BOSTON– In a major step forward for affordable housing and creative placemaking in Boston, Kaplan Construction has announced the completion of 2147 Washington Street, a 99,831-square-foot, six-story mixed-use development in Roxbury’s Nubian Square. Developed by New Atlantic Development and DREAM Collaborative, the project is designed with a special focus on artists and the creative economy.
Built on the site of a former surface parking lot, 2147 Washington introduces 74 new housing units—including 62 income-restricted rentals and 12 for-sale condominiums—with half of both categories reserved specifically for artists and creative professionals. The building also features 8,600 square feet of commercial and cultural space, with amenities including a dance studio, gallery-style lobby, flexible artist studios, a bakery/café, and classrooms, reinforcing its role as a community anchor in the neighborhood.
“This project brings together housing, the arts, and the community in a way that is truly unique,” said Nathan Peck, president of Kaplan Construction. “2147 Washington provides not only critically needed affordable housing but also a platform for resident artists and entrepreneurs to thrive in Boston.”
Designed by DREAM Collaborative, the development was constructed to Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) standards and aligns with Boston’s Zero Net Energy ordinance. Sustainability features include high-performance HVAC systems, enhanced insulation, energy-efficient appliances, and infrastructure for future solar panels, electric vehicle charging, and an all-electric boiler conversion. The project is expected to achieve LEED® Silver certification.
“Kaplan Construction was a true partner throughout this complex project,” said Brian Goldson, co-owner of New Atlantic Development. “Their team met our ambitious goals for sustainability, diversity, and design while navigating unexpected site conditions with professionalism and innovation.”
Construction of the building was not without challenges. The site’s history—as the former location of a hotel destroyed by fire—led to contaminated soil remediation. Additionally, abandoned MBTA footings required Kaplan to use vacuum excavation and drilled piles instead of traditional pile-driving methods to reduce ground disturbance and protect adjacent infrastructure.
Kaplan Construction also made major strides in equity and inclusion, achieving 78% minority labor hours—well above the Boston Residents Jobs Policy goal of 51%. The project exceeded its supplier diversity goals as well, awarding 68% of subcontracted work to minority- and women-owned business enterprises (MBE/WBE).
The building includes a second-floor community room for residents and a below-grade garage with 31 spaces and future-ready EV charging infrastructure. The mix of amenities is designed to encourage interaction among residents while supporting local artists and small businesses.
Situated in the heart of Roxbury’s Nubian Square, 2147 Washington reflects the area’s cultural legacy and supports the city’s vision for inclusive development that serves long-term residents, entrepreneurs, and the arts community alike.
