Isenberg Projects

We've always?been inspired by the opportunity that lies in underutilized spaces – a potential to create gathering places that welcome belonging and connectivity. This year we continued our focus on passive engagement and how to engage folx on their own terms, to serve their civic experience and broaden their communities.? See for yourself, and cruise around through some of our 2022 projects! As we close?out the year, we'd like to give a massive high five?all the partners, collaborators,?artists and clients and friends (you know who you are)?for everything you've shared with us, and taught us to continue to broaden our practice at Isenberg Projects. There will be a lot more gatherings, and experiences to share in 2023, that's for certain! Perhaps even some hosted in our new space, so get on our mailing list.?Happy New Year!

Earlier this fall, Urban Land Institute shared insights from working with municipalities nationwide to re-envision downtowns. Traditional 'downtown' business districts are transitioning into vibrant social and cultural spaces. Now more than ever, placemaking—including art, events, and design in public and ‘in-between’ spaces—is essential. As cities consider new visual identities and community-centered real estate planning, we’re excited to be part of this change. https://lnkd.in/ee5xx4i4

With Small Business Saturday next weekend, we’re spotlighting some incredible women-owned shops. Officially certified as women-owned in Massachusetts, Isenberg Projects is proud to have designed an open-source seal to celebrate women in business. Visit https://lnkd.in/epm4DGu6 to download your own emblem and don’t forget to show up for Boston’s small business owners this holiday season.?

This summer, we completed a study on Waterfront Civic and Cultural Space Planning in collaboration with City of Boston Arts & Culture, Agency Landscape + Planning, and City of Boston - Planning Department. In line with Chapter 91 waterfront protections, the study offers guidance for future developments to include civic, cultural, and affordable retail spaces, with a focus on neighborhoods like Dorchester, Fort Point, Charlestown, and East Boston. Through equitable planning, design, and tenant selection, this initiative presented an exciting opportunity to empower local arts and culture. We engaged our network of cultural space users by drawing from both past insights and new research. Swipe through for key takeaways and goals centered on the perspectives and experiences of local organizations to enrich cultural spaces. https://lnkd.in/eYRCJu2X

Ever wonder what that fabric covering construction sites is really about? This is what we refer to as “Art scrim” and by featuring local artists, we transform spaces-in-progress into thought-provoking visual experiences. The latest installations— Living in Layers by Arpita Srivastava and Futures by Adam Giordano—demonstrate how scrim can tell compelling stories. Wrapping the future Harvard University Affiliate Housing site by Northstar Project & Real Estate Services, adjacent to the new home of the American Repertory Theater, these works build excitement and intrigue for what's to come. Both artists were selected to curate a narrative that spoke to the future of the site. The collage is inspired by key design elements of the project including a palate of natural materials and a richly woven brick facade. Through this, the artists symbolize how found treasures, organic materials, experiences, memories, and emotions accumulate in layers over time. Check out our blog post, "Scrim: More Than Just a Calling Card," where we share the inspiration behind Arpita and Adam’s work, explore past projects, and discuss how scrim can shape community spaces. https://lnkd.in/eAefQ4uD

A closer look at ‘Learning in the Park,’ the 1500+ sq ft mural by our friend Anna Dugan, artist Annadidathing, completed this past July at the future Harvard-Allston Greenway entrance. This mural celebrates joy and inclusivity in education, connecting literature, the arts, and science through Boston’s rich history. From featuring Longfellow’s book ‘Paul Revere’s Ride' to local muralist Rob 'ProBlak' Gibbs, Anna Dugan’s work invites us to reflect on literature and art as two of many diverse tools for learning. Community members came together for a collaborative art event, decorating flowers to symbolize learning styles and writing heartfelt notes to educators who made a difference in their lives. Together they made a bouquet that is a tribute to the power of education and connection. Curious about the story behind the mural? Watch the video and hear directly from the muralist at https://lnkd.in/etH4rkeU

Our latest on the blog: The Jamaica Plain Neighborhood Guide. In the spirit of JP being an ideal spot for a fall stroll—surrounded by The Emerald Necklace, with easy access to the Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Pond, and Franklin Park—we wanted to highlight the other JP staples and hidden gems that could make up your perfect fall day. For the things to eat, visit, and do and a highlight on some of the orgs we love, visit https://lnkd.in/emM-j3ip

7 NEWS, WHDH-TV stopped by Rollerama at Kendall Common to see what the pop-up outdoor social space is all about. Watch the clip for yourself and if you haven't already, stop by to skate or just enjoy the community space before September 29! Details & RSVP: https://lnkd.in/e5sGFYz9

After working with King Arthur Baking Company to help them find the perfect location for their #BostonPopUp, we are thrilled to send them a warm welcome to Back Bay. From October 2024 through December 2024, you'll find a wide range of baking essentials, including ingredients, mixes, tools, accessories, kitchen appliances, gifts, and much more at 172 Newbury Street.

What a dream project! Rollerama at Kendall Common came to life with the help of brilliant local muralist Massiel Grullón. Her 7,000-square-foot mural, featuring retro-inspired shapes and movement, has been the backdrop to free roller skating and countless programs all summer long. Our goal for Rollerama was to create the perfect blend of active and passive programming, and a branding buildout that would turns heads. From drag skate nights and skating lessons for first-timers to the thoughtfully curated wine and beer garden, Rollerama is an inviting neighborhood gathering space that sets the groundwork for the future of Kendall Common’s commitment to social responsibility and innovation through science and the arts. Lace up your skates and roll with us through September 29: https://lnkd.in/e5sGFYz9