Old mill turned into haven for business

PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WPRI) -- Many local artists and designers now have a new place to work after an old mill was turned into a haven for creative businesses.

The Design Exchange , located at 161 Exchange St. in Pawtucket, has a long history.  It was built in 1880 and originally housed the Rhode Island Cardboard Company. The loft-style building is now being for creative businesses, and is full of artist and designers. Tenants say they enjoy the innovative atmosphere.

"It's like going back to art school," said Wayne Blatchley, Senior Vice President at Fuzion Design . "Back where everyone was doing something creative and you could talk to people about ideas and so forth, and its just a nice environment overall."

Employees seem to be enjoying themselves more in the new space.

"I am always fascinated with history, and so that added a little appeal for me," added Lolita Healy, CEO and Founder of Designs by Lolita.

Joe Cacciola, President and General Manager of Fuzion Design says that one of the best things of moving to this environment was the enthusiasm they were able to gain from their employees coming into the new space.

The Design Exchange is conveniently located in Pawtucket, right off of I-95 and across from the Gamm Theater.

For more information about The Design Exchange, just head over to their website.