Vantage Builders completes expansion for Radius Innovation

Waltham, MA Vantage Builders, Inc., a general contracting and construction firm, completed the expansion of the corporate headquarters of Radius Innovation & Development, at the Watch Factory, 221 Crescent St.

Radius, a global innovation and development consultancy firm specializing in the healthcare, consumer, commercial equipment, and packaging industries, needed to increase its space in the Watch Factory to keep up with increased demand for its expertise. Building ownership, Berkeley Investments Inc., hired Vantage for the 4,040 s/f project.

Following designs by LaFreniere Architects, Vantage Builders expanded Radius’ footprint in the building, keeping construction noise to a minimum so as to not disrupt the very active work environment. The new space includes an assembly area, workshop, and test lab where Radius team members craft product models and functional prototypes. They also perform small scale builds and verification testing for clients through sculpting and forming, machining, thermo-forming, additive manufacturing, and a variety of other techniques.

An observation room and usability lab provides a space to conduct market research and observe clients testing and using new products. The room features a one-way mirror and high-end audio/visual equipment.

Efficient lighting installed throughout helps create a bright atmosphere. Carpeting was installed in the common areas and conference room, while VCT (vinyl composition tile) was placed in the workshops. Vantage renovated the kitchen area with new counters, millwork and paint.

The new floorplan required a rework of the sprinkler, fire alarm and HVAC systems, including the addition of an exhaust fan with ductwork up to the second-floor roof. Compressed air lines were installed from the utility room to 13 outlets throughout the new space.

The project team included LaFreniere Architects, engineering services from Zade Associates and audio/visual and data work by DGI Communications.

“In order to best support our diverse set of clients in their goals of successfully bringing new, innovative products to market, we needed to expand our corporate office,” said Ryan Hall, director of innovation, Radius. “Our staff includes brand and product strategists, researchers, human factors specialists, designers, engineers, and quality and implementation professionals, each of whom need the proper work, lab and collaboration space to effectively solve our client’s needs. Vantage Builders completed the project professionally and on time.”