sgi new england
Location: Brookline, MA
Scope: Full Renovation
Status: completed
Size: 37,300 SF
Landscape Architect: Halvorson Design Partnership
An existing art institute in Brookline, MA, this building was proposed to be the new Boston cultural center for the religious institution of Soka Gakkai International. The proposal included the assessment and renovation of an existing facility which houses office space, conference rooms, meditation rooms, and an outdoor landscaping element. Located along a highly trafficked street, the intervention of a wood wall and screening system transformed the existing facade into an interactive and dynamic street-front landmark. A pallet of light tones, painted brick, and articulated greenery create an accepting atmosphere that reflects the ideals and identity of SGI. The motif of wood and light carries through the entry and into a re-invented atrium space where an articulation of skylights work into a double height space highlighting a connection to the main worship space and additional program beyond.
HONORS
2018 Architecture Masterprize - Restoration and Renovation, Honorable Mention
2017 AIA New England Design Excellence Award - Merit Award
2017 PRISM Award - Best Remodel / Restoration (over $1 Million)
2017 Faith and Form Award - The Interfaith Journal on Religion, Art, and Architecture
2017 American Architecture Award - The Chicago Athenaeum
2016 International Design Award - Renovation, Silver
publications
Metal Architecture Magazine "Religious Feature" - SGI New England Buddhist Center - October 2017
International Awards Program for Religious Art & Architecture Journal of the Interfaith Forum on Religion, Art and Architecture; 2017 (Volume 49, Issue 4: Michael J. Crosbie, Ph.D., FAIA)