From Dave Brigham:
The Brookline Arts Center, a lovely Shingle Style building tucked behind a bustling commercial row in the extreme northeast corner of the city, was designed by a well-known architectural firm of the late-19th and early-20th centuries.
Peabody and Stearns, known as the architects behind dozens of buildings, including Matthews Hall at Harvard University, Boston's Exchange Building and Custom House Tower, and Worcester City Hall, designed this Brookline treasure in 1886 as a firehouse.
"A symmetrical, balanced design, it is quite unusual for a firehouse," according to MACRIS. "Its Shingle Style influence is evident in the use of large cross-gables, banded windows, curved walls at the attic window and the decorative patterns of shingles in the gable peaks and along the eaves. Originally there was an open arcaded porch along the right side."
It really is quite a handsome building, isn't it?
The fire station used chemical extinguishers, hence its historical name as the Chemical Engine House. The engine and horses were kept in the ground floor area, while the engine driver and his family lived upstairs, according to a plaque on the building.
There is a small park next door, which was formerly the site of the Longwood School. That facility was demolished in 1939. There is a small playground in the park, which features a cool piece of art using an old photo of the chemical engine.
As for the arts center, it offers classes (figure drawing, ceramics, printmaking), private lessons and function space. There is also a gallery here.
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