Islay Taylor Takes Helm as Executive Director of DESIGNxRI

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Architects and community members discuss urban development plans in Providence.

News Summary

Islay Taylor has been appointed as the executive director of DESIGNxRI, succeeding Rue Sakayama. She brings extensive experience in arts administration and community-focused initiatives. Concurrently, development proposals in the Fox Point neighborhood are under review, with concerns raised about luxury housing in the area. The I-195 Redevelopment District Commission is accepting public comments until July 19, as debates around community involvement and affordable housing continue.

Providence, Rhode Island – Islay Taylor Appointed as New Executive Director of DESIGNxRI

Islay Taylor has been appointed as the new executive director of DESIGNxRI, a nonprofit organization focused on supporting the design sector in Rhode Island. Taylor, an experienced arts administrator, educator, and curator, has over a decade of experience leading community-centered creative initiatives across the state. She will succeed Rue Sakayama, who has held the executive director position for the past three years. The announcement was made by DESIGNxRI on Wednesday.

In conjunction with Taylor’s appointment, attention is also being drawn to two proposals concerning land development in the Fox Point neighborhood. These proposals, currently under review by the I-195 Redevelopment District Commission, suggest the construction of a corporate headquarters and a luxury condominium building on vacant land located at South Main and Pike Streets. This area is near a new grocery store under development.

Details of the Development Proposals

The commission is evaluating designs submitted by two architecture firms: D+P Real Estate paired with Truth Box, and Churchill & Banks. D+P’s proposal includes a mixed-use, mixed-income apartment building, which has garnered interest from a financial services company looking to establish office space within the structure. Specifically, D+P’s plan outlines the inclusion of 69 apartment units, with 26% designated as below market rate or workforce housing. Additionally, the development entails 65,000 square feet allocated for the corporate headquarters and a two-level garage with 169 parking spaces.

On the other hand, Churchill & Banks have proposed a 10-story residential building featuring 52 condominiums, complemented by 40,500 square feet of commercial space. Their plan also includes a three-level parking garage designed to accommodate 215 vehicles.

Community Concerns and Support

City Councilman John Goncalves has voiced concerns about the implications of luxury housing on the local community. He has advocated for increased community involvement in development decisions, opposing plans that may lack local input. Goncalves has reported receiving heightened interest from constituents, many of whom are worried about the focus on luxury housing rather than affordable options for residents.

As a South Main Street resident, Taylor has expressed her support for the D+P proposal, citing the crucial need for diverse housing options catering to various income levels in the community. Local resident John Woolsey has also shown support for the D+P plan, criticizing Churchill & Banks’ design as lacking authenticity and originality.

Next Steps for Development Proposals

The I-195 Redevelopment District Commission is currently accepting public comments on both development proposals until July 19. After this deadline, the commission is expected to make a decision regarding the future of the land development initiative. Councilman Goncalves has stated that he will announce his position on the proposals in the coming days, highlighting the community’s ongoing discourse surrounding these developments.

Background on DESIGNxRI

Established to foster collaboration among designers, makers, and businesses, DESIGNxRI plays an essential role in advocating for the design sector in Rhode Island. Under Sakayama’s tenure, the organization expanded its reach, enhancing its services and support for local design initiatives. With Taylor stepping into this leadership role, it is anticipated that she will continue to build on the foundation set by her predecessor, promoting innovative efforts within the Rhode Island creative community.