Waltham-based Vantage Builders Inc. has begun work on a 16,000-square-foot expansion project for the Sri Lakshmi Temple in Ashland.

The Sri Lakshmi Temple first opened in 1986. The new construction will expand the existing facility by more than a third. The work will be divided into two phases, the construction of the core, two-story building and then the interior “fit out” work.  The first phase, currently underway, is expected to be complete by November 2015.

The new building will allow access to the temple on both floors.  The upper level will consist of an auditorium or multipurpose room, a boardroom and a library. The lower level will feature a commercial kitchen and pantry, as well as a dining facility for the Temple worshippers, visitors and staff. The building will also have utility rooms, showers and bathroom facilities.  It will be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The project team includes architectural services from Joyce Design Partnership, structural engineering from Aberjona Engineering Inc. and MEP engineering from New England Engineering Corp.

“Working with the Sri Lakshmi Temple has been an honor for Vantage Builders,” Ed Silva, principal at Vantage Builders, said in a statement.  “We appreciate the Temple’s commitment to their community, traditions and culture and are pleased to be part of this important project.”