Boston – The International Institute of New England (IINE) has relocated to the China Trade Center at 2 Boylston Street, owned by the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA).
New IINE offices
IINE realized the building it owned and occupied at 1 Milk St. was not an ideal learning and working environment and did not provide a good opportunity to bring in and meet with potential donors and partners. They sold the building in 2015 and moved into a full floor of the China Trade Center that has been undergoing renovations. IINE is the first tenant to reside in the renovated building.
Designed by Dyer Brown Architects, the new space not only provides a better layout and flow of spaces but enhances the continuum of learning that takes place within.
The 13,000sf space includes a reception area, six training rooms, a computer lab, staff offices, food pantry, clothes closet, board room, and large multipurpose room that can be divided into two smaller rooms or used as one large room for gatherings and events.
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Since 1924, IINE has welcomed refugees and immigrants from around the world to help them find housing, gain immigration status, receive government assistance and train them for the work force in the greater Lowell, Boston and Manchester, N.H. communities.
The individuals that come to IINE have varying levels of education and backgrounds; some are very highly educated, but know very little of the English language. IINE offers accommodations for all. The IINE staff has a vast amount of expertise in education, social work and community advocacy. Providing them with training for the hotel, healthcare and banking industries, the IINE team ensures these refugees and immigrants become equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills needed for their career path in order to restart their lives in America.
Alexandra Weber, Chief Program Offices and Interim Boston Site Director, reflects on how their new Boston location has helped the organization. “Not only did we end up with a great space, but you can tell that the individuals who come in here feel much more respected by the investment we’ve made to support their success. Dyer Brown was great to work with and very helpful in putting together the look and layout. We are really happy with the results!”
