Historic Preservation & Adaptive Re-use

The former North Prospect Church was purchased by Lesley University in 2006 when the church's congregation decided to merge with another church in Medford.  Built in Harvard Square in 1845 and moved to its current location in 1867, the church was designed by local architect Isaac Melvin in the Greek Revival style with Egyptian Revival details.

In 2009, and with Lesley University’s support, the Cambridge City Council adopted a recommendation by the Cambridge Historical Commission to designate the building an historic landmark.  This designation recognizes the former church’s unique historic value as an example of period architecture worthy of preservation and mandates that changes to the structure be approved by the Cambridge Historical Commission.

The building’s historical significance was a significant factor in selecting the Cambridge-based architectural firm of Bruner/Cott & Associates which has vast experience in designing both art-related projects as well as a significant body of work in respectfully restoring historic structures and giving them new purpose.

In creating a new facility for AIB, lead architect Simeon Bruner seeks to increase the visibility of the church as a landmark in Porter Square while integrating it into a new complex for the Art Institute.

Lesley University will present plans to the Cambridge Historical Commission this summer, seeking a Certificate of Appropriateness for proposed restoration and relocation of the church as the centerpiece of a new center for the arts.

Plans include moving the structure south on its parcel, restoring its original relationship to the ground and creating an Arts Plaza on Massachusetts Avenue, between the church and a new four story building on the corner of Massachusetts Avenue and Roseland Street. A two story glass-enclosed connector building on the east side of the side will sensitively link with the church at its north transept. When moved in 1867, the church was raised onto an artificial mound to accommodate a new ground-level floor. This also necessitated a steep set of stairs to access the front doors. Lowering the building to its 1845 height and restoring its original steps will re-engage the front doors as a welcoming entry for students and the community. The church building itself will house an arts library, accessible to the public, and the exterior will become an open plaza on Massachusetts Avenue. 

In addition to these major design components, close examination is being given to other restoration opportunities. The building, now over 160 years old, is in a state of disrepair following decades of alterations and deferred maintenance. The present steeple, added in 1964 after lightning destroyed its predecessor, is incongruous in scale and design. The building's clapboards and stained-glass windows are in need of repair and restoration. Some structural damage, roof repairs, missing or damaged architectural ornament and other restorations all present challenges to future use – but also opportunities to restore significant aspects of the building as it begins its new life as a center of learning and artistic exploration.