Freeport Community Center & 57 Depot Street

WCG Team

Project Specs

year completed

2006

Gross floor area

10,000 sq ft

Partners

Simons Architects
Johnson & Jordan
McGee Construction
Architectural Doors & Windows

In 2000, the board of the Freeport Community Center started to discuss renovating a pair of historically significant homes into efficient office space for use by various civic groups, including Freeport Community Services. Peter Warren was so passionate about the project he recused himself from the board and put in a bid, which, in addition to renovations, included a 10,000- square-foot addition to the rear. The modern Scott Simons-designed addition is entirely wood- framed, insulated with green materials, and utilizes an efficient mechanical equipment, making it possible for the owner to obtain Efficiency Maine credits as a diminished energy use building. Thoughtfully designed to meet the evolving needs of the community, the center provides spaces for educational programs, wellness activities, meetings, events, and social connections. Careful planning and coordination ensured the facility blended functionality, accessibility, and long-term durability while complementing Freeport’s architectural character

In the second phase of development, Warren Construction Group renovated a third historic home to expand the center. In this deep-energy retrofit, we skinned the building, put up insulation, replaced the windows, and re-trimmed the building in the original materials, resulting in a structure that uses up to 70 percent less energy. Peter Warren has presented this project at a number of conferences, including NESEA and ABX. Peter Warren was awarded the Carol Kaplan Memorial Community Service Award for “outstanding effort and tireless devotion to help Freeport’s community members,” largely for his efforts in planning and executing these projects.

Today, the Freeport Community Center serves as an important community asset, offering a vibrant destination where residents can gather, learn, and connect. The project reflects Warren Construction Group’s commitment to creating high-quality public spaces that strengthen communities and enhance quality of life.

Project Photos: David Kurtis Photography