead to frustration and inconvenience. For example, a lack of proper ventilation or limited natural light.
This is especially true when architecture is designed without accommodating people with disabilities. It can lead to an increased sense of marginalization and show a lack of inclusivity leading to frustration.

• Lack of Personal Space and Belonging

Dense and overcrowded urban environments with inadequate living spaces can create a sense of discomfort, stress, and lack of privacy. These conditions can impact mental health and lead to increased aggression, anxiety, and social isolation.

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David DeQuattro RGB Architects

The Benefits of Green Architecture in Design

David DeQuattro

For modern architects, it’s easier than ever to be green.

Motivated by worsening climate change and increased consumer demand, David DeQuattro reports that green building is now a $104 billion market. The sale of smart green buildings in the U.S. has risen from $1.3 billion in 2016 to $4.3 billion in 2020. The global green building market? It was $341.8 billion in 2020.

Green architecture is everywhere — community centers, high schools, colleges, apartments, and single-family homes. In the push toward a zero net energy future and prioritizing the protection of natural resources, green architecture is increasingly seen as essential.

Green Architecture Benefits

In Melbourne, Australia, the power of green architecture is on full display. The Pixel Building is the country’s first carbon-neutral office structure. It produces all its own water and power on site. It has a rainwater-catching roof, sports numerous wind turbines, and is capable of processing wastewater.

The Pixel Building shows the overall potential of green architecture and sustainable design. The clear benefits include:

Improved Efficiency

Supplies of energy and water continue to dwindle and green architecture has found innovative ways to not just protect such vital resources but preserve them.

This is particularly important for large urban city centers where such shared resources are particularly strained.

Energy efficiency is key. Using alternative sources, including wind, sun, and water power, helps eliminate pollution from the ecosystem associated with costly nonrenewable energy sources. All told, green buildings reduce emissions of carbon dioxide by an average of 34 percent.

Long-Lasting

The sustainable materials prevalent in green architecture are built to last. This includes roof and deck materials that are typically upcycled even under harsh natural elements. They also eliminate the use of chemicals that have been shown to be detrimental to humans and the environment.

Operating Costs Reduced

Since green architecture optimizes energy output it also reduces the consumption of energy, cutting down energy costs considerably for corporations and individuals who live and work in green buildings.

Buildings that are certified through Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) have been shown to lower everyday costs year after year.

One study found that LEED buildings cost maintenance costs by nearly 20 percent when compared to traditional buildings. Many governments also offer tax benefits for new green buildings or green retrofits.

David DeQuattro

Better Quality of Life

In addition to eschewing harmful chemicals, green architecture has been widely shown to improve air quality for those who live and work in such buildings or in the surrounding areas.

A clean environment also may lead to increased productivity at work, and employees have shown improved focus and concentration. Green architecture achieves this in ways both big and small.

For example, interior design that integrates plants effectively maintains air circulation and quality which often lowers the risk of a range of pulmonary diseases.

Job Creation

The push toward green building has reportedly created millions of new jobs and bolstered the U.S. economy. In just three years, from 2011 to 2014, the national gross domestic product rose by nearly $170 billion.

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David DeQuattro RGB Architects

Promenade Apartments: One of Rhode Island’s Biggest Historic Renovation Projects

David DeQuattro

The luxury apartment complex, aptly named the Promenade Apartments, was completed in 2005. Boasting 220 loft apartments totaling 278,000 square feet, it was one of Rhode Island’s biggest historic renovation projects — and the result is simply sublime.

The high-end apartment building was constructed as part of the wider Foundry Complex by RGB, a diversified project management, architecture, and interior design firm, managed by David DeQuattro. By the end of the project, the company had completed $80 million in work throughout numerous phases and buildings, equating to over a whopping 25 acres.

A History of the Building

Those who reside in the Promenade Apartments of today may be unaware of the building’s rich history. Paying homage to the property’s utilization over the many years, the living areas retain the exposed red brick walls that hold many stories within them.

Between 1865 and 1957, the Brown and Sharpe Manufacturing Company crafted machine tools on the site of the now Promenade Apartments. But since 1967, the Guerra family has toiled to renovate the buildings.

As mentioned above, the wider project is the Foundry Complex, which boasts everything from residential suites to office blocks to entertainment quarters. And, perhaps without realizing it at the time, it set the national bar for adaptive mixed-use properties in a historical setting.

The Promenade is The Foundry’s Biggest Project to Date

Promenade Apartments is monumental for the Foundry Complex, marking its largest project. The 220 luxury apartments include studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments with beautiful exposed red brick walls, eight-foot-high thermally glazed windows, ceilings as tall as 17 feet, granite countertops in the kitchens, and panoramic views of Providence.

