Milton Fire Headquarters Groundbreaking

On Tuesday, June 14th members of the community gathered around Milton’s Fire Department Headquarters to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new fire station, designed by Context Architecture. The new station will replace the Town’s outdated headquarters, and represents a first step in Milton’s $32.5 million effort to modernize three aging fire stations - elements of which date back to 1878.

Milton’s current Fire Chief Christopher Madden was accompanied by three former chiefs (Jack Grant, Malcolm Larson, and Don Affanato) in kicking off the ceremony. Members of the Select Board, the Fire Station Building Committee, and children from Milton’s Centre School were also present.

The Town of Milton was in search of an architectural firm that could handle the complexity of designing and constructing three distinct fire stations simultaneously, with the possibility of a new construction or addition/renovation for each station.

Context Architecture planned two of the fire stations while searching for a site for the remaining third. Taking into consideration scheduling, logistics, cost, and budgetary constraints, the final designs for the Headquarters, Atherton, and East Milton stations are especially contextual, working well with the Town’s character and historic significance.

Our team looks forward to collaborating with the Town of Milton and is proud of being part of this revitalization process.

Andover Ballardvale Fire Station Receives CMAA-NE Project Achievement Award

We are pleased to announce that the Andover Ballardvale Historic District’s new Fire Station has received a CMAA-NE Project Achievement Award! Each year, CMAA-NE (the Construction Management Association of America, New England Chapter) recognizes various projects and corresponding project teams for exemplary work in the realm of construction management. PMA Consultants was the CM for this project, and they did some truly wonderful work for the Town of Andover. This three bay apparatus garage replaces the old one bay station, with new crew quarters and a training room (tripling the capacity of the existing conditions).

Context Architecture worked closely with the town’s historic district committee in order to integrate the new station into the town’s historical environment. Context also provided significant input into the public approvals process, attending dozens of public meetings. Our team worked hard to ensure that the Town was well-informed, the tight-knit Ballardvale neighborhood felt listened to, and the project successfully passed Town Meeting.

“We're in a position to better serve this area of the community in South Andover in a way that we haven't been able to do in the past few years. Now we have lots of space to house much more equipment and free up space in our other two stations so they aren't so cramped”, adds Chief Michael Mansfield.

Thanks to the very capable team over at PMA Consultants! For more information on this project please visit:

Andover Ballardvale Fire Station

Mattapoisett's Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

The long-awaited ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the completion of Mattapoisett’s new fire station designed by Context Architecture was held on Saturday, December 11, 2021 to a full house of visitors from around the community.

This new Fire Headquarters replaces Mattapoisett’s 1952 3-bay 1-1/2 stories station. The former amenity was unable to house an apparatus and did not provide adequate living and sleeping facilities. Through the programming phase, Context was able to design a facility that provided all the program needs for the department while staying within the town’s budget.

The design utilized the flatter portions of the site and reconstructed the contours to allow for a drive-through five-bay apparatus room while maintaining a site and landscape design well suited to Mattapoisett’s natural landscape. Situated on a prominent street (County Rd.) the station is designed with its front entrance facing Hubbard’s Way, a neighborhood street.

Andrew Murray, Fire Chief

Other improvements that are brought by the new fire station include proper ventilation and cleaning equipment that will reduce the amount of pollution and carcinogens that firefighters are exposed to; enough space to house all the department’s trucks and equipment (previously spread between five separate locations around town); adequate office space, training facilities and overnight accommodations; and an on-site machine that can refill oxygen tanks.

Jordan Collyer, Selectman Chairman

Click here to read more about this event.

Chelsea’s City Hall Clock Tower Restorations Concluded

Context Architecture has led multiple renovations of Chelsea’s City Hall over the last several years. One of these renovations was of the City Hall Clock Tower. In collaboration with the City’s Public Facilities Department, we conducted a detailed investigation of the Clock Tower to determine its condition.

