Old Colony – Beacon Communities

Project Overview

Boston, MA –

SES has been providing LEED fundamental commissioning services for the multi-phase redevelopment of the Old Colony Housing Project, one of the Boston Housing Authority’s oldest and most ambitious revitalization efforts. Originally built in the 1940s, Old Colony Apartments have undergone a comprehensive transformation to replace outdated housing with modern, high-efficiency residences. The redevelopment is designed to enhance sustainability, improve resident comfort, and create a vibrant, healthy community.

This project introduces new mid-rise and townhouse-style buildings that significantly increase energy efficiency while maintaining affordability for residents. SES has played a key role in ensuring that critical building systems, including HVAC equipment, central chilled and hot water heating plants, air handling systems, terminal devices, general exhaust, and domestic hot water systems, operate optimally to support long-term sustainability goals.

Phase 2, completed in the summer of 2015, introduced 169 new affordable housing units across multiple buildings and achieved LEED BD+C Platinum certification. Phase 3A added two buildings, both earning LEED BD+C Gold certification. Phase 3B, featuring 115 apartments, achieved Gold Certification. Phase 3C adds 55 apartments for seniors and those with disabilities and achieved both PHIUS Certification and LEED BD+C Platinum. Phases 4 & 5 include demolition and reconstruction of 208 existing units. As the redevelopment progresses, SES continues to provide LEED fundamental commissioning services for Phase 6, an additional 134 new construction units, ensuring optimal system performance, occupant comfort, and long-term energy efficiency.

This development received the PHIUS National Passive House Projects Award for Best Low-Rise Multifamily Design and sets a new standard for sustainability, performance, and inclusive community design.