Finegold Alexander is pleased to announce The First Church of Christ, Scientist project and the Lower Basin Barracks project are recipients of the 2024 Boston Preservation Alliance Preservation Achievement Award.  

The First Church of Christ, Scientist - The Mother Church sits at the center of the Christian Science Center Plaza, the largest privately owned, publicly accessible open space in the City of Boston. Simpson Gumpertz & Heger (SGH) was the building envelope and structural engineer for the restoration of the building exterior, while Finegold Alexander Architects served as the architect for the interior restoration work. Shawmut Design and Construction served as the construction manager, tasked with implementing the preservation work to restore the building to its original vision while leaving behind no trace of the extensive work that was completed. 

“All historic places are special, but some are so unique and extravagant that their care requires an exceptional level of stewardship. The expertise, dedication, and resources committed to the restoration of the Mother Church are laudable, and ensure that this incredible historic resource will be treasured for decades to come.”

     - Alison Frazee, Executive Director of the Boston Preservation Alliance

The Lower Basin Barracks project revitalized the Charles River Lower Locks gatehouse, preserving its history while optimizing it for public use. Collaboration with key stakeholders, including DCAMM, MSP, DCR, and the public, ensured an inclusive, community-focused approach. The expansion features a public lobby, restrooms, a versatile community room, and restored historic elements, integrating seamlessly with the original building.

“The Lower Basin Barracks project captures all elements of historic preservation. Through restoration of historic fabric, the addition of a sensitively-designed new structure, “green” upgrades, and the re-introduction of public open space, this project represents the many ways that preservation benefits our communities and should be the default approach to development in a historic city like Boston.”

     - Alison Frazee, Executive Director of the Boston Preservation Alliance

As experts in historic preservation, this recognition stands as a tribute to our remarkable ability to preserve and celebrate historic architecture to best serve local communities.

Learn more about the Lower Basin Barracks and The First Church of Christ, Scientist!