The study revealed that the tower needed extensive repairs. We worked closely with the Commissioner of Public Works to develop the scope for the restoration of exterior masonry, repairs to terra cotta and precast stones, repointing and repairs to brick mortar, repairs of metal flashing, general cleaning and removal of soiling, gilding of the cupola/dome, reconstruction of missing urns, interior tower masonry restoration (including full repointing), repairs to the clock faces, and replacement of its wooden staircase.

We are proud to have helped the City of Chelsea restore and preserve this important civic landmark.

For more information on this project please visit:

Chelsea Clock Tower

Andover BallardVale Opens New Fire Station

Andover BallardVale’s Historic District new Fire Station has a three bay apparatus garage that replaces the old one bay station and a new modern crew quarters along with a training room (tripling the capacity of the existing conditions). Context Architecture worked closely with the town’s historic district committee in order to integrate the new station into the town’s historical environment.

Context also provided significant input into the public approvals process, attending dozens of public meetings. Our team worked hard to ensure that the Town was well-informed, the tight-knit Ballardvale neighborhood felt listened, and the project successfully passed Town Meeting.

“We're in a position to better serve this area of the community in south Andover in a way that we haven't been able to do in the past few years. Now we have lots of space to house much more equipment and free up space in our other two stations so they aren't so cramped”, adds Chief Michael Mansfield.

For more information on this project please visit:

Andover Ballardvale Fire Station

Lewiston Opens New Fire Station

Lewiston’s Fire Station #4 is the first of the three, outdated substations to be repaired by the Town of Lewiston as part of a multi-year project in replacing all substations in the city. The new station has three drive-through bays, a storage loft, as well as modern support spaces with a separation of living and working that promotes healthy conditions. The building’s living portion includes dormitory rooms; a study room; a kitchen; dining room, and a large day room. A sizeable fitness room off the fire fighter’s entry was designed to be used by all members of the Lewiston Fire Department.

The fitness facility and the inclusion of fire fighter training facilities inside and out of the building are added features that make this station a model of Lewiston’s effort to bring its fire stations into the twenty-first century.

“This will bring us into the new century and allow us to grow and expand as a community. It will give us a place to offer the best service possible for the community”, adds Lewiston’s Fire Chief Brian Stockdale. He also adds that this building is state of the art and built to serve the community for the next 75 years.

For more information on this project please visit:

Lewiston Fire Substation

https://wgme.com/news/local/lewiston-opens-new-fire-station

Andover’s Ballardvale Fire Station Continues to Make Progress

Andover’s new Ballardvale Fire Station continues to make progress with the foundation work completed last week. MacKay Construction continues to make strong progress by continuing under-slab utilities and preparing the site for steel erection.

Context worked with the Town of Andover and the Ballardvale Historic District Commission to design a larger replacement station for both today and future needs which also fit in well with this unique neighborhood.

The project is expected to be completed in the spring of 2021. Together with the Town’s Project Manager, PMA Consultants, we look forward to working closely together to see this design become a reality!

Burlington Fire Station #2 Wins Fire Station Magazine Award

Context Architecture is pleased to announce the new Burlington Fire Station #2 received the Bronze Award in the Satellite Category by Fire House Magazine. The 16,000 square-foot sub-station is in the southern portion of Burlington Massachusetts. The new sub-station replaces an existing station and is designed to accommodate four shifts of eight firefighters as well as providing valuable indoor and outdoor training facilities for the entire Department.

The station includes a three-bay apparatus room with support spaces, a large training room, offices, and a fitness room on the first floor. The second floor contains single occupancy bedrooms, single-user toilet/shower rooms, a study room, and a large kitchen/dining room with an outdoor patio and a day room. As training is an important part of the Fire Departments’ need for preparedness, this station is outfitted with a three-story training tower for interior and exterior rescue operations, a rappelling area off the apparatus roof, and a confined space training area on the mezzanine level in the apparatus room.

