Artists' Spaces: A Study of the Development of Artists' Living and Working Space in Boston

摘要

This report on the efforts of the Artists Foundation to develop affordable living and working spaces for artists in the greater Boston area explains how deteriorating neighborhoods can be revitalized by converting vacant warehouse and industrial buildings into artists' lofts and studios. The history and justification for the connection between the arts community and neighborhood revitalization are examined, along with the advantages and disadvantages of concentrating artists within neighborhoods. An assessment of the requirements for space for various sectors of the arts community shows that the building selected for studio loft space should have central stairways, easy - to - follow common hallways, freight elevators, and fire escapes. The overall floor plan should include from 1,500 square feet to 3,000 square feet of high - ceilinged space per artist. Each floor should be equipped with common conveniences for collective use. The case study of the foundation's Art Space Project, Inc., delineates the problems encountered and solutions found to converting the building at 86 South Street, Boston, into condominiums providing artists with living and working space. The completion and full occupancy of the project without public subsidies serves as a model of what can be accomplished through creative development. A bibliography of about 200 references, the artists space survey findings, plans for 86 South Street, financing strategies, and other related material are appended.