With its vibrant, modern street presence and welcoming interior, the Mother Church Christian Science Reading Room in Boston’s Back Bay utilizes the latest innovative and sustainable design trends for retail facilities.
Suited for both individuals and families, the expanded 3,250-square-feet Reading Room designed by Dyer Brown combines peaceful spaces for textual study and reflection with varied opportunities to view historical and retail offerings.
The updated look highlights the institution’s tradition of imparting each Reading Room (there’s one at every church campus worldwide) with a design concept unique to that community’s character and culture, instead of a prescribed brand-based aesthetic.
For this facility, the warm colors combined with decorative trim and crown molding offers a feeling of home, while arched forms pay homage to the Mother Church.
The goal of the refresh was to appeal to the widest possible range of potential guests. The venue also includes a breakroom, copy room, and other back-of-house support spaces.
First impressions matter
The refreshed façade includes an entryway adorned with blade signs, illuminated signage and natural-finish wood. Underfoot, the word “welcome” is spelled out in mosaic floor tiles, and multiple panels of large-format glazing offer passersby views of the offerings within.
Read and relax
Inside, ring-shaped pendant fixtures suspended over tables combine with natural daylight to illuminate the spacious interior. Lounge areas marked by area rugs invite guests to relax and read.
Bring the kids
There are a variety of interior zones, including a space for kids to read and interact among a playful variety of furnishings, one of which is cubby-style seating integrated into the millwork.
Calming colors
The color palette of warm blue and green accents evoke an “oasis” theme. A feature area in green indicates a retail zone for making purchases and requesting assistance. The new Reading Room is designed to host events, with a highly acoustic glass partition that allows simultaneous use for gatherings and visiting families.
