A Model for Transit-Oriented Housing

When the MBTA looked to find a developer to create a model transit-oriented development at Woodland Station in Newton, National Development responded to the challenge. We transformed a narrow five acre surface parking lot into a thriving residential community.

Our vision for the site was to create a pleasant residential street along the trolley tracks in what had once been a parking lot. We lined the street with well-scaled two story townhomes and hid a two level garage behind them. Above the garage are 180 luxury apartments.

Arborpoint at Woodland Station has been lauded by residential abutters who found, despite its size, that it is compatible with its neighborhood. Its Newton location, on-site MBTA station, access to Newton-Wellesley Hospital and proximity to two area golf courses has made it a popular choice for area renters.

Green Apartments, Orange Line, Red Hot Neighborhood

National Development looked to find a market differentiator for the planned fourth residential building at its award-winning Station Landing development. After market research, it became clear that prospective residents were looking for the opportunity to live in a LEED-certified green building with chic urban architectural design that had great access to public transportation.

Out of this idea was born 75SL, the first LEED Gold multi-family rental building in the Boston market. So successful was the concept that the building was 75% occupied within just three months of opening and it has remained one of the most sought after residential addresses in the Boston area.

In addition to sustainable materials, dual flush toilets and energy saving appliances, the building features floor-to-ceiling glass in many units. The Skywalk to the MBTA is just steps away as is access to Zip Car service. The restaurants, fitness club, stores and parks of Station Landing are all conveniently available to 75SL’s residents.

Creating Paradise in Burlington

National Development’s challenge was to convert a 70 acre unused concrete plant site that had been mined for gravel for many years into a green residential oasis just off Route 128 near the Burlington Mall. The first task was to obtain a Town Meeting vote changing the zoning of the property by use of a Planned Development District. Next, we began to transform the site by re-grading, creating pond areas and substantial new landscaping.

The result is a combined residential village that includes both condominium units and rental apartments. At the center of Seven Springs is a large residential clubhouse with offices, a large fitness center, pool and resident common areas. Also part of the master plan is a 30 acre conservation area and the extension of a regional bike path network. Due, in part, to the feeling of community at Seven Springs, it enjoys the lowest resident turnover of any multi-family development in its competitive set.