Awards Received:

• American Institute of Architects
  Design for Aging Review
• Contemporary Long Term Care Magazine
  Order of Excellence in Architecture and Design

Built in 1911, the former East Junior High School was converted into an affordable assisted living program. Originally designed by renowned architect Charles Brigham, the five-story, 60,000 square foot landmark building underwent a complete interior and exterior restoration. The design included the restoration of the ornamental facade, windows, doors, and floors in accordance with the National Park Service¹s Historic Preservation Guidelines.

Since the building originally served as a school, the architect took advantage of the existing great architectural character and detail throughout the historic building. Existing spaces such as the former auditorium were used to locate common areas including the dining room and lounge, and the existing main corridors were retained as circulation paths.

General accessibility and circulation patterns presented a challenge, due to the complex system of levels of the original basement and first floor. Existing heavy masonry construction also imposed structural constraints, as the design goal was to open and interconnect all living areas.

The use of the original basement as one of the main common areas presented a challenge in terms of how to appropriately illuminate all of the spaces. Therefore, a careful combination of artificial light in areas with limited or nonexistent façade openings, as well as the manipulation of the ceiling height at both circulation and living spaces, proved to be important design tools that helped make the main level feel open and comfortable.

The building site slopes almost one story from front to back. Therefore, the original gymnasium, located at the back of the building, was subdivided into two separate levels. Mechanical spaces and similar functions were located in the lower level since it had no natural illumination. The upper level was used for residential units, which had the benefit of beautiful views of the rear garden area.

The most important aspect of the project was the need to provide an "easy to use" building for the senior residents and people with physical disabilities. Therefore, special attention was directed toward the interconnection of levels and spaces in such a way as to provide multiple circulation options to residents and visitors so that they could move from one space to the next without obstruction.

Located on Mount Auburn Street near the center of Watertown, MA, Brigham House includes 60 residential units, administrative space, and common areas including living and dining rooms, a bistro, library, and beauty/barber shop, among other resident amenities.

Exterior photos by Bruce T. Martin
Interior photo by Edua Wilde