Finding developable plots of land in Boston's vibrant downtown is becoming rare these days, forcing developers and architects to literally think outside the box in the case of a new proposal by Fortis Property Group and Stantec. The duo have filed plans for a flashy ten-storey residential addition on the roof of the Dock Square parking garage. 

The proposed project makes new use out of a hostile urban environment, image via Stantec

While the current parking garage and Hard Rock would be retained, the latter would be reduced in size from 15,000 to 8,000 square feet to accommodate the lobby for the 195-unit residential volume. The number of public parking spaces would also decline from 714 to 698.

Dock Square Garage proposal, image via Stantec

The brick-clad garage faces a recladding along its entire perimeter under the scheme. It would be sheathed in terracotta louvers and perforated metal panels, arranged vertically to reduce the visual bulk of the structure, while the spiralling glass extension takes root up top. The garage facade would be embedded with LED light strips for active nighttime illumination.

The proposal in context, image via Stantec

The goal of the facade composition, reads the design strategy submitted to the City, is to "create a warm-coloured building base that fits into the context of the historical neighbourhood, and a contrasting sleek and prism-like top that becomes a recognizable addition to the Boston skyline."

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