E+ community spaces rendering. Studio G Architects

On September 18, the BSA celebrated the leadership and innovative work of six design teams, including Studio G Architects, and featured an exhibit of the six development proposals for E+ housing on city-owned parcels in Mission Hill.  Led by the Boston Environment Department, the Department of Neighborhood Development and the Boston Redevelopment Authority, the E+ (energy positive) Green Communities initiative is demonstrating the feasibility of regenerative multi-unit residential buildings. For the Mission Hill site, the city requested development proposals for 40+ housing units, commercial space and community gardens.

“We are taking our green building and renewable energy efforts to the next frontier by creating ultra-efficient housing that generates surplus clean energy. We will demonstrate that energy positive green housing can be constructed sustainably and cost-effectively, while enhancing the livability and vitality of Boston’s neighborhoods now and into the future.” -Mayor Thomas M. Menino

BSA President Mike Davis set the tone for the evening, remarking that,

“Architecture is political, meaning it’s about responsibility – taking care of people and the environment at a fundamental level. And collaboration between architecture and public policy can be powerful. Over the years, I have learned that partnerships with city, state, and federal officials are essential to creating the communities that we want to design and live in.”

The strength of these partnerships was evident in the shared expertise, energy and enthusiasm of attendees, including Sheila A. Dillon, Director of the Department of Neighborhood Development; Kairos Shen, Director of Planning at the Boston Redevelopment Authority, BSA members and Mission Hill residents and businesses. 

Studio G’s diagram illustrating energy and water conservation, and power and hot water generation drew many comments. 

Envelope and building systems diagram with HERS rating information by Studio G Architects (click to enlarge)

Attendees were also excited about Studio G’s design integration of community gardening and nature, with a large community garden on Parker Street, a vegetated screen along south-facing walls which provides natural cooling and privacy, and the fruit trees and fruiting shrubs along a path that meanders down the 37’ slope. 

Green facade rendering and diagram by Studio G Architects. (click to enlarge)

To view Studio G’s E+ proposal and more, please visit: http://www.epositiveboston.org/?page_id=1777