Firm name: Interface Studio Architects with Urbanica Design
Jury comments: In the context of its dense urban neighborhood, there is nothing like this project. Four new three-story wood frame houses present clean contemporary lines and a nice breakup of volume that make the design an interesting riff on the triplex form found all across the region. Bay windows are reversed, pushing into the building rather than out, minimizing the perimeter’s exposure to the elements. Each structure is well connected to the street and sidewalk. The urban infill location provides convenient access to mass transportation and amenities. Sustainability clearly stands at the foundation of design strategy. The project is part of Boston’s Energy Plus (E+) Green Building Program and is LEED Platinum certified with attractive HERS ratings across all four houses. It’s simply beautiful. Part of the community’s goal is to encourage more home ownership, and these houses will certainly attract buyers. It’s a truly transformative element for this community, which is high praise for any housing, anywhere.
Client: Urbanica; City of Boston; Boston Redevelopment Authority
