DHK developed a conceptual design and feasibility study for a 360,000 SF mixed-use structure. The four story precast concrete building was intended to house various functions that include two levels of open parking, a ground level dedicated to retail and fire and police stations and an upper level with function rooms. The building is located within the Boston Marine Industrial Park facing the Reserve Channel to the south and Massport’s Black Falcon Terminal to the east.
The design treatment of the building exterior reflected the different programmatic elements within: retail spaces; parking garage spaces; large meeting rooms; and circulation stair towers. A select palette of materials, colors, and finishes identified the various functions while maintaining a compositionally unified whole. In tune with its maritime environment, with its primary cladding of colored steel fins in various tonalities of blue, the façade emulates the constant movement of waves. A stainless steel mesh that encompasses the open parking area behind the steel fins will add the glitter of wave action as it reflects the sun’s light. The exterior treatment of retail and assembly areas were presented in aluminum framed glass systems providing a welcoming public gesture through the use of transparency and light as well as the great view towards the Reserve Channel.