Continuum is a mixed-use development that knits the border of Harvard University’s Allston campus to the vibrant North Allston neighborhood. Above an expansive ground-level retail space, we designed a 20,000-square-foot roof terrace that links new residential towers to the North and South. The roof’s orientation presented a unique environment, in which one half was almost always enveloped in sunlight, while the other half was almost always cast in shade. Drawing inspiration from quilts, our design wove together these distinct spaces with panels of planting and paving that created a patchwork, united by bands of decorative stone and pavers that provide circulation and drainage. Large paved areas at the east and west ends provide gathering spaces overlooking the active sidewalks, plazas, and park below. Walks flanked by ornamental grasses extend into the central portion of the terrace. Breaking the continuity of the ground plane to add visual and physical relief, a central garden space incorporates landforms planted with trees, shrubs, and groundcovers to frame areas for outdoor dining and seating, as well as a play lawn.

Awarded LEED gold

Client: Samuels & Associate
Collaborators: Elkus Manfredi Architects
Images: LJLA