Innovation Space

In Progress
Written By Dani MacGregor

Photo by Anton Grassl

The Innovation Space requirements in Kendall Square originated from the K2 Planning effort. Their purpose is to maintain space for smaller companies and organizations to preserve innovation and start-up opportunities in Kendall Square at a time when large-scale companies were absorbing office and lab supplies. Innovation Space requirements were written into the Kendall Square Urban Redevelopment Plan (KSURP) and the zoning petition for the MXD District in 2014.

With the Infill Development Concept Plan (IDCP), a total of 125,200 square feet of Innovation Space was committed to, with 25% or 26,300 square feet specifically designated as below-market-rate innovation space. Most of these requirements were met at 255 Main Street with CiC and the Link. With 15,392 GFA remaining in 2024, BXP repurposed
2,681 SF of office space to expand The Link at 255 Main Street. This provided additional space for MassBio Ed, whose new workspace was completed in early 2024.

To meet its remaining Innovation Space obligation, BXP secured a commitment from the Fab Foundation, a nonprofit affiliated with the Center for Bits and Atoms. The Fab Foundation offers a collaborative and inclusive community space for individuals from diverse backgrounds, including amateur and professional fabricators, artists, scientists, engineers, educators, and students. The Fab Foundation caters to business incubation and entrepreneurship, offering facilities for teaching, research, the fabrication of experimental products, and office space.

The Fab Foundation plans to establish its global
headquarters on Level 2 of 325 Main Street, creating a flagship community Fab Lab. BXP has finalized an agreement with the Fab Foundation and has been working on a tenant fit plan and a tenancy agreement to provide the space below market rate.

BXP anticipates that the Fab Foundation space commitment will fulfill the entire remaining 12,711 GFA of required innovation space.

  • Project Partners:
    BXP

    General Contractor:
    Turner

    Property Manager:
    TSNE and CiC

    Neighborhood Location:
    Kendall Square

    Year Started:
    2018

  • Joel Smith, ext 14, jsmith@cambridgeredevelopment.org

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Dani MacGregor

Web + Graphic Designer with 10+ years of non-profit and creative experience. I have a soft spot for pretty much every cause and charity. I admire all non-profits for their work in every issue and value their contribution in making the world a better place.

Through her blog “Thistle While You Work” this seasoned charity professional shares in-depth knowledge, skills and tricks to open your donors hearts and pockets. She has worked with every type of charity - religious, children, educational, medical, animal, conservation and human rights. Plus she has made over 70+ websites for non profits, thought leaders, authors and even the famously fun Hard Rock.

https://www.thecharitydesign.co
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