Simmons University Partners with Skanska to Create Longwood Place

Simmons University is partnering with Skanska to create Longwood Place, a vibrant nexus for research, work, and community engagement in Boston. Featuring 2.6 acres of public space, the mixed-use project will leverage sophisticated amenities to transform the district into a destination for economic growth and innovation. The redevelopment of the university’s residential campus in Fenway will provide over 1.3 million sf of Class A lab and office environments, retail and community venues, and approximately 380 housing units. In the first 1 million-sf phase, two life science towers and a 17-story residential facility will frame a 31,000-sf urban oasis, with each sustainable structure targeting LEED Gold or higher. Standing at 13 and 15 stories high respectively, the research buildings will also offer settings for medical and clinical work. Plans for the second phase call for an additional 14-story residential development and an 18-story commercial facility. 

As part of a 99-year lease contract for the 5.8-acre parcel, Skanska is delivering Simmons University’s Living and Learning Center. Located on the school's academic campus, this dynamic hub will integrate residential, dining, wellness, and gathering functions. Once the center is complete, construction on the 1.7 million-sf Longwood Place is slated to begin in 2027.

Sasaki is the lead architect, master planner, and landscape architect. The design team also includes Elkus Manfredi Architects, Pickard Chilton, Kohn Pederson Fox (KPF), and Jacobs. BR+A Consulting Engineers is providing MEP services, with Arup as sustainability engineer and Haley & Aldrich as geotechnical engineering consultant. VHB is acting as transportation consultant.