06:35At the forefront of the discussions was the residential project on Morrisy Boulevard in Dorchester. This development, spanning approximately 645,000 square feet primarily for residential use, aims to rejuvenate a 2.25-acre site currently occupied by a vacant office building. The proposal includes 754 residential units distributed across two buildings and 24,000 square feet of open space. The presentation highlighted the project’s integration into the Columbia Point master plan, with an emphasis on creating a pedestrian-friendly environment and a community park to boost public engagement.

01:29:25Commissioners delved into the architectural elements of the proposed residential buildings, stressing the need for cohesive design strategies that align with the broader community vision. The slender forms of the buildings were designed to step down towards the community park.

39:44Concerns were raised regarding the project’s ability to define the edges along Morrisy Boulevard effectively, particularly in relation to future developments. Commissioners encouraged the design team to ensure the project functions as a true main street, even in its interim condition. Suggestions were made to improve the coherence of architectural elements and the relationship between buildings A and B, which were initially perceived as disparate structures rather than a cohesive ensemble.

44:55The conversation also addressed practical concerns, such as the logistics of passenger drop-off and pick-up, and how the central space can provide both active engagement and quiet areas for residents and visitors. The commissioners emphasized the need for a design approach that celebrates the urban nature of the development, promoting generous, usable spaces that encourage community interaction.

01:00:09In the latter part of the meeting, attention shifted to the Boston University Party School of Global Studies project on Bay State Road in Fenway. This 70,000-square-foot academic building, situated within a 1.3-acre site, seeks to foster connectivity across the Boston University campus while contributing to the landscape of the Charles River Esplanade and BU Beach. The design includes over an acre of green space, envisioned as a future central green area for the university.

01:05:38The presentation of the Boston University project focused on integrating the building with its surrounding landscape through features such as an entry grove and biodiverse native meadows. Mass timber construction was highlighted as a primary material choice. The architectural team addressed constraints posed by current building codes, which limit the exposure of mass timber in high-rise structures to 20%, and detailed how they managed to incorporate 19% exposure within the design.

01:36:59Commissioners expressed enthusiasm for the project’s potential to enhance campus cohesiveness but also voiced concerns about accessibility and cultural representation. The prominence of stairs in the design was noted as a potential barrier to accessibility, prompting calls for a more inclusive environment.

01:32:38Public testimony on the Boston University project included support from community representatives who praised the design’s potential to enhance campus connectivity and cohesiveness. However, concerns were raised about the shadow impacts on adjacent public spaces and historic districts, prompting the board to consider further studies on the building’s height and its effects on the surrounding environment.

In addition to these project reviews, updates were provided on a building renovation involving ground floor improvements along Commonwealth Avenue. The revised design focused on enhancing transparency and engagement with the streetscape, with commissioners discussing the importance of a dynamic canopy design that responds to New England’s weather conditions.

01:53:22The meeting concluded with a discussion on Article 80 modernization and reforms related to the Boston Civic Design Commission, highlighting ongoing efforts to improve reviewer feedback consistency and public testimony processes. Subcommittee sessions were scheduled to further these discussions, with a commitment to align future actions with necessary zoning changes.