This Thesis, Waiting for Ruin, is an examination of how adaptive reuse projects can become an intermediary for overlapping contemporary and historic architecture. Adaptive reuse can be used to revitalize historic but decrepit structures by giving them new purpose through new construction that draws on the existing character. The existing historic structures becomes informed and inspired by the new architecture. This thesis does not approach adaptive reuse from the stand point of sustainability or historic preservation. While sustainability is a worthwhile and commendable endeavor, and will be utilized in the design process, this project will not focus on the environmental and economic implications of its application. This thesis seeks to create a new harmony between contemporary and historic architecture, while bringing forth a new history for the forgotten architecture. A surrealist art gallery and public exhibition hall will be the typology for exploring this thesis. The site for the project will be the abandoned Island Station Power Plant in St. Paul Minnesota.