Did the Mediterranean ever truly meet the Charles River? Here at Peabody Terrace, that was the ambitious dream of Josep Lluís Sert. He designed this Harvard University housing complex in the Brutalist style. Peabody Terrace opened in 1964. It primarily houses graduate students, especially married students and families. The complex’s design is striking. Three 22-story towers rise from within a perimeter of three- to seven-story buildings. This creates a unique blend of high and low structures. Peabody Terrace covers 5.9 acres. It boasts roughly 500 apartments, ranging from efficiencies to three-bedroom units. Every apartment has relatively low ceilings, measuring just 7 feet 6 inches high. Beyond the apartments, Peabody Terrace offers a wealth of amenities. There are playgrounds and nurseries for children, roof terraces for fresh air, and laundry facilities for convenience. Study rooms and meeting rooms cater to academic pursuits. A parking garage provides much-needed space for vehicles. A unique feature of the towers is their elevator system. To maximize usable floor space, the elevators only stop on every third floor. This design choice likely adds a bit of a climb for some residents. Peabody Terrace has earned mixed reviews over the years. Some admire its architectural boldness, while others find it unappealing. It has been described as “beloved by architects and disliked by almost everyone else.” Despite the divided opinions, Peabody Terrace holds a significant place in Harvard’s history. It represents a bold attempt to create a modern living space for its graduate student community. The complex also houses the Harvard-affiliated Peabody Terrace Children’s Center, further solidifying its role in supporting student families. So, as you stand here before Peabody Terrace, consider the blend of architectural vision and practical living. It’s a concrete testament to Sert’s dream and a unique piece of Harvard’s housing landscape.
Rumney Marsh Burial Ground
A chill wind whispers through the aged headstones. This is Rumney Marsh Burial Ground. This historic cemetery dates back to