132 Terrace is an unabashedly modern addition to the growing arts district at the foot of Mission Hill. The building’s cubic forms play off of the surrounding apartment blocks and warehouses, but its precisely articulated wood cladding and high-contrast window surrounds give it a solidly contemporary sensibility. Inside, the 7 units feature open floor plans and durably designed casework that wake them perfect artist live-work spaces. The building also features a common gallery and workspace with prominent windows directly onto the sidewalk, helping to make the creative energy of the district more visible in everyday life. As the building backs up directly to the Orange Line and commuter rail tracks, particular care was taken to ensure that the windows and exterior envelope of the building provide top-of-the-line acoustic protection.
This project was designed in conjunction with the recently graduated architects-turned-developers at Primary Development, as well as the City of Boston’s Department of Neighborhood Development. It is an example of the collaborations and partnerships that are a strength of Zephyr Architects.