The highly anticipated East Boston waterfront development project has officially opened, and 25 percent of the property’s 200 units are already leased.
The lobby at Boston East designed by Cortney and Robert Novogratz– a Los Angeles-based husband and wife design team who have conceived some of the most unique living spaces across the country.
Following several delays and the economic downturn in 2008 there was a level of uncertainty in the community for several years for the East Boston Community Development Corporation (CDC) owned the development that was permitted back in the mid-2000s.
However, financing finally came through for the $71 million boutique luxury residential project at the Boston East Site, a former 19th century ship building yard on Border Street. .
Managed by Trinity Financial Boston East is now following in the footsteps of other successful waterfront development projects in the neighborhood. With projects like Clippership Wharf selling out prior to the actual opening of the development, it was no surprise Boston East was 25 percent leased before opening this month.
“The property has been really well received in the market. When we were voted Best New Building in Boston in December we started getting people wanting to tour the building and kicked off our pre leasing efforts,” said Development Vice President at Trinity Financial Abby Goldenfarb. “We’ve received tremendous feedback from residents about the gorgeous water and city views, ample open space, unique finishes and outstanding amenities. Trinity and the East Boston Community Development Corporation partnered on this project, and it has so much to offer residents and the community. The location is in the heart of thriving East Boston–a neighborhood that with outstanding restaurants, art galleries, outdoor activities and other great lifestyle features.”
Located directly on Boston Harbor and in close proximity to Downtown Boston and the MBTA, Boston East is a boutique, mid-rise residential community that features 200 units, including six artist live-work-sell units and a community art gallery.
The interiors of Boston East’s common spaces and residential units were created by Cortney and Robert Novogratz – a Los Angeles-based husband-and-wife design team who have conceived some of the most unique living spaces across the country. The Novogratzes, who are known for their unique taste and style, have been showcased several times on HGTV.
Goldenfarb said residents can expect the interior to reflect influences from Eastie’s rich history and the nearby marinas and shipyards in a non-traditional way. Boston East units include open concept floor plans, custom designed walk in closets, plank flooring, quartz countertops, and high-end GE slate appliances.
Both Trinity and the CDC said the pair has conceived some of the most unique and amazing living spaces across the country, but Boston East is their first large-scale multi-family design.
“The Novogratz’ have embraced Boston’s rich history, the region’s seafaring heritage and the community’s location on the Harbor as inspiration for a marine ‘industrial’ theme they incorporated into the interior design at Boston East,” said Albert Caldarelli, president of East Boston CDC.
Last summer, Cortney Novogratz visited the famous Brimfield Antique Flea Market to shop for local, one-of-a-kind pieces to be featured at Boston East. Design treasures from that endeavor include vintage lobster traps that create a coffee table in the public art gallery, a full-size antique canoe and a variety of vintage marine industrial pieces that have been woven into decor.
“Boston East is our first Boston project and we’re thrilled with the final design we’ve created a beautiful, relaxing and welcoming space we hope residents will enjoy,” said Cortney Novogratz. “East Boston has a rich culture and history that is reflected in the design, and the result is a building unlike any other luxury multi-family community in the city.”
Designed by Boston-based ICON Architecture, Inc., Boston East’s exterior engages a maritime look, with wharf-like building wings extending to the waterfront and surrounding a central arched entry. Making the most of the beautiful Harbor and downtown skyline, light-filled apartments boast tall floor-to-ceiling windows with large decks angled out to catch water views. A richly landscaped courtyard and Harborwalk envelop the site, offering a gracious patio and fire pit overlooking the kayak and paddleboard launch. A spacious, glass enclosed rooftop lounge invites relaxation, while an indoor gym and dog spa encourage activity.
“Recalling the site’s shipbuilding history, we have created amazing, contemporary residences that reimagine waterfront living in Eastie,’ said Nancy Ludwig, Principal of ICON Architecture, Inc.