And if the architectural spectacle wasn’t enough for potential residents, the building boasts a range of amenities for its inhabitants to utilize. Perhaps the most notable include the following:

  • A huge fitness center complete with exercise bikes, ellipticals, treadmills, TVs, and resistance machines (to name a few)
  • An indoor swimming pool featuring a retractable roof and a hot tub
  • An event room exclusively for residents
  • A business center with high-speed internet connectivity, copiers, and faxes
  • A freight elevator for easy lifting
  • Two covered loading docks
  • A media area with a large projection screen
David DeQuattro

A Historic Project with a Modern Feel

The National Park Service certified the Promenade Apartments as a Historic Renovation, with the sale of the historic tax credits allowing its development to become a rental project rather than a complex of condominiums.

According to the architectural and interior design service providers for the project, RGB, more than one million square feet of major renovation and window replacements were acquired through the Historic Commission.

But despite the historic renovation status, the apartments manage to elicit a modern feel in the best way. The expert architects on this project were able to retain the essence of the age-old building while affording residents exuberantly updated touches.

And the luxuriously high ceilings, state-of-the-art appliances, and color schemes only add to the open-plan nature of the apartments.

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Overview of the Chapel of St Gabriel

David DeQuattro

The Town of Norwood offers several sights and attractions for those visiting the area. However, for locals in particular, the Chapel of St Gabriel holds a key role in local culture.

This memorable and intriguing destination offers a serene and tranquil location. Accordingly, despite its relatively simple design, it is widely considered the architectural gem of the town.

However, despite its aesthetics, many locals overlook the importance of this iconic chapel. As such, David DeQuattro discusses all of the most vital information about this iconic building to help others learn about and preserve its century-long history.

Location of the Chapel of St Gabriel

The Chapel of St Gabriel is found in Norwood Town and is featured at the Highland Cemetery. Still, the building itself displayed numerous older features at the time of its original erection. For example, the original door was created from century-old wood, repurposed.

Construction

The site itself was built in 1903 as a tribute to the parents of Anna Smith Day and Lewis Smith Day, who later donated the property to the Town Council on the basis of the building remaining free to use for funerals in the local area.

Consecration

The building was consecrated as a holy site in 1903, upon the time of its founding. It was at this time that the property became officially dedicated to the Rhoades and Day families, who had contributed to the growth and prosperity of the region.

Restoration

After the original construction in 1903, it would be around one hundred years before the chapel required further support. However, restorative works were completed in 2019 to restore the former status of the building, with the property’s stained glass windows and copper lanterns being of particular focus during this process.

David DeQuattro

Key Features of the Property

The chapel has numerous key features that distinguish it from others in the area. It is built in a striking Neo-Gothic style and features numerous architectural feats that help contribute to the iconic look.

The chapel was designed by the now-known Cram and Ferguson Architects, who crafted the exterior from seam-faced granite and limestone. The interior of this stunning property is very similar, but with white marble also woven into the design throughout the design.

To the left of the chapel’s altar, an iron grill separates the chapel itself from visitors. Resting behind this, the bodies of the original donors of the chapel rest. A plaque on the exterior also commemorates their generosity in donating the chapel to the council a century prior.

Final Thoughts

No doubt, the Chapel of St Gabriel is an influential aspect of local history. However, the property required extensive renovations in 2019 to restore its original features. Fortunately, thanks to the excellent workmanship applied, the site now offers the same original beauty as it did upon its inception.

Presently, the Board of Selectment oversees the chapel and its guests. And although it’s a seemingly simple chapel comparatively, this stunning building is often considered to be one of the most breathtaking iterations of the style.

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David DeQuattro RGB Architects

National Guard Training Facility – The Counter Drug Administration and Training Establishment

David DeQuattro

The Rhode Island Army National Guard has commissioned David DeQuattro and RGB Architects team to design its brand-new Counter Drug Administrative and Training Facility. Located in Coventry, Rhode Island, the project is estimated to cost around $4.35 million to serve federal, state, and municipal markets.

The firm is a highly diverse architecture, interior design, and project management company that serves a formidable range of clients in New England and throughout Rhode Island. The firm keeps ecological and innovation at its core, so it’s no wonder the RI Army National Guard chose this enterprise to design their structure.

The Counter Drug Training Facility

The National Guard Counter Drug program bridges the gap between non-DoD and DoD institutions in the battle against illegal substances and countrywide threats.

