Project

Revitalizing a 1960’s Brutalist Icon

Universal access and technological upgrades make Boston’s seat of government more inviting to the public

All
In Progress
Adaptive Reuse
FA Energy
Preservation
Civic
Development
Higher Ed
K-12
Religious
Boston City Hall Council Chambers

Boston City Hall Council Chambers

City of Boston
Boston, Massachusetts

Completed in 1968, City Hall is a leading example of Brutalist architecture in America, featuring exterior facades and interiors of exposed, cast-in-place concrete. Finegold Alexander strategically redesigned the Boston City Hall Council Chamber to enhance accessibility and upgrade the technology and building systems. To resolve code and access deficiencies, Finegold Alexander raised the council chamber floor, eliminating ramps and steps making accessibility in and round the space universal. Other key interventions include acoustical upgrades, technology and lighting improvements.

‍

(Photo credit: Raj Das Photography)

Size
3,500 SF
Scope
Renovation
Program
Council Chamber
Sustainability
Awards
2019 Boston Society of Architects, William D. Smith Memorial Award for Accessible Design
In the news
FA’s Accessible Designs are Recognized by the BSA
Project EUI
Interior view of Boston City Hall's Council Chamber, showing the accessibility improvements made by Finegold Alexander Architects, including the leveling off of the floors
Interior view of Boston City Hall Council Chambers, showing the poured-in-place concrete walls and concrete ceiling beams, typical of Brutalist architecture
No items found.
“The wheelchair seating area and the location of the podiums on each end provide real equity for people with disabilities… Thank you for eliminating a huge barrier to civic participation for people with disabilities.”
Commissioner Kristen McCosh, Mayor's Commission for Persons with Disabilities

‍

Interior view of Boston City Hall Council Chambers, showing clean, crisp modern finishes in this Modernist icon.
Interior view showing linear desk seating and stadium-step public gallery at the Boston City Hall Council Chambers, renovated by Finegold Alexander Architects
No items found.

The importance of the Council Chambers is signaled on the exterior of the iconic Boston City Hall. The Council Chambers are located at the paired windows, extending outward above the building's main entrance, at the right-hand side of this view. Its location is directly below the Boston City Hall inscription.

No items found.
“It has been wonderful to partner with this team to oversee renovations of theCity Council Chamber that will provide universal accessibility while honoring the iconic nature of City Hall’s architecture.”
Boston City Council President Michelle Wu
Boston City Hall Council Chambers
You may also like this
view other project categories
In Progress
FA Energy
Adaptive Reuse
Preservation
Civic
Religious
Higher Ed
K-12
Development