Our Spaces
A cathedral-like space with vestiges of Rhode Island industrial history
The high ceilings and massive windows of the Main Hall are a perfect blend of the old and new. Impeccably renovated, this space brings the best of the past into the present and future. Industrial details show the rich history of this building's industrial past while clean lines and contemporary finishes clearly define this space as a cutting edge event venue.
Flexible and Functional!
The Visitor Center is a perfect space to welcome guests to a cocktail party or to use as a lecture hall. The room features large windows, with curtains, and is connected directly to the South Courtyard. Access to the Roof Deck and a pass through to the Main Hall are available along with a small service kitchen. Presentation facilities including projector and large projection screen are also options in this room.
Scenic exterior space with a view!
A unique escape, this rooftop terrace is perfect for an afternoon affair or an evening under the stars
Guidelines & Catering
Russell Morin Catering & Events at the WaterFire Arts Center
Initially built in 1929 for the US Rubber Company as a multi-purpose manufacturing facility, WaterFire Providence completed renovation of the WaterFire Arts Center in the summer of 2017.
Preserved industrial framework of the building remains exposed with steel beams creating a beautifully vaulted ceiling in the Main Hall. Historic wood roof panels, paint swatches, and period bricks can also be found intact allowing for a distinctive antique aesthetic for any style of event.
The historic components compliment contemporary finishes designed in the style of early modernist painter Piet Mondrian who famously completed his work “Composition No. III, with Red, Blue, Yellow, and Black” in 1929, the same year that the building was constructed. The geometric patterns in the painting are mimicked in the extensive floor-to-ceiling windows, and the bold primary colors in the large contemporary fixtures throughout the building.
For high capacity events, your rental of the Main Hall will also include access to the adjacent Visitor Center providing a unique flexibility for a grand entrance, coat check, check-in, cocktail hour, bridal suite, or backstage! The functional garage door dividing these rooms often acts a great reveal component for your guests to unveil a new portion of the event or unexpected theatrical element.
Also home to the 501(c)(3) non-profit organization WaterFire Providence, any rental of the WaterFire Arts Center directly supports the mission and operational costs of the organization!
Fees & Overtime
Evening rental rates range from $2,000 - $4,500. Standard event timing includes 3 hours for set-up, 5 hours for the event, and one hour for clean up time.
Non-profit rates range from $1,750 - $4,500.
Daytime and Hourly rental rates are also available upon request.
Additional fees apply for an onsite ceremony or time; please inquire.
To secure the event date the renter will pay 50% deposit of the agreed upon rental fee directly to WaterFire Providence along with a signed copy of Catering and User Agreements.
In addition to the rental fee, a damage deposit in the amount of $500 is to be submitted with final payment. The damage deposit will be refunded, less charges for damages, to the Renter upon written approval of WaterFire Providence within 14 days.
Lodging
The WaterFire Arts Center is located on the West Side of Providence just a few minutes drive from downtown and popular destination Atwells Avenue. Info about travel, lodging, dining, and tips for visiting Providence can be found on WaterFire Providence’s guide to Planning Your Trip to Providence.
