HMFH Architects
130 Bishop Allen Drive
Cambridge, MA
A historically significant office building in the heart of Cambridge is renovated and restored to reflect its strong mid-century design. In addition to the building exterior, the renovation of the lobby and one floor of the building as new offices for HMFH revitalizes the building and creates energy-efficient and elegant spaces that reflect the integrity of the original Josep Lluis Sert design.
In the preservation of anything short of a masterpiece, you make what improvements the present situation calls for. Done as well as that task is performed here, the architecture becomes richer as time and change wash over it. The building becomes a visual log of changing times and styles.
- Original construction 1961
- Renovation 2013
- Size 45,000 ft2
HMFH was commissioned to renovate the exterior and lobby of the office building at 130 Bishop Allen Drive. The space, originally the New England Gas and Electric Building, now houses a mix of professional offices. The lobby design includes new terrazzo flooring, a built-in front desk, and the restoration of the original double-height ceiling to increase openness, visibility, and enhance the connection between the building and its prominent spot in Cambridge’s Central Square.
In addition to the lobby, HMFH redesigned the 4th floor of the building as new offices for the firm. The energy-efficient space is flooded with natural light. Comprised of open studios, the design supports the firm’s philosophy by providing a dynamic atmosphere that encourages collaboration and dialogue.
Augmenting the studios are private offices, small conference rooms, and a large kitchen that serves as the central activity hub and hosts lunchtime presentations and firm-wide gatherings. The design includes the use of interior glazing to maximize daylighting, high-efficiency LED lighting, bamboo finishes and linoleum flooring, which contribute to a healthy environment and reinforce HMFH’s commitment to sustainable design in all aspects of our work.
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