A New Hub for Tech Innovation

Atlantic Management Corporation
MetroWest Area, MA

Developers Atlantic Management sought to transform a former pharmaceutical center near Boston into a new innovation hub aimed at attracting ambitious tech tenants. The newly opened campus—now home to a global technology firm—is a major part of this transformation. 

With its modern workplace amenities, parking, landscaped trails, easy access to nature, and nearby commuter rail station, the campus is already proving a magnet for the rich talent pool of engineers in the greater Boston area.

Employee entering large robotics research building via side entrance

The heart of the site is a 357,000 square foot facility that provides a vast stage for the tenant’s research and manufacturing programs. Formed of a large addition to a smaller existing warehouse, the new building contains high-grade research and development (R&D) labs, offices, and a manufacturing space served by expanded loading docks.

Person taking a phone call on the roof terrace at Westborough robotics center

 

Corporate lobby at Westborough robotics building with digital clock and environmental graphics

Entry pavilion with landscaped garden at Westborough technology center

The building's design embraces the full scale of the project: On each side, a subtle gradient emphasizes the sheer length of the façade. At the main entrance, employees and visitors are welcomed by an entry pavilion, distinct from from the rest of the building as a bold frame. The pavilion reaches out into the landscape, serving as both a shelter for the front door and as an amenity roof terrace above.

Wide angle shot of entrance to Westborough robotics center in Massachusetts

The building’s core and shell points the way to a better, more sustainable design approach for light industrial, mixed-use buildings. Using simple components, SMMA’s architects and engineers were able to maximize the building’s thermal performance, easily exceeding strict local stretch codes. The design also features a large PV-ready roof (165,300 sf), offering enormous energy potential in the years and decades to come.

  

Main entrance to Westborough robotics center with office cube in background

Above: Seen in the background (left), The Cube offers additional space for office workers and engineers. The tenant relied on this building for the first phase of their relocation from another facility.

Employee wellness is well catered for by a large dining area and roof terrace overlooking a landscaped garden. Nearby, integrated walking trails offer a chance to explore the site, exercise, and connect with the natural beauty of the area.

 

 

Aerial view of Westborough robotics research hub with Hocomonco pond in foreground

The development places great emphasis on preserving the natural beauty of the 66-acre site. Employees and visitors can explore a specially designed network of walking trails that wind through a mature landscape of preserved woodland and meadows. To the south, a large pond offers a retreat from the main facility, bordered by walking paths that connect to existing Town trails.

“We made sure that all development remains in areas that have already been developed and that we aren’t disturbing the natural landscape,” explains Brian Lawlor, Project Director.

The campus is served by two of the MetroWest area’s major road and rail arteries: Route 9 and the Boston-to-Worcester commuter rail. Employees enjoy access to extensive on-site parking and a 12-minute walk to the nearest rail station.

Site map of Atlantic Management property in MetroWest area

  

Exterior view of Westborough robotics center lit up at night