The highly qualified team supports detecting, preventing, disrupting, and curtailing drug trafficking activities using interagency efforts to minimize the threats and negative impacts of transnational criminal organizations.

And this new training facility will help the Rhode Island Army National Guard better deliver the program, keeping the state (and nation) a safer place for the population.

According to the facility design, the establishment will include training areas, dormitories, and administrative areas. Specifically, the rooms will include:

  • showers
  • barracks
  • latrines
  • lockers
  • offices
  • arms vaults
  • storage vaults
  • classrooms
  • parking spaces;
  • and much more. 

The building will accommodate as many as ten full-time staff and a minimum capacity of 50 trainees.

The National Guard Training Facility Location

According to the site boundary map posted by the project’s architects, the Counter Drug Training Facility will sit behind structures already on the Camp Fogarty Training Site, covering an expansive area.

The design team has already conducted the site selection study and drawn the conceptual design for the new facility. However, it is currently waiting for the Rhode Island Army National Guard to direct them, so construction documents and bidding can commence.

David DeQuattro

The Project Adds to The Already-Extensive Offerings at the Camp Fogarty Training Grounds

The new Counter Drug Training Facility will add to the Rhode Island Army National Guard’s huge operations at Camp Fogarty. Once construction is complete, it will join the Readiness/Reserve Center (formally known as the Joint Force Headquarters) as the second exciting recent addition.

The Readiness/Reserve Center is an 80,766-square-foot, two-story building containing administrative, logistics, and training offices for the Rhode Island Air National Guard and the Rhode Island Army National Guard.

Consolidating personnel once housed in the Schofield Armory and Command Readiness Center, the building stands on a federally owned 22-acre site.

It boasts a Joint Operations Center (JOC), Collaboration Area, integrated Army Guard and Air Guard command room, and a NIPRNET. All the classrooms and training areas are technologically enhanced, allowing trainees to satisfy their capabilities and meet their goals.

The National Guard employed Pond for this development and RGB Architects for the soon-to-be-built Counter Drug Training Facility. However, both maintain the exterior aesthetic utilized in other areas of Camp Fogarty for flawless cohesion.

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David DeQuattro RGB Architects

Rhode Island Fire Training Academy

David DeQuattro

One of the most recent projects undertaken by David DeQuattro and RGB Architects was to create a new fire training academy in Exeter, RI.

The design was completed in two phases. The first was to create a “burn” building measuring 3,550 square feet, a training tower, a storage building, parking spaces for emergency vehicles, and a 15,000 square feet training area. The second and final phase incorporated the fire department headquarters and classroom/office space.

Below, more on what the project entailed:

About the Rhode Island Fire Training Academy

Rhode Island has over 6000 firefighters enlisted within the state, so it is important that they all have access to the best training facility possible.

Holding the training facility in one place means that a coordinated effort can be made to ensure everyone is on the same page, and that every fire department has access to the same state-of-the-art technologies and facilities to enhance their practice.

These requirements included a top-of-the-range “burn” building for firefighting simulations, as well as space to carry out ground operations training. Classroom space was also required for theoretical learning.

Phase 1

The first phase of design and construction for the Rhode Island Fire Training Academy was to create the practical training space needed for the state’s fire service.


This included a “burn” building, which is used by firefighters to set controlled fires to allow them to carry out a range of tests, training exercises, and simulations. This needed to be created and designed to strict specifications to not only ensure operability, but also the safety of firefighters training in the space.

The large, 15,000 square feet training ground was also completed in phase 1. This large area allows firefighters to carry out larger maneuvers, including learning how to operate larger fire trucks and equipment.

Construction of the structures and spaces for phase 1 concluded in 2011.

Phase 2

Phase 2 revolved around creating the other buildings needed at the site. A large, 8,100 square feet complex was designed as a place for fire department administration. This building also houses the classrooms used by firefighters for non-practical training and learning while at the academy.

This final phase of design and construction was completed in 2017, with the official opening ceremony for the training academy taking place on June 4th of that year.

David DeQuattro

Future Impact of the Rhode Island Fire Training Academy

The $5.5 million project has helped to train hundreds of new firefighters across the state, including a program allowing high schoolers in Providence to complete a 150-hour training course to help to train the firefighters of the future.

This state-of-the-art training hub also reduces costs for local fire departments by allowing for collective training of trainees and firefighters from across the state, meaning that costly training programs don’t need to be run for only one or two applicants at a time.

About RGB Architects

This is not the first municipal project for RGB Architects, who have designed many other plans for government buildings across Rhode Island and beyond.

Other projects have included health centers, schools, police stations, and libraries.