Brown Social Science Center, designed by Benjamin Thompson of The Architects Collaborative and constructed in the 1960’s, is part of a three-building complex. The building’s envelope and infrastructure were in need of substantial renewal. Finegold Alexander provided an initial feasibility study, focused on these areas as well as accessibility, energy use and the potential for select program enhancements. The design provided for new glazing systems, complete systems replacement, a connecting addition to the Schwartz Auditorium building which enabled accessibility not only for Brown, but also the upper auditorium level. The connector also provided space for two additional meeting/conference areas, expansion of the anthropology lab, and increasing the office count – all achieved despite the very modest scale of the addition. The envelope and systems work brings the building in closer alignment with Brandeis University’s campus-wide carbon reduction goals. Common areas received new finishes, in many cases removing finishes that concealed original exposed structure.