Preservation Massachusetts recently recognized VHB with two prestigious Mayor Thomas M. Menino Legacy Awards, acknowledging the firm's work on the Lincoln School in Brockton and the McElwain School in Bridgewater. These awards celebrate organizations dedicated to revitalizing historic areas and fostering community change through sustainable, innovative designs. Both projects represent historical preservation integrated with modern community needs, illustrating VHB’s dedication to creating spaces that support vibrant, enduring communities.
Cultivating Community Through Historic Preservation: The Lincoln School
VHB’s comprehensive approach to historic preservation seamlessly integrates with community development, as demonstrated by the firm’s work on the Lincoln School in Brockton. Originally an 1890s-era educational landmark, the Lincoln School has been remodeled into a contemporary senior housing complex comprising 37 apartment homes for local Brocktonians. Working alongside NeighborWorks Housing Solutions, VHB played a key role in transforming this historic site into affordable housing for seniors, now known as “The Lincoln.”
VHB’s Cultural Resources team was instrumental in preserving the Romanesque Revival architecture of the school. Initially constructed in 1896 and expanded in 1911, our team worked to retain the building’s historic character by focusing on preserving the intricate masonry, terra cotta inserts, and historic tin ceiling tiles. This preservation effort is emblematic of Brockton’s rich historical narrative, serving as a catalyst for future community growth.
Despite logistical challenges, including pandemic-related supply issues, VHB crafted innovative solutions to retain the building’s historical authenticity. Preservation efforts included salvaging original bricks and securing approvals for synthetic slate roofing. These solutions preserved historical integrity while meeting modern standards.
Read more about our work on the Lincoln School.
Revitalizing History: The McElwain School Apartments Project
VHB's work on the McElwain School project further illustrated the firm’s dedication to historic preservation. Collaborating with MPZ Development LLC and Capstone Communities Development LLC, VHB played an integral role in restoring the former McElwain School into a dynamic, mixed-income residential community. The historic school has been adapted into 16 residential units, with 38 additional new units with amenities in a separate building constructed on the site, now known collectively as the “McElwain School Apartments.” An adjacent ca. 1860 house and barn were also renovated into three apartments for additional living space while retaining the residential setting.
The project adhered to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation, preserving the building’s architectural integrity using historic tax credits. This included installing historically appropriate replica windows and refurbishing original wood paneling and staircases throughout. An added energy-efficient building complemented the historic design, achieving PHIUS passive house certification with a solar array and underscoring a commitment to sustainability.
Leveraging tax credits and a variety of funding sources, this public-private partnership with the Town of Bridgewater was pivotal to the success of the project. The McElwain School project highlights VHB's dedication to merging heritage with modernity, fostering community growth and preserving cultural history.
Read more about VHB’s Cultural Resources Team and other projects highlighting our historic preservation efforts across New England.
