Saige on Fountain Offers Home Ownership Opportunity in Boston’s First All-Electric Development

BOSTON — In the Fountain Hill neighborhood of Roxbury, a pioneering affordable housing development, Saige on Fountain, recently debuted as the city’s first all-electric, multi-unit residences. Developed by a Boston-based partnership that includes Oxbow Urban with collaborators DVM Housing Partners and Our Village Initiative and designed by Cambridge-based architecture and interior design firm PCA, the homeownership units fulfill the vision of the development team, the City of Boston, and the Fountain Hill neighborhood to create affordable and transit-accessible ownership opportunities for first-time homebuyers.

Social Equity
“So many community residents in Boston were historically denied the opportunity to own a home and build wealth and home equity,” said Laura Homich, principal with PCA and the lead architect for Saige on Fountain. “Seeing the enthusiasm and pride of ownership as first-time buyers move in is tremendously rewarding for everyone on the team who worked through all the obstacles and now celebrate this joyful opening.”

Designed to create intimate spaces that provide a strong sense of home within a multifamily setting, Saige on Fountain’s 40 affordable units, ranging from studios to three-bedroom residences, feature modern finishes, abundant daylight, and amenity and outdoor spaces for social and community gatherings.

Community Partnerships
The long-vacant parcel of land, cleared as part of the Washington Park Urban Renewal efforts more than 50 years ago, was previously owned by the Fountain Hill Square Condominium Association, Association trustees sought a buyer dedicated to affordable homeownership. Oxbow Urban acquired the land and worked closely for years with the neighborhood and the Mayor’s Office of Housing to make the development a reality.

‘‘Saige represents the best of what Boston can accomplish when all the diversity and talent of individuals from all parts of the city are given a chance to have their voices heard. PCA’s design reflects the community’s vision and offers a model for delivering sustainable, affordable, and beautiful housing outcomes in Boston,” said Kevin Maguire, founder of Oxbow Urban.

Carbon Neutral Design
Saige on Fountain is the first multi-unit housing to open following a 2023 city building code change adopted to encourage developers to install all-electric systems instead of gas or oil. The building and its infrastructure are designed to achieve carbon-neutral status.

“From the art to the infrastructure, we ensured that this project reflects the rich culture of Roxbury,” said Dariela Villón-Maga, President/Owner of DVM Housing Partners. “Housing production targeted to local low to moderate income individuals and families is of paramount importance to my company’s mission, and I am particularly proud to have built homeownership units in the heart of our city, Roxbury.”

Founded in 1982, PCA is recognized as one of New England’s most creative and innovative design firms. The staff brings an uncommon blend of business insight and creative problem-solving to each project. With expertise in architecture, planning, and interior design, PCA teams provide thoughtful, award-winning designs for hospitality, housing, retail, higher education, and mixed-use clients — making places that thrive in the marketplace and bring lasting value to the community.

Community Space at Saige on Fountain