Curley Community Center Renovations

Salas O’Brien provided comprehensive engineering services for the Curley Community Center’s renovation, overseeing the replacement of the building’s systems with modern, efficient alternatives. Our primary objectives were to enhance occupant comfort, improve system controllability, and optimize energy efficiency. Our services included building envelope repairs, upgrades to exterior entrances and stairs, improved exterior views, and comprehensive interior reconfiguration and finishes.

We incorporated a resiliency study into the project, enabling the design to address rising tidewater and consider a 30-year outlook for climate change adaptation. Additionally, we designed key systems featuring condensing appliances, variable speed hot water units, and air-cooled VRF systems with dedicated outdoor air ventilators and energy recovery. This approach aimed to maximize zone comfort control, boost energy efficiency, and minimize reliance on large rooftop units.

Awards
2024 Citation Award, AIA New England Excellence in Architecture
2024 Merit Award, BSA Design Excellence
2024 William D. Smith Commendation in Adaptive Reuse, BSA Design Excellence
2025 Preservation Achievement Award, Boston Preservation Alliance

COMPLETION YEAR

2023

CONSTRUCTION COST

$31 million

SIZE

55,000 square feet

PROJECT PARTNERS

designLab Architects

Project Photographer

Anton Grassl