Across the centuries, the idea of “arts” and “community” have long been linked. In our travels through life, we seek out culturally stimulating destinations. But a culturally and economically vibrant community rarely, if ever, materializes by accident—it is the end-product of hard work, optimism, and the willingness to embrace the new.
The Marble Block is a historic 20,000 square foot building on Biddeford’s Main Street. The Marble Block was owned by the nonprofit Marble Block Redevelopment Corp. which has the charitable mission to redevelop this property for Engine. In 2021, the property was sold to support Engine’s mission. You can learn more about Engine’s efforts to revitalize the building on Vimeo.
THE GIFT
In December 2011, the R.H. Reny company—owners of the Renys department stores located throughout Maine—generously sold the Marble Block to Engine for $1. The founder of Renys, Robert H. Reny, was born and raised in Biddeford, and the family has a strong interest in the success of downtowns and the arts.
THE BUILDING
- 18,000 square-feet
- Rare Italianate architecture circa 1880s
- Prominent Main Street location
THE VISION
- An architectural attraction
- Exhibition areas
- IGNITE Design Incubator
- The Olympia movie theater
- S.T.E.A.M. education center
- Urban rooftop green space
- Community cafe
- Performance and event space
- Artist studios, residencies, live/work housing
- Retail shop
GREEN FEATURES
- Green and vegetative roof
- Rainwater-catch systems
- Solar energy
- Alternative/shared transportation
SUSTAINABILITY
- Co-location for other cultural nonprofits
- Revenue generating model of multiple income streams
- Artist housing potential
- Affordable housing potential
- Studio space rentals
- Education and/or specialized school model
BENEFITS TO THE COMMUNITY
- Educational opportunities for all ages
- Accessible community gathering space
- Cultural tourism destination
- Fostering entrepreneurialism