Boston Athletic association

Hopkinton, MA

GRLA renovated One Ash Street, home to the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) which organizes the Boston Marathon. Built in 1900, this 9,000 square foot historic building is located on Route 135 next to the famous Boston Marathon start line in Hopkinton.

GRLA worked closely with the B.A.A. to design a new floor plan and layout for an expanded display area to house their collection of memorabilia and pay homage to the history of the Boston Marathon through a museum-like experience. The renovated space includes an open display room, an archive room and storage areas to support B.A.A. events as well as a new lounge, fitness room and collaboration and meeting spaces.

Accessibility was a central focal point for this renovation project, with the aim of ensuring inclusion for all. As a result, various exterior improvements were implemented, including the addition of designated accessible parking spaces, a gently sloped walkway to accommodate easier entry, and automatic door openers for convenience. In addition, the interior upgrades consist of two new ADA-compliant restrooms, a lift installed for access to the second floor, and the enlargement of all doors to provide universal access.

Construction completed by Votze-Butler Associates.