This renovation of a former fraternal club in Harvard Square houses the research component of Soka Gakkai International - USA. SGI is an international Buddhist institution based in Japan, that promotes international understanding through cultural and educational efforts. The Boston Research Center was established to organize and host meetings and conferences on topics of global importance.

The new Center occupies a building located within the Harvard Square Historic District. The poorly maintained building was completely renovated to provide a 120-seat main conference hall, and many smaller conference and seminar rooms as well as the Center's administrative offices. With approval of the local Historic Commission, the interior of the building was gutted and restored, the exterior was repaired, and all accessibility requirements were met.