Washington Beech Apartments

Roslindale, MA

16+

ways to play in the 1-acre public park

246

new affordable, green and safe homes

2

acres of new impervious surface

The HOPE VI redevelopment goal for Washington Beech was to reduce the density of residential units, increase community space to be more cohesive with the surrounding neighborhood, and provide safe and attractive housing within walking distance of Roslindale Square. The first step in achieving this goal was to demolish the existing building with 266 units and build 206 new rental units, many with private back yards—reducing density and blending seamlessly with strong ties to the adjacent district.

Situated on a 7.6-acre site, DMLA’s design allows residents to enjoy effortless access to outdoor spaces specifically created to increase opportunities for engagement and encourage outdoor recreation. A central green space includes elements for both active play and passive park activities, a community garden area, fountain, basketball court, and playground. A sun-filled entrance plaza with natural features such as trees and rock outcroppings are successfully incorporated into DMLA’s scheme which creates a memorable presence and strong sense of place—reflecting the diverse cultures and shared values of this community. Washington Beech is a LEED GOLD site, making it the first affordable housing development in Massachusetts to receive this distinguished designation, and was honored with a Boston Society of Landscape Architects Merit Award for Housing and Community Development.

Deb’s collaboration and openness with clients, residents and architects—as she designs—led us to richer expressions of outdoor spaces that we can proudly call “home” and “community.” For Trinity, I can say that our resident’s lives are much better for her efforts.

Frank Edwards, Trinity Financial
01 | 11

Project Team

  • Deborah Myers designed this project as Senior Associate at Stantec
  • Client: Trinity Financial
  • Developer: Trinity Financial
  • Architect: Icon Architecture
  • Civil Engineer: Nitsch Engineering
  • General Contractor: CWC Builders
  • Landscape Contractor: Brightview (formerly Valley Crest)
  • Photographer: Charles Mayer