One Canal by Breakthrough

Breakthrough Properties, a leading global developer, owner, and operator of life sciences real estate, acquired One Canal in 2021 to transform it into a world-class life science research center catering to biotech companies in the heart of Cambridge’s renowned innovation hub.

Originally built in 1983 and recently renovated in 2015, One Canal’s goal was to reposition it as a new, modern lab and office space. This transformation emphasizes not only high-quality architectural and interior design, exceptional hospitality, and exemplary operational excellence but also a strong commitment to sustainability, as evidenced by its pursuit of LEED Gold, Fitwel, and WELL certifications.

After providing comprehensive due diligence support, TRIA began designing the building with a new lobby, fitness center, restrooms, storage room, and loading dock. It also required new infrastructure that could support future tenants’ scientific research, including a new roof infrastructure, a new first-floor base building mechanical room, an expanded first-floor electrical room, new lab shafts supporting central utilities and exhaust air, a new freight elevator, loading dock expansion,  lab and office pipe chases, and more.  TRIA continued with the fit-out of speculative suites.

Influenced by the adjacent Lechmere Canal Park, the hospitality-centric design concept focuses on blending art and science into modern yet natural sophistication. In addition to the flexible spec lab and office layouts, where scientists can glimpse the Museum of Science and Charles River, the amenities include a modern lounge, collaboration spaces on two floors, a unique winter garden that provides a serene escape, and a high-quality fitness center equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.

project location

Cambridge, MA

Project size

112,000  SF

services

Building Repositioning
Planning & Programming
Lab Design
Renderings
Interior Design
Sustainable Design

Breakthrough Properties, a leading global developer, owner, and operator of life sciences real estate, acquired One Canal in 2021 to transform it into a world-class life science research center catering to biotech companies in the heart of Cambridge’s renowned innovation hub.

Originally built in 1983 and recently renovated in 2015, One Canal’s goal was to reposition it as a new, modern lab and office space. This transformation emphasizes not only high-quality architectural and interior design, exceptional hospitality, and exemplary operational excellence but also a strong commitment to sustainability, as evidenced by its pursuit of LEED Gold, Fitwel, and WELL certifications.

After providing comprehensive due diligence support, TRIA began designing the building with a new lobby, fitness center, restrooms, storage room, and loading dock. It also required new infrastructure that could support future tenants’ scientific research, including a new roof infrastructure, a new first-floor base building mechanical room, an expanded first-floor electrical room, new lab shafts supporting central utilities and exhaust air, a new freight elevator, loading dock expansion,  lab and office pipe chases, and more.  TRIA continued with the fit-out of speculative suites.

Influenced by the adjacent Lechmere Canal Park, the hospitality-centric design concept focuses on blending art and science into modern yet natural sophistication. In addition to the flexible spec lab and office layouts, where scientists can glimpse the Museum of Science and Charles River, the amenities include a modern lounge, collaboration spaces on two floors, a unique winter garden that provides a serene escape, and a high-quality fitness center equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.

BXP – 103 CityPoint

BXP is a developer, owner, and manager of premier workplaces with a mission to envision, develop, and manage exceptional properties that enhance client success, strengthen communities, and advance opportunity. For its seventh property located within a one-mile radius along Rte. 128, BXP wanted to create a destination where all operational aspects of research and development are integrated under one roof, moving away from the traditional separation of manufacturing. This speculative building aims to reshape corporate culture for science and technology tenants, energizing its workforce and accelerating growth.

For innovators who value speed-to-market, 103 CityPoint, LEED Silver-certified, was meticulously designed for adaptability. It can accommodate office, lab, and cGMP spaces for single or multiple tenants. The building’s four-story exterior is a testament to the innovative spirit that lies within, showcasing a blend of rigid geometry, translucent glass, and captivating lighting. At night, its façade becomes a dynamic light canvas with over 700 feet of color-changing LEDs. allowing customized displays to celebrate holidays, support local organizations, or add vibrancy to the community that has become a prominent urban edge submarket.

Notably, the lab and office floors provide column-free floor plates, 50-ft. clear structural spans, 16-ft. floor-to-floor heights, and a façade designed around ideal lab modules, providing the utmost flexibility for a tenant’s design. Additionally, the 25,000+ SF cGMP area offers a double-height shell space to accommodate many needs.

The interior design of 103 CityPoint seamlessly blends the modern lines of its exterior with a fresh, vibrant, and elegant aesthetic. The lobby and café are inviting spaces that foster connection, featuring biophilic design elements such as an illuminated green wall adorned with moss framed in white and smoked glass accents. These elements not only enhance the space’s appeal but also promote well-being, creating a harmonious environment that is sure to inspire potential lessees.

The project began with a detailed study before proceeding with base services.  For more information, click here to see our Insights.

LOCATION

Waltham, MA

SIZE

113,000 SF

services

New Construction
Process Architecture
Sustainable Design
Lab Design
Speculative Design
Interior Design

BXP is a developer, owner, and manager of premier workplaces with a mission to envision, develop, and manage exceptional properties that enhance client success, strengthen communities, and advance opportunity. For its seventh property located within a one-mile radius along Rte. 128, BXP wanted to create a destination where all operational aspects of research and development are integrated under one roof, moving away from the traditional separation of manufacturing. This speculative building aims to reshape corporate culture for science and technology tenants, energizing its workforce and accelerating growth.

For innovators who value speed-to-market, 103 CityPoint, LEED Silver-certified, was meticulously designed for adaptability. It can accommodate office, lab, and cGMP spaces for single or multiple tenants. The building’s four-story exterior is a testament to the innovative spirit that lies within, showcasing a blend of rigid geometry, translucent glass, and captivating lighting. At night, its façade becomes a dynamic light canvas with over 700 feet of color-changing LEDs. allowing customized displays to celebrate holidays, support local organizations, or add vibrancy to the community that has become a prominent urban edge submarket. Check out the nighttime show here!

Notably, the lab and office floors provide column-free floor plates, 50-ft. clear structural spans, 16-ft. floor-to-floor heights, and a façade designed around ideal lab modules, providing the utmost flexibility for a tenant’s design. Additionally, the 25,000+ SF cGMP area offers a double-height shell space to accommodate many needs.

The interior design of 103 CityPoint seamlessly blends the modern lines of its exterior with a fresh, vibrant, and elegant aesthetic. The lobby and café are inviting spaces that foster connection, featuring biophilic design elements such as an illuminated green wall adorned with moss framed in white and smoked glass accents. These elements not only enhance the space’s appeal but also promote well-being, creating a harmonious environment that is sure to inspire potential lessees.

The project began with a detailed study before proceeding with base services.  For more information, click here to see our Insights.

Xyleco

This project was a conceptual design study for an addition/renovation to an existing building. The client’s primary objective was to create a bold statement and incorporate an identity for its world headquarters. The design brings natural light into the office space, providing a bright work environment for employees. Heavy materials at the base give the building a strong appearance and provide privacy, while glass at the higher elevations makes for a modern and technical feel.

Location

Wakefield, MA

Size

80,000 SF

SERVICES

Conceptual design

Xyleco is a scientific research and manufacturing company that aims to develop a process to convert biomass into useful products, including cellulosic ethanol.
This project was a conceptual design study for an addition/renovation to an existing building. The client’s primary objective was to create a bold statement and incorporate an identity for its world headquarters. The design brings natural light into the office space, providing a bright work environment for employees. Heavy materials at the base give the building a strong appearance and provide privacy, while glass at higher elevations makes for a modern and technical feel.