Lasell Village

Lasell Village is a Continuing Care Retirement Community integrated into the campus of Lasell University, which borders a residential neighborhood west of Boston.  Guided by the philosophy of “Learning as a Way of Life”, McGuire Hall introduces 42 new independent living residences and several essential amenities that complete the campus offerings and welcome students of Lasell University.  These include a street-side restaurant, fitness center, multipurpose room with performance space, library, clubhouse, and wellness center, creating a dynamic hub for social, intellectual, and physical engagement. At the street level, large storefront windows reinforce the connection between amenity users, campus students, and village residents.

A new pedestrian bridge connects McGuire Hall to the existing Town Hall building on the second floor, linking residents to the community’s established amenities and reinforcing the sense of connection throughout the Village. An important component of the project is the relocation, renovation, and restoration of an 1857 farmhouse. Now integrated into McGuire Hall on three levels, the renovated house includes two new residences and connects to the neighborhood’s history. The design team took special care to scale and articulate the building massing sensitively to echo the character of the historic residential neighborhood.

McGuire Hall is Net Zero Ready and is pursuing certification through the Passive House Institute (PHI). The building features a high-performance envelope, all-electric systems—including a commercial kitchen—energy-efficient ventilation, and rooftop solar energy generation. The team collaborated closely with residents and stakeholders throughout the design process to ensure the project reflects the community’s values while supporting its members’ continued health, comfort, and well-being.