Boston Society for Architecture Enhances Community Spaces with AARP and the Housing Authority

Enhancing Community Connections Through Design

The concept of housing goes beyond mere structures; it encapsulates the essence of home, community, health, resilience, and equity. With this understanding, the Boston Society for Architecture (BSA) has taken significant steps to positively influence the daily lives of residents by enhancing the design of buildings and the surrounding outdoor spaces. This initiative emphasizes the critical role that thoughtful design plays in fostering social connections and community engagement.

Recently, the BSA joined forces with the Boston Housing Authority and AARP to celebrate Massachusetts Good Neighbor Day (held on September 28) by co-creating outdoor gathering spaces for residents of the Doris Bunte Apartments located in Roxbury. This collaborative effort aimed to provide environments where residents could unite, connect, and unwind with friends and family.

The newly designed outdoor area is adorned with planters brimming with lush greenery, which injects both warmth and vibrancy into the atmosphere. Additional seating has been thoughtfully placed to encourage socializing and relaxation, while strategically positioned lighting facilitates evening activities. To spark friendly interactions, chess tables have also been incorporated, creating a welcoming environment for residents to engage in play.

This transformative project was made possible through a grant provided by AARP, underscoring the importance of community and care in urban environments. "At its heart, this project is about care; care for one another and care for the places we share," stated Ben Peterson, Community Design Director at the BSA. Peterson went on to explain that even minor design interventions could significantly enhance trust and joy among community members, potentially driving long-lasting improvements within Boston's public housing.

In alignment with their commitment to enhancing the quality of life for local residents, BSA applied for and received an 'AARP Community Challenge' grant, which was instrumental in executing this project. Jen Benson, AARP Massachusetts State Director, emphasized their pride in funding community-focused initiatives: "AARP is proud to fund local projects that help make communities more livable for people of all ages. Collaborating with partners like BSA and BHA allows us to facilitate meaningful community engagement and transformation."

During the unveiling of the revitalized outdoor space, BSA and their partners gathered immediate feedback from residents, revealing a high level of enthusiasm about caring for and utilizing the newly enhanced site. This feedback will play a crucial role in informing future capital improvement plans at the Doris Bunte Apartments, a project currently being developed by Winslow Architects.

John Winslow, President of Winslow Architects, articulated the importance of community engagement, noting it as essential for addressing equity and sustainability in the built environment. He expressed optimism about using resident feedback to generate innovative ideas for upcoming project improvements.

The Good Neighbor Day initiative is one of many endeavors the BSA participates in throughout the Greater Boston area. This non-profit organization strives to bolster the quality of life for local residents by promoting innovative designs that prioritize sustainability and social equity. Their engagement spans a variety of areas, including K-12 educational programming, housing advocacy, and more.

Paige Johnston, Senior Director of Programs & Impact at BSA, stated, "Projects like this one at Doris Bunte embody the BSA's mission at its best. By closely listening to community priorities, we can leverage our extensive network of members and partners to drive impactful change for current and future generations."

For those interested in learning more about the Boston Society for Architecture, or to engage with their upcoming initiatives, including the BSA Housing Innovation Symposium, visit architects.org or follow them on LinkedIn and Instagram. The symposium aims to connect architects, developers, policymakers, and community members to explore innovative design solutions that meet financial, regulatory, and social challenges in the housing sector.

About Boston Society for Architecture

The Boston Society for Architecture is devoted to enhancing the quality of life for residents in the Boston area by advocating for innovative and sustainable design practices. With a diverse membership of over 4,500 architects, firms, and allied professionals, BSA is dedicated to fostering collaborations that lead to an equitable and sustainable future.

About AARP

AARP is the largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering older adults in their living choices as they age. AARP engages in various initiatives to strengthen communities and advocate for essential needs concerning health security, financial stability, and personal fulfillment.

About Winslow Architects

With over 40 years of experience, Winslow Architects specializes in designing affordable multifamily housing that is sensitive to its context. Their commitment to sustainability and innovative design aims to positively influence both individual lives and broader communities.