20:22The 776 Summer Street project, a prominent topic of the meeting, saw substantial revisions in its design following prior feedback from the board. The presentation highlighted the transformation of the building’s interaction with the ground and its integration with the neighboring historic turbine hall. This marked the seventh presentation of the project, emphasizing the commitment to addressing the board’s feedback.

07:27Key changes to the project included relocating the hotel entrance to align better with Block E and the sidewalk. The materials used in the construction aimed to reflect the character of South Boston, with earthy tones such as patinated copper contributing to a cohesive appearance. The design also balanced historic and modern elements, using varying metal panel widths and metal fins to create visual interest and complement the building’s glazing.

18:12Commissioners expressed approval of the revisions, recognizing the improvements in how the building interacts with the ground level. One commissioner appreciated the increased ground floor activation and architectural enhancements that considered solar orientation. Another commissioner highlighted the notable progress made since the project’s initial presentations, remarking on the improved scale and entry sequences. Despite the overall positive reception, some commissioners suggested further development to enhance the connection with the adjacent turbine hall.

32:31The project on Summer Street was not the only one discussed. The board also reviewed plans for 340-3440 Washington Street in Jamaica Plain, which proposed two mixed-use buildings with 230 residential units and over 6,000 square feet of retail space. The proponents detailed modifications made in response to prior feedback, including increased open space on the ground floor and adjustments to the building’s massing to create a more inviting public realm. The design aimed to bridge the commercial scale of Washington Street with the residential neighborhoods, featuring entry plazas, enhanced sidewalks, and courtyards to foster community interaction.

Further conversation centered on the architectural changes to the Washington Street project, with the introduction of a townhouse typology along the ground floor. The rear setback at the 3440 site was increased from 10 to 20 feet. Enhancements included stepping back podium levels to create a pedestrian-friendly sidewalk, incorporating planting zones, bike parking, and bus bulbs to delineate pedestrian areas.

43:42Concerns were raised about the public realm improvements, particularly the color scheme and the potential for darker areas under overhangs. Discussions suggested refining the material choices to ensure a cohesive appearance along Washington Street, with some advocating for a uniform brick cladding instead of introducing white horizontal metal siding.

01:07:58The meeting also covered the project at 75 and 75A Morrisy Boulevard in Dorchester, part of a larger master plan. The design team emphasized reorienting building footprints to connect better with open spaces and solar orientation. Significant massing adjustments aimed to align Building B with Morrisy Boulevard. The design sought to create a “brother-sister relationship” between the buildings, with massings refined to foster a connection to the central open space.

01:09:24The landscape design modifications were a focal point of the Morrisy Boulevard project presentation. The revised proposal introduced “three rooms” within one park, featuring a central open space with a performance stage and various pockets of discovery. This enhanced design aimed to connect the Savin Hill neighborhood with future developments, addressing criticisms of an overly suburban original design.

15:29They discussed the need for further refinement in material choices and lighting design.