Hub of the Twenty-First Century’s Defining Advances
A bold vision meets the spirit of partnership
In 2019 Harvard University announced a competition to select a partner to develop an innovative 14-acre Enterprise Research Campus ("ERC") in Allston, Massachusetts, a neighborhood of Boston. We knew there was an ambitious challenge ahead. We had a bold vision for the ERC. Harvard also needed a trusted partner who could work closely with them, and who passionately believed in their values. In December of 2019, Harvard selected Tishman Speyer, and we began our partnership to develop a multifaceted diverse and inclusive neighborhood. This includes approximately 2 million square feet of life science laboratories, multi-family apartments including affordable units, a hotel, a conference center, and an innovative mix of retail and active ground floor programming along an open public space.
Creating a global capital of innovation
We will create a destination that both enables the next generation of discoveries, and is inclusive and authentic. It’s a place where a Boston native feels at home, and a world-renowned researcher finds new ground for discovery. Where the rhythm of a neighborhood band and the pulse of world-changing research exist side by side.
Design inspired by the surrounding community
Our design principles are rooted in community and anchored by open spaces that welcome everyone. Inspired by Boston’s legacy of interconnected gardens, the heart of the ERC will be a public greenway, an open platform for programming, gathering, and connection. We’ll shape the buildings and landscape with environmental considerations, accounting for solar access, wind protection, and acoustics. Every element is designed to foster a safe, clean, and healthy environment—one that champions community, connectivity, and inclusion.
Commitment to expanding access and opportunity
The ERC represents a meaningful step forward in advancing Tishman Speyer’s goal of expanding access and opportunity for historically underrepresented groups, both at the project level and within the real estate industry. As part of our commitment, Tishman Speyer raised over $30 million of equity from more than 150 Black and Latinx investors. This is the largest inclusionary investor initiative (total dollars) for private development in the history of Boston. By including those investors in the capitalization of the ERC, we intend to create broader access and help create wealth generating opportunities for the communities in which we do business.
MBE/WBE participation
We are also creating new opportunities for increased participation of minority and women owned enterprises (“MBE/WBE”) in the ERC’s development. A substantial portion of the project’s preconstruction and construction costs has been awarded to MBE/WBEs. Their involvement in the ERC project will provide those firms with the experience to compete for other large, complex projects in the future. And, when the ERC opens for business, we will curate a dynamic ground floor experience with the small, local, minority and women-owned retailers who bring our communities to life.
Connecting the ERC to Harvard and the Allston community
The ERC will be a destination focused on impact and dedicated to the highest caliber of research and innovation. Fueled by Allston’s culture of creativity and ambition, the ERC will be a magnet for pioneers—scientists, entrepreneurs, and artists—pushing boundaries and building what’s next.
Let’s Build What’s Next, Together
Whether you're looking for space or interested in partnering with us, we’re here to connect.
