SGI New England Buddhist Center

Project Details

Project Description

Previously an office building and then an art institute, our office adapted and re-envisioned the existing structure as a new culture center for the religious institution of Soka Gakkai International. Previously coined the “Darth Vader building” for its dark and brooding appearance, the client sought a building transformation that would be light and inviting, reflective of their mission statement. Our response was to paint the existing masonry an off white color that appears to virtually change relative to the time of day. Located along a fast vehicular corridor, the architecture employs an undulating vertical wood louver system to break up the monotony of the existing facade against the speed of the adjacent roadway. The facade carries through to a re-invented public entry and atrium with skylights that craft natural light deep into the multi-function rooms and lead a procession to the main worship space at the second floor.