Cambridge, 1. Restaurant

Cambridge, Massachusetts
BSA Award for Design
Architect: Anmahian Winton Associates, Inc.

Renovation of this historic firehouse (Station #1) in the heart of Harvard Square turned an old building into a sleek, modern restaurant and bar featuring cherry wall paneling, concrete floors and lab counters and tables. Special attention was given to sophisticated lighting, the audio-video system, and ceiling acoustics. When it opened in 2002, The Boston Globe said, "From the faux-slate tabletops and unisex bathrooms to the minimalist menu and the comma in the middle of its name, this place reeks of hip." Marc Truant & Associates, Inc.'s staff maintained a tight building schedule by working closely and cooperatively with local authorities to assure compliance with city ordinances, commissions and regulations. The grill, located within the dining area, presented regulatory challenges which Truant met by leading a team of system designers and local building and fire authorities to develop a unique ventilation and fire protection solution.

Photographs: Peter Vanderwarker