74 Union Park Street
Owner: Cathedral High School
Architect: CBT Architects
MEP Engineer: Fitzemeyer & Tocci Associates, Inc.
Structural Engineer: Souza True & Partners
Construction Manager: Payton Construction Corporation
 
Surrounded by the 1875 neo-Gothic Cathedral of the Holy Cross and a commercial district, Cathedral High School’s new gymnasium is a strong contemporary contributor to Washington Street’s varied architecture.  The four-story brick building meets the goals of the Washington Gateway Initiative, which requires that new development create an active streetscape along a rapidly evolving urban corridor.  CBT Architect’s design of the gymnasium succeeds by reflecting the neighborhood’s architectural identity while addressing the MBTA’s Silver Line shelters with a combination of brick and metal facades. The athletic activity that takes place in the brightly lit interior enlivens the entire block through tall glass doors and clerestory windows.

“The Cathedral High School Gymnasium draws successfully from the collection of historic buildings around it, but also stands out as a high quality piece of architecture that reflects the era in which it was built,” said Sarah D. Kelly, Executive Director of the Boston Preservation Alliance.

Courtesy of Robert Benson