about
BSA Space is Boston’s leading cultural institution on architecture and design, and is home to the Boston Society of Architects. BSA Space hosts exhibits on design and architecture, architectural boat and walking tours, and other programs and events that foster exchange between design and construction, the profession and the public, and encourage collaboration across the city and world.
Nestled on Boston’s waterfront between the Fort Point Channel and the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, BSA Space opened in the Atlantic Wharf building in December 2011. Boston-based firm Höweler + Yoon Architecture designed the floorplan, using a concept that centers on a highly visible “cloud” ceiling and monumental stairs. These two architectural elements act as iconic markers for BSA Space and an invitation into the exhibits and meeting spaces above. The design was chosen during a 2010 design competition overseen by the BSA board of directors. Commodore Builders provided construction management services in what was a highly collaborative project. Click here to see a full list of supporters and contributors who helped make BSA Space possible.
Also headquartered at BSA Space are Learning By Design and the Community Design Resource Center of Boston, two nonprofit organizations that partner with the BSA to bring programs, resources and services to the building industry and the public.
| Visit | Hours | Admission | Accessibility |
| Sustainability | Membership | Amenities | FAQ |
Visit
BSA Space is located in the Atlantic Wharf building at 290 Congress Street, Suite 200, Boston, MA 02210.
Public transportation
BSA Space is only two blocks from South Station, on the Red Line.
Parking
Pay parking is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at the Atlantic Wharf Parking Garage at 280 Congress Street. To inquire about current parking rates, call the garage office at 617-603-7195. Discounted parking is available to BSA Space visitors on weekdays between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm; before paying for parking at the pay kiosk, bring your ticket to the second floor reception desk. Discounts cannot be applied after 5:00 pm or before 9:00 am.
Hours
The gallery and information center are open daily from 10:00 am–6:00 pm on weekdays, and 10:00 am—5:00 pm on weekends and holidays. (The gallery will close on select days for exhibit installations and special events. Please check our calendar for details.)
Committees: to access conference rooms before 10:00 am and after 6:00 pm, enter the building at 290 Congress Street, cross the lobby to the grey staircase or elevator and go to the second floor. Once you reach the top of the stairs or exit the elevator, you will see a set of glass doors in front of you; enter through those doors and two more glass doors.
BSA Space is closed on New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day, and at 3:00 pm on New Year’s Eve and Christmas Eve.
The BSA offices are open Monday through Friday, 9:00 am–5:00 pm.
Admission
BSA Space is a nonprofit organization and receives no regular government funding. We do not charge admission for visiting individuals or families; instead, we rely on your generous donations.
Suggested donations:
Adults: $5
Seniors: $3
Children older than 10: $2
Accessibility
The BSA is committed to making BSA Space programs and services accessible to all visitors.
Entrances
The Congress Street and Pearl Street Extension entrances are accessible with doors at ground level and no stairs. Both entrances have power-assist doors. Elevators available to all visitors.
Mobility devices
BSA Space welcomes walkers, wheelchairs (manual and electric) and scooters. BSA Space also welcomes guide dogs and other guide devices. If you have any questions or need assistance, please call 617-391-4000.
Parking
Accessible parking spaces are available for those vehicles with current HP plates or placards. Payment for parking may be made in the lobby on the first floor of BSA Space/Atlantic Wharf. An elevator brings guests from the parking lot to both the first and second floor of BSA Space.
Restrooms
Restrooms are available to visitors on both the first and second floor. All restrooms are accessible.
Gallery Seating
Permanent seating is available throughout the gallery areas. You are welcome to bring your own portable gallery stools if needed.
Sustainability
The BSA believes that architects have a unique responsibility to foster sustainability in the built environment. We believe that environmentally responsible design, construction, operation and renovation are essential, inspiring and beautiful.
We continually work on streamlining our operations to lower our environmental footprint by using recycled materials, biodegradable materials and reducing the amount of trash we throw away. Our office is certified LEED Gold and located in Atlantic Wharf, Boston’s first LEED Platinum, or “green”, skyscraper.
Please join us and consider the environment in your everyday decisions.
Membership
Become a member and support the local design community. The BSA and BSA Space offer many types of membership in addition to AIA membership for architects. Membership is available for professionals, organizations and corporations, enthusiasts, students and families. Benefits include invitations to private events and openings, discounts on rental fees and a subscription to ArchitectureBoston magazine. Learn about the membership type that’s right for you.
Amenities
Dining
BSA Space is surrounded by a number of great restaurants and food options. From summer carts on the Greenway to fine cuisine along Fort Point Channel, Summer Street, Congress Street and Seaport Boulevard, there are plenty of dining options to suit a variety of budgets and schedules. Within the Atlantic Wharf building are:
Restrooms
Accessible restrooms are located on both the first and second floor of Atlantic Wharf.
Access services and amenities
The BSA supports access for everyone. Read our full list of services and amenities.
FAQ
What is the BSA?
The BSA, or Boston Society of Architects, is a chapter of the American Institute of Architects. It is a nonprofit, professional-service organization with more than 3,500 members. Learn more about the BSA’s mission, programs, publications and services at architects.org.
How do I become a member of BSA or BSA Space?
It’s easy to become a member, and there are many membership types. Learn more at architects.org/membership. We appreciate your support!
Can I use my camera?
Personal, non-commercial photography is permitted and encouraged. We hope you will share your experience with friends, family and on social media.
What is your cell phone policy?
Please be considerate of others when using a cell phone. Step into a public area when making or answering calls. Please do not take a call in the galleries.
Where can I park?
Pay parking is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at the Atlantic Wharf Parking Garage at 280 Congress Street. To inquire about current parking rates, call the garage office at 617-603-7195. BSA Space is easily accessible via public transportation; visit www.mbta.com to map your way here.
Can I draw or paint in the gallery?
Drawing using pencils, crayons, pens and charcoal are permitted and encouraged. Our mission is to inspire and provide a venue for creativity. Please be respectful of others and the exhibits.
Use of watercolors, pastels and other mediums is only allowed with written permission.
Use of easels, drop cloths or other equipment is only allowed with written permission. If permitted, no equipment may be left unattended at any time. Equipment, including easels, must be set up at least four feet away from all artworks and must not block doorways. If a BSA Space staff member requests that easels or other materials be moved, please do so in order to allow for unobstructed views of the exhibits.
Can I bring my children?
Children are welcome. Anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a chaperone in the gallery.
Are strollers allowed?
Strollers are allowed in the galleries; however, there may be restrictions if crowds are large.
Where can I eat?
There are lots of great options for dining within walking distance of BSA Space, but no food is allowed in the gallery.
Photos by Ben Gebo.