BOSTON– Boston-based Finegold Alexander Architects announced the firm has received a Gold-level award in the Facilities III category from OFFICER Magazine’s Officer Station Design Award (OSDA) program for its renovation of the historic 1908 Lower Basin Barracks for the Massachusetts State Police.
The accolade recognizes outstanding architecture and design in law enforcement and public safety facilities nationwide.
The 15,000 SF renovation and addition project, which was completed in 2023, revitalized an undersized facility that had been in significant disrepair to support the State Police with current and future mission requirements. Preserving the historic fabric of the building, Finegold Alexander modernized its existing structure and created additional space for the consolidation of the State Police troops and closure of the Upper Basin Barracks. Tracking LEED Silver certification, the design features an all-electric HVAC system, interior light shelves to maximize daylighting and a public green space that serves as a gateway to Boston’s Esplanade.
The building, prominently located in the Lower Charles River Basin, functions as the only state police facility for Boston and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Finegold Alexander worked alongside the Massachusetts Historical Commission and the Boston Landmarks Commission to create a space that is welcoming and accessible to the public, with maximized parkland for public recreation, conference space available for use by local community groups, safe pedestrian and bicycle circulation, and uninterrupted views of the Charles River.
As experts in historic preservation, this recognition stands as a tribute to Finegold Alexander’s remarkable ability to breathe new life into important public spaces.
“Our team is honored to receive this recognition for our efforts to expand and modernize the Lower Basin Barracks,” said Finegold Alexander Principal Ellen Anselone. “We are proud to have played a role in creating a sustainable and state-of-the-art facility that will serve the Boston community for years to come.
Finegold Alexander has a vast portfolio of civic projects across the greater New England region, including the Lowell Justice Center, Fall River Justice Center, and the Boston City Hall Council Chambers. The firm is a leader in adapting and preserving historic spaces to best serve local communities.
