The Brewery Studios
Jamaica Plain, MA
The Brewery Studios were born on the 3rd floor of a 19th century doll factory originally owned by the Dahl sisters, later taken over by the expanding Haffenreffer Brewery, and eventually by the the Jamaica Plain Neighborhood Development in 1995. Home to Studio G’s own office, the raw space was thoughtfully renovated to create a supportive, mission-driven community of small businesses related to design and construction, and non-profits with great missions.
The entry landing opens to reception area at the center of the shared spaces. A glass-enclosed interactive conference room is adjacent, with projection screen, marker board and pin up panels, supporting design charrettes, presentations and collaborative meetings. The project room across the hall has a high table and stools for standing or seated meetings as well as model-making, surrounded by reference materials and samples. A large table in the vibrant café/lounge is a gathering spot at lunchtime and the center of social events. Open work stations encourage collaboration among project team members, and easy communication for all staff. A large plan counter over storage serves as a spot for quick consultation, and scattered meeting tables allow small groups to meet adjacent to work areas.
The former brewery building offered significant daylighting, with a fairly narrow floor plate. Solid walls were minimized to avoid blocking the daylight. The structural glass of the Conference Room, and the double glass doors at the Project Room suffuse the front area with daylight morning and afternoon. Where privacy was needed at work areas, wall panels of polycarbonate and maple provide it while allowing light transmittance. Sustainability is integral to the design. The extensive cabinetry and casework is all maple, selected for its local sourcing. All finishes are low or no VOC materials and recyclable. Plumbing fixtures are low flow, lighting is high efficiency. Lavatory exhaust is continuous for ample ventilation.