Designed for simplicity and durability, the exterior materials are brick, precast concrete, and pre-finished metal paneling. Large glazed windows and overhead doors bring in natural light to create bright interior spaces and reduce the need for artificial lighting during day-time operations. The exterior walls contain a continuous wrap of insulation and air & vapor barriers making the building more efficient, and less costly, to heat and cool. Like the exterior materials, the interior materials were designed for high performance, ease of maintenance, aesthetic appearance, and sustainability. The interior and exterior colors were selected as compliments to the color of the Burlington fire apparatus and the colors found in the Town Seal.

Context wants to thank all that were involved including the Owner Project Manager, Cardinal Construction and Contractor, Castagna Construction.

Scarborough Public Safety Complex is Open!

The long-awaited and much needed new Public Safety Building is now operational in the Town of Scarborough, ME. Located next to the existing Town Hall, the new facility will create a municipal services campus and make it much easier for departments and the public to interact.

Located within one of the busiest fire districts in Town, the new 53,000-square-foot building houses the Fire, EMS, Police, and Communications departments. The building was designed to accommodate the growing demand for services for each department that was constrained within existing deteriorating buildings. The facility offers independent, purpose-built spaces for each department, training facilities, and state of the art technology. Space shared between all departments including a fitness room and flexible meeting space keeps the plan efficient while providing flexibility for the future.

Context is extremely pleased with the results of this building as well as knowing that the Town is better equipped to provide critical services to the public.

Context Celebrates International Women's Day

To celebrate 2020 International Women’s Day, we caught up with a few of our female designers at Context Architecture to discuss how they found a passion for the art and broke into the industry

Angela Campbell is a Project Manager with over 25-years of architectural experience. Angela graduated from Temple University with a Bachelor of Architecture Design and kick-started her career in Philadelphia before relocating to the North Shore. Her role as a project manager includes the development and coordination for every stage of the project that she is working on.

What first made you pursue a career in architecture?

“My grandmother and I would pour over all the beautiful architecture in Home and Garden magazines, she sparked my interest in history, art, architecture, and design and encouraged me to move to Rome!”

How has architecture transformed the way you look at the world?

“It makes me appreciate the differences in culture all around the world; beauty, art, and architecture can mean something entirely different depending on the person and their individual experiences.

Architecture was and still is mainly a male-dominated profession, as a diverse firm that includes both different ethnicities and genders, how do you think this positively affects the buildings we design.

“It forces you to appreciate the true meaning of a “team approach” to building good architecture. Women in architecture are knowledgeable and creative in their own right but all have experienced bias, forcing us to tackle the toughest of hurdles with ease and lead by example.”

How would you define women in architecture?

“Abundantly creative, determined and noble, sure in their ability to make a difference in the world.”

How would you define an architect?

“A person who defines and shapes cities and communities by designing and building responsively and thoughtfully.”

Angela is currently working on a new Community Center in Westford, MA and Fire Stations in Milton, MA.

Ellen Light, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, MCPPO is a Project Manager with a career spanning over 40-years focusing on the demands and requirements of successful public construction projects within the New England area. Ellen studied business and holds an MBA from Simmons School of Management, a MArch from Columbia and a Bachelor of Arts from Brandeis University. 

What first made you pursue a career in architecture?

“While I was first interested in building as a child, playing with our Lincoln Logs and Legos and, as a 7-year-old, walking through the wood studs of our new house that my parents were having built, architecture was not considered an appropriate future career for me as a student. Instead, I gravitated toward art, drawing, and painting, which were also considered a hobby by my parents. My passion was buried, but not stopped.”

“I made the decision to study and become an architect in 1971 as a 19-year-old when I was lucky enough to spend 6 months in Jerusalem, a magical city in its many layers of architectural history and associated styles. I then had an extended trip home through major European cities. There have been multiple challenges along my professional journey, but I always found the open doors and many wonderful opportunities.”

How has architecture transformed the way you look at the world?

