What is most exciting for us at STA is working with people and organizations like MassRobotics, who are making such immense contributions to the world through innovation. MassRobotics is an independent, non-profit organization serving as the innovation hub for robotics and connected devices. Through programming and events, they help bring together innovative startups and existing technology organizations to nurture the next generation of talent, and promote economic growth and innovation. By working with diverse local talent, they are helping to bring about the next global evolution of robotics.
In addition to supporting startup companies, MassRobotics has an extensive reach to the community and to children. They created the Jumpstart Fellowship Program to provide opportunities for diverse Massachusetts high school girls to learn about careers in robotics and develop their professional networks through direct engagement with industry professionals. The goal is to help develop a more inclusive technical workforce by preparing diverse talent in high school to pursue careers in STEM and robotics. They also host one of the world’s largest festivals around all things robotic, showcasing the latest in autonomous vehicles, drones, and the future of work and homes.
DESIGN
The project is a 25,000 square foot expansion of MassRobotics’ existing space at 12 Channel Street in Boston’s Innovation District. Although STA has designed many incubator / co work / innovation spaces, we know that there is no “one size fits all” in the design of any space. Understanding the unique needs of this community and the specific requirements for working in robotics was key. Our inclusive design process included town halls and vision sessions with the MassRobotics management, the entrepreneurs, specialty services providers, (and the occasional robot passing by to remind us that they were occupants too!).
Design challenges included creating an adaptable space for a range of uses, including public areas – a flexible event space and cafe; and private company areas, including Adaptable office and lab space, an electronics lab, mechanical workshop, Industrial Automation Lab and a Human-Robot Interaction Lab.
One of the key design elements is a striking red “ribbon” that leads people (and robots) through the space, taking on various forms. It starts as painted coffers in the ceiling, continues into the labs as a safety walkway, then transforms into a sculptural acoustic element in the common areas. The ribbon guides visitors on a tour through the space, and also celebrate the MassRobotics brand. The event space is designed with glazed garage doors that transform the space into a large gathering collaboration space.
Watch the MassRobotics Walkthrough Here!
INTEGRATING ROBOTICS INTO THE PROCESS
The construction process integrated innovative use of cutting-edge technologies that MassRobotics supports, demonstrating the importance of these technologies in the future of the AEC industry. The mural in the main lobby was created by Artaic, a robotic mosaic company, and painting of key walls was completed by a robotic painter.
CELEBRATING THE OUTCOME, A PARTY WITH ROBOTS!
In January 2020, MassRobotics celebrated the opening of the new facility with Governor Charlie Baker, Mayor Marty Walsh, the MassRobotics team, and the ribbon was cut by – a robot! The celebration continued with tours of the space, and the robots even broke out in a dance! We are so fortunate to have partnered with MassRobotics to create a space to foster innovation and impact.
The client team noted that the design team “did a wonderful job incorporating our community’s feedback in coming up with a beautiful yet functional design”.
