Friar Architecture Inc.

Big changes are coming to Main Street in Manchester, Connecticut! Community members came together to mark the start of construction on the town’s future Public Library during an exciting groundbreaking ceremony. We are pleased to see the beginning of our collaboration with HBM Architects on this new library! This upcoming 76,000-square-foot facility is thoughtfully designed to be fully accessible and meet all current codes. With a focus on versatility, the library will include a range of flexible spaces—everything from private rooms for small group meetings to open, collaborative work areas tailored to support various community needs. The site is designed so visitors will have access to plenty of parking. Sustainability is paramount to the design, with the building planned to operate as a net-zero energy facility demonstrating a deep commitment to environmental responsibility. To make room for this forward-looking public space, the former Webster Bank building was removed from the compact site along Main Street. Once finished, the new library will provide an engaging and inclusive space where people can learn, collaborate, and connect as a community. Construction is estimated to complete Spring 2026. Click the link to view project photos: https://lnkd.in/e-cy8XPc

The team at Friar Architecture welcomes Cherry Lee as an Architectural Designer. Cherry holds her masters’ degree from Wentworth Institute of Technology. Please join us in welcoming her! https://lnkd.in/e6dAukqS

Friar Architecture is happy to welcome Michael Carey to our team as an Architectural Designer. Michael holds a master’s degree from Wentworth Institute of Technology. Please join us in welcoming him! https://lnkd.in/eRXjXVJH

The Friar office is looking extra festive this holiday season! The team has really shown off their creativity and festive spirit with our annual workstation decorating competition. From twinkling colorful lights, to handmade holiday decorations, everyone’s holiday cheer is on full display making this season even more special!

This holiday season we are proud to participate in the 25th Annual IIDA NE/CT - Covenant to Care Gift Drive. The Friar team sponsored 13 children this year so that no matter the circumstance, all can experience the joy of the holidays. Thank you, IIDA New England, for organizing this wonderful opportunity to give back this holiday season!

On Tuesday morning, the Town of Manchester held a press conference to highlight the funding allocated to the construction of their new library on Main Street. Among the guest speakers were Sen. Richard Blumenthal, Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz, State Reps. MD Rahman and Jason Doucette, Mayor Jay Moran, and Town Manager Steve Stephanou. Members of the Board of Directors, Public Works, and Library Building Committee were also in attendance. Demolition of the existing building on the site will begin in January, and construction is scheduled to be complete in Spring 2026.

This Friday, November 15th, members from our team will attend the CABE/CAPSS Convention at the Mystic Marriott Hotel in Groton, CT, at booth #36! Come by to say hello and find out how we can help you create the ideal educational environment to support your learning initiatives.

This project is best defined as a “Renovate-To-New” project of the existing 240,000-square-foot Windham High School. The project also includes a new turf football field and synthetic track, the replacement of field lights with new high-performance lighting, a new ADA-compliant press box with new bleachers, new baseball and softball fields with natural grass, new tennis courts, and a renovated concession stand with bathrooms. Additionally, the project added three exterior greenhouses. All existing mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and fire protection systems were replaced, along with new fire alarm and security systems. A solar photovoltaic system was integrated into covered carports throughout the parking areas. All areas were renovated, including office spaces, classrooms, the kitchen/cafeteria, media center, auditorium, music and art rooms, two gymnasiums, and an “eco-lab” with woodworking equipment. An existing swimming pool was removed to make room for the new Board of Education office. #MEP #FP #Structural #EngineeringExcellence

Wishing everyone a happy Equinox!! https://lnkd.in/dD8yUEu

Friar Architecture is pleased to announce Elena Lang as our newest team member as an Architectural Designer. Elena is a recent graduate from the University of Massachusetts, having earned her Master of Architecture Degree. Please join us in welcoming her to the team! https://lnkd.in/eQdKdhkw