213 Harvard*

A compact lot in Cambridge hosts the replacement of eight condos that previously were lost to a fire. The project utilizes a single stair typology with duplex units at the top two levels and garden level units at the lowest level. Intersecting balconies reveal depth in the volume while tying into a contemporary take on clapboard construction. Sam led the design and documentation of this project while at Placetailor.

*Design & Permitting by Placetailor, CA by JGE

Cambridge, MA

Complete

8 Homes
2021—2024











North / South Section


Utilizing the low-rise single-stair typology, these eight homes were crafted for a group of owners who previously lost their building (at the same site) to a fire. 

The lower two levels host two parallel units, while the upper two levels host four units on each corner. Each unit above grade has access to at least one private outdoor space, and all units have at least dual-aspect sunlight exposure. 

Hemmed in by historic building restrictions made any modifications to the floor plan extents challenging, and new code compliant egress and services had to fit within the old footprint. The upper levels benefit from recapturing the staircase to be part of each dwelling unit—utilizing a code exploit to gain square feet of livible space. 



Below Grade Level
Ground Level
Level 2
Level 3
Roof Level
East / West Section




Building Circulation




Private Outdoor Spaces












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