The Pryde

The Pryde will be Boston’s first LGBTQ-friendly affordable senior housing development. Through a partnership with Pennrose and LGBTQ Senior Housing Inc, the former William Barton Rogers Middle School will be converted into 74 units of housing, featuring a mix of studio, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom units. The design includes multiple spaces for community programming to welcome neighborhood residents to the inclusive space. This will include an art room, a classroom, an art gallery, and a multi-purpose room. Additionally, there will be office and display space for the Massachusetts 54th regiment, the second all-Black Union regiment to fight in the Civil War.

The interior design approach focuses on neutralizing the building interiors to unify the three distinct wings of the building. Each community space will be furnished with elements reflecting the distinct colors that make up the LGBTQ pride flag.

A landscaped courtyard will include raised beds, a walking track, and outdoor seating below a pergola for social gathering. A new sunroom for residents is designed with a coffee bar, bookcases and a fireplace and large windows overlooking the courtyard. A historic landmark, the exterior and interior will be renovated with historically appropriate materials and details respectful to the school’s original character. The project includes accessibility upgrades throughout the building, new elevators, and accessible routes to the rear courtyard.