Way Finders

KRA collaborated with Way Finders – a regional nonprofit housing and community advocacy organization – to consolidate their scattered offices into one newly constructed, centralized 33,00 sf location in Springfield.

The organization’s aim is to strengthen housing stability and economic mobility, and build thriving neighborhoods throughout Western Massachusetts. They serve renters and homeowners, people experiencing a housing crisis, developers and real estate agents, and community / neighborhood leaders.

KRA worked with Way Finders to create spaces that met all their needs. The organization needed a vibrant and welcoming main greeting area for initial interactions with their varied clientele. They also wanted abundant natural daylight throughout, a comfortable meeting center for first-time home buyer trainings, a bright, modern open office area, private offices as well as more casual, organic areas for public and staff interaction, and an assortment of flexible accessory spaces for meeting, working and eating.

The initial approach to the building from the street showcases the glazed main entry, and floor-to-ceiling windows in the open meeting area just above. This combination creates a sense of transparency and connection between Way Finders staff and the clients entering through the main doors below, and illustrates Way Finders’ mission of supporting and engaging with their community.

Completion: 2019

Budget: $9M

Builder: Western Builders