Architects Take an Interest in Charlestown

Maybe Charlestown more than any other neighborhood in Boston has been shaped and influenced by its infrastructure, architecture and geography.

Designers and architects are taking note of that -- and exploring the neighborhood during Common Boston, a week-long event sponsored by the Boston Society of Architect that tries to foster more sustainable, equitable, and creative urban environments.

Common Boston offers neighborhood-centric and city-wide events, including more than 40 open buildings, tours and exhibits. And this year they're spending a whole day, June 18, in Charlestown to get a closer look at what makes it so unique.

Here's an excerpt from the Common Boston site about the event:

"Charlestown is one of Boston’s most eclectic neighborhoods. Its urban landscape comprises multi-million dollar homes, the largest affordable housing development managed by the Boston Housing Authority (BHA), a 30-acre National Park, historic naval vessels, industry, monuments, parks, gardens, highway infrastructure, public art, edible plants, a community college and more."

Events in Charlestown start with an introduction to the neighborhood at 9 a.m. on Saturday at the Equal Exchange Cafe, which is just over the bridge at Causeway and Beverly streets. Organizers will be give a quick summary on complexity of the neighborhood and an overview of the day's events.

At 9:30 a.m. local tours begin at the Navy Yard. They end at 5:30 p.m. along the pedestrian walkway by Rutherford Avenue and the Route 1 on-ramp. Along the way, there will be stops at the community garden, City Square, the monument and various residential streets.

For a full listing of events, visit the Common Boston site.