“I look more closely at cities and buildings and very much enjoy urban explorations. I’ve had the opportunity to work on a wide variety of building types, for which I am very grateful. It has taught me about different types of workplaces- always fascinating. I have met people, both owners and tradespeople, who I would not have met had I chosen a different career. My favorite mentor continually reminded us that architecture is “all about people”.”

Architecture was and still is mainly a male-dominated profession, as a diverse firm that includes both different ethnicities and genders, how do you think this positively affects the buildings we design.

“It’s great and it’s about time. Despite our current reactionary political situation, I’ve seen the profession turn to a much more diverse cast of people.”

How would you define women in architecture?

“They are women who like to design and build places for people to live and work.”

How would you define an architect?

“Architecture has been defined as frozen music, which I think is a nice analogy, with the architect as the conductor. For the most part, we work as teams, so I’d prefer to think of us as a jazz ensemble. There are lots of moving pieces, lots to learn, but it is an art in the end.”

Ellen is currently working on the new and historic renovation of the Andover Fire BallardVale Station in Andover, MA

Nicole Groleau, LEED AP is one of Context’s talented Job Captains with extensive experience in design. Since beginning in the industry, she’s built a broad portfolio of work spanning from municipal, independent and higher education institutions. Nicole earned her B. Arch from Mississippi State University.

What first made you pursue a career in architecture?

“I was always interested in building things.  My brother and I made car models together when we were kids, I got permission to take woodshop in middle school and learned how to draft and build real furniture, and I won the county science fair in high school by building interlocking bricks that might be able to be used in seismic areas.  I was always encouraged to keep doing this as I was applying to colleges.”

How has architecture transformed the way you look at the world?

“I always notice the small things.  I see details that I sometimes wonder if only architects notice.  I’ll admit that sometimes I miss the bigger picture but it’s the little fussy things that I tend to notice first.”

Architecture was and still is mainly a male-dominated profession, as a diverse firm that includes both different ethnicities and genders, how do you think this positively affects the buildings we design.

“I’ve always believed that the more variety of people and different kinds of thinkers make things and the experiences of them better.”

How would you define women in architecture?

“I see us as equals – with one more way to see, build, and experience something with a different perspective.  Another group bringing in something new.”

How would you define an architect?

“People who think of how people see, hear, and experience space – inside and outside.  And then work hard to build those into something real.”

Nicole is leading our in-house team completing the documents for the Lewiston Sabattus Fire Station in Lewiston, ME and the Mattapoisett Fire Headquarters in Mattapoisett, MA.

Elizabeth Apeldoorn, RA is a newly minted Project Manager at Context and was promoted when she completed her Architectural Registration Exams. Elizabeth joined the firm in 2013 and quickly became an integral member. She is also extremely talented with BIM and has contributed to defining modeling standards firm-wide.

What first made you pursue a career in architecture?

“My mother always wanted to be an architect but when she was growing up it was hard for women to get the profession so from an early age, unbeknownst to me, she ‘nudged’ me in that direction and was always giving me graph paper to draw on (that part I remember). I spent hours just drawing plan after plan after plan of houses. I only ever wanted to be an architect and never had any other profession in mind.”

How has architecture transformed the way you look at the world?

“The built environment is everywhere. I traveled a good amount while growing up and even to this day the memories I have of trips usually focus around the buildings I saw, more than anything else… well except for the food of course!”

Architecture was and still is mainly a male-dominated profession, as a diverse firm that includes both different ethnicities and genders, how do you think this positively affects the buildings we design.

“I think that the ‘man’s world’ is true to some respect however throughout my schooling and professional experience it has always been a 50/50 male to women ratio. I’m lucky I guess but I don’t see a difference between male/female … we’re all just architects.”  

Elizabeth is currently in charge of the new Police Headquarters in Medford, MA and the historic renovation at Everett’s Central Fire Station.

On this International Women’s Day, Context Architecture would like to thank the contributions and hard work the women, along with all our employees, help to ensure that our clients receive the best project available to them.

