From Vision to Reality: 2025 ArchitectureEL Accomplishments

From Vision to Reality: 2025 ArchitectureEL Accomplishments

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As 2025 comes to a close, at Architecture EL we’re proud to reflect on a year defined by meaningful progress, community partnerships, and the completion of several transformative projects across the Commonwealth.

Our work this year focused on creating resilient, accessible, and energy conscious buildings that meet the needs of the communities they serve. Below is a look at four projects completed in 2025 and one exciting new endeavor now underway.

CHESTER COMMONS

Chester Commons reached completion in 2025, marking the full transformation of the former Chester High School into a welcoming affordable housing community for seniors and individuals with disabilities. After the Hilltown Community Development Corporation acquired the property, the building underwent a comprehensive renovation that upgraded systems, life safety features, and accessibility. The project included the installation of a new elevator to provide full vertical access.

Chester Commons also supports daily life in the town by continuing to house the Chester Library and the local mineral museum. The project stands as an example of how historic buildings can be adapted to serve modern needs while strengthening small town community life.

  • Client: Hilltown Community Development Corporation (Hilltown CDC)
  • Location: Chester MA
  • Start Date 2020
  • Completion Date 2025

GEMINI TOWNHOMES 

The redevelopment of the former Gemini textile mill site and several adjacent parcels has created 40 new two and three bedroom condominium homes in Springfield’s South End neighborhood. The Gemini Townhomes project introduces seven two story residential buildings. Five are located on the main site and two are positioned north of Morris Street. The buildings are arranged in groups of three, four, six, or seven units.

A community pavilion with a paved terrace and lawn area provides shared outdoor space for residents. Sustainability was a central design goal. The project delivers all electric, energy efficient homes that comply with the Mass Saves Level 2 program. These ownership units support reinvestment in the neighborhood through incentives that encourage first time homebuyers.

AMETHYST BROOK APARTMENTS

Amethyst Brook Apartments brings 34 new affordable rental homes to the Town of Pelham. The one, two, and three bedroom units offer modern amenities in a quiet rural setting and serve households earning up to sixty percent of the Area Median Income. The project prioritizes energy performance through an all electric design. A six unit building meets Energy Star standards and a larger twenty eight unit building is certified to Passive House standards.

Additional sustainability features include electric vehicle charging stations and roof mounted solar panels. Residents also enjoy direct access to nature. A trail on the property connects to nearby conservation land and an established hiking network. 

 AURORA APARTMENTS

Aurora Apartments represents the revitalization of a notable six story historic building originally constructed in 1898 as the Aurora Hotel. Converted to studio apartments in the 1980s, the building required modernization to better serve today’s residents while preserving its historic value. The project improved first floor office and community spaces, updated studio units, and enhanced accessibility features throughout the building. 

VETERAN’S HOUSING IN WESTFIELD

This important new project began in Fall 2025 and focuses on reimagining the historic Old Town Hall building as supportive housing for local veterans. The three level structure totals approximately 13,438 square feet and will be redesigned to include 18 studio apartments along with essential shared spaces. The building’s historic masonry and wood frame will be preserved while being adapted for residential use.

Looking Ahead

The projects completed in 2025 and the work that has just begun represent the shared dedication of our clients, contractors, engineers, designers, and community partners. As the company moves into 2026, we remain committed to delivering thoughtful design solutions that support affordability, sustainability, and strong communities.