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n Norwood, Massachusetts, Shawmut Design and Construction, Hobbs Brook Real Estate, and Payette marked a major milestone with the topping off of FM's new office project. This cutting-edge facility will combine research, science, and technology facilities for a leader in loss prevention and business continuity.
The design-build team has completed the structure of the flagship building, which replaces a 1950s-era property with a four-story, 320,000-square-foot complex. The main structure is built from 3,500 tons of steel, set atop 521 drilled micro piles. When operational in 2026, the building will feature advanced research laboratories and corporate offices, as well as a new parking garage and outdoor spaces.
This project sets new standards for resilience, sustainability, and technical excellence, incorporating extensive prefabrication to reduce construction time and minimize waste. The building will feature a high-performance façade, resilient mechanical systems, native species landscaping, and laboratories of the highest engineering standards.
The facility is committed to holistic and resilient construction practices, adhering to rigorous engineering, safety, and environmental standards. It will be 100% electric-powered, with 221 geothermal wells reducing HVAC energy consumption and environmental impact. The project aims to achieve U.S. Green Building Council LEED Gold and WELL Bronze certifications.
The facility will enable collaboration through immersive lab and visitor experiences, located near Boston for convenient access to international visitors and leading academic institutions. "Shawmut's experience managing large-scale projects has been key in bringing FM's vision to life," said Kevin Sullivan, Executive Vice President of Shawmut Design and Construction's New England Region.
"We're thrilled to celebrate the topping off of this state-of-the-art facility, a pivotal milestone that brings us closer to delivering this transformative project," said Peter Gottlieb, President & CEO of Hobbs Brook Real Estate. Malcolm Roberts, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of FM, added, "We can't wait to open its doors in 2026."