We are Still Growing

We are growing again and have added two new designers to our team - Miry Lopez and Alejandro Blanco.

Miry Lopez joins Context Architecture as a designer and will be applying her design sense and skills to both renovation and new construction projects. This is an exciting time for Miry as she will be receiving her Bachelor of Architecture degree from the BAC this month. Congratulations Miry on this significant accomplishment and we are excited you have joined the Context team.

Alejandro Blanco comes to Context as a masters candidate at the BAC. Alejandro received his undergraduate degree in architecture in Mexico and decided to continue his education and professional development in the United States.  Along with his graduate studies, Alejandro is working towards obtaining his LEED BD+C Certification having already earned his LEED Green Associate Certification. Alejandro joins Context as a designer and will be working on both renovation and new construction projects. We pleased to welcome Alejandro to our team.

Ribbon Cutting for Southborough Public Safety Complex

The long-awaited grand opening and ribbon cutting of the new Public Safety Complex in Southborough was held this past Saturday.

The $15-million facility houses both the police and fire department and is located on a 6-acre portion of the Town golf course recently purchased from St Marks School and replaces existing buildings for both departments. The 35,000 square-foot building is energy-efficient and offers independent spaces for both departments such as administrative, dormitories and patrol offices. There are also shared spaces such as a dispatch suite, fitness center and training room which doubles as an emergency operations center and public meeting room.

The event was well attended and open to the public. Local Officials conducted the ribbon cutting ceremony and offered guided tours, activities, and refreshments.

 Context and the project team are very happy with the completed building and know that the Town’s Police and Fire Departments will enjoy their new public safety complex for many years to come.

Welcome Our Newest Senior Designer

We are excited to announce that our staff is growing. Meet our newest Senior Designer, Estyvens Torchon. Estyvens received his MArch from the Boston Architectural College and is now studying for the Architectural Registration Exams. When Estyvens is not working or studying, you can find him playing with his daughter at the park or staying active playing soccer and tennis.

 Estyvens has many years of experience bringing projects from schematic design through construction. At Context, Estyvens will be on the Milton Fire Stations and the Westford Center Building design teams.

 Welcome to the team, Estyvens!

Context Promotes Elizabeth Apeldoorn to Project Manager

Context Architecture is pleased to announce the promotion of Elizabeth Apeldoorn to the position of Project Manager. Elizabeth joined Context in 2013 and quickly became a integral member of the firm, initially lending her expertise in BIM, she rose rapidly through the ranks to become a valued leader. 

Elizabeth has designed a range of municipal buildings including schools, town halls and public safety.  Her strong organizational principles and attention to detail are hallmarks of her style, leading to exceptional service to our clients.  Notable examples of her work include the Weston Police Station and North Andover Town Hall where evidence of her talent and dedication are clearly visible.  She received her Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Northeastern University and her Master of Architecture from the Glasgow School of Art.

Context is Growing!

Context continues to build a talented staff of experienced industry professionals to service clients across Eastern New England.  We are excited to announce two new members to our team.

Angela Campbell graduated from Temple University with a Bachelor of Architecture Degree. She began her career in Philadelphia before relocating to Boston’s North Shore and has 27-years of industry experience. Angela will be working closely with the team as a Project Manager on our Scarborough Public Safety Complex and Milton Fire Station.

When she’s not in the office she’s taking care of her three boys and a Black Labrador Retriever named Marley. She also enjoys many outdoor activities such as running, hiking, biking and especially yoga!

Wayne Veiga graduated from the Boston Architectural College with a Bachelor of Architecture. He started his career here in the Boston area and has 17-years of industry experience. Wayne is joining us as a Job Captain and will be helping our project managers with the Lewiston Fire Station and Mattapoisett Fire Headquarters projects.

Wayne enjoys spending time with family and friends when he isn’t in the office as well as designing and building furniture.

Help us welcome them to our team!

