Kaplan Construction completed the 12,000 s/f sustainable Brookline Teen Center (BTC), at 40 Aspinwall Ave.
The BTC celebrated its grand opening on Sept. 15, the culmination of an eight-month-long Kaplan renovation project that transformed a former auto body garage into a modern environment for teens. Serving grades 9 through 12, the BTC features a bowling alley, gym, recording studio, lounge, outdoor patio, café, aerobics dance studio, game rooms, and study hall.
For decades, the offerings in after-school public youth programming were almost non-existent in Brookline - with no dedicated youth center, YMCA, or Boys and Girls Club within town limits. In 2008, Brookline High School social worker Paul Epstein set out to change that, enlisting Kaplan Construction's help. While providing budgeting and planning services, Kaplan worked with the project's teen interns and volunteers. Educating them about the construction process and space planning mock-ups helped both the interns and client understand the potential of the building site. Kaplan was ultimately selected to provide construction management services for the BTC in 2012.
Architectural design for the BTC was provided by studio MLA Architects and GMI Architects. Additional project team members included GLC Development Resources/Stantec, RSE Associates, and WSP Flack & Kurtz.
"Kaplan Construction was truly our partner in realizing the vision for the Brookline Teen Center," said BTC director Matthew Cooney. "Kaplan's deep roots in Brookline and their dedication to our community, combined with the company's tremendous construction expertise, have helped this neighborhood come together to create a place for local youth to learn, grow, and have fun."
The BTC features many environmentally-responsible elements including the use of sustainable building materials, water-efficient practices, and a green mechanical and electrical system within a more energy-efficient exterior envelope. The project is expected to achieve LEED certification.