MTPC is a statewide advocacy and community service organization dedicated to ensuring lived equity, safety, and well-being for transgender and nonbinary people in Massachusetts. They provide direct support, leadership development, and financial assistance while advancing local and statewide policy changes. They also provide education, training, and consulting services to support businesses, organizations, and governments in developing and implementing affirming and inclusive policies and equitable practices.
Project Brief:
MTPC recently moved into a 752 sq. ft. office suite—the first space solely dedicated to their organization’s operational and programmatic work. As MTPC expands its staff, programs, and services, they require expert support to design an efficient, inclusive, and welcoming office environment that can accommodate their growing operational needs while embodying our community-centered mission. A particular focus of this project is the 150 sq. ft. G.E.A.R. Boutique, a small office dedicated to MTPC’s Gender Euphoria and Affirmation Resources (G.E.A.R.) Program. G.E.A.R. provides transgender and nonbinary community members across Massachusetts with free gender-affirming garments, products, and supplies—removing cost, stigma, and logistical barriers to accessing items essential to safety, well-being, and self-expression.
The G.E.A.R. Boutique is envisioned as an affirming and joyful space where community members can browse items, receive individualized support from staff, and connect with resources that support identity and confidence. However, to fully realize this vision, MTPC needs a functional floor plan, integrated storage systems, and a cohesive design strategy that optimizes the Boutique’s dual purpose as both a storage hub and a welcoming community-facing showroom.
PAYETTE’s design partnership would allow MTPC to transform their workspace into a mission-aligned, accessible, and culturally affirming environment that supports current needs and future growth. This project directly strengthens their capacity to deliver essential, life-affirming services to the estimated 76,000–80,000 transgender and nonbinary people living in Massachusetts, particularly those who are BIPOC, low-income, disabled, youth, or otherwise under-resourced.
Proposal:
office renovation | levels of intervention
g.e.a.r. boutique
Community Partner:
Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition
PAYETTE Team:
Mark Bandzak
Gunn Chaiyapatranun
Laura Devine
Marlena Fleck
Sophie McKenzie
Victor Ohene
Claire Pawlecki
Adam Wagner
