Mechanics Hall was erected by the Mechanics Association of Worcester in 1857 to educate and inspire the citizens of central Massachusetts. The founders were firm believers in technological innovation; their fortunes were built on a hot new product—steel wire. The Main Street Project is an extension of this spirit, breathing new life into the Hall’s presence on bustling Main Street using the latest exterior lighting and digital messaging technology, wayfinding, and integrated storytelling.

The exterior lighting is the most prominent; it can match the school colors at Holy Cross during commencement ceremonies held at the Hall, for instance. Two ornate Main Street-facing poster displays now house digital messaging units. The outer lobby is now a warm and welcoming space, and an added row of windows in the front doors make it more visible. A long-term wayfinding problem was corrected by strategically placed vinyl lettering, and the promenade takes on new life with mini-murals sharing the multi-faceted role of the Hall. Plus, Content•Design facilitated the new Mechanics Hall Portrait Project along the main staircase, echoing the portraits in the third-floor concert hall.