A Vision for Urban Sophistication

The project originated from a vision to elevate the standard of "missing middle" housing in East Boston. The client sought to maximize a compact urban footprint without sacrificing the amenities typically reserved for luxury suburban estates – private outdoor spaces, deeded garage parking, and distinct separation between social and private zones.

Scope of Project

• Architectural Design: Full-service design for a 5-story residential building.

• Diversified Housing: A curated mix of nine units, including 1, 2, and 3-bedroom configurations ranging from 660 to 1,415 square feet.

• Technical Documentation: Delivery of the "FINAL Full Design Package" including complex structural framing, reflected ceiling plans (RCPs), and exterior envelope details.

The primary obstacle was navigating the extreme spatial constraints of a 0.11-acre site while adhering to stringent zoning and accessibility (MAAB) standards. The design team had to engineer a solution that accommodated an internal parking garage and a vertical lift system, all while ensuring each unit maintained a sense of openness and high-end finish consistency across varying floor plans.

Our team implemented a "Vertical-Living" framework to maximize the site’s potential:

• Boutique Accessibility: Unit 1 was specifically engineered to meet MAAB standards, featuring step-free entry, wide doorways, and a dedicated lift, proving that accessibility can be seamlessly integrated with high-end aesthetics.

• Structural Optimization: The design utilizes a robust structural core to support cantilevered private decks and a shared roof deck, offering residents panoramic views of the Boston skyline and harbor.

• Material Refinement: The exterior envelope features a contemporary palette that respects the neighborhood’s scale, while the interiors utilize European-style windows, engineered hardwoods, and floor-to-ceiling tile in "spa-inspired" bathrooms.

• Bilevel Logic: To provide the feeling of a single-family home, the upper-floor penthouses were designed as bi-level townhouses, effectively separating the entertainment levels from the private sleeping quarters.

The result is a landmark addition to the East Boston waterfront area. The Havre Street Residences stand as a testament to technical rigor, where meticulously documented "Final CDs" ensured a seamless construction process. The building provides nine high-performance homes that anchor the community, offering a blend of modern luxury and urban resilience.