LLB Architects is excited to share designs for Community Preparatory School’s new Arts and Athletic Center which will provide a gymnasium, arts facilities, and a much-needed community center for the school. At approximately 11,000 sf, the new building will have the capacity to host the school’s entire community – around 700 people –– all together for the first time!

Serving as a multi-purpose gathering space for Community Preparatory School’s full network of students, teachers and families, the new Arts and Athletic Center will fulfill and significantly expand extracurricular activities. The versatile building will feature indoor basketball and volleyball courts, an art gallery and display walls, performance and backstage production area, along with extensive storage space. The gymnasium can also be used for seating for up to 240 people together at circular tables for meetings or meals. Gathering for graduations and other celebrations, as well as for school-wide shows and athletic events is important for this tight-knit community.

LLB is proud to have a longstanding relationship with Community Preparatory School, an independent school for grades 4-8 in Providence that serves culturally and economically diverse students who benefit from a rigorous academic education in an atmosphere of mutual respect. LLB has supported the expansion of the Community Preparatory School campus over the past 14 years through master planning, assistance with the purchase and closure of Somerset Street to create a playing field, and an addition to their existing building. The new Arts and Athletic Center building is a major milestone in completing the Community Preparatory School campus.

A major renovation of the Worcester Public Library is now complete, including a new front entry and a totally reimagined interior. The renovation features the latest in library design and technology, along with world-class spaces for children and teens. A ribbon-cutting was held at the Library on Thursday, August 12.

LLB Architects designed a new entrance on the north side of the Worcester Public Library facing the City’s main Common and connecting the library to the City’s revitalized downtown. Previously visitors entered either from the parking lot, located at the rear of the library, or using a side entrance. A visually appealing new marquee invites visitors into a welcoming, spacious first floor with a view down the central axis of the building from front to back.

The interior renovation of the Library added 8,000 square feet of space to the first floor by converting an exterior covered walkway into usable space. The ground level gained program elements new to the building, such as an Innovation Center, Media Lab, and quiet study rooms of various sizes. Teens now have their own dedicated space within the library and access to the latest technology offerings to assist with their studies and creative interests.

A signature element of the renovation is the Children’s Room which was relocated to a more secure location on an upper level. Heralded by Library and City leaders as a dynamic world-class destination for families, the Children’s Room combines playful elements to spark imagination with iconic imagery from the City of Worcester. A rocket ship provides seating for quiet reading time. Silhouettes of triple decker houses grace the end of stacks. A starry sky graphic curves across the ceiling while underfoot colorful carpets and projected light visuals of Worcester’s smiley face icon guide patrons through the space.

LLB Architects led an experienced team of engineers and contractors through a complex renovation which worked around the continued use of the Library by library staff and the public. Design concepts were developed working closely with the Library staff and board of the Library as well as representatives of the City of Worcester. The Library’s patron visits are expected to increase from the current 600,000 per year, engaging more of the local community and contributing to the continued revitalization of downtown Worcester.