Utile and New Atlantic Development’s mixed-use apartment complex, named after American textile designer Alexander Girard, opened its doors to tenants in September 2016. The 160-unit building totals approximately 240,000 square feet with 3,600 square feet of ground floor retail. Despite residing in the South End Landmark district, the building’s exterior is decidedly contemporary. Rather than recreate a historicism that would never rise to the nobility of the surrounding context, Girard emulates its neighbors by deploying wall depth, texture, and play of light and shadow to activate its facades.
Common spaces include thoughtfully curated furnishings that honor mid century design, a roof terrace with gas fire pit looking to panoramic views of Boston, and an open common area complete with a kitchen and library. Additionally, Girard hosts a gallery featuring a rotation of local artists to celebrate the South End SoWa Art & Design District’s rich artist culture.
Photo credit: Gustav Hoiland