Union Square Station Plaza

Somerville, MA

The Union Square redevelopment is the revitalization of 15 acres in Somerville, MA. It is supported by the new MBTA station and will include over 2.4 million square feet of office, labs, housing, green space and retail. Civic Space A is adjacent to the new MBTA station acting as the gateway to Union Square and serving to link the new with the existing fabric of the neighborhood.

The plaza has been designed to be welcoming and comfortable with a variety of seating alternatives including both permanent accommodations and moveable tables and chairs to maximize its sustained use. The spatial organization accommodates ease of movement through the space, while providing for and encouraging lingering, meeting and even gathering for special events.

A look back at history revealed that the Millers River once passed through the site. The plaza design is inspired by the dynamic movement of the river. The fluid flow of water provides a metaphor for the dynamic pedestrian connection between the MBTA Station and Union Square. Lining each edge of the plaza are multiple “eddies” of seating, steps and other gathering opportunities. And a sloping green buffer along the street mimic a river’s bank.

LOCATION
Somerville, MA
CLIENT
Union Square Station Associates (US2)