On Special Projects: Panoramas

 

Observation of the construction of large-scale developments in the city provides a visual barometer of the changing urban landscape, both physically and socially.  As parcels of land begin to fill in with new structures, the character of the surrounding space is transformed.  New buildings shape the look of a block or even a neighborhood, and bring new functions as well as people.  

 

ATELIER 505

 

After a lengthy process of proposals and planning involving the city, developers, and the local community, construction began in 2002 on an empty lot in Boston's South End at the corner of Tremont and Berkeley Streets.  The development, Atelier 505, is a luxury condominium complex which also houses the first new performing arts theaters in Boston in over 70 years.  Upon completion in 2004, this $100 million development became home to approximately 100 luxury residential units, two theaters for the Boston Center for the Arts and the Huntington Theater Company, a mix of restaurants and retail shops, and two levels of below-ground parking. 

 

As such a major addition to the South End neighborhood, Atelier 505 has been the subject of many opinions as local residents take interest in the impact it will ultimately have on the area.  For many, the development of high-end housing is a welcome addition to a community that has seen its property values continue to rise, as upscale restaurants and boutique shopping have elevated the South End to one of Boston's trendiest neighborhoods.  The area now has even more options for living, dining, shopping, and entertainment as its primary commercial center gained a huge new presence, literally and figuratively.  At ten stories, the highest part of the development towers over neighboring buildings and brings a big-city feel to a neighborhood known for its quaint Victorian architecture.  On the other hand, there is concern about the changing fabric of the local community, historically one of Boston's most culturally and economically diverse neighborhoods.  Some fear the effects of gentrification have gone too far, as more modest income groups such as artists, the elderly, immigrants, and working-class residents are further priced out of a community which they helped to establish over time.  Incoming professionals bring with them ways that may strike others as ill-fitted to the long-standing traditions and character of the neighborhood.

 

It is with these social factors as a backdrop that I found the physical development of Parcel 8 to be quite emblematic of the larger dynamics of change in Boston, and certainly the South End.  Atelier 505 makes a gallant attempt to fit into its surroundings and contribute to the neighborhood, but at the same time heralds such a dramatic change in the landscape that some people hesitate to embrace this brash newcomer.  But over time, that which is new eventually becomes part of the familiar landscape--and people adjust, adapt, and carry on.

 

This first set of panoramas for viewing on my website is one of several I have undertaken at construction sites in Boston, photographing as often as once a week to keep up with the pace of development.  (Other series will soon be available for viewing, once I have finished shooting and editing.)

 

 

I am grateful to Lydia Walshin, Ted Chaloner, Matt Miller, and Paul Wywrot for their assistance with this project.