The First Reformed Church Education Building is located in downtown New Brunswick, New Jersey. The building was constructed circa 1870-1872 in an Italianate style; it was expanded in 1926 with an addition at the west elevation. It currently supports a variety of uses. The main space on the first floor, Fellowship Hall, serves the community as a polling location, meeting space, and performance venue. The first floor also houses offices for the neighboring First Reformed Church. The second floor is utilized by the non-profit coLAB Arts as office and studio space and for summer children’s programs.
Mills + Schnoering Architects was engaged by the non-profit Town Clock Community Development Corporation (CDC) to assist in planning for the building’s future. Town Clock’s mission is to “provide permanent, affordable, safe housing and supportive services for survivors of domestic violence and their children.” M+Sa worked with Town Clock to explore the feasibility of converting the Church Education Building for residential use as part of their housing program, accommodating 4-6 apartments, community space, offices, and a teaching kitchen. The work proposed for the Church Education Building would complement the work that has already been completed within the adjoining Church and the Sexton’s House immediately to the west.
The design preserves the building’s materials and layout while maintaining its character. An accessible entrance on the south side provides access to Fellowship Hall, Church offices, and coLAB Arts workspace. Fellowship Hall is being renovated for coLAB theater and programming, while remaining a meeting space for Town Clock. A new catering and teaching kitchen will support meetings, banquets, and cooking classes for Town Clock clients. Studio and two-bedroom apartments on the second floor are arranged along a common corridor, providing secure, loft-like living spaces with high ceilings and large windows. The renovated basement will house new mechanical systems, improved storage, and Town Clock’s food pantry.
