Context/Significance
The phased development of two adjacent parcels spearheaded an effort to revitalize a neglected, underused block within the historic district of the South End that had been occupied by garages for many years.
Both buildings were designed to satisfy the contemporary demand in urban markets for moderately sized and moderately priced but spacious units with flexible, open floor plans. The exterior is a striking contemporary design that successfully integrates the new buildings with a historic factory building located across the street by skillfully combining metal, glass and masonry cladding.
Description
The Modern 1.0 was the first phase, built on the site of a former concrete garage. It is a six-story, steel framed building that contains 25 market rate condos on the upper floors and affordable artist’s lofts and parking on the ground floor. It has a penthouse loft at roof level and outdoor roof decks.
The Modern 2.0 is the second phase of the revitalization effort, built on an adjacent parcel. It contains 37 loft-style condominiums, including seven affordable artist live/work units on the ground floor. Although the two buildings have separate entrances, they are functionally integrated and share an internal stair and access to grade level parking in the rear.
Special Features
Both buildings use a similar palate of colors and textures that are woven together to create a rich and dramatic presence on the street. However, the Modern 2 adds a distinctive character of its own by introducing subtle differences in colors, textures, detailing and proportions.