LIVING WITH WATER: A CASE STUDY FOR COASTAL MIXED-USE MULTIFAMILY RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURES

Abstract

This examines The Eddy, a new construction mixed-use, multifamily residential project in Boston, MA USA as a model for sustainable and resilient urban waterfront redevelopment that celebrates place – rather than evoking fear – while building a sense of community and continuity along the waterfront. The Eddy is situated in the neighbourhood of East Boston on low-lying, reclaimed former-industrial land. Because of its place along the waterfront, this building is one of many projects viewed as a linchpin for a unified front against rising sea level, storm surge, and climate change for the entire neighbourhood. This study explores drivers for resiliency on this project, as well as strategies and tools used by the designers, construction team, and municipality leadership in incentivising and directing sustainability and resiliency efforts in a coordinated fashion on this and adjacent properties. Then, the paper explores the project’s siting, landscape, architecture, interior design, and mechanical considerations and how each impact greater sustainability and resiliency outcomes. Finally, the paper will share the results of these implemented strategies, including operational cost savings, project marketability, and reduced insurance premiums as a result of the resilient and sustainable design approach, proving synergy and return on investment for implementation of each in tandem. The goal is to illustrate that through cooperation between public and private partnerships, cities can grow and densify intelligently while promoting increased resiliency, sustainability, density, identity, and waterfront access – applicable to any waterfront city.