Berklee Completes Purchase of 2 Charlesgate West

Dear Berklee community,

I have some very exciting news to share. 

During my listening sessions with students, staff, and faculty, the need for more space here on the Boston campus was the most commonly cited challenge facing Berklee. Your feedback crystallized the real and tangible ways our existing campus footprint affects our ability to deliver on our mission. Those conversations drove a sense of urgency to secure additional space. 

I am pleased to announce that Berklee has purchased 2 Charlesgate West, a nearly half-acre property that includes an eight-story building totaling 56,000 square feet and is adjacent to Boston Conservatory at Berklee’s 132 Ipswich Street facility. The property presents an exciting and unique opportunity to address our acute need for more space in a way that connects our campus across the Fenway and increases Berklee’s visibility. Berklee has attempted to purchase 2 Charlesgate West several times over the last 20 years because of the strategic value it provides. 

This acquisition is a critical piece of the ongoing development of a long-range, comprehensive plan that will enhance the student experience, support Berklee’s strategic plan, and help realize our vision of building the future of arts education. Funding for this property acquisition will come from a combination of philanthropic support and our non-operating capital budget.

I look forward to sharing updates as the project progresses and to realizing the possibilities this space will bring to our community.

Yours, 

Jim Lucchese
President