About Lafayette Commons
The historic building now known as Lafayette Commons underwent a major restoration in 2014. The building was in total disrepair and in major need of a new steward not only to restore its beauty but to respect its historical significance as one of the first structures of historic downtown Lafayette. They had a vision of a beautiful community building, taking advantage of a bright 3-story atrium, ample windows, and structured layout. They created Lafayette Commons as a unique collective of businesses to coexist with shared amenities like conference rooms, a kitchen, a workout facility, and more.
The renovation project was a major undertaking and one with great visibility within the community. The City of Lafayette partnered by providing funding and guidance for the exterior renovation. There are more contributors to this project than can be named, but it could not have been completed without the shared vision of many within the community, and the tenants who took a leap of faith based on the initial renderings.
Lafayette Commons is now the site of 22 boutique office suites.
The Lafayette Urban Renewal Authority partnered to reconstruct the historic façade where they rehabilitated the building’s exterior, removing aging siding, rebuilding the structure behind the siding, replacing the exterior with period-size lapboard siding on the majority of the building, and reinstalling historically accurate corbels on the north elevation. On the western portion of the building, limestone block replaced the wooden siding to match historic pictures of the building.
On December 9, 2014, there was a celebration to commemorate the building re-opening, in conjunction with Lafayette Urban Renewal, Historic Preservation, the City of Lafayette, Tenants, Guests, and Friends. They were honored by the attendance of the mayor of Lafayette Christine Berg, Representative Mike Foote, and Lafayette City Manager Gary Klepake and the many other guests in attendance. Special thanks to Lafayette Assistance City Manager Phillip Patterson, Jenn Ooten, Karen Westover, Sally Martin, and LAER Realty. On September 23, 2015 – Lafayette Commons earned the prestigious Governor’s Award for Excellence (Best Adaptive Reuse or Rehabilitation.”
In May of 2022 FS Erie Estates LLC, owned by Bob and Libby Swenson, purchased Lafayette Commons. They are committed to the continuation of the vision of the former owner whereby this historic property will provide a space for the tenants and community to thrive. They are particularly committed to the pursuit of justice in bringing about healing, restoration, and empowering women and the oppressed.
