In September of 2021 the 1882 Foundation was generously awarded funding from Mellon Foundation’s Humanities in Place grantmaking program. This funding enabled 1882 to complete one of their most long awaited projects: a social work space and storytelling center.
The initial brief of this project was simple. Design a space where the staff and guests can gather, talk story, and continue their advocacy work. The building is well over 125 years old and was in dire need of serious repairs, so when contractor bids for this project exceeded expectations, TBD stepped in as a design-build partner, with BeCraft Plus Construction to ensure the project would meet our clients vision.
Partial Demolition of Existing Space
Existing Space through Demolition
The resulting space harmonizes a sense of expression and lightness. This departure from normal office space conventions progressed alongside the exploration of the building's history.
TBDÂ Team Uncovering Original Brick Finish
To celebrate the building's continuity, portions of the past were exposed. This blend between it's history and newfound life defines the space.
Brandon assembling custom fabricated White Oak glass doors
Pin-up Boards mirror the design aesthetic of traditional Pingfeng, or art screens/room dividers
Supported by custom-fabricated elements, the space transforms finding moments of warmth within the details.
The Main Hall set up for one of 1882's "Talk Story Events"
None of this could have been possible without meaningful engagement with the staff and cultural advisors that allowed us to weave the history of the building and the important work of 1882 into every detail.
Omar Hakeem, Principal, To Be Done Studio, and Ted Gong, Executive Director, 1882 Foundation
