The NEREJ reached out to the Elevate Cambridge team as the winners of the 2024 Project of the Year! Below is a Q&A with Sean Selby of Arrowstreet and Jason Emord of Timberline Construction:

What is your firm’s reaction to this recognition?
Jason Emord: Given the competitive market we are in, we’re honored that Elevate was selected as the NEREJ 2024 Project of the Year. This project was a true showcase of teamwork, from the client to the architect, to all of our valued project partners – it was a collective effort for this successful outcome.

What were the main challenges of this project, and how did you overcome them?
Jason Emord: Communication with the building residents was key. Considering this was major phased renovations and upgrades to a place hundreds of people call home, we had to be conscience of a clean, safe site with proper signage. We worked with ownership and the property managers to ensure tenants were informed consistently and expectations were set.

What factors contributed to making this project such a success?
Jason Emord: As a firm, Timberline personally appreciates this project, as the overall name perfectly describes the outcome: elevated. Arrowstreet’s vision and design for the project truly have been reflected in the functionality. Our client wanted to completely reimagine and upgrade the space to fulfill the needs that today’s apartment residents demand, and it delivers.

What is your firm’s reaction to this recognition?
Sean Selby: We are thrilled and honored that Elevate has been recognized as the Project of the Year. It’s a testament to the amazing work that was contributed by the entire project team that included Timberline Construction, Stoss Landscape Urbanism, Petersen Engineering, McNamara Salvia, Lam Partners, and Code Red Consultants.

What were the main challenges of this project, and how did you overcome them?
Sean Selby: It’s not easy to completely redefine how an existing 23-story residential tower building can enhance the lives of its residents, but that challenge became our driving force. Balancing the constraints of an existing structure with the vision for a modern, welcoming, and human-centric design required seamless collaboration. By prioritizing collaborative work and activity spaces, a communal kitchen near an open-air courtyard, and a well appointed new fitness gym, we transformed the building into a space that feels both timeless and forward-thinking.

What factors contributed to making this project such a success?
Sean Selby: The building’s prime location in Cambridge offers unparalleled access to a vibrant new neighborhood of commercial spaces and outdoor parks, all framed by breathtaking views of the Boston skyline. Our vision was to maximize this setting by creating inviting spaces that connect residents to these outdoor amenities while also fostering a sense of community within the tower itself. Through thoughtfully designed shared areas, we aimed to encourage both personal connection and a strong neighborhood identity.