The building begins by engaging with the landscape. A large deck wraps around the western facade, extending the Concord Riverwalk to the corner of East Merrimack St, bringing visitors together along the building’s exterior. A series of terraces create distinct moments throughout the site and form connections with the interior program. 

Each space within the building is arranged around a central atrium, prompting visitors to engage in activities around the perimeter and then convene in the center. This constant flow of movement, in and out between these zones, creates opportunities for encounters, engagement, observation, and discussion. 

In addition to the spatial arrangement on each level, the building’s vertical design is equally important to the comprehensive experience. Exhibition spaces and a shared, public making space directly engage the community at the ground level. Visitors are given an introduction to the making process and are given a chance to see the building’s creations on display. On the second level, learning and exposure to making continues and younger or less experienced makers can engage in introductory classes where they’ll be taught the basic uses and functions of various crafts. The third level reflects the arrangement of these same craft spaces but becomes more advanced in function. Here, experienced makers are able to work on their own projects independently and without supervision. 

As a whole, the Lowell Makerspace creates continuous opportunities for interactions between three facets of Lowell’s community. There’s a constant learning experience as interested visitors, aspiring makers, and professional craftsmen move in and out of each space, engaging with each other and exposing each other to a diverse range of work. The building gives Lowell a chance to further interconnect and grow its community through the various processes of making.

Design for Equitable Communities

Community and collaboration were the driving forces behind the Lowell Makerspace and were prioritized within every aspect of the building’s design. It was especially important not only to design a space for experienced craftspeople but also for those who may be new or have a budding interest in making. Incorporating spaces for people with a range of skill levels and combining those different groups under one roof encourages a diverse exchange of knowledge, culture, views, and experiences. As visitors grow and progress through the building, learning from others and inspiring future makers, the Lowell community grows along with them.

Design for Economy

The Lowell Makerspace, through its function, flexibility, and material selection, aims to reduce overall costs and create lasting value for the community. Cross-laminated timber, wood columns, and engineered wood beams comprise the building’s structural systems, reducing labor costs by allowing faster installation on site. Passive and active systems were also implemented into the design, reducing energy costs throughout the building’s lifetime. Programmatic flexibility was another significant consideration, maximizing longevity by allowing for future adaptations or changes in use. Finally, economic value is directly generated through the building’s function, where Lowell residents can create products, network within the local community, and grow their businesses.

Design for Energy

Energy efficiency was heavily prioritized within the building’s design. Cross-laminated timber was chosen as the primary construction material because of its low embodied carbon, ease of transportation and construction, and reduced waste on site. The exterior wall assembly was developed using an energy modeling program to provide proper insulation, ensure air tightness, and minimize thermal bridging. The roof's angle and orientation maximizes photovoltaic potential and its large cantilever maximizes shading during the summer months. Lastly, operable, overhead doors create opportunities for passive cooling and cross ventilation.