Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate

Boston, MA
Key Elements
  • Topographic survey
  • Stormwater management design
  • City of Boston permitting 

The 68,000-square-foot Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate is committed to educating the public, encouraging a participatory democracy, and inspiring the next generation of civic leaders. The new sustainable building is located on the University of Massachusetts (UMass) Boston campus, adjacent to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library. The institute provides innovative and engaging educational programs, exhibits, and public events; the bulk of the programming centers around a full-scale representation of the Senate Chamber, where visitors and students can gain insight into the role of the Senate in the US government. 

Overall, the site plan was designed to work in harmony with the UMass Boston campus, the JFK Library, and the Columbia Point waterfront. We performed a topographic survey, and provided site utility design, stormwater management design, and permitting through the Boston Water and Sewer Commission. 

Key Collaborators  

Owner: Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance 
Architect: Rafael Vinoly Architects