At a busy crossroads where Brookline meets Boston’s medical district, this new sculptural building knits an iconic Olmsted park with nearby commercial and residential blocks. The sculptural glass form folds around a dynamic triangular site and steps back from the Emerald Necklace park to allow light into the landscape. The façade hides a second-story parking garage using a playful glass frit pattern and purposeful curves. Pedestrians and cyclists benefit from improved sidewalks, benches, and a bike path to connect Brookline to Boston. The design grew from an inclusive community process, meeting the needs and expectations of local residents, professionals, and institutions. Where there once sat a vacant gas station, the site now boasts outdoor seating for patrons to gather and enjoy the scenery of the adjacent greenery. Those enjoying the bike path now have a place to stop for a moment of rest as they enjoy small plates and drinks from the restaurant that serves locally-inspired New England fare. An inviting two-story lobby with public seating creates a comforting and welcome presence on a prominent urban corner and offers guests unique views of multiple neighborhoods.
