WMAIA 2024 Design Awards
AWARDS ENTRY
Kuth Ranieri Architects, Franklin, MA
This renovation of a gift shop created a new home for the Franklin Food Pantry, expanding the organization’s capacity to provide vital nutritional resources and services.
Within a limited budget, the designers reconfigured the footprint to include a market, offices, a community room (with separate entry, kitchenette, and restroom for events), and back-of-house cold/dry storage. A double-height space connects the main level and mezzanine. The fully accessible renovation includes all-gender restrooms, a platform lift, accessible parking, and renovated walkways.
The administrative suite includes meeting spaces for private and group gatherings. A wood-clad freezer addition includes a loading dock. Brand colors accent natural wood, concrete, and metals. A rolling shelving system maximizes warehouse storage efficiency, while a dumbwaiter simplifies stocking. The exterior received fresh paint, new fenestration, skylights, and a new roof that hosts a solar array.
Edible landscaping promotes food independence awareness. Select design services were provided pro bono.
Photos by Greg Shuppe (Shuppe Studios)
