Eversource Station 99

Utile has served as an architectural consultant for local utility company Eversource at a number of sites around the Greater Boston Area, including Downtown, the Seaport, South Boston, East Boston, and Everett. Station 99, located within the Raymond Flynn Marine Park, is built to accommodate increased demand in the rapidly expanding Seaport District. Utile was tasked with creating an enclosure design that responded both to the functional needs of the client and the aesthetic concerns of the Boston Planning and Development Agency. The main equipment platform is elevated to mitigate potential flooding from storm surge at the harbor-side location, and provide access for service vehicles on the lower level.

Architecturally finished precast concrete panels spaced to allow flood waters to pass through provide a visual screen at the base of the station, and protect the steel structure from heavy truck traffic on adjacent streets. The upper level of the platform is clad in a modular system of perforated, corrugated, stainless steel paneling allowing for needed ventilation of the electrical equipment. The de-mountable sections facilitate off-site prefabrication of cladding elements, as well as future removal as dictated by equipment maintenance and replacement needs. The material palette and detailing reflect the highly utilitarian character and industrial context of the construction, while providing a sleek and contemporary finish to a much needed piece of public infrastructure.

Photos by Ryan Maheu Photography.