Vantage Builders begins 16,000 s/f Sri Lakshmi Temple expansion

Vantage Builders, Inc. has begun a 16,000 s/f expansion project for the Sri Lakshmi Temple at 117 Waverly St. The Sri Lakshmi Temple, which first opened in 1986, has become a focal point of the local Hindu community. The new construction will expand the existing facility by more than a third, enabling the Temple to offer additional classes, worship services and cultural events. "Working with the Sri Lakshmi Temple has been an honor for Vantage Builders," said Ed Silva, principal, Vantage Bldrs. "We appreciate the Temple's commitment to their community, traditions and culture and are pleased to be part of this important project." The expansion project will be divided into two primary phases, the construction of the core, two-story building and then the interior "fit out" work. The first phase, currently underway, is expected to be complete by November 2015. The new building will allow access to the temple on both floors. The upper level will consist of an auditorium or multipurpose room, a boardroom and a library. The main lobby will be naturally lit by numerous skylights. The lower level will feature a commercial kitchen, a pantry, and a large dining facility for the Temple worshippers, visitors and staff. The building will also have utility rooms, showers and bathroom facilities. The building will be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The project team includes architectural services from Joyce Design Partnership, structural engineering from Aberjona Engineering, Inc. and MEP engineering from New England Engineering Corp.