Plastic Surgery of Southern New England

February 23rd, 2023

LLB Architects was engaged to renovate the second floor of an existing office building in Fall River, Massachusetts for the Plastic Surgery of Southern New England. This growing business was seeking a tastefully designed contemporary space which would welcome patients to their practice. The client requested a distinct minimalist appearance that resembles the atmosphere of an art gallery with a “Industrial Modern” expression.

Our team created minimalist spaces yet imbued them with a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere for patients and staff. The patients are greeted by a large moss wall that also provides a natural color accent in the neutral color scheme in the waiting room. The geometry of the reception desk is fused with the angled wall that leads into the clinic, accentuated by the aluminum laminate cladding that is applied to both the casework and the wall.

An all-glass door at the entrance to the clinical space provides secure access while emphasizing the visual continuity between the spaces. Ceramic floor tiles, used uniformly in all the “public” spaces, further underline the continuity. The two tile colors delineate the spatial configuration in conjunction with the ceiling, both in the racetrack corridors and in the waiting room.

Rounded drywall corners surround the clinic’s support core helping with wayfinding and replicating the form of the reception desk. Portions of the corridors are equipped with a professional grade artwork hanging system to display a changing array of photography and art prints.

Matching the minimalist expression of the space, the lighting scheme uses small linear fixtures throughout and is configured to underline the spatial organization of the rooms.

Groundbreaking for Sagamore Landing

November 17th, 2022

A groundbreaking was held on November 2nd for the new Sagamore Landing Business Park in Fall River, MA. LLB Architects has worked with owner and developer Dwight Silvia on several projects and was pleased to help design a modern development for commercial clients in Fall River. Senior Principal Christian J. Ladds, AIA, Principal Jonathan M. Taylor, AIA, and Designer Peter Fauci, Assoc. AIA are providing LLB’s professional services and took part in the groundbreaking.

LLB crafted detailed renderings for the new development which were unveiled at the groundbreaking. Learn more about the project in the press release from the owner.

 

Putnam Public Library

July 13th, 2022

LLB Architects worked with the Town of Putnam on a study for a new municipal facility that included a Town Hall and Library, as well as considering a separate site for a Senior Center. Ultimately, the Town decided on a single building to serve the diverse needs of the town hall, Putnam Public Library, Aspinock Historical Society, and senior community of Putnam within a one municipal community center.

The Putnam Public Library is the shining star of the new Putnam Municipal Complex. Aligned with the main entrance to the municipal complex, the Library welcomes visitors to explore it light-filled spaces. A bright, open floor-to-ceiling glass wall faces the historic downtown of Putnam and connects the space to directly to nature. The Children’s Library features bright colors and a whimsical window pattern overlooking the Town Green. In the adult section, an undulating wood ceiling is reminiscent of the Quinebaug River and the mills that helped found the Town.

To keep the Complex sustainable, the building was designed with the most efficient building systems, high recycled-content carpeting, low VOC paints, and expansive windows and glazing to take advantage of natural daylight and views. All on a single level, the complex is completely accessible for staff and visitors.

New Arts & Athletic Center for Community Preparatory School

April 13th, 2022

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.

Worcester Public Library Redesign Complete

August 16th, 2021

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.

Seven Hills Charter Public School Feasibility Study

August 6th, 2021

In 2019, LLB conducted a study for The Learning First Foundation’s Seven Hills Charter Public School in Worcester, MA. The school sought to verify the viability of purchasing and renovating an existing property. The study consisted of two parts: an existing conditions assessment of the existing five-story building and the associated site and a feasibility study to explore the fit of the school’s program. In addition to reusing the existing building for the main classroom program, the feasibility study included an exploration of building a new gymnasium on a surface parking lot across the street.

Upon completion of the Existing Conditions Assessment Project and the Feasibility Study Project for the Learning First Foundation and Seven Hills Charter Public School, LLB was selected to continue to the design phase of the renovation project. When originally constructed, the building was used as a school but had since been converted for office use. The goal was to convert the five-story building back into a school for grades K-8.

