Architectural Cases

The 22 Tappan Street building represents a significant advancement in educational infrastructure, designed to foster a dynamic and inclusive learning environment.

This five-story structure, an integral part of the larger Brookline High School expansion and renovation, addresses the growing demands of contemporary education by offering a wide array of facilities. It includes versatile classrooms for general studies, specialized physics laboratories for hands-on scientific exploration, and dedicated suites for special education, ensuring that all students have access to tailored learning support. Furthermore, the building incorporates numerous collaboration spaces, encouraging interactive learning and group projects, along with a comprehensive library that serves as a central hub for research and study. Students also benefit from a modern cafeteria, a flexible 125-seat black box theater for performing arts, and well-equipped administrative and support areas, all designed to enhance the overall educational experience.

Designed by William Rawn Associates and completed in 2022, this expansive 118,000 square foot facility is meticulously planned to accommodate 700 students. Its thoughtful layout and diverse offerings reflect a commitment to providing a holistic educational experience that extends beyond traditional classroom settings. By integrating various academic and extracurricular resources under one roof, the 22 Tappan Building aims to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and collaborative learning among its student body. The design not only caters to current educational needs but also anticipates future trends, creating a flexible and adaptable space that can evolve with pedagogical advancements.

The Brookline High School’s 22 Tappan Building exemplifies a visionary approach to educational architecture. It stands as a testament to the idea that well-designed learning spaces are crucial for nurturing future generations, empowering students to reach their full potential and fostering a sense of community and shared purpose within the academic environment.

Crafting Serene Living: The Architectural Vision of Villa H

Innovative Design Philosophy: Balancing Space and Form in Urban Residential Contexts

Nestled within a bustling residential district, Villa H represents a thoughtful exploration of architectural equilibrium, where a substantial domestic program is seamlessly integrated into a compact urban site measuring 504 square meters. The core design principle revolves around achieving a delicate balance between a constrained footprint and an expansive sense of openness, prioritizing clarity, natural illumination, and understated elegance. This project emerged from the specific challenge of accommodating a rich and varied living experience without sacrificing a feeling of spaciousness and tranquility. The resulting villa is intelligently layered across three distinct levels, each serving unique functions while contributing to the overall coherence and aesthetic of the dwelling.

Subterranean Realms: Integrating Utility and Leisure Below Ground

The lowest level of Villa H is a testament to sophisticated subterranean planning, extending generously beneath the primary living spaces. This expansive basement is meticulously designed to house a comprehensive array of functional and recreational amenities. It serves as the central hub for technical installations, ensuring the seamless operation of the villa's various systems, while also providing ample space for leisure activities. A key feature of this level is the integrated parking facility, offering convenient and secure vehicle storage, all contributing to an uncluttered and efficient above-ground environment. This thoughtful integration enhances the villa's functionality and maximizes the use of available land.

Elevated Living: Maximizing Outdoor Engagement on the Ground Floor

Above the functional basement, the ground floor of Villa H adopts a more compact and judicious layout, strategically freeing up a significant portion of the plot for an expansive outdoor oasis. This design choice culminates in a wide, verdant garden featuring a refreshing swimming pool, creating an immediate connection between indoor living and the natural environment. The deliberate containment of the ground floor's structural footprint allows for generous outdoor spaces, providing residents with ample opportunities for relaxation, entertainment, and a direct engagement with nature, transforming the urban plot into a private sanctuary.

Upper Level Retreats: Sun-Drenched Suites for Ultimate Comfort

Ascending to the upper level of Villa H reveals a private sanctuary dedicated to repose and comfort. This floor comprises four exquisitely designed suites, each conceived as a haven of tranquility and natural light. The architectural orientation and window placements are carefully calibrated to ensure that these private quarters are bathed in ample sunlight throughout the day, fostering a bright and uplifting atmosphere. Each suite is crafted to offer residents a serene retreat, combining luxurious amenities with a profound sense of calm and an intimate connection to the external environment through well-appointed openings.