The project: IMEG provided landscape architecture services for the Boston Arts Academy, the city’s first and only public high school dedicated to visual and performing arts. Located prominently across from Fenway Park, the building and its exterior were designed to serve as a landmark and symbol of community-focused learning.

The goal: The project aimed to create a dynamic exterior environment that supported the school’s artistic identity while solving complex circulation and spatial separation needs. A key focus was on integrating public gathering spaces with the school’s daily operations while maintaining clear distinctions between public and private areas.

The design: The landscape scope included the redesign of circulation, parking, and entrance plazas. One of the main challenges was to define and separate public and private zones effectively. To foster social interaction and provide comfort, shaded seating areas were created along the public way using shade trees and seating cubes. These gathering spots are visually distinguished from circulation paths through unique paving patterns and colors. Custom-designed precast concrete seat walls, featuring wood slats, subtly evoke the form of a piano, reinforcing the school’s artistic theme. Additional creative elements include custom bike racks and a sculpture anchoring the corner, both enhancing the school’s identity and street presence.

The outcome: The result is a thoughtfully designed exterior that reflects and supports the school’s artistic mission. It offers functional and welcoming public spaces, improves circulation, and strengthens the school’s role as a cultural landmark within the Fenway neighborhood.