Built in 1917, the Charlestown Boys & Girls Club housed both youth and teen members until 1998, when the teen program was transferred to a nearby facility. The youth facility, which serves 6- to 12-year-olds, was severely outdated, did not meet current codes for fire protection, accessibility, electrical or life safety, and was extremely inefficient for a contemporary youth education program occupancy and the organization's new program standards.
The rehabilitation design included the complete renovation of the existing club, including hazardous materials abatement, conversion for handicapped accessibility, and a complete upgrade to current code standards. The building's existing education and recreational components were also completely redesigned and updated to current program standards.
Since the teen clubhouse has a gymnasium and swimming pool, which are shared with the youth club, the existing four-lane lap pool in the youth facility was converted into performance space. The exterior windows in the former pool area, which had previously been bricked up, were opened up to allow natural light to flow into the space. Existing interior windows were enlarged to enhance the lighting. The former pool's water depth signs were kept in the renovated space as a playful design element that observes the room's previous use.
Major emphasis was placed on durable construction materials, maximizing staff visibility and access, and maintaining significant historical elements throughout the facility, such as the existing wood beam ceilings in the entrance and library.
Since the building is located in a potential historic district, several design elements had to be coordinated with the local landmarks commission to ensure proper preservation. One original historic window in the library had to be carefully preserved in its place. Also, a special mortar mix that closely matched the mixture used when the building was originally constructed had to be used on brick that was being repointed or installed.
The renovated 28,500 square foot clubhouse has a game room, arts education center, library, and a performance room. The third floor of the facility was converted for use by the Massachusetts General Hospital's Youthcare Program, a local organization focusing on challenged children's educational needs.
Photos by Bruce T. Martin
