Located on the campus of the Governor’s Academy in Byfield, Massachusetts, the Bill ’67 and Peter ’71 Alfond Coastal Research Center was designed to support experiential learning through hands-on marine and environmental research. The 6,800-square-foot facility features an aquatic laboratory supplied with water from the nearby Parker River, allowing students to engage directly with the surrounding ecosystem. Clad in SAMITTO charred acetylated modified wood, the building blends naturally into its wooded setting, reinforcing its connection to the landscape while supporting the demands of a coastal educational environment.
The project features SAMITTO, which combines the traditional shou sugi ban charring technique with Accoya’s® patented acetylation process. The result is a high-performance wood cladding that offers exceptional durability, dimensional stability, and resistance to rot and decay without the use of toxic chemicals. Well suited for coastal applications, SAMITTO provides lasting performance in environments exposed to significant weather fluctuations and saltwater while delivering a refined, natural aesthetic.
The project team sought a durable wood cladding that would integrate seamlessly with the surrounding landscape while performing reliably in a coastal setting. SAMITTO was selected for its durability, weather resistance, and suitability for the project’s open-joint cladding design. Its ability to support both horizontal and vertical installation provided the design flexibility needed to achieve the project’s architectural vision.
Flansburgh Architects is a highly regarded national firm, specializing in the planning and design of educational and cultural facilities. Their innovative designs have earned them over 125 national and regional design awards, acknowledging their excellence within the industry.