Burlington's Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Burlington’s Fire Station 2 is finished and open to service its community! Yesterday the Town had a Ribbon Cutting ceremony hours before the crew moved in that evening.

The event was attended by the Fire Chief, fire station staff, Town’s workers, including the building design committee as well as the Context team!

The new station was needed because the Town has experiencing a significant population growth over the past 10-years.

We are very excited for the Town and are thrilled they are enjoying their new building.

Topping-Off Ceremony Marks a Milestone for the Scarborough Public Safety Complex

While the Context team, Landry French, several members of the building committee, Police Chief, Fire Chief and members of both the police and fire departments looked on, the final steel beam was hoisted into place on the top of the new Scarborough Public Safety Complex.

The Police Chief stands with two of Landry French workers, wearing one of Context’s hard hats!

Before this, the white painted beam was placed in front of the building where people were given the chance to sign their names and give their best wishes for the project. Two flags and a tree with some palms were also attached to the bar for the ceremony.

The beam is being hoisted into place.

The new 53,000 square-foot public safety complex will provide the city with the much-needed space for department growths and the demand for increased public services.

Beam in it’s final place.

We look forward to seeing the project continue to progress!

Renderings Can Assist a Design

There are several reasons preparing a rendering can be a benefit to the design phase of a project.  Primarily, it is used early in the design process to show how the project might look once complete. It can also be used as a tool to showcase the design in its surrounding Context and can be used to explore design concepts by illustrating materials and colors.

What is a Rendering and How Does it Benefit the Client?

A rendering, essentially, is a visual explanation of the design based upon a client’s desire. It offers an interpretation of the completed project and can explain the project’s “story”.  Its creation will help the client better understand how their instructions are being interpreted by the design team.  A rendering should convey the emotional meaning of the project.  With the creative inclusion of people and vehicles, the utility and intent of the project can be easily conveyed.  Multiple renderings may be used by clients when tailoring their messaging in marketing materials, announcements, sales pitches and public gatherings.

Benefiting the Design Team

Because each project’s design will differ, a rendering can be used as a visual tool to work through the potential challenges of the project. Producing the rendering at an early stage of the project forces the design team to think through all the elements that must be included in the final design, often making important discoveries that benefit the project.  A rendering helps the design team align the look and feel of a project with its budget, exploring the use of materials and colors in a visual way to consider cost conscious options.  A rendering is often the first opportunity the design team will have to accurately gauge client and public reaction to the design. A rendering produced at an early stage of a project becomes a tool that allows the architect to communicate, via a 3D image, the design to the client in a manner that is more closely linked to the look of a completed project.

 A rendering gives the project a knowable “face” early on that helps to define and control expectations during the time-frame between concept and grand opening before the building becomes reality.  This image will be the goal that all project team members, clients and the public will come to believe in and refer to throughout the process.  

Ground Breaking News!

A groundbreaking ceremony at Medford Police Station happened this morning signaling the start of a major construction project for the City of Medford.

The long-awaited new police station project’s groundbreaking was attended by the City’s Mayor, Owner Project Manager, Construction Manager and Context’s Principal, Jeff Shaw, and Project Architect, Elizabeth Apeldoorn. Today’s meeting is the kick off of construction for the $17-million project.

Last month the city awarded the construction portion of the project to CTA Construction. The new 35,000-square-foot facility will include new men’s and women’s facilities, updated office and conference spaces, and state-of-the-art detention areas.

The police station is expected to be completed in the fall of 2020.

Burlington is Getting a New Fire Station

The new station houses a larger and well-equipped apparatus room with three bays facing Terrace Hall Avenue and a fourth bay off a training area on the south side.

Besides individual dorm rooms, a study room, a large kitchen, dining and day rooms, the new station also contains a training/meeting room and many interior and exterior training features including a tower for practicing high ladder rescue, rappelling and hose training.

All these features, and the station itself, provides Burlington with a much-needed modern addition to the Fire Department enabling the town to be served efficiently, effectively and safely. The project will be completed this spring!