Studio Luz Architecture and Urban Design

The Grand Opening of Sociedad Latina

By funkhaus

Sociedad Latina will have its grand opening on September 22nd, 2022, welcoming in its neighbors in Mission Hill and Roxbury, Massachusetts. After purchasing what is now the organization’s headquarters in 2017, the team dedicated itself to raising funds to renovate the space into the dynamic community hub it is now. Studio Luz Architects played a huge role in building the organization’s capacity and bolstering its stability. In providing design services that ranged from a feasibility study to full architectural services, we assisted the organization in winning a Community Preservation Act grant in 2019 which totaled $850,000 to renovate the historic structure and to upgrade its building system. This allowed Sociedad Latina to remain within its original community – taking full ownership of the property to avoid trends of displacement in the area. In support of the mission to celebrate and cultivate youth leadership and Latinx culture, the new design by Studio Luz reimagines innovative spaces that can inform and inspire the next generation of students.

Interior photo of art room and steam lab – Hannah Latham Photography

We are proud to be part of creating a transformative space for Latinx youth. The first floor of the renovated building houses an expansive performance space, a state-of-the-art recording studio and ensemble room, and an innovative STEAM Lab/Makerspace for multi-disciplinary classes, exhibits, and guest lectures in STEM. The applied arts classes live on the third floor, which can be reached through the addition of an accessible elevator. Individual and small group meeting rooms are available for mentoring and tutoring with the aim of preparing Latinx and immigrant youth for robust postsecondary pathways and careers in Boston’s thriving creative and innovation sectors.

 

While the COVID-19 pandemic limited community assembly and access to new technology, resources, and free programming, this renovation is breathing new life into Sociedad Latina’s goal of ensuring the youth in their neighborhoods have continued access to enriching, transformative experiences that improve their lives and communities.

Interior photo of art room and steam lab – Hannah Latham Photography

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