Martini Northern has been awarded the 2008 Merit Award from PLAN NH in recognition of its role in the adaptive reuse of the McConnell Community Center. Martini Northern, the city of Dover and Lassel Architects were recognized for their commitment to sustainable, smart growth and the enhancement of the surrounding neighborhood.
"Development is not about bricks and mortar but about creating a sense of community," said Jim Pereira, director of project development for Martini Northern. "It's really gratifying to recycle existing, historic buildings, particularly for the benefit of all the local residents."
The McConnell Center renovation involved a $6.4 million rehabilitation of a former school facility into a multi-generational human service based community center.
The project combined smart growth, social responsibility and a partnership with the city. The center now houses human service agencies and nonprofits focusing on health, education, recreation and culture.