Secret Apartment At Providence Place Mall Getting Its Own Doc

Remember that time a man lived in a secret apartment in Providence Place for four years? Well, it’s officially getting a documentary.

Secret Mall Apartment will debut at the South by Southwest Festival (SXSW) in Austin, Texas next month.

When Did That Guy Live in the Providence Place Mall?

When the construction of Providence Place was happening from 1997 to 1999, Providence-based artist Michael Townsend discovered a 750-square-foot space that was an accidental room due to the formation of the designed rooms around it.

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Townsend originally planned to spend only a week in this “accidental room” but that week turned into four years, as he and his friends built a cinderblock wall and a nondescript utility door to keep the loft hidden, and fully furnished the space while utilizing the mall’s bathrooms.

‘The Accidental Room’ Getting a Documentary

“Far more than just a wild prank, the secret apartment became a deeply meaningful place for its inhabitants – a personal expression of defiance against local gentrification, a clubhouse to coordinate artistic charity, and finally, a 750-square-foot "F you" to The Man,” said SXSW.

It’s the kind of story that will have audiences captivated. How did this man pull this off for so many years?

After this film festival, I wouldn’t be surprised if Netflix knocks on the artists' doors.

Welcome to Your New Humble Abode: A Providence Shopping Mall

America's oldest indoor shopping mall is now home to more than 40 micro-lofts, some as tiny as 250 square feet. But they sure are convenient and a great option in downtown Providence. Check out the inside of one of these tiny living spaces at The Arcade. This one's even currently on the market!

Gallery Credit: Kari Jakobsen

Inside the All-New Level99 Location in the Providence Place Mall

Ever since word came out last spring that Level99 in Natick was expanding with a second challenge venue location in Providence, people have been eager to see what types of games they would be bringing.

Now you can find out with a sneak peek inside the Providence Place Mall's newest hotspot.

Gallery Credit: Nancy Hall

Inside Huge Historic Providence Home With Indoor Swings

Nearly a whole city block is for sale in Providence with one single property.

The historic Corliss-Carrington House is an amazing event space and mansion currently on the market for $7.450 million and offers tons of timeless features.

Gallery Credit: Nancy Hall