Patrium Awarded Contract for The Benjamin: A Landmark Development in Lawrence, Indiana

“I am thorough believer in the American test of character. He will not build high who does not build for himself.” – Benjamin Harrison

Indianapolis-based Keystone Group has chosen Patrium as one of the contractors for The Benjamin Multifamily Development, a transformative luxury mixed-use project. Located in the vibrant Fort Benjamin Harrison neighborhood of Lawrence, Indiana, this development is set to redefine modern living and retail experiences in the area.

The Benjamin: A Vision for Modern Living

The Benjamin is a five-story building that will feature more than 200 luxury residential units and approximately 25,000 square feet of integrated retail and restaurant space. With an estimated total investment of $78 million , this project is a significant undertaking designed to meet the increasing demand for high-quality housing in the Indianapolis metropolitan area.

Groundbreaking. © 2025 City of Lawrence

Residents of The Benjamin can look forward to a sophisticated living experience, complete with abundant luxury amenities, including a pool and a convenient parking garage that will serve both residents and visitors. The retail spaces are already being advertised for lease, with an anticipated availability in Fall 2026.

A key aspect of this development is the robust public-private partnership between Keystone Group and the City of Lawrence, alongside the Fort Harrison Reuse Authority (FHRA). This collaboration underscores a shared vision for the area’s growth and revitalization, ensuring the project aligns with the community’s long-term goals.

Fort Ben: A Legacy Transformed

The Benjamin’s location within Fort Benjamin Harrison is particularly noteworthy. Once an active Army base established in 1903 , Fort Ben was decommissioned in 1995 and has since become a nationally recognized “model for reuse and redevelopment of a military installation”. This successful transformation has seen nearly 50 former military buildings converted into diverse residential, commercial, and office uses, preserving its “early 20th-century charm” while integrating modern amenities.

Barracks, chapel, and reception center at Fort Benjamin Harrison, 1944. Indiana Historical Society

Today, Fort Ben is a vibrant “live-work-play” community. It offers unparalleled access to outdoor recreation at Fort Harrison State Park, with extensive walking and biking trails and dog parks. The adjacent Lawrence Civic Plaza hosts various community events, and the Fort Ben Cultural Campus features the Theater at the Fort, public art, and musical swings. The area also boasts a variety of local eateries, boutique shops, and a lively farmers market.

Fort Harrison Trail Map. © 2025 City of Lawrence

The architectural design of The Benjamin is expected to honor Fort Ben’s distinctive Colonial Revival style , adhering to strict guidelines from the FHRA Architectural Review Commission to ensure consistency with the historic fabric. Furthermore, the development is anticipated to incorporate sustainable building practices, aligning with Lawrence Township’s commitment to energy conservation and environmental responsibility. Other projects in the area, like The Otis at Fort Ben, have already achieved National Green Building Standard Silver certification, demonstrating a strong local emphasis on green building.

Patrium’s Commitment to Excellence

Patrium is excited to bring our expertise to The Benjamin, contributing to a project that not only addresses market demand for luxury housing but also significantly enhances the economic and social landscape of Lawrence. Our involvement underscores our commitment to quality construction and collaborative partnerships that deliver lasting value to communities.

We look forward to working alongside Keystone Group and other stakeholders to bring this exceptional vision to life, further solidifying Fort Ben’s reputation as a premier destination for living, working, and leisure.

Check out more about The Benjamin and Fort Benjamin Harrison:

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