Studio G Architects announced today that the new Franklin Cummings Tech building in Boston has received a 2026 Citation of Excellence Award for Community Investment from Learning by Design, recognizing the project for excellence in higher education architecture and design.
Studio G Architects is the architect for the new 68,000-square-foot Franklin Cummings Tech facility, designed to support the college’s hands-on, career-focused approach to education while creating a welcoming and flexible environment for its growing student community.
Located in Roxbury, the four-story building brings together academic, technical and community spaces designed to foster collaboration and connect students with real-world learning opportunities. The facility includes flexible classrooms, robotics, automotive and construction-related labs, rooftop learning spaces, a student-accessible PV array and HVAC equipment used as part of the curriculum.
“Franklin Cumming Tech was excited to see how the building itself is an extension of learning experiences,” said Gail Sullivan, Co-Managing Principal at Studio G Architects. “Every aspect of the design, from the visibility of building systems to the flexible classrooms and shared spaces, was considered through the lens of how students can learn, collaborate and prepare for their careers. To have that work recognized by Learning by Design is affirming to us and a testament to the vision and leadership of the Franklin Cummings Tech community.”
The budget demanded a “Big Shrink” 32% space reduction, and now comfortably serves 83% more students and with a 20% increase in applications.
Three stories of daylit technical labs and classrooms wrap the perimeter, forming unique common spaces at each floor, all connected by a sculptural stair/elevator tower leading to the rooftop learning labs. The design encourages movement and interaction throughout the building while bringing natural light deep into the interior.
The project also places a strong emphasis on sustainability and building performance. The all-electric facility features a variable refrigerant flow HVAC system and was designed to achieve an EUI of 45.2, with BERDO-compliant carbon performance well below the 2035 allowance. Franklin Cummings Tech has applied for LEED Gold certification.
“This new campus reflects both who Franklin Cummings Tech is today and where we are headed,” said Dr. Aisha Francis, President & CEO of Franklin Cummings Tech. “It gives our students access to modern, hands-on learning environments that strengthen our STEM programs while creating a real sense of belonging and pride. Just as importantly, the building gives us the flexibility to grow, welcoming more students, expanding our programs and connecting even more people across Greater Boston to high-demand, family-sustaining careers in technology and the trades.”
The new campus serves approximately 1,100 students annually, with programs spanning automotive technology, construction, engineering, clean energy and other technical fields. In addition to its academic spaces, the building includes areas for student gathering, collaboration and support, reinforcing Franklin Cummings Tech’s focus on creating an inclusive and accessible learning environment.
The Citation of Excellence is part of Learning by Design’s annual awards program recognizing outstanding educational facilities and the teams behind them. The Franklin Cummings Tech project is featured in the Fall 2026 issue of Learning by Design.
Read the feature here.
