Seaport World Trade Center in Boston by Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects

Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects is passionately creating the Seaport World Trade Center, a visionary mixed-use development on Commonwealth Pier in Boston’s dynamic Seaport District. Once the largest pier building in the world upon its completion in 1901, the site will be reborn to feature modern, flexible office space, new retail, dining, and public amenities, and vibrant event space. International real estate advisor Pembroke has drawn upon the design expertise of Schmidt Hammer Lassen and the Boston-based architectural firm CBT for this inspired adaptive reuse project, preserving the site’s historic origins while introducing new materials, increased daylight, and enhanced points of connectivity.
The transformation aims to enhance public access, expand retail offerings, and promote sustainability at the site. The new commercial office space is designed to inspire flexibility and creativity, with an abundance of natural light and captivating views. A significant focus of the development is the creation of 15,200 square meters of new and improved outdoor public spaces, including courtyards, walkways, green rest areas, and a grand plaza, inviting both office workers and the public to embrace the pier. At the heart of the site, a 2,300-square-meter public waterfront plaza is poised to become a central gathering point, designed for year-round events and adorned with vibrant trees, custom seating, and flexible areas for socializing.
Running along the entire perimeter of the project is the Harborwalk, a paved pedestrian path that provides views of downtown Boston, East Boston, and the Boston Harbor. Custom seating elements with integrated planters and lighting will line the walkway that expands occasionally at niches cut into the building’s facade. Each unique niche will provide public seating, sheltered areas, signage, and connectivity to retail and dining. The pedestrian experience along Seaport Boulevard will improve with the addition of 4,180 square meters of new retail space across the upper and ground floors of the iconic Headhouse structure, as well as increased connectivity to the upper level of the Seaport World Trade Center.

Preserving Boston’s maritime past

Schmidt Hammer Lassen’s design for the Seaport World Trade Center aims to honor the building’s rich historic elements. The preservation of the stone arches and cornice of the Headhouse captures the essence of its storied past. The building’s northern extension celebrates its industrial-style warehouse character, showcasing the original structure’s columns and connections. Through the incorporation of lightweight materials and curtain walls, the building will seamlessly blend into its neighborhood context. The continuation of maritime activity along the pier during and after construction reflects the enduring spirit of the area. Anticipated to commence in early 2020, the project is poised to harmoniously merge history with modernity. Source and images courtesy of Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects.