Renovation + Adaptive Reuse
The opportunity to restore and transform existing buildings is an especially exciting challenge for the architects of CambridgeSeven. As signatories to the AIA 2030 commitment (link to 2030 website), we are eager to extend the life of existing, often remarkable buildings. Beyond envisioning a previously unimagined new use, such as 19th century jail turned destination hotel, the CambridgeSeven team works in close partnership with owners and developers to identify the possibilities for transformation, from a design, economic and historic perspective.
CambridgeSeven has a keen interest and focus on historic restoration, rehabilitation and adaptive re-use. These types of projects have become a significant aspect of our overall portfolio of buildings for both public agencies and private-sector clients. We understand the need for a sensitive and thoughtful approach to restoration of landmark buildings; analyze when and how it is okay to allow for the replication of original or missing components of an historic building; and know the importance of cleaning and safeguarding materials so they will last. Careful and painstaking care is taken to restore finishes, structure and to preserve details, all while allowing the building to be brought into the twenty-first century in terms of energy usage, life safety and modern building systems.
Our renovation and restoration projects have ranged in scope and scale—from the transformation of the Charles Street Jail into the Liberty Hotel, to the adaptive reuse of Cambridge’s Foundry Building into a creative and community hub, to renovations and updates to the iconic New England Aquarium. We have had frequent interactions with state historic regulators and with the local Historical jurisdictions. Additionally, we have gained a great deal of experience in working with the National Park Service directly and turn to their standards for restoration and rehabilitation when appropriate.