Catering to Boston’s “Artist Space Initiative,” ArtBlock 731 creates two new live/work loft buildings wrapped around a historic school converted to artist work space.
The contemporary exterior emulates the surrounding rhythms and materials of the historic South End and expresses the community-of-arts within. The two new buildings draw from the scale, rhythm, and materiality of the surrounding historic context, while expressing a contemporary identity rooted in the arts. At the ground level, the project engages the public through the ArtSpace 731 gallery, which opens to a terrace and landscaped sculpture garden. The revitalized Bates Art Center provides twelve artist studios, creating an active hub for making and exhibition space curated to showcase resident artists and enrich the neighborhood.
Upgrades to the existing building improve accessibility, performance, and longevity. A new accessible entry sequence through the sculpture garden and the addition of an elevator connect all levels, while life safety improvements—including fire alarm and sprinkler systems—bring the building into compliance. Envelope enhancements, including new historically appropriate windows, insulation, roof replacement, and masonry repair, support long-term energy performance and preservation goals.