The project included the design of science laboratory classrooms. LLB worked with Seven Hills Charter Public School to develop designs that suited both educational goals and a tight budget. The first design suited the educational goals but had significant costs. LLB was able to reduce laboratory costs while still finding creative means by which to meet the client’s program objectives through collaboration and flexibility. The resulting scheme was achieved by reducing casework to essential locations, revising wall layouts to reduce new construction costs, and strategically placing services. Upon completion of the schematic design phase, it was determined that the site was not suitable for the School’s desired function. LLB continues to work with the Foundation and the School on a new site in Worcester.

University of Rhode Island Ranger Hall

July 9th, 2021

LLB Architects was engaged by the State of Rhode Island to renovate the upper levels of the historic Ranger Hall for the Harrington School of Communication and Media. Our design team worked closely with School’s leadership and stakeholders to create a specialized program consisting of classrooms, a film production lab, video editing suites, and a full administrative suite. Focal points of the design included room acoustics and audio-visual integration because the new spaces will be used for critical listening and media viewing. In particular, our design incorporated special attention to the mechanical systems to ensure that the air distribution system worked within the constraints of the wood frame structure and simultaneously operated with as near to silence as possible.

Our design team included active learning classrooms that feature air link technology to allow for moveable furniture and group activities. We also provide updated corridors with features such as alcoves with tables and hallway seating with outlets, ensuring the comfort of workers and visitors alike.

RISD Counseling & Psychological Services and Health Services

July 9th, 2021

RISD Health & Psychological Services

LLB Architects worked with Site Specific on a gut renovation of one floor of a downtown Providence building to house RISD’s Counseling & Psychological Services as well as Student Health Services. The fast-paced project was completed over 4 months in a design-build delivery method.

Prior to the design stage, LLB conducted a conceptual fit study of the space to determine whether it was suited to accommodate the Health Services division. Meetings with user groups helped inform space needs and allowed LLB to develop a program that reflected desired spaces.

During the design phase, LLB programmed the space collaboratively with directors of both the Health Services and Counseling & Psychological Services which were previously in separate locations. Two distinct types of spaces were needed. Counseling spaces required acoustical privacy and warmth, hominess and a view to the exterior. Health spaces required cleanliness and organization. Other needs were for administration of records, private calling areas, and staff meetings requiring security.

LLB designed treatment rooms in collaboration with the Health Services Director. Existing Health Services equipment was documented and relocated. LLB collaborated with the Health Services Director and RISD’s Purchasing Department to itemize the required supplemental equipment. The finish materials chosen, space layout, and equipment locations maximize efficiency and convenience, and promote hygienic practice. Flow through the spaces was designed with the privacy of visitors and staff as a key objective.

U.S. Coast Guard Academy Strength & Conditioning Center Nears Completion

February 16th, 2021

Renovations to Roland Hall at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy are nearing completion as partner Site Specific finishes up construction. The new Strength & Conditioning Center will assist Coast Guard cadets in their fitness routines and greatly expand their training facilities. Hear from some current students and take a tour of the facilities which are made possible by the U.S. Coast Guard Academy Alumni Association.

The new Emlen Tunnell Strength & Conditioning Center is named in honor of the former U.S. Coast Guard who received the Silver Lifesaving Medal for heroic action, and then went on to be the first African American inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Learn more about Emlen Tunnell and his impressive accomplishments.

Newton Children’s Library

September 14th, 2020

Constructed in 1991, the Newton Free Library is one of the largest libraries in Massachusetts and has the distinction of loaning the most items in the Commonwealth. Yet, even this modern library required upgrades to meet rapidly evolving technology and service demands. LLB Architects began its relationship with the City of Newton when it conducted a master plan for the Library in 2016 to develop a comprehensive plan for future space allocation and library programming for the next 20 years.

As part of a series of phased renovations, LLB transformed part of the library’s ground floor into a Teen Zone in 2018. The new Teen Center has a mix of study seating, a program/activity space, computer lab, and a brand new maker’s space.

In 2022, the reimagined Children’s Room opened to great reviews from local families. The redesign expanded the space by 4,000 sf resulting in a new spacious Children’s Room of 12,700 square feet. The space includes the main children’s area, the craft and story room, staff offices, expanded family restrooms, and storage space.