20 Rutland Square, South End

Project will fulfill late artists’ hopes for
a legacy of affordable housing for artists and the disabled

Artists James and Joyce Reed had a vision for the community legacy they wanted to pass on when they died. They envisioned their brownstone not just as a home, but as a small community where local artists, people facing hardships, and people with disabilities could live affordably, within an environmentally friendly setting.

The Reeds also saw in the renovation process, itself, an opportunity to provide training for people who want to develop vocational skills and gain experience to increase their employability as skilled laborers.

Now, through a transformation of their former home, at 20 Rutland Square in Boston’s South End, YouthBuild Boston (YBB) will help realize their vision. The renovation design will revolve around three levels of access for future occupants: financial access for people with limited income, physical access for people who use wheelchairs, and social access for artists and others whose past behaviors limit their options for housing. The design for the renovated structure was developed by architects Joan and Josh Wood, from Joan Wood Associates. It incorporates the use of eco-friendly building technologies, including a co-generation heating system, a green roof, and energy efficient windows and appliances.

Students from YBB’s Construction Training Program began the renovation in early May 2007. As part of their training, they will participate in all aspects of the restoration of the building, including carpentry, drywall and plastering, plumbing, HVAC systems, and more. This hands-on training experience has a solid track record of success, as YBB program graduates go on to join local unions, obtain sustainable employment in the building trades, and develop personal and community responsibility.