This project is an adaptive reuse and rehabilitation of a historic 1893 unreinforced masonry building. The new 65,000-SF facility provides shelter for domestic and wild animals, veterinary and education spaces, as well as support areas for staff and volunteers. On three floors, the design maintains the original building’s character by pulling new construction away from the historic shell to expose original masonry and windows. Animal exercise is made possible with an added roof deck and the introduction of a new courtyard at the structure’s center. In addition to serving the vital need of caring for lost and surrendered animals, the facility is designed as an essential service building with the robust structure required to remain in operation in the event of a natural disaster.