The Unitarian Universalist Congregational Society of Westborough occupies an historic church and parsonage in the town center of Westborough, Massachusetts. With a growing congregation of 125 members and a rapidly expanding religious education program, the building committee worked with WSA to develop a broad program of improvements to the existing structures, working within the existing zoning and historic district regulations and guidelines.
The Master Plan presents a two-phase approach to the project. In Phase One, the Sanctuary will be renovated to create a more intimate and flexible worship space. While preserving the historic character of the space, the existing pews will be reconfigured in a “deep U” arrangement, with moveable seating in the central space. The vestry and pulpit will then be redesigned to provide more space, with ramped access for the disabled, and serving many uses: worship, public gatherings, musical performances, weddings and receptions. The renovations to the sanctuary will address acoustics, lighting, furnishings, and the design of all floor, wall and ceiling finishes.
Also in Phase One Construction will be renovations to the existing Parsonage at 3 School Street. This work will provide professional offices and needed meeting space for the Minister and administrative staff, as well as use by the congregation. This expansion will then make space available within the existing church for religious education and social uses.
Phase Two will include a new addition between the church and parsonage, providing a link between the two as well as key support functions. The two-story addition will provide a new elevator linking all levels, new bathrooms, new kitchen and storage space.